Delhi to Varanasi — Overview
Varanasi (also known as Banaras or Kashi) is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities and India's most sacred pilgrimage destination. The journey from Delhi to Varanasi is one of the most popular long-distance routes in India.
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.