“Discover the best ways to reach Varanasi by air, train, and road. Learn about nearby airports, major railway connections, and road routes for a smooth journey to India’s spiritual capital.”
Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the oldest living cities in the world. Nestled on the banks of the sacred River Ganga, it attracts millions of pilgrims, travelers, and tourists every year. Whether you are visiting to experience the spiritual atmosphere, explore ancient temples, or witness the enchanting Ganga Aarti, knowing how to reach Varanasi is the first step in planning your trip.
This blog will guide you in detail about all the possible routes – by air, train, and road – to help you choose the most convenient way to reach Varanasi. We’ll also provide essential travel tips, connectivity information, and frequently asked questions.
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Before diving into the travel options, let’s understand why Varanasi is a must-visit destination:
* Spiritual Capital of India – Varanasi is considered the holiest city in Hinduism.
* Rich Cultural Heritage – From ghats to temples, the city is a hub of Indian traditions.
* Tourist Attractions – Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Sarnath, and Banaras Hindu University are must-see spots.
* Culinary Delights – Street food like Kachori-Sabzi, Tamatar Chaat, and Banarasi Paan are unforgettable.
No matter what your reason is, the city welcomes everyone with open arms. Now, let’s explore the routes that connect you to this timeless city.
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# How to Reach Varanasi by Air
### Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (Varanasi Airport)
Varanasi is well-connected by air through Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS), located about 26 km from the city center. It serves as the primary entry point for both domestic and international travelers.
### Domestic Flights to Varanasi
Major Indian cities are connected to Varanasi via daily flights. You can fly to Varanasi from:
* Delhi to Varanasi flights – 1.5 hours
* Mumbai to Varanasi flights – 2 hours 15 minutes
* Kolkata to Varanasi flights – 1.5 hours
* Bengaluru to Varanasi flights – 2.5 hours
* Hyderabad to Varanasi flights – 2 hours
Airlines like IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, Akasa Air, and SpiceJet operate regular flights.
### International Flights to Varanasi
Varanasi Airport also has limited international connectivity. Direct international flights operate to destinations such as Kathmandu (Nepal), Colombo (Sri Lanka), and Bangkok (Thailand). For other international routes, travelers usually connect via Delhi or Mumbai.
From the airport, you can reach Varanasi city by:
* Prepaid Taxis – Convenient but slightly expensive.
* Ola/Uber Cabs – Available for hassle-free travel.
* Auto-rickshaws – Budget-friendly but slower.
* Private Transfers – Ideal for groups and families.
Travel Tip: Book your cab in advance if you’re arriving late at night.
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# How to Reach Varanasi by Train
### Varanasi Railway Stations
Varanasi is a major rail hub in North India and is connected with almost every part of the country. The main railway stations are:
* Varanasi Junction (BSB) – Main station, centrally located.
* Manduwadih Railway Station (MUV) – Recently modernized, handles many premium trains.
* Mughalsarai Junction (DDU) – One of the busiest railway stations in India, located 18 km away.
### Major Trains to Varanasi
* From Delhi to Varanasi – Shiv Ganga Express, Vande Bharat Express, Kashi Vishwanath Express.
* From Mumbai to Varanasi – Mahanagari Express, Kamayani Express.
* From Kolkata to Varanasi – Howrah-Varanasi Express, Vande Bharat Express.
* From Chennai to Varanasi – Ganga Kaveri Express.
* From Bengaluru to Varanasi – Sanghamitra Express.
### Train Travel Duration
* Delhi to Varanasi by train – 10 to 12 hours
* Mumbai to Varanasi by train – 25 to 28 hours
* Kolkata to Varanasi by train – 12 to 14 hours
* Chennai to Varanasi by train – 36 hours
* Bengaluru to Varanasi by train – 40 hours
### Facilities at Varanasi Railway Stations
* Waiting halls, retiring rooms, and cloakrooms.
* Food stalls serving local and branded cuisine.
* Easy availability of auto-rickshaws and taxis outside.
Travel Tip: Always book your train tickets in advance, especially during festivals and peak travel seasons.
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# How to Reach Varanasi by Road
Varanasi is well-linked to neighboring states and cities through National Highways. Traveling by road can be a comfortable option if you enjoy scenic drives.
### Road Connectivity
* From Lucknow to Varanasi – 320 km via NH30 (5-6 hours)
* From Allahabad (Prayagraj) to Varanasi – 120 km via NH19 (3 hours)
* From Patna to Varanasi – 240 km via NH922 (6 hours)
* From Gorakhpur to Varanasi – 220 km via NH31 (5 hours)
### Bus Services
* State-run buses – Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) operates frequent buses.
* Private buses – Luxury and sleeper buses available from major cities like Delhi, Lucknow, Patna.
* Volvo and AC coaches – Comfortable for long-distance travel.
### Car and Taxi Options
* Self-drive cars and rentals are available.
* Private taxis can be booked for one-way or round trips.
Travel Tip: The roads can be crowded, especially near the city. It’s advisable to start early to avoid traffic jams.
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# Best Time to Travel to Varanasi
Knowing how to reach Varanasi is incomplete without understanding the best time to visit:
* October to March – Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and festivals.
* April to June – Hot summers, but less crowded.
* July to September – Monsoon season, scenic but humid.
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# Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
1. Book Accommodation in Advance – Hotels near Dashashwamedh Ghat and Assi Ghat are popular.
2. Respect Local Customs – Dress modestly when visiting temples.
3. Try Local Food – Don’t miss Banarasi Thandai and street snacks.
4. Stay Safe – Keep your belongings secure in crowded areas.
5. Use Digital Payments – Widely accepted across shops and restaurants.
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# Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
### 1. How can I reach Varanasi from Delhi quickly?
The fastest way is by flight from Delhi to Varanasi, which takes about 1.5 hours.
### 2. Which is the nearest airport to Varanasi?
Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS), located 26 km away from the city center.
### 3. How far is Varanasi from Prayagraj?
Varanasi is around 120 km from Prayagraj (Allahabad) by road.
### 4. Is there a Vande Bharat train to Varanasi?
Yes, Vande Bharat Express runs between Delhi and Varanasi and Howrah and Varanasi.
### 5. Which is better: train or flight to Varanasi?
* Choose flight if you want to save time.
* Choose train if you prefer budget-friendly and overnight journeys.
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# Conclusion
Varanasi is one of those rare cities that blends spirituality, history, and culture into a timeless experience. Whether you are traveling by air, by train, or by road, reaching Varanasi is easier than ever due to excellent connectivity. From Delhi to Varanasi flights, Mumbai to Varanasi trains, or even a scenic road trip from Lucknow, every journey has its own charm.
So pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the soulful vibes of this ancient city. Now that you know how to reach Varanasi, your travel planning just got simpler. Whether you arrive at dawn by train, land at the airport, or drive along the highway, Varanasi is ready to welcome you with its eternal spirit.
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