Getting There and Away

Vibrant boats aligned along Varanasi's iconic riverbank, showcasing urban life by the Ganges.
Chandi Saha, Pexels

Varanasi is well-equipped with primary transport hubs, including Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS), and major railway stations such as Varanasi Junction (BSB) and Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction (DDU). The city also has a network of bus terminals and car rental services to facilitate travel.

By Air:

Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) connects Varanasi to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata, as well as some international destinations. The airport is located approximately 18-26 km from the city center. Flights from Delhi to Varanasi typically take around 1 hour 20 minutes, with indicative costs starting from approximately ₹2,122 to ₹2,312. Non-stop flights from Mumbai to Varanasi average about 2 hours 10 minutes.

By Train:

Varanasi Junction (BSB) serves as the main railway station, linking the city to major urban centers across India, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction (DDU) is another significant railway hub nearby. Travel from Delhi to Varanasi by train can range from 8 to 18 hours, depending on the service. Indicative fares from Delhi to Varanasi start from approximately ₹420 for Sleeper Class and can go up to ₹2,700 for 1A.

By Bus:

A comprehensive bus network connects Varanasi with various nearby cities and states. Journeys from Delhi to Varanasi typically take about 13-14 hours, with fares starting from around ₹496 to ₹999. Travel from Lucknow to Varanasi by bus generally takes 7-8 hours, with costs beginning from ₹260 to ₹399. Shorter trips, such as from Prayagraj to Varanasi, take approximately 2-4 hours, with fares starting from about ₹199 to ₹210.

By Car Rental/Taxi:

Car rental services are available for travel within Varanasi and for longer journeys. Indicative costs for car rentals can range from ₹11 to ₹17 per kilometer, with daily base fares starting from approximately ₹1,150 to ₹1,400, depending on the vehicle type. Daily rentals can also be found for around $18 (approximately ₹1,500).