How to reach Varanasi from Kolkata
Traveling from Kolkata to Varanasi is easily accomplished using various transportation methods, including air, train, or road, each catering to different budgets, time constraints, and travel preferences. Varanasi, a spiritual center in Uttar Pradesh, is situated roughly 680 kilometers from Kolkata, the vibrant capital of West Bengal. Each option presents a unique experience; air travel is the quickest, trains offer affordability, and road trips provide flexibility.
By plane
Traveling from Kolkata to Varanasi by plane is the quickest and most convenient option, taking just over an hour to cover the approximately 680-kilometer distance. Kolkata´s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) is the departure point, and Varanasi´s Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS), located approximately 18 kilometers from the city center, is the arrival point. Several airlines offer direct flights on this route, making it a highly efficient travel choice.
To begin planning, book a direct flight with a reputable carrier like IndiGo, Air India, or SpiceJet. IndiGo is known for its punctuality and affordability, with multiple daily flights; Air India offers reliable service with good in-flight amenities; and SpiceJet provides economical options. Check flight schedules and prices on websites like MakeMyTrip, Goibibo, or the airlines´ official sites. One-way fares typically range from ₹3,000 to ₹8,000, depending on booking time and travel dates, with advance booking often yielding better prices.
Ensure you arrive at Kolkata´s CCU airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time. Bring a valid photo ID, such as an Aadhaar card or passport, and your boarding pass, which can be printed or downloaded from your phone after online check-in. After passing through security and boarding your flight with IndiGo, Air India, or SpiceJet, expect a flight time of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. Upon arrival at Varanasi´s VNS airport, you can readily access taxis, auto-rickshaws, or app-based services like Ola or Uber to travel to the city center or the Ganges River ghats, a journey that typically takes 30 to 40 minutes. These airlines provide a quick and comfortable journey to Varanasi´s spiritual destination.
By train
Traveling from Kolkata to Varanasi by train is a popular and affordable way to experience India´s interior. The 680-kilometer journey between Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, and the spiritual city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, typically takes 10 to 14 hours, depending on the train. Kolkata´s Howrah Junction (HWH) is the departure point, and Varanasi Junction (BSB) is the destination.
To plan your journey, check the Indian Railways´ official website (irctc.co.in) or mobile app for train schedules and availability. Numerous trains connect these cities daily, including the Vibhuti Express, Poorva Express, Kashi Vishwanath Express, and Shiv Ganga Express. Different trains offer varying speeds and amenities; some superfast services can slightly shorten the travel time. Consider your budget and comfort needs when selecting your class: sleeper (SL) for budget travelers, AC 3-tier (3A) for a balance of cost and comfort, or AC 2-tier (2A) for more space and privacy. Fares range from ₹400 for sleeper class to ₹1,000-₹1,500 for AC classes, varying with the train and booking time. Booking 2-3 weeks in advance is recommended for better availability, especially during peak seasons such as festivals.
Once you’ve selected your train, book your ticket online by creating an IRCTC account, entering your travel details, and making the payment. You’ll receive a confirmation with a PNR number, which you should keep handy. On the travel day, arrive at Howrah Junction at least 30-60 minutes before departure. The station is well-connected by local transport like taxis, buses, or the Kolkata Metro. Present your ticket (digital or printed) and a valid ID, such as an Aadhaar card or passport, at the platform, then board your assigned coach. Overnight trains are a great choice, allowing you to sleep through most of the journey and wake up in Varanasi.
During the trip, enjoy views of rural landscapes and small towns, though amenities vary—some trains offer pantry cars for meals, while others don’t, so carrying snacks and water is wise. Upon reaching Varanasi Junction, you’ll find auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and taxis outside to take you to the city center or the iconic ghats along the Ganges, about 3-5 kilometers away. Traveling by train from Kolkata to Varanasi combines affordability, convenience, and a glimpse of India’s diverse terrain, making it an excellent choice for this route
By road
Traveling from Kolkata to Varanasi by road is an adventurous option for those who enjoy long drives or seek a budget-friendly journey, allowing flexibility to explore along the way. The distance between Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, and Varanasi, a significant spiritual center in Uttar Pradesh, is approximately 680 kilometers, and the road trip typically takes 15 to 18 hours, depending on traffic, road conditions, and personal stops. You can drive your own vehicle or opt for a bus, both offering a unique experience through India´s diverse landscapes and bustling towns.
If you choose to drive, the common route is via National Highway 19 (NH19), a well-maintained road connecting Kolkata to Varanasi through numerous key towns. Start from Kolkata and head northwest, passing through cities like Durgapur, Asansol, Dhanbad, and Sasaram before reaching Varanasi. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, with sufficient fuel, as petrol stations are available along the highway but may be sparse in some sections. The journey requires planning for necessary rest breaks, meals, and frequent toll payments along NH19. Carry a GPS-enabled device or use Google Maps for navigation, and pack snacks, water, and essential items for comfort. Driving offers the freedom to stop at roadside eateries (dhabas) or smaller towns, but it´s best to start early in the morning to avoid heavy traffic and arrive by evening.
Alternatively, buses provide a more affordable and less demanding option. Private operators and state-run services, such as the West Bengal Transport Corporation or Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC), operate buses from Kolkata´s Esplanade Bus Terminus to Varanasi´s Cantt Bus Stand. Tickets cost between ₹800 and ₹1,500, depending on the type—non-AC, AC sleeper, or Volvo—and can be booked online through platforms like RedBus or at the bus terminal. Buses typically depart in the evening, arriving in Varanasi the following morning and may stop for meals or breaks. While less comfortable than driving a personal vehicle, buses save the effort of driving and are ideal for solo travelers or those on a tight budget.
Regardless of the method chosen, the road journey from Kolkata to Varanasi allows you to witness the transition from urban areas to rural landscapes and the profound cultural richness of eastern India. Upon reaching Varanasi, you´ll be near the city’s iconic ghats and temples, prepared to explore its spiritual heritage after an unforgettable journey.
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