Kashi Vishwanath Temple is located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, one of the holiest cities in India. Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is a major eastern metropolis and a common starting point for pilgrims and tourists heading to Varanasi.

This route is popular for spiritual travelers and cultural tourists. This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Kolkata to Kashi Vishwanath Temple, covering trains, buses, cars, and flights with practical advice for each mode.

Getting from Kolkata to Kashi Vishwanath Temple – Main Options

Train

Train travel is the most popular and economical way to reach Varanasi from Kolkata. It offers a direct connection with multiple daily trains, suitable for all budgets and comfort levels.

• Major trains depart from Howrah Junction and Sealdah stations in Kolkata, arriving at Varanasi Junction or Varanasi Cantt stations, covering about 880 km in 12 to 16 hours.

• Train fares range from INR 300 for sleeper class to INR 1500 for AC 2-tier, with options like the Shramjeevi Express and Poorva Express offering overnight journeys.

• Trains run frequently but book early on IRCTC, especially during festivals like Maha Shivaratri or Diwali, when demand surges and trains fill quickly.

• Travel comfort varies; AC coaches provide better rest, while sleeper class can be crowded. Carry water and snacks as pantry services may be limited.

• Upon arrival, Varanasi Junction is about 3 km from Kashi Vishwanath Temple, accessible by auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber.

Bus

Bus travel is less common but available for budget travelers who prefer road trips. It is slower but offers a chance to see rural landscapes along National Highway 19.

• Buses depart from Kolkata’s Esplanade and Howrah bus terminals to Varanasi’s main bus stands, covering roughly 900 km in 18 to 22 hours depending on traffic.

• State-run buses by NBSTC and private operators offer sleeper and semi-sleeper coaches with fares between INR 600 and INR 1200.

• Night buses are preferred to save daytime hours but can be tiring due to road conditions and frequent stops.

• Monsoon season may cause delays due to waterlogging or road damage on NH19, so check weather updates before booking.

• On arrival, local transport options include shared autos and cycle rickshaws for the 3 km trip to the temple area.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Kolkata to Varanasi is an option for travelers who want flexibility and comfort. The route is scenic but long, requiring preparation for tolls and road conditions.

• The distance is about 880 km via NH19, taking approximately 14 to 16 hours without heavy traffic, passing through Jharkhand and Bihar states.

• Toll plazas are frequent on NH19; budget around INR 800 to INR 1200 for toll fees one way.

• Plan stops at major towns like Dhanbad and Sasaram for food and rest; roadside dhabas offer local cuisine but carry bottled water to avoid stomach issues.

• Driving during early morning hours helps avoid city traffic in Kolkata and Varanasi, but night driving on some stretches can be risky due to poor lighting and stray animals.

• Parking near Kashi Vishwanath Temple is limited; use paid parking lots or leave the car at nearby hotels and walk or take rickshaws to the temple.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to reach Varanasi from Kolkata. It suits travelers with limited time or those who prefer comfort over cost.

• Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport offers direct flights to Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport in Varanasi, with a flight time of about 1.5 hours.

• Airfares range from INR 2500 to INR 6000 depending on the airline and booking time; budget airlines like IndiGo and SpiceJet operate this route frequently.

• Flights are more frequent in the morning and evening; book at least two weeks in advance during festival seasons to secure seats.

• From Varanasi airport, Kashi Vishwanath Temple is about 30 km away; taxis and app-based cabs are available, costing around INR 500 to INR 700.

• Airport facilities include prepaid taxi counters and car rentals; avoid unmetered taxis to prevent overcharging.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Kolkata to Kashi Vishwanath Temple, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.

• Book your train or flight tickets early on IRCTC or airline websites to get confirmed seats and better prices, especially during peak seasons.

• Pack light but include essentials like water bottles, snacks, hand sanitizer, and a power bank for long journeys.

• Reach the departure station or airport at least one hour before scheduled time to avoid last-minute rush and check-in delays.

• On arrival in Varanasi, use prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs to reach Kashi Vishwanath Temple safely and avoid bargaining hassles.

• Wear comfortable clothes and footwear as the temple area involves walking and crowd navigation; carry a small bag for valuables.

• Keep local currency handy for small purchases, auto-rickshaw fares, and temple offerings, as digital payments may not be accepted everywhere.

Practical Travel Tips

• Stay alert in crowded places like Varanasi railway station and temple premises to avoid pickpocketing; keep your belongings close and secure.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water during the journey and in Varanasi to prevent stomach infections common among travelers.

• Book train tickets through IRCTC’s official website or app to avoid scams; use verified bus operators if choosing road travel.

• Use Ola or Uber apps in Varanasi for reliable local transport; avoid unlicensed taxis which may overcharge tourists.

• Carry minimal luggage to manage crowded trains and busy temple areas comfortably; use lockable bags for safety.

• During monsoon, expect travel delays due to waterlogged tracks or roads; check weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple from Kolkata is during the cooler months from October to March. Summers can be very hot, and monsoon rains may disrupt travel plans.

Festivals like Maha Shivaratri attract large crowds, making travel and temple visits busier but more vibrant. Planning around these dates can enhance or complicate your experience.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals unless you want to experience the crowd and festivities; book tickets well in advance if you do.

• Monsoon season from July to September can cause delays on roads and railways due to heavy rains and flooding.

• Early morning departures help avoid city traffic in Kolkata and Varanasi, making your journey faster and more comfortable.

• Winter fog in northern India can delay trains and flights; check real-time updates before traveling in December and January.

Arrival at Kashi Vishwanath Temple & What to Expect

When you arrive in Varanasi, you will find multiple transport options to reach Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The temple is located in the old city area, known for its narrow lanes and bustling markets.

Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are the safest and most convenient ways to reach the temple from railway stations or the airport. Auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are cheaper but may be less comfortable with luggage.

Accommodation options near the temple range from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Staying close to the temple allows easy access for early morning prayers and evening aarti ceremonies.

Conclusion

Traveling from Kolkata to Kashi Vishwanath Temple is straightforward with multiple options to suit different budgets and preferences. Train travel offers a balance of cost and comfort, while flights save time for those on tight schedules.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, packing wisely, and choosing reliable local transport will ensure a smooth journey. With this guide, you can confidently plan your pilgrimage or visit to one of India’s most sacred sites and enjoy the spiritual and cultural richness of Varanasi.