3 Days travel Itinerary for Ayodhya, Varanasi and Lucknow

Take a trip to Uttar Pradesh and get a true taste of India. This state brings you closer to the traditions, culture, and heritage. If you are planning to visit UP, you should not miss out on Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Lucknow. 

Each of them has something unique and beautiful to offer that will make your trip extra special. From the sacred shores of the Ganges in Varanasi to the mythical birthplace of Lord Rama in Ayodhya and the royal splendours of Lucknow, these 3 cities are what you call the perfect trio!

In this 3-day itinerary, we will take you through all the aspects of making this journey smooth for you. This will include the best places to visit in Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Lucknow, the distance between these three cities and hotels to stay at.

A few months ago, I embarked on an exhilarating adventure to explore the historical and cultural treasures of Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Lucknow. There I witnessed gorgeous sites to visit and this is what encouraged me to create this Ayodhya-Varanasi-Lucknow itinerary for you. Let’s begin our exploration and see what’s in the box.

Day 1: Arrival At Ayodhya

Let’s begin our trip with the Ayodhya itinerary. This UP city is lovingly called the birthplace of Rama. 

Your journey begins as you step off the train or disembark from your flight at Faizabad Junction. From here, it’s a short drive to Ayodhya, the fabled birthplace of Lord Rama.

Consider booking a room at one of the cosy guesthouses or heritage homestays, such as the Shri Ram Hotel or Ramprastha. There are various comfortable hotels in Ayodhya for families. These accommodations are steeped in local charm and will provide a comfortable base for your exploration.

Recommendations for Hotels in Ayodhya

These are the top 5 Hotels in Ayodhya that promise convenience, comfort, and at-home feeling to the guests.

1. Hotel Ramprastha

Rating: 4.5/5

Location: Ram Katha Park (Near Naya Ghat)

Estimate Price for 1 day: INR 4,300

Pros: Free parking, private balcony, babysitting facility

Cons: Congested rooms

2. Ramayana Hotel

Rating: 4.3/5

Location: Shahnewazpur, Manjha

Estimate Price for 1 day: INR 5,500

Pros: Quality of food, housekeeping, comfortable rooms

Cons: Limited menu

3. Royal Heritage Hotels & Resort

Rating: 4.4/5

Location: Faizabad

Estimate Price for 1 day: INR 2,600

Pros: Proximity to tourist spots, modern facilities, swimming pool

Cons: Slow housekeeping service

4. Hotel Saket

Rating: 4.2/5

Location: Professor’s Colony

Estimate Price for 1 day: INR 1,060

Pros: Restaurant, proximity to railway station, several room options

Cons: Congested rooms

5. The Neelkanth Hotel

Rating: 4.1/5

Location: Kanti Nagar Road, Chauraha

Estimate Price for 1 day: INR 2,000

Pros: Shuttle service, green lawns, in-house restaurant

Cons: In-room dining not available

Places to Visit in Ayodhya

Once you have checked in one of the comfy hotels in Ayodhya, it is time to explore the best places to create a rich Ayodhya itinerary for your family.

1. Ram Janmabhoomi Temple: 

Ram Janmabhoomi Temple is built at the exact spot where Lord Rama is said to have been born. It’s a place of immense reverence and historical importance. 

The temple complex includes beautiful architecture, and the central deity is Lord Rama. Many who have witnessed the glory of Ayodhya Ram Mandir photos dream of visiting this paradise.

2. Hanuman Garhi: 

Perched on a hill, Hanuman Garhi temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, one of the most revered figures in Hindu mythology. It offers a panoramic view of Ayodhya and is particularly popular for sunrise and sunset visits.

3. Kanak Bhavan: 

This stunning Kanak Bhavan temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and Maa Sita. It has intricate architecture and stunning murals, and it is believed to have been a gift from Queen Kaikeyi to Sita.

4. Tulsi Smarak Bhawan: 

Dedicated to the renowned poet-saint Tulsidas, Tulsi Smarak Bhawan showcases manuscripts and memorabilia related to his life and works, including the famous “Ramcharitmanas.”

5. Nageshwarnath Temple: 

Nageshwarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a place of historical significance and religious importance. It’s believed to have been visited by Lord Rama during his reign.

If you have always been attracted to the vibe of this city by looking at the Ayodhya Ram Mandir photo, this is your cue to visit.

Popular Routes Travelled by People to Reach Ayodhya

• Delhi to Ayodhya Bus
• Agra to Ayodhya Bus
• Lucknow to Ayodhya Bus
• Gorakhpur to Ayodhya Bus
• Mehandipur Balaji to Ayodhya Bus
• Jaipur to Ayodhya Bus

Popular Routes Travelled by People to Reach Their Destination

• Ayodhya to Delhi Bus
• Ayodhya to Lucknow Bus
• Ayodhya to Agra Bus
• Ayodhya to Mathura Bus
• Ayodhya to Mehandipur Balaji Bus
• Ayodhya to Jaipur Bus
• Ayodhya to Jewar Bus

Recommendations and Tips

For your first evening in Ayodhya, make your way to Brij Bhoj. It is a delightful restaurant that serves authentic North Indian cuisine. The establishment offers a serene ambience and delectable dishes. 

Navigating Ayodhya is relatively easy as many of the key sites are within walking distance. Start your day early to avoid crowds at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple and the Hanuman Garhi Temple.

Check out the beautiful Ayodhya Ram Mandir photo to get a glimpse of what awaits.

Day 2: Varanasi Itinerary

As your Ayodhya itinerary is complete, it is time to move on to Varanasi. Eat a hearty breakfast before you leave so that you are well-rested and well-fed.

Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Benaras, is one of the world’s oldest continually inhabited cities. It is a cradle of spirituality, culture, and tradition in India. 

Varanasi offers a unique blend of spirituality, history, and heritage. Here are some places to visit in Varanasi.

1. Ganges Ghats

Varanasi’s famed ghats are the soul of the city. There are over 80 of them, each with its character. 

Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, and Assi Ghat are some of the most famous. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, an evening ritual that’s a spiritual and visual spectacle.

2. Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this revered temple is one of the holiest sites in Hinduism. The temple’s gold spire and bustling atmosphere make it a must-visit for pilgrims and tourists alike.

3. Narrow Alleys of the Old City

Stroll through the streets of the old city, where you’ll encounter bustling markets, tiny shrines, and glimpses of everyday life. These alleys provide an authentic and immersive experience.

4. Bharat Kala Bhavan

Bharat Kala Bhavan is a museum that houses an extensive collection of sculptures, paintings, and historical artefacts. It offers a deep insight into India’s cultural heritage.

5. Tulsi Manas Mandir

This beautiful Tulsi Manas temple is one of the best places to visit in Varanasi. It is dedicated to Lord Rama and is known for its marble carvings that narrate the story of the Ramayana.

6. Ramnagar Fort

A historic fort on the eastern bank of the Ganges, the Ramnagar Fort is an architectural masterpiece. It has a museum showcasing vintage cars, royal palanquins, and more.

7. Ghat Boat Rides

Take a boat ride along the Ganges to witness the city from a different perspective. Sunrise and sunset boat rides are particularly popular for their magical views.

Ayodhya to Varanasi Distance: How to Reach

The Ayodhya to Varanasi distance is approximately 218 km and can be covered well within 4 hours and 30 minutes. You can book a bus or train to reach the destination safely and within budget. 

You can also take a flight if you want to reach quickly. The Varanasi train and bus stations and airport are well-connected with the city centre.

Recommendations for Hotels in Varanasi

There are several hotels in Varanasi near Assi Ghat that promise a luxurious and homely experience to all family members and friends. So, if you are searching for accommodation, these are the recommendations.

1. Hotel Palace on Steps

Rating: 4.4/5

Location: Rana Mahal Ghat, Bangali Tola Road

Estimated Price for one day: INR 1,700

Pros: Rooftop terrace, laundry service, free breakfast

Cons: Restricted bathroom space

2. Suryauday Haveli

Rating: 4.6/5

Location: Shivala Ghat Road, Bangali Tola

Estimated Price for one day: INR 28,000

Pros: Dry cleaning, rooftop terrace, airport conveyance

Cons: N/A

3. Hotel Alka

Rating: 4.1/5

Location: Dashashwamedh

Estimated Price for one day: INR 1,700

Pros: Spa, yoga, coffee shop

Cons: Average rooms

These hotels in Varanasi near Ghat are budget-friendly and their proximity to tourist spots makes them preferable over other options.

The Varanasi to Ayodhya distance and vice-versa can be covered within 4 hours and 30 minutes. 

So, if you leave early in the morning for the city, you will get a whole day to explore its beauty. Drop your bags at the booked hotel in Varanasi near Assi Ghat and unravel the city gems.

Tick off all the places in the Varanasi itinerary and head to the next city!

Day 3: Lucknow Itinerary

Welcome to the city of Nawabs – Lucknow. On this final day, the Mughal city will bring you closer to the heritage and history. Lucknow blends the old-world charm of the Nawabi era with the vibrant pace of modern India. 

Known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and mouthwatering cuisine, the city has much to offer to travellers.

In the Lucknow itinerary, we will talk about everything from places to visit, the distance between the cities, and hotels in Lucknow near the airport.

Places to Visit in Varanasi

1. Historical Heritage

Lucknow is steeped in history, and its architectural heritage is a testament to that. The Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara, Rumi Darwaza, and the Residency are fine examples of Mughal and Nawabi architecture.

2. The Nawabi Culture

Lucknow, often referred to as the “City of Nawabs,” has a distinct cultural identity. The tehzeeb (etiquette) and adab (manners) of Lucknow are reflected in its polite residents. The city has been a centre of classical music, poetry, and dance for centuries.

3. Historical Landmarks

The Bara Imambara, built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula, is an architectural marvel and one of the city’s prime attractions. The Residency, a group of ruins, is a reminder of India’s struggle for independence.

4. Chikankari Handicrafts

Lucknow is famous for its Chikankari embroidery, an intricate and delicate hand-embroidery style that adorns clothing and textiles. Visitors can shop for exquisite Chikan garments in the bustling markets of Aminabad and Hazratganj.

5. The Ghats of Gomti River

While not as famous as the Ganges ghats in Varanasi, Lucknow has its riverfront beauty. The riverside promenade along the Gomti River is a great place for leisurely walks and picnics.

Varanasi to Lucknow Distance

The distance between these two cities is around 312 km and you can reach it within 5 hours 30 minutes. You can book a flight, train, or bus to reach the destination and begin your exploration!

Ayodhya to Lucknow distance is shorter and can be easily covered in around 2 hours 40 minutes. You can decide which route is best for you and plan accordingly.

Accommodations – 4 Star Hotels in Lucknow

If you are planning to stay at one of the hotels in Lucknow near airport, why not stay at a 4-star luxury one? These are some of the recommendations for you.

1. Novotel Lucknow Gomti Nagar

Rating: 4.3/5

Location: Viraj Kand, Gomti Nagar

Estimated price for one day: INR 6,000

Pros: Proximity to city centre, free breakfast, free stay for kids

Cons: Slow housekeeping service

2. Hyatt Regency Lucknow

Rating: 4.5/5

Location: Vibhuti Khand, Gomti Nagar

Estimated price for one day: INR 6,000

Pros: Proximity to prominent locations, lounge, pool

Cons: N/A

3. The Piccadily

Rating: 4.1/5

Location: Kanpur Road, LDA Colony

Estimated price for one day: INR 6,300

Pros: Fitness centre, gaming areas, swimming pool

Cons: N/A

These 4-star hotels in Lucknow are there to give you comfort, luxury, and proximity to the best spots in town.

As compared to Varanasi, Ayodhya to Lucknow distance is shorter and can be conveniently covered. 

So, if you want to save time and visit more places, you can always switch between these three cities. It is all about your comfort.

Travel to Uttar Pradesh Gems

Now that your Lucknow-Varanasi-Ayodhya itinerary is prepared, it is time to make the bookings! Check out the best travel options and hotels in every city and get going. 

These three days will give you the perfect escape you’ve been wishing for. Make sure to confirm the Ayodhya to Lucknow distance, Varanasi to Ayodhya distance, and vice-versa to plan according to your comfort.