Banaras, also known as Varanasi, is a sacred city located on the banks of the Ganges River in Uttar Pradesh. Delhi, the national capital, is a bustling metropolis and a major transport hub connecting northern India. The route from Delhi to Banaras is popular among pilgrims, tourists, and business travelers alike, drawn by Banaras’s spiritual significance and cultural heritage.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Delhi to Banaras, including trains, buses, flights, and self-drive options. Whether you want to experience the scenic train journey or prefer a quick flight, you’ll find detailed advice to plan your trip confidently and comfortably.

Getting from Delhi to Banaras – Main Options

By Train

Train travel is one of the most popular and economical ways to reach Banaras from Delhi. Indian Railways operates multiple trains daily, connecting major stations in Delhi to Banaras Junction (BSB).

• Key stations:

  Trains depart from New Delhi (NDLS), Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM), and Anand Vihar Terminal (ANVT) to Banaras Junction (BSB), which is well connected to the city center.

• Duration and cost:

  The journey takes approximately 12 to 14 hours, covering around 800 km. Ticket prices range from ₹400 for sleeper class to ₹1500+ for AC classes, depending on the train and booking time.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Popular trains like the Varanasi Express and Kashi Vishwanath Express run daily. AC coaches offer decent comfort, while sleeper class is budget-friendly but can be crowded during peak seasons.

• Booking tips:

  Book tickets early via IRCTC or authorized agents, especially during festivals like Diwali or Dev Deepawali when demand surges. Tatkal quota is available for last-minute bookings but at higher prices.

• Scenic and practical notes:

  The route passes through fertile plains and small towns, offering a glimpse of rural India. Night trains are convenient for saving daytime but carry typical train travel challenges like noise and occasional delays.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  Banaras Junction is about 5 km from the main ghats and city center. Auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are readily available outside the station for onward travel.

By Bus

Buses provide a flexible and affordable option for traveling from Delhi to Banaras. Both government and private operators run services on this route.

• Departure points:

  Buses leave from ISBT Kashmiri Gate and Anand Vihar ISBT in Delhi, heading towards Banaras’s main bus stands like Banaras Bus Station and Ramnagar Bus Stand.

• Travel time and fares:

  The journey takes around 14 to 16 hours, depending on traffic and route. Ticket prices vary from ₹500 to ₹1200 based on bus type—non-AC, AC, sleeper, or Volvo coaches.

• Service quality:

  Volvo and AC sleeper buses offer comfortable overnight travel with reclining seats and onboard amenities. Non-AC buses are cheaper but less comfortable for long journeys.

• Booking and timing:

  Tickets can be booked online via MSRTC, RedBus, or directly at bus terminals. Night buses are popular to save daytime, but avoid monsoon season due to slippery roads and fog.

• Road route and stops:

  Buses typically take NH 19 via Kanpur, with rest stops at highway dhabas and fuel stations. Avoid traveling during peak festival times to escape heavy traffic near Banaras.

• Challenges:

  Road conditions can vary; expect slowdowns near urban centers. Carry water and snacks as some stops may be brief.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Banaras offers flexibility and the chance to explore en route. The route is well connected by national highways and expressways.

• Route details:

  The fastest route is via NH 19, covering approximately 800 km in about 13 to 15 hours, depending on traffic. The Yamuna Expressway and Agra-Lucknow Expressway are smooth stretches on this journey.

• Road conditions:

  Most of the highways are well maintained with toll plazas. Watch out for occasional potholes and slow-moving vehicles near towns.

• Rest stops:

  Numerous dhabas and fuel stations are available along the way, including popular stops near Agra and Kanpur for meals and breaks.

• Driving tips:

  Start early morning to avoid Delhi traffic and reach Banaras before nightfall. Avoid night driving in rural stretches due to poor lighting and stray animals.

• Navigation and safety:

  Use GPS apps like Google Maps or MapMyIndia for real-time traffic updates. Keep emergency numbers handy and ensure your vehicle is serviced before the trip.

• Parking in Banaras:

  Parking near the ghats can be challenging; opt for hotels with parking facilities or use paid parking lots in the city center.

By Flight

Flying is the fastest way to reach Banaras from Delhi, with multiple daily flights connecting the two cities. Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (VNS) serves Banaras and is about 26 km from the city center.

• Flight duration and airlines:

  The flight takes about 1 hour 30 minutes. Airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet operate frequent flights between Delhi and Banaras.

• Cost and booking:

  Airfare ranges from ₹1500 to ₹4000 depending on advance booking and season. Book tickets via airline websites or aggregators like MakeMyTrip and Cleartrip for best deals.

• Airport facilities:

  Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport is small but functional, with basic amenities and taxi services available 24/7.

• Local transport from airport:

  Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate from the airport to the city. Shared autos are rare, so pre-book or negotiate fares beforehand.

• Timing tips:

  Early morning or late evening flights help avoid Delhi airport rush. Check for delays during foggy winters in North India.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Flights are preferred during monsoon and winter to avoid long road or rail journeys affected by weather.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan their journey from Delhi to Banaras efficiently, ensuring a smooth start and arrival.

• Book your tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains, RedBus for buses, or airline websites for flights. Early booking secures better seats and prices, especially during festivals.

• Reach departure point early:

  Arrive at the train station or bus terminal at least 30 minutes before departure to avoid last-minute rush and locate your platform or bus stand easily.

• Pack essentials smartly:

  Carry water, snacks, and a light blanket or shawl for night travel. Keep ID and tickets handy for verification during the journey.

• Use local transport on arrival:

  At Banaras Junction or airport, opt for prepaid taxis or app-based cabs to reach your accommodation safely and avoid overcharging.

• Plan your stay near the ghats:

  Choose hotels or guesthouses close to the riverfront for easy access to major attractions and a true Banaras experience.

• Stay updated on weather and traffic:

  Check local news or apps for any disruptions, especially during monsoon or festival seasons, to adjust your plans accordingly.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on trains and buses:

  Keep your belongings secure and avoid accepting food or drinks from strangers. Use lockable bags and stay alert at crowded stations.

• Food and water precautions:

  Drink bottled water and eat at reputable dhabas or restaurants. Banaras street food is tempting but choose hygienic places to avoid stomach issues.

• Booking strategy:

  Use official platforms like IRCTC and MSRTC for reliable tickets. Avoid touts and verify bus operators’ credentials when booking offline.

• Local commute in Banaras:

  Use cycle rickshaws for short distances and app-based cabs for longer rides. Negotiate fares beforehand if using autos without meters.

• Luggage handling:

  Travel light if possible; Banaras’s narrow lanes and crowded markets make heavy luggage cumbersome. Use sturdy bags with locks.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon rains due to flooding risks. Winters can be foggy, causing train and flight delays, so plan buffer time.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Delhi to Banaras depends on weather and crowd preferences. Winters offer pleasant temperatures, while summers can be hot and humid.

Monsoon season brings heavy rains that may disrupt road and rail travel. Festival times attract large crowds, which can affect availability and prices.

• Avoid peak traffic hours in Delhi, especially morning and evening rush, to save time reaching departure points.

• Winter fog in December and January can delay flights and trains; consider early morning departures to minimize impact.

• Monsoon (July to September) may cause slippery roads and waterlogging; flights are preferable during this season.

• Plan travel outside major festivals like Diwali and Dev Deepawali to avoid overcrowding and inflated fares.

Arrival at Banaras & What to Expect

On arrival at Banaras Junction or Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, travelers find themselves in a city rich with culture and spirituality. The station is lively, with numerous auto-rickshaws and taxis waiting outside. At the airport, prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs ensure safe rides to your destination.

Banaras’s main attractions, including the ghats, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and local markets, are accessible from central areas like Godowlia and Chowk. Staying near the riverfront enhances the experience, with easy access to boat rides and evening aarti ceremonies.

Conclusion

Among all options, train travel strikes the best balance of cost, comfort, and experience for most travelers going from Delhi to Banaras. It offers scenic views and a direct connection to the city center, making it ideal for pilgrims and tourists alike.

However, flights provide unmatched speed and convenience, especially during adverse weather or tight schedules. With this guide, you can confidently choose the mode that suits your preferences and enjoy a memorable journey to the spiritual heart of India.