Planning a trip from Ayodhya to Varanasi by cab? Whether you are a pilgrim visiting the sacred ghats of Kashi, a tourist exploring India’s spiritual heartland, or a group traveller looking for an affordable tempo traveller, this complete guide covers everything — cab fare for all vehicle types, toll booths, state tax, pickup & drop points, best stopovers, and a detailed Varanasi travel guide.
Book your Ayodhya to Varanasi cab with Chiku Cab — verified drivers, transparent pricing, AC & Non-AC options, 24/7 support, and no hidden charges.
Route Overview: Ayodhya to Varanasi Distance, Time & Highway Details
The Ayodhya to Varanasi cab route covers approximately 200–210 km via NH27 (the Gorakhpur–Lucknow Expressway section) and takes 4 to 5 hours by cab depending on traffic and time of travel.
| Route Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | Approx. 200–210 km via NH27 |
| Travel Time | 4 to 5 hours (traffic dependent) |
| Main Highway | NH27 (Gorakhpur–Lucknow Expressway section) |
| Route via | Faizabad → Sultanpur → Jaunpur → Varanasi |
| Alternate Route | Via Pratapgarh & Allahabad (230 km, slower) |
| UP State Tax | ~₹100–₹200 for tourist/outstation vehicles |
| Best Time to Travel | Early morning (5 AM – 8 AM) to avoid traffic |
| FASTag | Mandatory; all ChikuCab vehicles are FASTag compliant |
Pro Tip: Leaving Ayodhya by 5–6 AM ensures you reach Varanasi by 10–11 AM — perfect to catch the morning Ganga Aarti and temple darshan with minimal crowds.
Ayodhya to Varanasi Cab Fare – All Vehicle Types (AC & Non-AC) 2025
Below is the complete Ayodhya to Varanasi cab fare chart for all vehicle categories — one-way and round trip, AC and Non-AC. All fares are inclusive of toll tax and driver allowance. GST extra as applicable.
| Vehicle Type | Seating | AC/Non-AC | One Way Fare | Round Trip Fare | Per KM Rate | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Swift Dzire / Etios (Sedan) | 4+1 | AC | ₹2,200 – ₹2,600 | ₹3,800 – ₹4,400 | ₹11–₹13/km | Solo, couple, small family |
| Swift Dzire / Etios (Sedan) | 4+1 | Non-AC | ₹1,800 – ₹2,100 | ₹3,200 – ₹3,800 | ₹9–₹10/km | Budget travelers |
| Toyota Innova Crysta | 6+1 | AC | ₹3,800 – ₹4,500 | ₹6,800 – ₹8,000 | ₹19–₹22/km | Family groups, VIP travel |
| Maruti Ertiga / Similar MPV | 6+1 | AC | ₹2,800 – ₹3,400 | ₹5,000 – ₹6,200 | ₹14–₹17/km | 6–7 passengers, family |
| Maruti Ertiga / Similar MPV | 6+1 | Non-AC | ₹2,200 – ₹2,700 | ₹4,000 – ₹5,000 | ₹11–₹13/km | Budget group travel |
| 12-Seater Tempo Traveller | 12 | AC | ₹5,500 – ₹6,500 | ₹9,500 – ₹11,500 | ₹27–₹32/km | Group tours, pilgrim groups |
| 12-Seater Tempo Traveller | 12 | Non-AC | ₹4,200 – ₹5,000 | ₹7,500 – ₹9,000 | ₹21–₹25/km | Budget group pilgrims |
| 17-Seater Tempo Traveller | 17 | AC | ₹6,500 – ₹7,500 | ₹11,500 – ₹13,500 | ₹32–₹37/km | Large groups, school trips |
| 17-Seater Tempo Traveller | 17 | Non-AC | ₹5,000 – ₹6,000 | ₹9,000 – ₹10,500 | ₹25–₹30/km | Budget large groups |
| 20-Seater Tempo Traveller | 20 | AC | ₹7,500 – ₹8,800 | ₹13,500 – ₹16,000 | ₹37–₹44/km | Corporate groups, events |
| Luxury Tempo Traveller (Push-Back) | 12–14 | AC | ₹8,500 – ₹10,500 | ₹15,000 – ₹19,000 | ₹42–₹52/km | Premium group travel, comfort |
| Force Urbania Van (Luxury) | 17 | AC | ₹9,000 – ₹11,000 | ₹16,500 – ₹20,000 | ₹45–₹55/km | Premium groups, corporate travel |
| Minibus (20–26 Seater) | 20–26 | AC | ₹9,500 – ₹12,500 | ₹17,000 – ₹22,000 | ₹47–₹62/km | Large groups, yatra tours |
| Minibus (20–26 Seater) | 20–26 | Non-AC | ₹7,500 – ₹9,500 | ₹13,500 – ₹17,000 | ₹37–₹47/km | Budget large group yatra |
Important Note: All fares shown are approximate and may vary based on travel date, demand, and fuel prices. Night travel surcharges (10 PM – 6 AM) of ₹200–₹500 may apply. Round-trip bookings include driver waiting up to 8–10 hours at no extra charge. Confirm the final fare at the time of booking on Chiku Cab
Toll Booths & Toll Tax – Ayodhya to Varanasi Route (NH27)
The Ayodhya to Varanasi highway route passes through 4 main toll plazas on NH27. All booths are FASTag-enabled. ChikuCab fares include all toll charges — no separate payment needed.
| S.No | Toll Booth Name | Location | Distance from Ayodhya | Car/Sedan (₹) | SUV/MPV (₹) | Tempo Traveller/Bus (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Faizabad / Rudauli Toll Plaza | NH27, near Faizabad–Rudauli junction | ~25–35 km | ₹80–₹100 | ₹140–₹165 | ₹280–₹340 |
| 2 | Sultanpur Toll Plaza | NH27, Sultanpur bypass | ~90–100 km | ₹85–₹105 | ₹145–₹175 | ₹290–₹355 |
| 3 | Jaunpur Toll Plaza | NH731 / Jaunpur city approach | ~145–155 km | ₹70–₹90 | ₹120–₹150 | ₹240–₹300 |
| 4 | Varanasi Ring Road / Bypass Toll | Varanasi Bypass / Ring Road entry | ~190–200 km | ₹60–₹80 | ₹110–₹135 | ₹220–₹270 |
Total One-Way Toll Estimate (Inclusive in ChikuCab Fare)
- Car / Sedan (Dzire, Etios): ₹295 – ₹375
- SUV / MPV (Innova Crysta, Ertiga): ₹515 – ₹625
- Tempo Traveller / Minibus: ₹1,030 – ₹1,265
UP State Entry Tax from Ayodhya to Varanasi
Tourist and outstation cabs entering Ayodhya to Varanasi may be subject to a Uttar Pradesh State Entry Tax of approximately ₹100–₹250 depending on vehicle category. This is included in ChikuCab’s all-inclusive quoted fare. No surprise charges at checkpoints.
Pickup Points in Ayodhya & Drop Points in Varanasi
ChikuCab offers doorstep pickup from all major locations in Ayodhya and drops you to your exact destination in Varanasi.
Local Pickup Points in Ayodhya
- Ram Mandir / Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Gate
- Hanuman Garhi Temple
- Ayodhya Railway Station (Faizabad Junction)
- Naya Ghat / Sarayu Ghat
- Bus Stand, Ayodhya
- Kanak Bhavan Temple
- Hotel Pickup – Civil Lines, Ayodhya
- Ramlila Maidan
- Maryada Purushottam Shriram Airport (AYJ)
- Dashrath Mahal
- Guptar Ghat
- Bharat Kund, Nandigram
Drop Points in Varanasi
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple / Kashi Corridor
- Dashashwamedh Ghat (drop at Godowlia Chowk – 3-min walk)
- Assi Ghat
- Manikarnika Ghat
- Varanasi Cantt Railway Station
- Varanasi Junction (Varanasi City)
- Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS)
- Sarnath (Deer Park / Buddhist Circuit)
- BHU – Banaras Hindu University
- Lanka Chowk / Godowlia Chowk
- Ramnagar (across the Ganges)
- Hotels in Sigra, Nadesar, Lahurabir areas
Tip: For ghats in the old city, your driver will drop you at the nearest accessible road point. Inner lanes near ghats may have vehicle restrictions. It is a short 2–5 minute walk from the drop point to the ghat.
Best Stopovers on the Ayodhya to Varanasi Route
The Ayodhya to Varanasi cab route passes through historically and spiritually rich towns. Here are the best recommended stops to enrich your pilgrimage journey.
1. Sultanpur – Gomti River Ghats (~35 km from Ayodhya)
Sultanpur is a quiet town on the banks of the Gomti River. Take a brief 15-minute detour to visit the Gomti River ghats or the mythological Draupadikund bathing spot. It is also a great place to stop for chai and local snacks at highway dhabas. No significant time addition to the journey.
2. Vindhyachal / Mirzapur – Shakti Peeth (~95 km, slight 20 km detour)
The Vindhyavasini Devi Temple in Vindhyachal, near Mirzapur, is one of Uttar Pradesh’s most revered Shakti Peethas. Situated on the banks of the Ganga, millions of devotees visit annually. If your schedule allows, this spiritual detour is highly recommended. Add approximately 45 minutes for this stop.
3. Jaunpur – Shahi Bridge & Atala Masjid (~140 km from Ayodhya)
Often called the “Shiraze-i-Hind” (Shiraz of India), Jaunpur is a hidden gem on this route. Stop to see the 15th-century Shahi Bridge (Akbari Bridge) over the Gomti River and the stunning Atala Masjid — one of India’s finest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture. Allow 30–45 minutes for this stop.
4. Sarnath – The Buddhist Pilgrimage Capital (~155 km from Ayodhya)
Just 10 km before Varanasi lies Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Visit the Dhamek Stupa (3rd century BC), Ashoka Pillar (original Lion Capital location), Mulagandha Kuti Vihar Temple, and the Sarnath Museum. This is a UNESCO World Heritage tentative site. Allow 1–2 hours. No extra cab fare is typically charged for this stopover as it falls directly on the route.
5. Varanasi – The Eternal City (~200 km, Destination)
Arrive in Varanasi — one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities and Hinduism’s holiest pilgrimage destination. Your ChikuCab driver will guide you to your hotel or ghat closest to your accommodation.
Best Time to Visit Varanasi
Varanasi has a tropical climate with distinct seasons. Here is a season-wise breakdown to help you plan your visit.
Best Time: October to March (Winter Season)
The most popular and ideal time to visit Varanasi. Temperatures range from 8°C to 26°C, making ghat walks, boat rides, and temple visits very comfortable. Key festivals like Diwali, Dev Deepawali (November – when 1 million+ lamps are lit on the ghats), and Maha Shivaratri (February/March) fall in this window. This is Varanasi at its most magical.
Good Time: November to February (Peak Winter)
The absolute peak tourist season. Misty mornings on the Ganga are perfect for sunrise boat rides. Dev Deepawali on Kartik Purnima in November is Varanasi’s most spectacular night. Book cabs and hotels at least 7–10 days in advance during this period.
Manageable: March to May (Spring / Pre-Summer)
Temperatures rise from 28°C to 42°C. Afternoon heat makes outdoor visits uncomfortable. Plan sightseeing early (6 AM–10 AM) and after sunset (5 PM onwards). Holi in March is a vivid and memorable experience in Varanasi. Use AC cabs for comfortable travel.
Avoid if Possible: June to September (Monsoon)
Heavy rainfall, high humidity, and Ganga flooding submerge many lower ghats during monsoon months. Road conditions between Ayodhya and Varanasi can be poor in heavy rain. However, the Sawan (Shravan) month sees massive Kanwar Yatras — pilgrims still visit year-round for religious observances.
Festival Travel Alert: During Dev Deepawali, Maha Shivaratri, and Ganga Dussehra, Varanasi sees 5x normal tourist traffic. Book your ChikuCab at least 7–10 days in advance. Ghat-side roads close for vehicles during major festivals.
Best Places to Visit in Varanasi
Varanasi is one of the world’s oldest living cities with over 3,000 years of recorded history. Here are the must-visit places with ideal visiting times and insider tips.
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and Hinduism’s most sacred shrine. The new Kashi Vishwanath Corridor (inaugurated 2021) offers a grand approach directly from the Ganga. Darshan queues can be 2–4 hours during peak season. Dress conservatively; photography inside is prohibited.
Best time to visit: 5 AM – 7 AM (morning aarti) or 7 PM – 9 PM (Shringar Aarti)
2. Dashashwamedh Ghat
The main and most famous ghat of Varanasi. The Ganga Aarti performed here every evening at sunset is a breathtaking spiritual spectacle with fire, chanting priests, flowers, and incense. It is the single most iconic experience in Varanasi.
Best time to visit: 6 PM – 8 PM (Aarti); 5:30 AM (Sunrise Boat Ride)
3. Manikarnika Ghat
The most sacred cremation ghat in Hinduism. Hindus believe dying in Varanasi grants instant moksha (liberation). The ghat burns 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. A solemn and deeply profound experience. Photography is strictly prohibited out of respect for the deceased and their families.
Best time to visit: Any time (active 24/7); approach with reverence and silence
4. Assi Ghat
The southernmost major ghat, popular with locals, students, sadhus, and long-term visitors. Famous for morning yoga sessions, the Subah-e-Banaras sunrise cultural event, and a relaxed café culture. The Subah-e-Banaras event features classical music, yoga, and Ganga prayers at dawn.
Best time to visit: 5:30 AM – 8 AM for the Subah-e-Banaras experience
5. Sarnath (10 km from Varanasi)
Where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon (Dhamma Chakra Pravartana). Key attractions include the Dhamek Stupa (3rd century BC), Ashoka Pillar, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar Temple, and the Sarnath Museum — which houses the original Lion Capital of Ashoka (India’s national emblem). A must-visit on the Buddhist Circuit.
Best time to visit: 8 AM – 12 PM; Museum open 9 AM – 5 PM (closed Fridays)
6. Ramnagar Fort & Museum (5 km from Assi Ghat by boat)
A 17th-century sandstone fort across the Ganga, home to the Maharaja of Varanasi. The on-site museum houses an extraordinary collection of vintage cars, palanquins, weapons, costumes, and astronomical instruments. Reach it by Ganga ferry from Assi Ghat.
Best time to visit: 10 AM – 5 PM; take the ferry from Assi Ghat
7. Tulsi Manas Mandir
A white marble temple built in 1964 at the very spot where the saint Tulsidas composed the Ramcharitmanas — Hinduism’s most beloved scripture. The temple walls are engraved with scenes from the Ramayana. A deeply moving visit, especially for devotees traveling from Ayodhya.
Best time to visit: 5:30 AM – 12 PM and 3:30 PM – 9 PM
8. BHU – Banaras Hindu University
One of Asia’s largest universities, spanning 1,300 acres. Highlights include the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum (remarkable ancient artifacts, rare miniature paintings) and the New Vishwanath Temple (Birla Mandir) inside the campus — open to people of all faiths.
Best time to visit: Morning to afternoon; Museum hours 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM
9. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
One of Varanasi’s most beloved and vibrant temples, founded by saint Tulsidas. The temple hosts the renowned Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh, a prestigious classical music festival held annually. The temple atmosphere is joyful, energetic, and full of devotion.
Best time to visit: 5 AM – 12 PM and 3 PM – 10 PM
10. Ganga Boat Ride (All Ghats)
A sunrise or sunset boat ride covering the entire length of Varanasi’s ghats is the single most iconic experience the city offers. Row boats cost ₹200–₹500 per person; private motorboats from ₹600–₹1,500. Seeing the 84 ghats from the water is a perspective no land visit can replicate.
Best time: 5:30 AM (Sunrise) or 6 PM (Pre-Aarti); book your boatman early in peak season
11. Durga Kund Mandir (Monkey Temple)
A stunning red-coloured stepped temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, built in 18th-century Nagara style. Adjacent to the Durga Kund (sacred tank). Also known as the Monkey Temple due to the large population of monkeys on the premises. Located very close to Assi Ghat.
Best time to visit: 6 AM – 12 PM and 4 PM – 9 PM
12. Chowk & Vishwanath Gali – Varanasi Street Food Lanes
The narrow lanes around Kashi Vishwanath are a foodie’s paradise. Must-try items include Kashi Chat, Baati Chokha, Malaiyyo (winter only – a cold frothy dessert), Thandai, and Benarasi Paan. Do not leave without trying lassi at the famous Blue Lassi shop near the Vishwanath Gali entrance.
Best time: 7 AM – 10 AM (breakfast) or 4 PM – 8 PM (evening snacks)
Essential Travel Tips: Ayodhya to Varanasi Cab Journey
- Start early: Leave Ayodhya by 5–6 AM to reach Varanasi by 10–11 AM — catch the morning Ganga Aarti and avoid afternoon heat.
- Carry water: Keep 2 litres per person. Highway dhabas are available every 20–30 km but having your own supply is better in summer.
- Download offline maps: Download the Ayodhya–Varanasi offline map on Google Maps before departure. Mobile connectivity may be patchy near Sultanpur.
- Comfortable footwear: Varanasi’s ghats involve walking on uneven stone steps. Wear slip-on sandals or flat shoes — formal footwear is not suitable for ghat walks.
- Dress conservatively: Both Ayodhya and Varanasi are sacred cities. Modest, covered clothing is expected at temples. Carry a dupatta or shawl for temple entry. Remove footwear at temple gates.
- Respect photography rules: Photography is strictly prohibited inside Kashi Vishwanath Temple and at Manikarnika Ghat. Video is also prohibited in most inner sanctums.
- Book AC cab in summer: Between April and June, temperatures exceed 42°C. Always opt for an AC cab. Innova Crysta AC or Ertiga AC is best for families.
- Keep cash ready: At minor temples, ghat parking areas, and boat rides, only cash is accepted. Keep ₹500–₹1,000 in smaller denominations for offerings, parking, and chai.
- Book ghat boats in advance: During November–February peak season, sunrise boat rides from Dashashwamedh Ghat are in very high demand. Book through your hotel or a fixed-rate government boatman to avoid overcharging.
Why Choose ChikuCab for Ayodhya to Varanasi?
Thousands of pilgrims and travelers choose ChikuCab for the Ayodhya to Varanasi corridor every month.
- 10+ Years Experience — Serving UP pilgrimage routes since 2012
- 200+ Verified Cabs — Clean, maintained, GPS-tracked fleet
- Transparent Pricing — No surge pricing, no hidden fees
- 24/7 Availability — Book anytime, travel anytime
- 4.8/5 Rating — 10,000+ happy customers reviewed
- Insured Rides — All journeys are fully insured
- Easy Payment — UPI, card, net banking, and cash all accepted
Frequently Asked Questions – Ayodhya to Varanasi Cab
Q.1 What is the distance and time from Ayodhya to Varanasi by cab?
The road distance from Ayodhya to Varanasi is approximately 200–210 km via NH27. By cab, the journey typically takes 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic, time of travel, and road conditions. Leaving early morning (before 7 AM) generally results in the fastest travel time.
Q.2 What is the cheapest cab option from Ayodhya to Varanasi?
The most affordable option is a Non-AC Swift Dzire or similar sedan, with one-way fares starting from approximately ₹1,800–₹2,100 for up to 4 passengers. For budget group travel, a Non-AC 12-seater Tempo Traveller (₹4,200–₹5,000) divides the cost among 12 passengers, making it very economical per person.
Q.3 Is a round-trip cab cheaper than two one-way bookings?
Yes. Booking a round-trip cab is typically 15–25% cheaper than booking two separate one-way cabs. With a round-trip booking, the driver waits for you in Varanasi (usually up to 8–10 hours at no extra charge). Waiting charges apply if the stay exceeds 24 hours or the agreed wait time.
Q.4 How many toll booths are there from Ayodhya to Varanasi?
There are 4 main toll booths: Faizabad/Rudauli Toll Plaza (~25 km), Sultanpur Toll Plaza (~95 km), Jaunpur Toll Plaza (~145 km), and Varanasi Bypass/Ring Road Toll (~200 km). Total toll for a car is approximately ₹295–₹375 one way. All booths are FASTag-enabled and toll is included in ChikuCab’s quoted fare.
Q.5 What vehicle is best for a family of 6 from Ayodhya to Varanasi?
For a family of 6, the Maruti Ertiga AC (6+1 seating, ₹2,800–₹3,400 one way) is the most economical option. For extra comfort and luggage space, the Toyota Innova Crysta AC (6+1 seating, ₹3,800–₹4,500 one way) is highly recommended — it is the most popular choice for family pilgrimages on this route.
Q.6 Can I book a cab for a group of 20 or more from Ayodhya to Varanasi?
Yes! Chiku Cab offers 20-seater Tempo Travellers, Force Urbania Vans (17-seater luxury), and 26-seater Minibuses for large groups from Ayodhya to Varanasi. For groups of 40+, multiple vehicles can be arranged simultaneously. Book 3–5 days in advance for group bookings, especially during festival seasons.
Q.7 Is it safe to travel from Ayodhya to Varanasi by cab at night?
Night travel on NH27 is generally safe from Ayodhya to Varanasi, with the highway being well-lit in most sections. However, early morning (4–6 AM) or daytime travel is recommended for first-time visitors and families. Night travel surcharges of ₹200–₹500 may apply between 10 PM and 6 AM.
Q.8 Can I visit Sarnath as a stopover on the way to Ayodhya to Varanasi?
Absolutely. Sarnath is located just 10 km before entering Varanasi city and falls directly on the route from Ayodhya to Varanasi. Ask your ChikuCab driver to stop at Sarnath (Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath Museum) for 1–2 hours before proceeding to your hotel or ghat. No extra fare is typically charged for this stopover.
Q.9 What is the UP State Tax for cabs on the Ayodhya to Varanasi route?
Tourist vehicles and outstation cabs entering Ayodhya to Varanasi may be subject to a Uttar Pradesh State Entry Tax of approximately ₹100–₹250 depending on vehicle category. ChikuCab includes all applicable state taxes in the quoted fare — no surprise charges at checkpoints.
Q.10 What is the Ganga Aarti timing in Varanasi?
The main Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat takes place every evening, approximately 45 minutes after sunset. Seasonal timings: Winter (Nov–Feb): 6:15 PM | Summer (Mar–May): 7:00 PM | Monsoon (June–Sept): 6:45 PM. Arrive at least 30–45 minutes early for a good spot, especially during peak season. ChikuCab drops you at Godowlia Chowk — a 3-minute walk to the ghat.
Q.11 Does ChikuCab provide child seats for the journey from Ayodhya to Varanasi?
Child and infant seats can be requested while booking on chikucab.com. Mention this in the booking notes. A nominal additional charge may apply. For infant safety, AC sedans (Dzire) and Innova Crysta are the most comfortable and safest options on this Ayodhya to Varanasi route.
Q.12 What payment methods does ChikuCab accept?
Chiku Cab accepts all major payment modes: UPI (GPay, PhonePe, Paytm), debit/credit cards, net banking, and cash. Online payment can be made via the Chiku Cab app or website from Ayodhya to Varanasi. Cash payment to the driver at trip completion is also accepted for most bookings.
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