Delhi to Varanasi — Overview
Delhi to Varanasi takes around 8–12 hours by train (Vande Bharat Express is the fastest at ~8 hours), or about 1.5 hours by flight. The train is by far the most popular choice, with overnight options that let you travel without losing a day.
Travel Options
| Transport | Duration | Cost | Best For |
|---|
| Vande Bharat Express | 8 hours | ₹1,400–1,800 | Fastest train |
| Kashi Vishwanath Express | 12 hours | ₹400–1,200 | Budget train |
| Rajdhani Express | 10 hours | ₹800–2,000 | Overnight comfort |
| Flight | 1h 30m | ₹3,000–8,000 | Fastest overall |
| Bus | 14–16 hours | ₹500–1,000 | Budget option |
💡 Best option: Vande Bharat Express — fastest train at 8 hours. Book early on IRCTC as seats fill quickly.
Top Places to Visit in Varanasi
- Dashashwamedh Ghat — Most famous ghat with daily Ganga Aarti ceremony at sunset.
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple — One of the most sacred Shiva temples in India.
- Manikarnika Ghat — The main cremation ghat, sacred to Hindus.
- Sarnath — Where Buddha gave his first sermon, 10km from Varanasi.
- Boat Ride on Ganges — Early morning boat ride past all the ghats.
Famous Food in Varanasi
- Banarasi Paan — Famous betel leaf preparation, a Varanasi tradition.
- Kachori Sabzi — Crispy kachori with spiced potato curry, popular breakfast.
- Malaiyo — Seasonal winter sweet made from whipped milk foam.
- Banarasi Chaat — Tamatar chaat and aloo tikki chaat, unique to Varanasi.