Delhi to Varanasi by Vande Bharat Express: Review, Food & Speed

Traveling from the bustling capital of New Delhi to the spiritual heart of India, Varanasi (Kashi), has never been faster or more comfortable. The Vande Bharat Express (formerly Train 18) has revolutionized this route, cutting travel time significantly compared to older trains like the Shiv Ganga or Mahamana Express.

Whether you are a pilgrim heading for a dip in the Holy Ganga, a tourist exploring the ghats, or a business traveler, this guide covers everything you need to know about the Delhi to Varanasi Vande Bharat Express in 2026—from food and speed to ticket prices and expert tips.

Also Read:- 8 Hotel Room Safety Gadgets for Solo Female Travelers.

1. The Twin Vande Bharats: Timings & Schedule

As of 2026, Indian Railways operates two dedicated Vande Bharat Express trains on the New Delhi (NDLS) to Varanasi (BSB) route. This was done to manage the high traffic of pilgrims and tourists. Choosing the right one depends entirely on your schedule—whether you prefer reaching Kashi by lunch or by bedtime.

Option A: The Morning Vande Bharat (Train No. 22436)

This is the original Vande Bharat, the very first one launched in India. It is perfect for travelers who want to reach Varanasi in the afternoon and catch the evening Ganga Aarti.

• Departure: New Delhi (NDLS) at 06:00 AM.
• Arrival: Varanasi Jn (BSB) at 02:00 PM.
• Travel Time: 8 Hours.
• Frequency: Runs all days except Thursday.
• Primary Benefit: You save the entire day. By reaching at 2:00 PM, you have enough time to check into your hotel, freshen up, and head to Dashashwamedh Ghat for the evening aarti.

Option B: The Afternoon Vande Bharat (Train No. 22416)

Launched later to handle the extra rush, this “saffron-themed” (in some rakes) train is ideal for those who cannot wake up at 4 AM for the morning train or are connecting from flights landing in Delhi around noon.

• Departure: New Delhi (NDLS) at 03:00 PM.
• Arrival: Varanasi Jn (BSB) at 11:05 PM.
• Travel Time: 8 Hours 05 Minutes.
• Frequency: Runs all days except Tuesday.
• Primary Benefit: It allows you to work a half-day in Delhi before leaving. However, you arrive late at night, so you will need pre-booked transport to your hotel.

Punctuality Update:

Both trains are high-priority “premium” trains. They are rarely delayed. If the train is late by even 15 minutes, it often makes up the time before the next stop. Unlike other trains in Uttar Pradesh that can get delayed by fog, the Vande Bharat’s aerodynamic design and priority signaling keep it running on time, making it the most reliable option on this route.

2. Speed & The Route Experience

The Vande Bharat Express is India’s first semi-high-speed train. On the Delhi-Varanasi route, it touches a top speed of 130 km/h, though it is capable of going up to 160 km/h.

The Ride Quality

The journey is surprisingly smooth. The train does not have the “jerks” associated with traditional Indian railway coaches (LHB or ICF). The acceleration is rapid—you will notice that within minutes of leaving New Delhi station, the train is already cruising at top speed. The large glass windows offer a panoramic view of the changing landscape, shifting from the urban sprawl of Delhi to the lush mustard fields of Uttar Pradesh.

The Stops

Unlike other express trains that stop at Aligarh, Tundla, or Etawah, the Vande Bharat is a limited-stop service. It halts only at two major junctions:

1. Kanpur Central (CNB): A 2-minute halt. Usually arrives around 10:00 AM (for the morning train) or 7:00 PM (for the evening train).
2. Prayagraj Jn (PRYJ): A 2-minute halt. Arrives around 12:00 PM (morning train) or 9:00 PM (evening train).

This limited-stop structure is the secret to its 8-hour travel time. For comparison, the Shiv Ganga Express takes roughly 10 hours, and other trains can take 12-14 hours.

Noise and Vibration

The cabins are soundproofed to a large extent. You won’t hear the loud “clack-clack” of the tracks. However, the automatic sliding doors between coaches open frequently as staff move around, which can be a bit noisy if you are seated near the ends of the coach. The announcement system (PA system) is clear, keeping you updated on upcoming stations and speed.

Expert Note on Speed:

While the train is fast, it slows down significantly while navigating the heavy traffic near the Ghaziabad and Prayagraj outer signals. Don’t panic if the train stops in the middle of nowhere for 5 minutes; it usually covers the delay quickly.

3. AC Chair Car (CC) vs. Executive Class (EC)

Choosing your class is the biggest decision you will make. The price difference is massive (EC is almost double the price of CC), so is it worth it?

AC Chair Car (CC)

This is the standard class, arranged in a 3+2 configuration.

• The Seat: The seats are comfortable with decent cushioning, armrests, and a folding tray table (like in an airplane).
• Legroom: The legroom is adequate for an average-height person (up to 5’10”). If you are taller, your knees might brush the seat in front.
• Amenities: You get a footrest, a bottle holder, and a magazine pocket. Overhead luggage racks are spacious enough for cabin-sized trolley bags.
• The Crowd: The CC coach is usually fully packed. It can get a bit noisy with families and large groups traveling together.
• Verdict: Good for budget travelers and families. It offers 90% of the experience for 50% of the cost.

Executive Chair Car (EC)

This is the premium class, arranged in a 2+2 configuration.

• The Seat: The seats are wider, made of premium leatherette material, and have better cushioning. The highlight is the 180-degree rotating feature. If you are traveling as a group of four, you can rotate the seats to face each other.
• Legroom: Massive. You can stretch your legs fully without touching the seat in front.
• Food Service: In EC, the food is brought to your seat with slightly better presentation (sometimes bone china crockery for tea instead of paper cups).
• Privacy: With fewer seats per coach (approx. 52 vs. 78 in CC), the EC coach is quieter, less chaotic, and the washrooms are generally cleaner because fewer people use them.
• Verdict: If money is not an issue, or if you are traveling for business/need to work on a laptop, EC is worth it. The extra space makes the 8-hour journey feel much shorter.

Common Feature for Both:

Both classes have bio-vacuum toilets (similar to airplanes), automatic doors, CCTV cameras, and GPS-based passenger information screens.

4. Food Review: What Will You Eat?

Catering fees are included in your ticket price (unless you opt out). The food on the Vande Bharat is generally considered superior to standard Shatabdi meals.

Morning Train Menu (22436)

• Morning Tea (Immediately after departure): You get a tray with a premix tea/coffee kit, digestive biscuits, and a bottle of water.
• Breakfast (Around 8:00 – 8:30 AM):
  • Veg: Cutlet with Bread slices OR Stuffed Paratha/Upma/Poha (menu rotates). Accompanied by curd, pickle, and juice.
  • Non-Veg: Omelet with bread, butter, and juice.
  • Note: The “Upma” is often instant/pre-mix style, which some passengers find dry. The Cutlet or Omelet is the safer bet.
• Lunch (Around 12:30 PM – 1:00 PM):
  • Served just after Prayagraj.
  • Typically includes Rice (Pulao or Jeera Rice), Dal (Dal Makhani or Arhar), a Veg Dry Dish (Aloo Gobhi/Mix Veg), Paneer Butter Masala (for Veg) or Chicken Curry (for Non-Veg), Roti/Paratha, Curd, and a Sweet (Gulab Jamun/Rasgulla or Ice Cream).

Evening Train Menu (22416)

• Evening Tea (After departure): This is quite heavy. You get a Samosa or Kachori (hot), a sweet, a packet of popcorn or makhanas, a sandwich, and tea/coffee.
• Dinner (Around 8:30 PM):
  • Similar to the lunch menu. Soup is served first (usually Tomato or Sweet Corn) with soup sticks.
  • Main course follows with Rice, Dal, Roti, Paneer/Chicken, and dessert.

Food Quality Pros & Cons

• Pros: The food is hygienic and hot. The quantity is sufficient for a heavy eater. The staff is prompt.
• Cons: The Rotis/Parathas can sometimes be rubbery because they are reheated. The Chicken gravy is often generic “railway style” (spicy and oily).
• Expert Tip: If you have dietary restrictions, carry your own snacks. The “No Food” option saves you money, but you cannot buy a full meal on the train later if you change your mind (only snacks might be sold).

5. Ticket Booking & Costs

Booking a ticket for the Delhi-Varanasi Vande Bharat requires planning. It is one of the most in-demand trains in India, often running with a waiting list weeks in advance.

How to Book

You can book via the IRCTC Website or apps like Ixigo, MakeMyTrip, or Paytm.

• Opening Time: Booking opens 120 days in advance at 8:00 AM.
• Tatkal: Tatkal booking opens at 10:00 AM one day before the journey. Be warned: Vande Bharat Tatkal tickets vanish in seconds.

Cost Breakdown (2026 Estimates)

Prices are dynamic and subject to slight changes by Indian Railways.

Is the cost justified?

A flight from Delhi to Varanasi can cost anywhere between ₹4,000 to ₹8,000 depending on when you book.

• Vande Bharat CC is half the price of a flight and takes you city-center to city-center.
• Vande Bharat EC is close to flight prices. If a flight is available for ₹4,000, you might prefer flying (1.5 hours) over the train (8 hours), unless you enjoy the train journey itself.

6. Arrival in Varanasi & Expert Tips

Arriving at Varanasi Junction (BSB) can be overwhelming. The station has been upgraded, but the crowd outside remains chaotic.

Getting to the Ghats/Hotels

• Pre-Paid Taxi/Auto: Do not go with the touts who grab your bag as you exit. Head to the pre-paid auto stand or use apps like Ola/Uber (availability can be spotty right at the station exit due to traffic restrictions).
• Traffic Warning: The roads leading to Godowlia (Main Ghat area) are often closed to four-wheelers in the evening. You may have to take an E-Rickshaw (Toto) for the last mile.

Dos and Don’ts

• DO carry a light jacket. The AC on the Vande Bharat is notoriously strong and can get freezing cold.
• DO bring your own water bottle if you want to avoid plastic waste, though the train provides 1-2 bottles.
• DON’T rely on the train WiFi for work. It is mostly for the onboard infotainment system. Use your mobile hotspot (4G/5G works well along the route).
• DON’T place heavy luggage on the overhead racks in a way that it might slide. The train accelerates and brakes sharply.

Also Read:- Ayodhya Beyond the Temple: A Food and Heritage Walk Guide

Quick Fact Sheet

Pros and Cons

Expert Review: Is it worth it?

“The Vande Bharat Express is the best way to travel from Delhi to Varanasi if you want to avoid the hassle of airports (security checks, boarding gates, distance from city). While the 8-hour journey is long, the large windows and comfortable ride make it bearable. The food is decent, but not gourmet. My recommendation: Book the Morning Train (22436) in Chair Car (CC). It’s the best value for money, gets you there by lunch, and leaves your evening free for the divine Ganga Aarti.”

This video gives you a great visual tour of the Executive Class experience, showing the rotating seats and food service in detail: Vande Bharat Executive Class Review

This video is relevant because it provides a firsthand look at the premium “Executive Class” amenities, food, and overall vibe of the specific Delhi-Varanasi route, helping you decide if the extra cost is worth it.