How to Reach Varanasi: A Comprehensive Guide

Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the oldest living cities in the world. With its spiritual charm, vibrant culture, and historical significance, this holy city attracts travelers from all around the globe. Whether you are drawn to the sacred ghats of the Ganges, the mesmerizing evening aartis, or the city’s rich heritage, Varanasi is a destination like no other. But before you can immerse yourself in its mystical allure, you need to figure out how to get there. This guide will walk you through the different ways to reach Varanasi, helping you plan your trip seamlessly.

By Air

One of the most convenient ways to reach Varanasi is by air. The Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) is located approximately 26 kilometers from the city center and is well-connected to major cities in India as well as some international destinations.

Domestic Flights

Varanasi enjoys excellent connectivity to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai. Airlines such as IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, and Vistara operate regular flights to and from Varanasi. If you’re flying from Delhi or Kolkata, the journey typically takes about 1.5 hours, while flights from Mumbai or Bengaluru take around 2-2.5 hours.

International Flights

For international travelers, direct flights to Varanasi are available from select cities in Southeast Asia, such as Bangkok and Colombo. If you are traveling from Europe, North America, or other parts of the world, you will likely have to connect through major Indian cities like Delhi or Mumbai.

Airport Transfer

Upon landing, you can easily find prepaid taxis or private car services at the airport to take you into the city. It takes about 45 minutes to an hour to reach the heart of Varanasi, depending on traffic. Alternatively, ride-hailing apps like Ola and Uber operate in the area, offering convenient and cost-effective options for airport transfers.

By Train

Varanasi is one of the most significant railway junctions in India, making it accessible by train from virtually every part of the country. There are two main railway stations in the city:

1. Varanasi Junction (BSB): This is the primary station, located in the heart of the city. It serves numerous express trains connecting Varanasi with Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Lucknow, Patna, and other major cities.
2. Manduadih Railway Station (MUV): This newer station, located a bit further from the city center, also handles long-distance trains. It is less crowded compared to Varanasi Junction and offers a better travel experience for some passengers.

Major Trains to Varanasi

• From Delhi, the Vande Bharat Express, Kashi Vishwanath Express, and Shiv Ganga Express offer fast and comfortable travel options.
• From Mumbai, the Mahanagari Express and Kamayani Express are popular choices.
• Kolkata is connected to Varanasi via the Howrah Junction-Varanasi Express and Poorva Express.
• If you’re coming from Chennai, the Ganga Kaveri Express is a good option.

Booking and Tips

Indian Railways offers a robust online booking system through the IRCTC website or mobile app. It’s advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons like festivals or holidays. Trains can get quite crowded, so opting for air-conditioned coaches (AC 2-tier or AC 3-tier) is a good idea for comfort.

Once you arrive at the railway station, autorickshaws and cycle rickshaws are readily available to take you to your accommodation or directly to the ghats.

By Road

For those who enjoy road trips or are traveling from nearby cities, reaching Varanasi by road is a scenic and flexible option. Varanasi is well-connected to other cities through an extensive network of national and state highways.

From Major Cities

• Delhi to Varanasi: The distance between Delhi and Varanasi is about 820 kilometers, and it takes roughly 12-14 hours to cover the journey by road. The most popular route is via NH19 (formerly NH2), also known as the Grand Trunk Road. While it’s a long drive, the road conditions are generally good, and you can enjoy scenic views of the northern plains.
• Lucknow to Varanasi: This route covers about 320 kilometers and takes approximately 5-6 hours. The drive along NH31 is smooth, and there are several roadside dhabas (local eateries) where you can stop for refreshments.
• Kolkata to Varanasi: The journey from Kolkata is longer, covering about 670 kilometers and taking around 10-12 hours by road. You’ll travel along NH19 and pass through picturesque countryside and small towns.
• Patna to Varanasi: The distance from Patna to Varanasi is around 250 kilometers, which takes about 5-6 hours via NH31.

Buses to Varanasi

If you’re not up for a self-drive adventure, regular government and private buses run between Varanasi and nearby cities. The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) operates both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned buses. Private operators like Volvo also offer luxury buses with reclining seats, air conditioning, and onboard entertainment. Buses from Lucknow, Allahabad (Prayagraj), and Gorakhpur are frequent and affordable.

For those traveling from further away, overnight sleeper buses are a good option. These buses typically depart in the evening and arrive in Varanasi early in the morning, allowing you to rest during the journey.

By Water

For a unique travel experience, you can also reach Varanasi by river. The National Waterway 1 runs along the Ganges River, connecting Varanasi to several towns along its banks. Although this is not the fastest or most popular method of transportation, it is gaining attention due to the growing interest in river cruises and eco-friendly travel.

Various private companies now offer luxury river cruises from Kolkata to Varanasi, allowing travelers to enjoy the scenic beauty and cultural heritage of the Ganges while making their way to the holy city. These cruises typically take several days and include stops at important religious and historical sites along the way.

Local Transportation in Varanasi

Once you arrive in Varanasi, navigating the city is relatively straightforward. Auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are abundant, and they are a great way to explore the narrow lanes of the old city. Ride-sharing apps like Ola and Uber also operate in Varanasi, making it easy to get around with just a few taps on your phone.

For short distances, especially if you’re visiting the famous ghats or temples, walking is often the best option. The streets of Varanasi are bustling with life, and you’ll likely want to stop and soak in the atmosphere as you move from one destination to the next.