Learning how to reach Varanasi by train starts with your departure city. From Kanpur, the Vande Bharat takes about 5 to 6 hours and ordinary trains take 6.5 to 7.5 hours, from ₹450. From Mathura, expect 14 to 15 hours. Always confirm timings before booking.

Varanasi is served by Varanasi Junction (BSB), and most visitors from abroad reach it after landing in Delhi or another major city and then taking a onward train. The route you choose matters more than most people expect. A train from Kanpur can be a comfortable half-day journey, while a train from Gujarat can run past 34 hours. This guide sets out the confirmed routes, what each one involves, and which option makes sense for a first visit.

Road distance from your starting city

If you are already travelling in Uttar Pradesh, Kanpur is a common starting point. The road distance is 330 to 350 km via NH 19 through Prayagraj, which takes 6 to 7 hours by private car. You can read more about the road and rail options on our Kanpur to Varanasi road and train guide, which covers fares and tips in more detail.

From Mathura, the road distance is 691 km, about 8 hours 59 minutes via the Agra Lucknow Expressway and Ganga Expressway. The route carries tolls, so budget for them and for rest stops. A car gives you flexibility over timing, but a long drive is tiring after a flight, so plan a rest day if you can.

How to reach Varanasi by train from north India

The Kanpur Central (CNB) to Varanasi Junction (BSB) run takes 6.5 to 7.5 hours on an ordinary train, with fares from ₹450. The Vande Bharat Express covers the same distance in approximately 5 to 6 hours. If you are choosing between the two, the Vande Bharat saves an hour or more, but the difference in cost is not confirmed in our sources, so check the fare on the booking platform before you commit. For more detail, see our page on Mathura to Varanasi Distance: Train, Road & Full Guide.

From Mathura Junction, the train covers about 687 km and takes 14 to 15 hours. That is a long overnight journey rather than a comfortable daytime ride. It suits pilgrims who want to combine Mathura with Varanasi and do not mind spending a night on the train. For a first visit, treat it as a deliberate overnight rather than a quick connection.

Comparison of confirmed travel options

The table below puts every confirmed option in one place. Where a source does not state a cost, we have written "Not confirmed" rather than guess.

The pattern is clear. Kanpur gives you the most choice and the shortest rail times. Mathura and Gujarat are long journeys where the train is a commitment and the flight is a trade-off between total time and the hassle of changing planes.

Long journeys from Gujarat

The Okha Banaras Weekly Express (Train 22969) runs from Dwarka Station (DWK) and takes approximately 35 hours. It is a direct train, so you do not change trains, but a 35 hour journey means at least one night on board. If you are planning this route, our Ayodhyavaranasitourism Dwarka route page is a useful next read for distances and planning.

The Veraval Banaras Superfast Express (Train 12945) runs from Veraval Junction, which is about 6 km from Somnath, and takes approximately 34 hours. Choose this option if you are already in the Somnath area. Read our Somnath to Varanasi road and train options before you book, as it covers the wider picture for pilgrims.

A flight can cut the total time to roughly 5 to 10 hours, but there is no direct flight. You will need a connection via Jamnagar, Rajkot, Ahmedabad or Delhi. Weigh the saved hours against the extra transfers, the risk of missed connections and the cost, which our sources do not state.

Is Varanasi to Ayodhya worth adding?

Many visitors plan Varanasi and Ayodhya as one trip, and the two cities are often linked as a second leg. Our sources disagree on whether the journey works as a single day, so check current train times before you build an itinerary around it. You can compare the fares on our Varanasi to Ayodhya train ticket prices page before you decide.

If you would rather have someone arrange the logistics, Ayodhya Varanasi Tourism lists Ayodhya tour packages by car, train and air that cover both cities. Treat it as one option among several and compare it with booking the trains yourself.

Best starting option for a first visit

For most first-time international visitors, the Kanpur Vande Bharat is the easiest choice, provided you can reach Kanpur. It has the shortest confirmed rail time, and a 5 to 6 hour journey leaves the rest of your day free. If you are already in Gujarat or Mathura, the direct trains are workable, but plan for an overnight and carry food, water and a power bank.

Whichever train you take, confirm the train number and departure time on the day. Arrive at the station early enough to clear security and luggage checks, and keep your ticket and ID to hand. Build buffer time into your first day, because jet lag and an unfamiliar station can slow you down.

When you arrive, respect temple timings and dress codes, and remove footwear where asked. Plan your visit to the Ganga Aarti around your train schedule, so that you do not rush from the station to the ghats.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a direct train from Delhi to Varanasi?

Our sources do not confirm a direct Delhi to Varanasi train, so we cannot say one exists. Check the current timetable for your departure city before booking, and confirm the train number, departure time and journey length on the official booking platform.

Can I fly to Varanasi from Dwarka or Somnath?

Flights from Dwarka or Somnath need a connection. Routes go via Jamnagar, Rajkot, Ahmedabad or Delhi, and the total journey takes about 5 to 10 hours. No direct flight is confirmed, so factor in transfer time and check the airline schedule before you book.

How long is the road trip from Kanpur to Varanasi?

The road distance is 330 to 350 km via NH 19 through Prayagraj, and the drive takes 6 to 7 hours by private car. A taxi costs ₹4,500 to ₹6,500 one way. If you prefer a cheaper option, the ordinary train from ₹450 or the bus at ₹500 to ₹1,200 are both possible, though the bus takes 7 to 10 hours.