Kashi, also known as Varanasi, is one of the oldest and holiest cities in India, located on the banks of the River Ganges in Uttar Pradesh. It attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists every year who come to experience its spiritual heritage and vibrant culture.

This guide explains how to reach Kashi from major Indian cities using various transport modes. You will learn about train, bus, car, and flight options, along with practical travel tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Major Cities to Kashi – Main Options

Train

Train travel to Kashi is popular due to its affordability and extensive connectivity. Varanasi Junction is a major railway hub with frequent trains from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other cities.

• Varanasi Junction (BSB) connects to major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai with trains running daily. Travel time ranges from 8 to 24 hours depending on the origin, with fares from ₹300 to ₹1500 for sleeper and AC classes.

• Trains are generally reliable but can be crowded during festivals like Diwali and Dev Deepawali, so booking tickets early on IRCTC is advisable to secure confirmed seats.

• Popular trains include the Kashi Vishwanath Express, Vande Bharat Express, and Mahamana Express, offering various comfort levels and onboard catering options.

• Night trains are common, allowing you to save daytime for sightseeing. However, monsoon season may cause occasional delays due to waterlogging on tracks.

• Station facilities include prepaid taxi counters, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cab services like Ola and Uber for last-mile connectivity to hotels and ghats.

Bus

Buses to Kashi are a budget-friendly option with good connectivity from nearby states. Both government and private operators run regular services to Varanasi.

• Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) operates buses from cities like Lucknow, Allahabad, and Gorakhpur to Varanasi, with travel times between 3 to 8 hours depending on distance.

• Private deluxe and Volvo buses run from Delhi and other metros, offering fares between ₹400 and ₹1200. These buses depart from major bus terminals such as Anand Vihar ISBT in Delhi.

• Bus frequency is high during the day, but night buses are less common and may be less comfortable for long journeys.

• Road conditions on National Highways NH19 and NH31 are generally good, but monsoon rains can cause occasional delays and slippery roads.

• Major bus stands in Varanasi include Ramnagar Bus Stand and Cantt Bus Stand, from where you can take local autos or cycle rickshaws to your destination.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Kashi offers flexibility and the chance to explore nearby attractions at your own pace. The city is accessible via well-maintained highways.

• Varanasi is connected by National Highway NH19, linking it to cities like Lucknow (320 km) and Patna (250 km). Driving time varies from 5 to 8 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• Self-drive car rentals are available in major cities with providers like Zoomcar and Revv offering hourly and daily packages suitable for long-distance travel.

• Expect toll plazas on highways, with toll charges ranging from ₹100 to ₹300 depending on the route. Keep cash or FASTag ready for smooth passage.

• Rest stops with food options are available on NH19, including dhabas serving local cuisine and clean washrooms, ideal for breaks during the journey.

• Driving in Varanasi city requires caution due to narrow lanes, heavy traffic, and frequent pedestrians, especially near ghats and markets.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to reach Kashi, especially from distant cities. Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) serves Varanasi with domestic and limited international flights.

• Direct flights connect Varanasi with Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru, with flight durations ranging from 1.5 to 3 hours and fares typically between ₹1500 and ₹4000 depending on booking time.

• Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet are the main airlines operating here, with multiple daily flights to and from Delhi and Mumbai.

• The airport is about 26 km from the city center, reachable by prepaid taxis, app-based cabs, and airport shuttles. Travel time to city is around 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic.

• Booking flights well in advance is recommended during peak pilgrimage seasons and festivals to avoid price surges and seat unavailability.

• Weather conditions like fog in winter can cause flight delays, so check real-time flight status before departure.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers to Kashi, helping you prepare and navigate the journey confidently.

• Book your train or flight tickets early through IRCTC or airline websites to secure confirmed seats, especially during festivals when demand spikes.

• Pack light but include essentials like water bottles, snacks, and a power bank, as local transport and waiting times can be unpredictable.

• Reach the departure station or airport at least 1.5 to 2 hours before scheduled time to complete security checks and avoid last-minute rush.

• On arrival at Varanasi Junction or airport, use prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs like Ola or Uber for safe and fair-priced rides to your accommodation.

• Choose accommodation near the ghats or city center for easy access to major attractions and local transport options like cycle rickshaws and autos.

• Carry small change for auto-rickshaw fares and tipping local helpers, as digital payments may not be accepted everywhere.

Practical Travel Tips

• Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying expensive items openly, as crowded places like Varanasi railway station can attract pickpockets.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water and eat freshly cooked food from reputed eateries to avoid stomach issues common among travelers.

• Book tickets online in advance, especially for trains and flights, to avoid last-minute unavailability and inflated prices during peak seasons.

• Use local transport like cycle rickshaws or app-based cabs for short distances, but agree on fares beforehand or use meter apps to avoid overcharging.

• Carry a small daypack instead of large luggage when exploring the narrow lanes near ghats, as many areas are not accessible by vehicles.

• During monsoon, expect occasional waterlogging and delays; carry an umbrella and waterproof footwear to stay comfortable.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Kashi is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and festivals add to the city’s charm. Summers can be very hot, and monsoons bring heavy rains.

Travel conditions vary seasonally, so planning your trip during cooler months ensures a comfortable experience and fewer travel disruptions.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Dev Deepawali unless you want to experience the crowds and book well in advance to secure transport and accommodation.

• Summer months (April to June) bring high temperatures above 40°C, making daytime travel tiring and less enjoyable.

• Winter mornings can be foggy, especially in December and January, causing train and flight delays, so plan buffer time in your itinerary.

• Early morning departures or late evening arrivals help avoid city traffic and heat, making your commute smoother and more comfortable.

Arrival at Kashi & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Varanasi Junction or Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, you will find multiple options for local transport. Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate from both locations, offering safe and convenient rides.

Most travelers prefer staying near the ghats such as Dashashwamedh or Assi for easy access to temples and riverfront activities. Local auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are widely available but negotiate fares before boarding as meters are often not used.

Conclusion

Traveling to Kashi is straightforward with multiple options tailored to your budget and comfort. Trains offer a balance of cost and convenience, while flights save time for distant travelers. Buses and self-drive provide flexibility for nearby states and road explorers.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, choosing the right season, and understanding local transport ensures a smooth journey. With this guide, you can confidently reach Kashi and immerse yourself in its timeless spiritual and cultural experience.