How to Reach Prayagraj
Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad), the spiritual and cultural heart of Uttar Pradesh, is a major pilgrimage city known for the Triveni Sangam, Kumbh Mela, ancient temples, and historical landmarks. Whether you’re planning a religious pilgrimage, a historical tour, or attending the grand Kumbh Mela 2025, knowing how to reach Prayagraj is essential for smooth travel.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best ways to reach Prayagraj by air, train, road, and bus, including tips for local travel, distances from major cities, and travel time estimates.
How to Reach Prayagraj
By Air: Nearest Airport to Prayagraj
Prayagraj Airport (Bamrauli Airport – IXD) is the city’s domestic airport, located about 12 km from the city center.
Key Details:
- Connected Cities: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Lucknow, Bhopal, Kolkata, and more.
- Airlines Operating: IndiGo, Alliance Air, Air India, and others.
- Travel Tip: Taxis and pre-paid cab services are available at the airport for easy city transfers.
Nearest International Airport:
- Varanasi International Airport (Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport – VNS) – 130 km from Prayagraj.
- Lucknow’s Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport (LKO) – 200 km away.
By Train: Well-Connected Railway Junction
Prayagraj Junction (Station Code: PRYJ) is one of the busiest railway stations in North India and part of the Howrah–Delhi main line.
Major Railway Stations in Prayagraj:
- Prayagraj Junction (PRYJ) – Main station
- Prayag Junction (PRG) – Near Sangam and religious centers
- Cheoki Junction (COI) – For long-distance trains
- Naini Junction (NYN) – Southside of Prayagraj
Popular Trains to Prayagraj:
- Purushottam Express (Delhi–Prayagraj)
- Prayagraj Express (Delhi–Prayagraj)
- Kolkata Rajdhani (Kolkata–Prayagraj)
- Shiv Ganga Express (Varanasi–Delhi, via Prayagraj)
Travel Tip: Book tickets in advance during Kumbh Mela, Magh Mela, or festivals.
By Road: Buses & Highways to Prayagraj
Prayagraj is well-connected via National Highways NH-19, NH-30, and NH-35, making road travel easy from major cities.
Inter-State Buses:
- UPSRTC Buses from:
- Varanasi (120 km)
- Lucknow (200 km)
- Kanpur (200 km)
- Delhi (700 km)
- Patna (380 km)
- Gorakhpur (240 km)
Both AC Volvo and non-AC sleeper buses are available from government and private operators.
By Car or Taxi: Self-Drive and Rentals
For travelers who enjoy flexibility, a car or cab is a great option.
Approximate Driving Times to Prayagraj:
| From City | Distance | Estimated Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Varanasi | 120 km | 3–4 hours |
| Lucknow | 200 km | 4–5 hours |
| Kanpur | 200 km | 4 hours |
| Delhi | 700 km | 10–12 hours |
| Patna | 380 km | 7–8 hours |
Travel Tip: National Expressways are in good condition, especially NH-19 (Delhi–Kolkata route).
Local Transportation in Prayagraj
Once you’re in the city, getting around is easy with various modes:
- Auto-rickshaws and E-rickshaws (most common and budget-friendly)
- App-based cabs (Ola, Uber)
- Local buses
- Cycle rickshaws for short inner-city distances
- Boats for rides on the Ganga and Yamuna during Sangam visits
Distance from Major Tourist Cities
| City | Mode | Distance | Recommended Travel Mode |
|---|---|---|---|
| Varanasi | Train/Taxi | 120 km | Train/Taxi (2.5–3 hrs) |
| Lucknow | Bus/Train | 200 km | Train (4 hrs) |
| Ayodhya | Train/Bus | 170 km | Bus/Taxi (4–5 hrs) |
| Chitrakoot | Taxi/Bus | 130 km | Taxi (3–4 hrs) |
| Delhi | Train/Flight | 700 km | Overnight train/flight |
| Patna | Train/Bus | 380 km | Train (7 hrs) |
Special Travel Arrangements During Kumbh Mela
During Kumbh Mela (2025) and Magh Mela, the government provides:
- Dedicated shuttle services
- Special trains and buses
- Temporary bridges and roads
- Helicopter services for VIP darshan
You can also opt for customized pilgrimage tour packages with transportation, tent stays, meals, and guided rituals.
Final Tips
- Book early during festival seasons, especially for trains and flights.
- Use official tourism portals and verified apps for real-time updates.
- Carry ID proof and travel documents.
- Keep change and cash for local transport or Sangam rides.
Conclusion
Reaching Prayagraj is simple and accessible, whether you’re flying in, riding the rails, or hitting the highways. This sacred city welcomes pilgrims and travelers with open arms and seamless connections. As you plan your journey to witness the spiritual energy of the Sangam or the grandeur of the Kumbh Mela, let this transportation guide be your starting point.
Would you like help planning a custom tour package or transportation for your trip to Prayagraj? We can help with:
- Hotel bookings
- Cab arrangements
- Sangam darshan
- Kumbh Mela tent stays
Just let me know and I’ll assist you with everything!
