Step-by-Step Guide to Reach Varanasi: Routes, Charges & Booking Tips

Welcome to this week’s travel guide, where we dive into one of India's most mesmerizing destinations—Varanasi. Whether you’re a pilgrim seeking spiritual solace, a photography enthusiast chasing the magic of the ghats at sunrise, or simply an avid traveler, getting to Varanasi can kickstart your experience on the right foot. Navigating transport options, costs, and bookings may seem overwhelming at first, but don’t worry—I’ll walk you through everything step-by-step so you can focus on soaking in the city’s unmatched vibe.

In this blog, we'll break down the most convenient ways to reach Varanasi, compare routes, outline typical charges, and share insider tips on booking your journey smoothly. Ready to plan your trip with confidence? Let’s get going!

Why Varanasi?

Before jumping into the logistics, a quick note on why Varanasi is worth every bit of travel effort. Known as the spiritual capital of India, it sits on the banks of the sacred Ganges River and is rich with history, culture, and religious significance that dates back thousands of years. From witnessing the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti in the evening to exploring winding alleys with hidden temples, Varanasi offers a sensory feast that’s unlike anywhere else.

How to Reach Varanasi: The Main Routes

Varanasi is well-connected across modes of transport thanks to its popularity. Your choice depends largely on where you're starting from, your budget, and your personal preferences. Here’s a detailed look:

1. By Air

Varanasi’s Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (IATA: VNS) receives flights from most major Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore, and a handful of international flights, mainly from Nepal and Southeast Asia.

• Journey duration: Flights between Delhi or Mumbai and Varanasi typically take 1.5 to 2 hours.
• Charges: Airfares vary widely depending on season and booking time but expect ₹2,000–₹7,000 for one-way economy tickets from major hubs.
• Booking tips: Early morning flights or late-night flights often have better prices. Using fare comparison websites and booking at least 2-3 weeks in advance usually secures you the best deals.
• On arrival: The airport is about 26 km from the city center; you can hire prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber. Expect to spend ₹400–₹700 depending on the vehicle and time of day.

2. By Train

Trains are a popular and scenic way to reach Varanasi. The city has two main railway stations:

• Varanasi Junction (BSB) – the largest and busiest station.
• Varanasi City (BCY) – smaller but well connected.

Trains connect Varanasi to major cities like Delhi, Lucknow, Patna, Kolkata, and Howrah.

• Journey duration: From Delhi, journey times range from 12 to 16 hours, depending on the train. From Kolkata, expect about 12 hours.
• Charges: Ticket prices vary by class — sleeper class starts around ₹300, 3-tier AC about ₹900, and 2-tier AC roughly ₹1,200–₹1,500.
• Booking tips: Book your train tickets online well in advance via the IRCTC website or app (ideally up to 120 days before travel) to get confirmed seats especially during festivals and peak seasons.
• Travel tip: Trains are almost always the most cost-effective and culturally immersive way to reach Varanasi, especially for those who don’t mind the experience of Indian rail travel.

3. By Road

If you love road trips or are already in nearby cities, traveling by bus or car can be an exciting option.

• Bus services: Both government and private operators run frequent Volvo and sleeper buses to Varanasi from cities like Lucknow, Allahabad, and Patna.
• Journey duration: Times vary from 4 to 10 hours depending on the distance.
• Charges: Bus fares range widely — from ₹300 for ordinary buses to ₹800 or more for premium Volvos.
• Booking tips: Use reliable platforms like RedBus or state transport websites to book tickets in advance and check reviews to avoid subpar operators.
• Self-driving or hiring cabs: If you’re comfortable driving in India or want more flexibility, renting a car or hiring a private cab can be arranged from nearby cities. Prepare for moderate to heavy traffic as you approach Varanasi, and plan quiet early morning or late-night trips to avoid peak congestion.

Additional Tips and Insights for Booking Your Trip

• Timing matters: If possible, avoid traveling during major Hindu festivals like Dev Deepawali or Makar Sankranti unless you specifically want to experience the vibrant—and crowded—celebrations.
• Check weather: Summers can be extremely hot, so plan flights or trains in cooler months (October to March) for a more pleasant experience.
• Use trusted apps and websites: IRCTC for trains, MakeMyTrip or Cleartrip for flights and buses, and reliable taxi services for transfers.
• Booking early: Varanasi is a tourist hotspot year-round, so advance booking secures better prices and availability, especially on flights and trains.
• Local transport on arrival: Once in Varanasi, rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and app-based taxis (Ola, Uber) are plentiful and affordable for exploring the city’s narrow lanes.

A Quick Summary of Charges to Expect

• Flight (one-way, economy): ₹2,000–₹7,000 depending on origin & advance booking.
• Train tickets: ₹300 (sleeper class) to ₹1,500 (2-tier AC).
• Buses: ₹300 to ₹800 for ordinary and Volvo buses.
• Taxi from airport to city: ₹400–₹700.

Final Thoughts

Reaching Varanasi is an adventure in itself, but a well-planned journey grants you a chance to dive right into its timeless allure. Whether you choose to fly for speed, take the train for an authentic experience, or hit the road for a leisurely trip, preparation will make all the difference.

Remember: a bit of patience and flexibility go a long way when traveling in India, and every route to Varanasi brings its own stories and sights. Once you arrive, it’s all about getting lost in the rhythm of the ghats, savoring street foods, and absorbing the spiritual heartbeat that pulses through this ancient city.

Thanks for reading! Next week, we’ll explore the Top Things to Do in Varanasi—from sunrise boat rides to the best local eateries (and some secret spots you won’t find in guidebooks). Stay tuned, and happy travels!