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In this guide
The **Vande Bharat Express** is the fastest and most premium rail transit option for pilgrims traveling between Ayodhya and Varanasi (Kashi). It reduces travel time to just 3 hours, offering semi-high-speed comfort, meals, and executive seating. Below is the complete schedule, fares, and booking guide.
Ayodhya to Varanasi Vande Bharat Timings (Train 22426)
The Vande Bharat Express operates **6 days a week (except Mondays)**. The exact timetable is as follows:
- Departure (Ayodhya Dham - AY): 12:15 PM
- Arrival (Varanasi Junction - BSB): 3:20 PM
- Total Travel Duration: 3 Hours and 5 Minutes
- Stops: This is a direct fast train with zero commercial halts between Ayodhya and Varanasi.
For the return journey, **Varanasi to Ayodhya Vande Bharat (Train 22425)** departs Varanasi (BSB) at 6:00 AM and arrives in Ayodhya Dham at 9:02 AM.
Vande Bharat Train Ticket Price (Ayodhya to Varanasi)
Fares vary depending on the class of travel selected. Fares include optional catering (snacks/meals):
- AC Chair Car (CC): Approximately ₹735 per seat (inclusive of taxes and base catering fees).
- Executive Chair Car (EC): Approximately ₹1,210 per seat, offering wider 180-degree rotating seats and premium dining.
How to Book Tickets Online
Follow these quick steps to book your seats:
- Visit the official IRCTC website (irctc.co.in) or mobile app.
- Enter Origin: AYODHYA DHAM JN (AY) and Destination: VARANASI JN (BSB).
- Select travel date and check for Train Class **CC** or **EC** on train **22426**.
- Fill passenger details and choose optional meal plans (veg/sattvic food is served).
- Proceed to pay via UPI or card for instant ticket generation.
Alternative Trains List
If tickets on the Vande Bharat are sold out, you can consider these alternative daily/weekly trains:
- Saryu Yamuna Express (14650): Takes ~4.5 hours, sleeper and third AC available.
- Marudhar Express (14866): Departs Ayodhya Cantt at 8:45 AM, takes ~4.5 hours.
- Ganga Sutlej Express (13308): Daily night train option.
Pilgrim Tip:
For groups, elderly relatives, and families, syncing train tickets with private local AC cabs is crucial. Check our Ayodhya to Varanasi Taxi Fare & Cab Booking Guide to secure terminal pick-up and drops.
Frequently Asked Questions
Kya Vande Bharat me khana milta hai?
Haan, ticket booking ke samay aap catering option choose kar sakte hain. Train me pure vegetarian and Sattvic snacks aur lunch serve kiya jata hai.
Ayodhya se Varanasi ke liye sabse tez train kaunsi hai?
Vande Bharat Express (Train 22426) sabse tez train hai, jo sirf 3 ghante 5 minute me yatra poori karti hai.
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