Rae Bareli to Lucknow : The journey from the political heartland of Rae Bareli to the vibrant, cultural capital of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, is one of the most frequently traveled routes in the state. Whether you are a daily commuter, a weekend traveler, or a tourist exploring the treasures of Uttar Pradesh, understanding the nuances of this 80-90 kilometer journey is key to a smooth and enjoyable experience.
This definitive guide is your one-stop resource for everything you need to know about traveling from Rae Bareli to Lucknow. We will dive deep into every mode of transport—trains, buses, taxis, and self-drive options—providing you with schedules, fares, booking tips, and hidden insights. Furthermore, we will explore what awaits you in Lucknow, ensuring your trip is as rewarding as the journey itself.
Section 1: An Overview of the Rae Bareli to Lucknow Corridor
The connection between Rae Bareli and Lucknow is more than just a stretch of road and railway tracks; it’s a vital economic and cultural artery. The distance is approximately 82 kilometers via the most direct road route (NH30) and slightly longer by rail, depending on the specific train and its route.
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Average Travel Time:
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By Train: 1.5 to 3 hours
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By Bus: 2 to 2.5 hours
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By Car/Taxi: 1.5 to 2 hours
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Best Time to Travel: The weather is most pleasant from October to March, making it the ideal time for travel and tourism. Summers (April-June) can be extremely hot, while the monsoon (July-September) can sometimes lead to delays.
The choice of your transport depends entirely on your priorities: trains lead on cost-effectiveness and avoiding road traffic, buses offer a balance of affordability and frequency, while private cabs and cars provide unmatched comfort and flexibility.
Section 2: Traveling by Train – The Lifeline of Uttar Pradesh
For millions of Indians, the railway is the default mode of transport, and the route from Rae Bareli to Lucknow is exceptionally well-served by a number of passenger and express trains. The primary railway stations in Rae Bareli are Rae Bareli Junction (RBL) and Rae Bareli City (RBC), while in Lucknow, you will arrive at either Lucknow Junction (LJN) or the newer Lucknow Charbagh Railway Station (LKO).
Top Trains from Rae Bareli to Lucknow
Here is a curated list of the most popular and convenient trains for this route:
| Train Name & Number | Departure Station & Time | Arrival Station & Time | Journey Time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prayagraj Express (14114) | RBL (06:15 AM) | LJN (08:15 AM) | ~2h 00m | Daily |
| Varanasi – Lucknow Intercity (14218) | RBL (02:45 PM) | LKO (04:55 PM) | ~2h 10m | Daily |
| Ganga Gomti Express (14210) | RBL (10:05 AM) | LKO (12:25 PM) | ~2h 20m | Daily |
| Rae Bareli – Lucknow MEMU (64221) | RBL (05:45 AM) | LKO (08:35 AM) | ~2h 50m | Daily |
| Farrukhabad – Lucknow Passenger (55032) | RBC (10:20 AM) | LKO (01:10 PM) | ~2h 50m | Daily |
Note: Schedules are subject to change. Always check the latest timetable on the IRCTC website or app.
A Deep Dive into Train Travel
1. Classes of Travel:
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General (GN): The most economical option, often crowded. No reserved seating.
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Second Sitting (2S): Reserved seating in bench-style coaches. Comfortable for short journeys.
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Sleeper Class (SL): For longer journeys that happen to pass through this route, with berths for sleeping.
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Chair Car (CC): Air-conditioned seating with decent legroom, ideal for a comfortable 2-hour journey.
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AC 3-Tier (3A): Air-conditioned sleeper coach, offering a premium experience even for day travel.
2. How to Book Your Tickets:
Booking train tickets has been revolutionized by digital platforms. The official website is IRCTC. However, for a seamless user experience, especially for new users, you can also use trusted travel aggregators.
For instance, platforms like MakeMyTrip offer an intuitive interface for checking PNR status, live train running status, and easy ticket booking, making the process hassle-free. You can check real-time availability and book your tickets from Rae Bareli to Lucknow trains here.
3. Insider Tips for Train Travel:
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Book in Advance: Especially for AC classes on popular trains like the Prayagraj Express, tickets can get booked days in advance.
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Platform Food: While you can buy snacks on the platform, it’s often better to carry your own water and light snacks.
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Be Punctual: Rae Bareli Junction is a busy station. Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure.
Section 3: Hitting the Road – Buses, Taxis, and Self-Drive
Road travel offers a different kind of freedom, allowing you to enjoy the changing landscape of the Uttar Pradesh countryside at your own pace.
A. The Bus Journey: Affordable and Frequent
State-run Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) and numerous private operators ply on this route relentlessly.
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Types of Buses:
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Ordinary Bus: Non-AC, very economical, but can be crowded.
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Express Bus: Slightly better seating and fewer stops.
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Volvo AC Bus: The most comfortable option with air conditioning, reclining seats, and often charging ports.
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Bus Terminals:
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Rae Bareli: The main bus stand is near the city center.
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Lucknow: Buses typically arrive at the Alambagh Bus Station or the Kaiserbagh Bus Station.
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Fare & Duration: Fares range from ₹80 for ordinary buses to ₹250-300 for AC buses. The journey typically takes between 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic, especially while entering Lucknow.
B. Taxis and Cabs: The Ultimate Convenience
For door-to-door service, comfort, and privacy, hiring a cab is unbeatable.
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Options:
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Local Taxi Unions: You can book a full car from taxi stands in Rae Bareli. Always agree on the fare (one-way or round trip) beforehand.
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App-Based Cabs: Ola and Uber are operational in both cities. You can book an outstation trip, which is often the most transparent pricing method.
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Online Rental Services: Websites like Savaari are known for their reliable and professional outstation cab services.
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Fare: A one-way taxi ride can cost anywhere between ₹1,800 to ₹2,500 for a standard sedan, depending on the type of cab and operator.
You can compare prices and book a comfortable cab for your journey from Rae Bareli to Lucknow by road here.
C. Self-Drive: For the Love of the Open Road
If you have your own vehicle or are renting one, the drive is straightforward and enjoyable.
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Route: The primary route is via National Highway 30 (NH30), which is in good condition for most parts. You will pass through towns like Salon and Mohanlalganj.
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Toll: There is one toll plaza on this route. Keep around ₹100 in cash for toll charges.
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Driving Tips: Start early to avoid city traffic in both Rae Bareli and Lucknow. Be cautious of unpredictable traffic, including pedestrians, cyclists, and animals, especially when passing through smaller towns.
Section 4: Road Trip Stops & The Scenic Route via Purvanchal Expressway
For those with extra time and a sense of adventure, taking a detour via the Lucknow-Sultanpur Road to connect with the magnificent Purvanchal Expressway is a fantastic option. While it adds a few kilometers, the experience of driving on this world-class, access-controlled expressway with its iconic airstrip is unparalleled. You can stop at the designated viewpoints for a break and capture some amazing photographs.
Section 5: Welcome to Lucknow – The City of Nawabs
You’ve arrived! Lucknow is a city that seduces you with its etiquette, its history, and most importantly, its food. Here’s a quick guide to what you must not miss.
Must-Visit Attractions in Lucknow:
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Bara Imambara & Bhool Bhulaiya: This magnificent building, built without any beams, is an architectural marvel. The labyrinthine passages of the Bhool Bhulaiya (the maze) on its upper floor are a unique experience.
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Rumi Darwaza: The iconic gateway to the old city, this 60-foot tall structure is a stunning example of Awadhi architecture.
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Chota Imambara: Also known as the Palace of Lights, it is beautifully decorated with chandeliers and calligraphic verses.
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British Residency: A historic site from the 1857 Siege of Lucknow, it stands as a ruin today, offering a poignant glimpse into India’s colonial past.
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Marine Drive (Gomti Riverfront): A beautifully developed promenade perfect for an evening stroll.
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Ambedkar Park: A massive park with stunning Dalit Buddhist architecture, especially spectacular when lit up at night.
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Hazratganj: The city’s most upscale and historic shopping market, perfect for buying Chikan embroidered clothes and experiencing the city’s modern pulse.
The Culinary Pilgrimage: What to Eat in Lucknow
Lucknow’s food is its soul. The Awadhi cuisine, known for its ‘dum’ style of cooking (slow-cooking over a low flame), is a gastronomic revelation.
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Tunday Kababi: The most famous shop in Aminabad for its melt-in-the-mouth Galouti Kebabs.
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Basket Chaat at Royal Cafe: A legendary spot for its tangy and spicy chaat.
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Makkhan Malai: A winter delicacy, this frothy, saffron-flavored milk dessert is a must-try.
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Biryani at Idris Ki Biryani or Wahid Ki Biryani: The Lucknowi Biryani is distinct from its Hyderabadi counterpart, being lighter and more aromatic.
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Kulfi Faluda at Prakash Kulfi: The perfect way to end a rich meal.
To truly understand the depth of this cuisine, which is a cornerstone of India’s diverse culinary heritage, you can explore more about its history and techniques on dedicated food culture websites. For a deeper dive, you can read about the history of Awadhi cuisine on this authentic food culture blog.
Section 6: Practical Information & Travel Tips
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Language: Hindi and Urdu are widely spoken. Awadhi is the local dialect. English is understood in hotels and tourist areas.
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Currency & Payments: Digital payments (UPI, cards) are widely accepted. However, it’s wise to carry some cash for small vendors and auto-rickshaws.
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Local Transport in Lucknow: Auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws (in old city), and app-based cabs are the best ways to get around.
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Accommodation: Lucknow offers a wide range, from budget hotels in Alambagh to luxury properties in Gomti Nagar and Hazratganj.
Conclusion
The journey from Rae Bareli to Lucknow is a microcosm of modern Uttar Pradesh—efficient, well-connected, and rich with experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you choose the rhythmic clatter of the train tracks or the freedom of the open road, your passage to the City of Nawabs is sure to be a memorable one.
With this comprehensive guide, you are now equipped with all the information needed to plan a perfect trip. So, pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Lucknow. Shukriya aur Khush Aamdeed! (Thank you and Welcome!)
This guide is a treasure trove! From the default mode of transport to the unmatched comfort of driving oneself, it covers it all. Especially love the detailed breakdown of train classes – General (GN): The most economical option, often crowded. No reserved seating speaks volumes! And the bus fare range from ₹80 to ₹300 is simply *chefs kiss*. The insider tip about carrying water on the train is pure genius, because, you know, buying snacks on a busy platform is always *so* efficient. Explaining the dum style cooking as slow-cooking over a low flame is a masterclass in understatement! Kudos to Lucknow for having a park with stunning Dalit Buddhist architecture – who knew? A truly comprehensive (and slightly amusing) roadmap to the city of Nawabs!đồng hồ bấm giờ đếm ngược
This guide is a treasure trove! From the *utterly* essential train class breakdown (who knew Sleeper Class needed its own section?) to the *hilariously* specific toll money advice (Keep around ₹100), its a rollercoaster of wisdom. Comparing bus types felt like choosing between crowded economics and expensive comfort, a dilemma as old as time. And the road trip detour suggestion? *Chefs kiss* – because nothing says adventure like hitting a world-class expressway for a scenic view, *obviously*. While some tips are so *duh* (like booking in advance for AC seats), it’s a genuinely handy, if slightly over-the-top, companion for navigating this part of UP. Almost makes you want to pack a snack… and check the PNR *twice*.online ai photo enhancer free
This guide is *spot on*, though I did chuckle noticing the train schedule note: Schedules are subject to change. As if they have a choice! 😄 Praising train classes made me wish I could upgrade my General status to Chair Car instantly. And the bus section? Volvo AC sounds tempting, but Ill stick to dreaming for now. The self-drive tip about carrying cash for tolls is *classic* Indian preparedness. Finally, Lucknows culinary recommendations? *Chefs kiss*! My taste buds are already salivating, ready to dive into that Awadhi paradise. The citys soul through food? Absolutely! Now, if only the roads had as much soul… 😉download Instagram video
This guide is a treasure trove! From the default mode of transport (trains) to the different kind of freedom of road trips, it covers it all. The detailed train class breakdown (from GNs crowded chaos to AC 3As premium experience) is pure gold. And the bus section? Ordinary Bus: Non-AC, very economical, but can be crowded – tell me about it! The fare estimates for cabs (₹1,800 to ₹2,500) make me chuckle; always good to know the Ultimate Convenience comes at a price. The Scenic Route via Purvanchal Expressway sounds like an adventure waiting to happen. And finally, Lucknow – the city that will seduce you with its etiquette, its history, and most importantly, its food. Cant wait to dive into the Awadhi culinary revelation! A truly comprehensive and witty travel companion!deltarune chapter 4 prophecy images