Delhi to Varanasi Distance by Road, Train, and Flight

Varanasi — also known as Kashi or Banaras — is one of India’s oldest and most spiritual cities. Located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, it attracts millions of visitors each year for pilgrimage, culture, education, and tourism. Whether you’re heading to the ghats of the Ganges, the historic temples, or simply experiencing the ancient lanes, knowing the distance and travel options from Delhi can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

In this article, we’ll explore the distance between Delhi and Varanasi by road, rail, and air, discuss travel times, routes, pros and cons of each mode, and tips to choose the right journey based on your needs.

🛣️ 1. Delhi to Varanasi Distance by Road

Distance and Route

• The distance between Delhi and Varanasi by road ranges from about 790 km to 830 km, depending on the route taken.
• Most travellers follow National Highways, especially NH19 (via Agra and Lucknow), which is the major and most developed route linking the two cities.

Travel Time

• A typical road journey takes about 12 to 14 hours by car or private taxi without long breaks.
• Heavy buses, rest stops, and traffic can extend this time — especially during peak seasons and holidays.

What to Expect

Travelling by road gives you the freedom to stop anywhere — roadside dhabas, cities like Agra, Mathura or Lucknow, and local attractions along the way. However, it’s a long drive requiring regular breaks and good planning.

Pros and Cons of Road Travel

✔ Pros:

• Flexible schedule and stops
• Explore other towns/cities en route
• Ideal for group or family travel

✖ Cons:

• Long and tiring journey
• May face traffic and road delays
• Not ideal for travellers uncomfortable with long drives

🚆 2. Delhi to Varanasi Distance by Train

Rail Distance

• The railway distance from New Delhi to Varanasi is typically around 760–780 km.
  (Exact distances vary slightly depending on the train route taken.)

Travel Time & Trains

• Train travel time varies widely based on train type:
• Express and superfast trains: ~11–14 hours
• Vande Bharat Express: Can take about 8–9 hours (fastest regular service on this route)
• Slow passenger trains can take longer depending on stops and halts.

Several important trains connect Delhi to Varanasi, including:

• Vande Bharat Express
• Shiv Ganga Express
• Kashi Vishwanath Express
• Rajdhani/Duronto trains (selected)

Passengers can board trains from major Delhi stations such as New Delhi (NDLS), Anand Vihar Terminal (ANVT), and reach Varanasi Junction (BSB) or nearby stations.

Pros and Cons of Train Travel

✔ Pros:

• Comfortable and affordable
• Lower chance of traffic delays
• Multiple classes (Sleeper, AC, 3AC, 2AC, etc.)

✖ Cons:

• Requires advance booking to secure seats
• Fixed departure and arrival times
• Can be crowded during holidays

✈️ 3. Delhi to Varanasi Distance by Flight

Flight Distance

• The aerial (straight-line) distance between Delhi and Varanasi is approximately 675–690 km.

Flight Time

• Flights take roughly 1.5 to 2 hours between Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) near Varanasi.

Flight Frequency and Airlines

Daily flights operate on this route, typically offered by airlines such as:

• IndiGo
• Air India
• Vistara
• Other domestic carriers

Flights are frequent and often more expensive than train or bus travel, though prices vary based on season and booking timing.

Pros and Cons of Flight Travel

✔ Pros:

• Fastest travel time
• Comfortable with minimal transit hassles
• Good choice for busy travellers

✖ Cons:

• Costlier than train or road options
• Airports require early check-in
• May be affected by weather or flight delays

📊 Quick Comparison: Road vs Train vs Flight

🧭 Tips for Travellers

1. Choose Based on Time

• If time is limited, flight travel is unbeatable.
• The Vande Bharat Express train offers a good compromise between speed and cost.
• Road trips are perfect for leisure travellers who enjoy scenic stops.

2. Book in Advance

Especially during holidays and peak season, train tickets and flight seats fill fast.

3. Plan for Comfort

• For road journeys, plan rest stops and avoid night driving.
• For trains, choose AC classes for longer comfort.
• For flights, check baggage limits to avoid extra charges.

4. Check Weather and Updates

Flight schedules can change due to weather — always reconfirm orders before departure.

🛫 Final Thoughts

Delhi and Varanasi are two vibrant cities offering contrasting yet rich experiences — the national capital with its modern pulse and the spiritual heart of India. Thanks to well-developed transport networks, this route is easy to cover by road, rail, or air.

Whether it’s the relaxed pace of a train, the freedom of a road journey, or the speed of a flight, each option offers unique experiences suited to different travellers and budgets. Understanding the distance and travel dynamics between Delhi and Varanasi can help you plan a trip that suits your time, comfort, and budget perfectly.

❓ FAQs: Delhi to Varanasi Travel

1. What is the distance from Delhi to Varanasi?

The distance between Delhi and Varanasi is:

• By Road: 790–830 km
• By Train: Around 760–780 km
• By Flight (Aerial Distance): 675–690 km

2. What is the fastest way to travel from Delhi to Varanasi?

The fastest option is by flight. A direct flight from Indira Gandhi International Airport to Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

3. Which is the cheapest way to travel?

The most budget-friendly option is usually the train, especially Sleeper or 3AC class tickets, which can start from ₹400–₹800 depending on availability.

4. How long does it take by train?

Travel time ranges between:

• 8–9 hours (fast trains like Vande Bharat)
• 11–14 hours (Express/Superfast trains)

5. Is it safe to travel by road?

Yes, the highways are well-developed. The most commonly used route is via NH19. However, it’s best to:

• Avoid late-night driving
• Take regular breaks
• Check vehicle condition before departure

6. When is the best time to visit Varanasi?

The best time is October to March, when the weather is pleasant for exploring ghats and temples.