Varanasi, located on the banks of the Ganges in Uttar Pradesh, is one of India's oldest cities and a major cultural hub. Haridwar, in Uttarakhand, is a sacred city known for its ghats and religious significance. Many travelers journey between these two spiritual cities for pilgrimage, tourism, or cultural exploration.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Varanasi to Haridwar. You will learn about trains, buses, driving routes, and flights, along with practical tips to plan your trip smoothly and comfortably.

Getting from Varanasi to Haridwar – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a popular and economical way to reach Haridwar from Varanasi. Several direct trains connect the two cities, offering a comfortable journey with scenic views of northern India.

• The main departure station in Varanasi is Varanasi Junction (BSB), and trains arrive at Haridwar Railway Station (HW). The distance is about 820 km by rail, with journey times ranging from 14 to 18 hours depending on the train.

• Popular trains include the Haridwar Express and the Doon Express, which run daily or several times a week, providing options for different timings and classes such as Sleeper, 3AC, and 2AC.

• Train fares vary from INR 300 for Sleeper Class to INR 1200 for 2AC, making it an affordable option for most travelers. Booking through IRCTC or authorized agents is recommended to secure confirmed seats.

• Trains can get crowded during festivals like Kumbh Mela or Diwali, so booking well in advance is essential. Monsoon season may cause occasional delays due to track maintenance or waterlogging.

• Onboard catering is limited, so carrying snacks and water is advisable. Stations like Lucknow and Moradabad are major stops where you can find food vendors during the journey.

Bus

Buses offer a flexible and budget-friendly way to travel between Varanasi and Haridwar. Both government and private operators run services connecting the two cities.

• Buses depart mainly from Varanasi’s Pandeypur Bus Stand and arrive at Haridwar Bus Stand near the city center, covering approximately 800 km by road.

• Travel time by bus ranges from 16 to 20 hours depending on the route and traffic. Overnight Volvo AC buses are popular for comfort and convenience.

• Ticket prices range from INR 600 to INR 1500, depending on the bus type—ordinary, deluxe, or Volvo AC. Booking through MSRTC, UPSRTC, or private portals is recommended.

• Road conditions on NH 34 and NH 9 are generally good but can be affected during monsoon with occasional landslides near the Uttarakhand hills.

• Frequent stops for tea and meals are available at highway dhabas, but hygiene varies, so carrying your own water and snacks is wise.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Varanasi to Haridwar offers flexibility and the chance to explore en route. The journey covers around 800 km via NH 34 and NH 9, taking approximately 14 to 16 hours.

• The route passes through major towns like Lucknow, Bareilly, and Moradabad, with several toll plazas charging fees totaling around INR 400 to INR 600.

• Driving yourself or hiring a cab allows stops at places like Lucknow for meals or sightseeing, making the trip more enjoyable and personalized.

• Road quality is mostly good, but be prepared for heavy traffic near urban centers and slower speeds in hilly areas approaching Haridwar.

• Night driving is possible but not recommended due to limited street lighting and occasional stray animals on highways.

• Fuel stations are frequent along the route, but it is best to fill up in larger towns to avoid delays. Carry a physical map or use reliable GPS apps like Google Maps or MapMyIndia.

Flight

There are no direct flights between Varanasi and Haridwar, but you can fly part of the way and then use road transport to complete the journey.

• Varanasi has Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) with flights to Delhi, which is about 220 km from Haridwar.

• From Delhi Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Haridwar, which takes around 4 to 5 hours by road.

• Flight time from Varanasi to Delhi is about 1.5 hours, with fares ranging from INR 2500 to INR 6000 depending on the airline and booking time.

• This option is suitable if you want to combine air travel with a road trip or if train and bus options do not fit your schedule.

• Delhi to Haridwar road transport includes Volvo buses, private taxis, and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber, which are easily available at the airport.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers making the journey from Varanasi to Haridwar. It covers essential actions to ensure a smooth trip.

• Book your train or bus tickets early through IRCTC or official bus portals to avoid last-minute hassles, especially during festivals or holidays.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, a power bank, and a small first-aid kit, as long journeys can be tiring and stops may be limited.

• Reach the departure station or bus stand at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time to find your platform or bus easily and avoid rush.

• If traveling by car, check your vehicle’s condition, fuel level, and keep toll cash ready. Use GPS navigation and plan rest stops every 3-4 hours to stay fresh.

• During the journey, stay hydrated and avoid eating heavy street food to prevent stomach issues. Use trusted dhabas or carry homemade food.

• On arrival at Haridwar, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs from the railway or bus station to reach your accommodation safely and affordably.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep a photocopy of your ID and ticket handy, as railway and bus staff may ask for identification during the journey.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water to avoid waterborne illnesses, especially when traveling through rural or hilly areas.

• Book tickets online in advance using IRCTC for trains and official state transport websites for buses to secure confirmed seats and avoid scams.

• Use local transport options like cycle rickshaws or shared autos for short distances in Haridwar, as they are economical and widely available.

• Pack your luggage securely and avoid carrying valuables in easily accessible pockets to prevent theft in crowded stations or buses.

• During monsoon, check weather updates and train/bus running status, as heavy rains can cause delays or route changes, especially near the hills.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Varanasi to Haridwar depends on weather and festival seasons. Avoid peak festival times for a less crowded experience.

Summer months can be hot and humid in Varanasi, while winters in Haridwar can be cold with morning fog affecting visibility on roads and railways.

• Avoid traveling during Kumbh Mela or major religious festivals in Haridwar, as transport and accommodation become heavily crowded and expensive.

• Monsoon season (July to September) may cause delays due to waterlogging and slippery roads, especially near the Uttarakhand foothills.

• Early morning departures are recommended to avoid city traffic and reach your destination before nightfall, enhancing safety and convenience.

• Winter fog in December and January can delay trains and buses, so plan extra travel time during these months.

Arrival at Haridwar & What to Expect

Haridwar Railway Station and Bus Stand are well connected to the city center and major pilgrimage sites. Upon arrival, you will find prepaid taxi counters and easy access to app-based cabs like Ola and Uber.

Popular areas to stay include Har Ki Pauri, Gandhi Road, and near the railway station, offering a range of budget to mid-range accommodations. Local transport options include cycle rickshaws, auto-rickshaws, and shared tempos for short distances.

Conclusion

Traveling from Varanasi to Haridwar is convenient with multiple options. Train travel is efficient and affordable, while buses provide flexibility. Driving offers freedom to explore, and flights combined with road transport suit those seeking speed.

Plan your journey by booking tickets early, considering weather and festival seasons, and preparing for long travel hours. With these tips, you can confidently enjoy a smooth and memorable trip between these two sacred cities.