Delhi to Varanasi: Flight vs. Train vs. Bus (Cost Comparison)

Varanasi is not just a city; it is an experience. It is where the chaos of life meets the calm of the Ganges. But before you can sip chai on the ghats, you have to get there.

Traveling from the capital, New Delhi, to the spiritual capital, Varanasi, is a common route. But which way is the best? Should you fly and save time? Take the train for the classic Indian experience? or hop on a bus to save money?

This blog compares all three options—Flight, Train, and Bus—to help you decide the cheapest way to reach Varanasi or the most comfortable one for your 2026 trip.

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

1. Flights: The Fastest Way to Reach Varanasi

If you are short on time, flying is the obvious choice. The aerial distance between Delhi and Varanasi is about 680 km, and a flight covers this in just over an hour. In 2026, with improved airport connectivity, this remains the most popular option for professionals and short-trip tourists.

Cost & Experience

Flying is no longer just for the rich. If you book 30-45 days in advance, a flight ticket can sometimes be cheaper than a First Class (1AC) train ticket.

• Average Cost (2026): ₹3,600 – ₹5,500 (One way)
• Flight Duration: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Airlines: IndiGo, Air India Express, SpiceJet, Air India.

The flight takes off from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and lands at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) in Babatpur. Note that the Varanasi airport is about 26 km away from the main city/ghats, which takes another 45-60 minutes by cab.

Flight Information Table

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Fastest option: You reach Varanasi in under 3 hours (including airport check-in).
  • Comfort: AC environment, clean toilets, and minimal fatigue.
  • Frequency: There are flights almost every hour.
• Cons:
  • Airport Distance: Varanasi airport is far from the main city (Assi Ghat/Dashashwamedh Ghat). The cab fare (₹800-₹1200) adds to the total cost.
  • Luggage Limits: You are restricted to 15kg check-in baggage.

Expert Review:

“If you are traveling for a weekend (2-3 days), always take a flight. The time you save on travel can be spent watching the Ganga Aarti. Book at least 3 weeks early to get fares under ₹4,000.”

2. Trains: The Most Popular & Comfortable Choice

For most Indians, the train is the heartbeat of travel. The route from New Delhi (NDLS) or Anand Vihar (ANVT) to Varanasi Junction (BSB) or Banaras (BSBS) is well-connected.

In 2026, the game changer is the Vande Bharat Express. It has reduced travel time drastically and offers airline-like comfort. However, classic trains like the Shiv Ganga Express and Shiv Ganga’s “cousin” Manduadih Express are still favorites for overnight travel.

Cost & Experience

Train travel offers the best balance between cost and comfort. You can sleep through the night and wake up in Varanasi, saving money on a hotel room for one night.

• Average Cost (2026): ₹450 (Sleeper) to ₹3,400 (Vande Bharat Executive Class).
• Travel Time: 8 hours (Vande Bharat) to 13-17 hours (Express trains).

Top Trains Information Table

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Vande Bharat: Fastest ground transport (only 8 hours). Very clean and food is included.
  • Overnight Trains: Saves daylight hours. You sleep in Delhi and wake up in Varanasi.
  • Cost: Sleeper class is the cheapest way to reach Varanasi (under ₹500).
  • Location: Varanasi Junction railway station is in the heart of the city, much closer to the ghats than the airport.
• Cons:
  • Tickets: Getting a confirmed ticket is a war. You often need to book 3-4 months in advance.
  • Delays: In winter (December-January), trains can be delayed by 5-10 hours due to fog (except Vande Bharat which is generally more punctual).
  • Cleanliness: Sleeper class washrooms can be dirty in slower trains.

Expert Review:

“The Vande Bharat Express is the best option if you want comfort but hate flying. However, for budget travelers, the Shiv Ganga Express is legendary—it’s clean, usually on time, and perfect for overnight sleep. Avoid ‘Passenger’ trains; they stop everywhere.”

3. Bus: The Budget & Last-Minute Savior

The bus is usually the last resort for travelers who couldn’t get train tickets or flight deals. However, road infrastructure has improved significantly. The journey takes you via the Yamuna Expressway and Agra-Lucknow Expressway, which are smooth, though the final stretch can still be traffic-heavy.

Cost & Experience

Buses depart mostly from Kashmere Gate ISBT or Anand Vihar ISBT in Delhi. Private operators also run Volvo/Scania buses from places like RK Ashram or Majnu Ka Tila.

• Average Cost (2026): ₹600 (Non-AC) to ₹2,500 (AC Sleeper).
• Travel Time: 13 to 15 hours.

Bus Service Table

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Availability: You can almost always find a bus ticket, even one day before travel.
  • Boarding Points: Multiple pickup points in Delhi (Noida, Akshardham, etc.) make it convenient.
  • Cost: Cheaper than flights and AC trains (sometimes).
• Cons:
  • Comfort: 14 hours on a bus is exhausting. Even in a sleeper bus, the constant braking and honking can disturb sleep.
  • Washrooms: Buses stop at roadside “Dhabas” for toilet breaks. Hygiene is often poor (especially for female travelers).
  • Traffic: Entering Varanasi by road can be a nightmare due to narrow streets and congestion.

Expert Review:

“Only choose the bus if you have no other option. If you must, book a ‘Multi-axle Volvo Sleeper’. Do not take the ordinary seater bus for such a long journey unless you are on an extreme shoestring budget.”

Summary Comparison: What Should You Choose?

Here is a quick snapshot to help you make the final decision.

What to Do and What Not to Do

Updated tips for 2026 travelers to ensure a smooth journey.

✅ What to Do (Dos)

• Do Book Vande Bharat Early: This train sells out weeks in advance. If you want speed without the airport hassle, this is it.
• Do Use “Banaras” Station: When searching for trains, check for Banaras (BSBS) station (formerly Manduadih). It is cleaner, less crowded, and closer to many modern hotels than the main Varanasi Junction (BSB).
• Do Carry Snacks: If taking the bus or a lower-class train, carry dry fruits and water. Roadside food can be risky for your stomach.
• Do Check Fog Status: If traveling in January, check train running status before leaving home. Trains often run 4-5 hours late due to fog.
• Do Pre-book Cabs: If arriving at Varanasi Airport, use apps like Uber/Ola or pre-paid counters. Touts outside will overcharge you significantly.

❌ What Not to Do (Don’ts)

• Don’t Take Unreserved Trains: Avoid the “General Class” coaches on trains like Shiv Ganga or Magadh Express. They are dangerously overcrowded.
• Don’t Arrive at Night by Bus: Try to book a bus that reaches Varanasi in the morning. Finding an auto-rickshaw to the interior “Galis” (lanes) of Varanasi late at night is difficult and unsafe.
• Don’t Ignore the Distance: Don’t book a hotel “near the airport” if you want to visit the temples. The airport is far away. Stay near the Ghats (Godowlia area).
• Don’t Trust Touts: Whether at the railway station or bus stand, ignore people offering “cheap boat rides” or “best hotels.” Go to your pre-booked place first.

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

Final Verdict

• Cheapest Option: Sleeper Class Train (₹450 approx).
• Fastest Option: Flight (1h 20m airtime).
• Best Balanced Option: Vande Bharat Express (Speed of flight + Comfort of train).

Safe travels to the holy city!