To get around in Varanasi, you can use a combination of transportation options including taxis, ride-hailing apps, buses, and trains, as well as walking or cycling in the city's historic areas.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Varanasi is a major city in India and has a well-connected transportation network. The city is served by the Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, which is located about 25 kilometers from the city center. The airport receives flights from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, as well as some international flights. You can also reach Varanasi by train, with the city's railway station being a major junction on the Indian Railways network. The city is connected to other major cities in India by road and rail, making it easily accessible by car, bus, or train.
If you are traveling to Varanasi from outside India, you can fly into major airports like Delhi or Mumbai and then take a domestic flight or train to Varanasi. The city is also accessible by road, with several national highways passing through it. The Nepal border is also nearby, making it a popular destination for travelers coming from Nepal. The city's transportation network is well-developed, with many options available for getting around, including taxis, buses, and trains.
Domestic Flights
Varanasi has a well-connected domestic air network, with flights available to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. You can book domestic flights through airlines like Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet, among others. The cost of domestic flights can vary depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book, but you can expect to pay around $50-$100 for a one-way ticket. It's a good idea to book your flights in advance to get the best prices, and you can use online travel agencies like MakeMyTrip or Cleartrip to compare prices and book your tickets.
Trains & Rail
Varanasi has an extensive rail network, with trains connecting the city to major cities all over India. The city's railway station is a major junction on the Indian Railways network, with trains available to destinations like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. You can book train tickets through the Indian Railways website or through a travel agent. The cost of train tickets can vary depending on the class of service and the route, but you can expect to pay around $10-$50 for a one-way ticket. The rail network in Varanasi is well-developed, with many options available for getting around the city and surrounding areas.
Buses & Coaches
Varanasi has a well-developed bus network, with buses available to destinations all over India. You can book bus tickets through private bus operators like UPSRTC or through online travel agencies like RedBus. The cost of bus tickets can vary depending on the route and the class of service, but you can expect to pay around $10-$30 for a one-way ticket. The bus network in Varanasi is a good option for getting around the city and surrounding areas, especially for shorter distances.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Bus | Varanasi | $0.20-$0.50 | Affordable and convenient |
| Taxi | Varanasi | $1-$2/km | Available at the airport and railway station |
| Ride-Hailing | Varanasi | $2-$5 | Uber and Ola available |
| Tuk-tuk/Rickshaw | Varanasi | $1-$2 | Affordable and convenient for short distances |
| Cycle-Rickshaw | Varanasi | $0.50-$1 | Environmentally friendly and affordable |
Driving
- To drive in Varanasi, you need to have a valid Indian driver's license or an international driving permit.
- The road quality in Varanasi is moderate, with some roads being well-maintained and others being poorly maintained.
- The cost of fuel in Varanasi is around $1-$2 per liter, depending on the type of fuel.
- It's a good idea to rent a car with a driver, as driving in India can be challenging for foreigners.
- You should be aware of the traffic rules and regulations in Varanasi, including the fact that you drive on the left side of the road.
- It's also a good idea to avoid driving at night, as the roads can be poorly lit and the traffic can be heavy.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like train stations and bus terminals.
- Use reputable taxi or ride-hailing services, and always check the driver's ID before getting in.
- Avoid traveling alone at night, especially if you are a solo female traveler.
- Learn some basic Hindi phrases, like "kahaan hai" (where is) and "kitna hai" (how much), to help you navigate.
- Download ride-hailing apps like Uber or Ola to make it easier to get around.
- Be prepared for traffic congestion and delays, especially during peak hours.
- Use cashless payment methods like credit cards or mobile payments whenever possible, to avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
- Stay hydrated and bring sunscreen, as the sun can be intense in Varanasi.