Leaving the spiritual gateway of Gorakhpur for the sprawling, historic metropolis of Delhi is a transition from the quiet rhythms of eastern Uttar Pradesh to the high-energy pulse of India's capital. While Gorakhpur serves as a vital transit point for those crossing from Nepal or visiting Buddhist heritage sites like Kushinagar, the journey to Delhi is one of the most well-traveled corridors in Northern India, offering a fascinating look at the changing landscapes of the Indo-Gangetic Plain.
The choice between the steel rails and the sky is a classic traveler's dilemma on this route. You can spend a night tucked into a train berth, watching the rural heartland slide by, or hop on a quick flight to be in the capital in less time than it takes to watch a movie. Both options serve different budgets and schedules, ensuring that whether you are a backpacker on a shoestring or a business traveler in a hurry, the connection is seamless and accessible.
Gorakhpur to Delhi by Train
The Indian Railways system is the lifeblood of this route. Taking the train is not just a mode of transport; it is a quintessential Indian experience. The journey covers a significant distance, with durations ranging from approximately 13 hours to over 17 hours depending on the specific service and the number of stops it makes. Prices are incredibly accessible, starting as low as $8 for basic sleeper classes and going up to $37 for the most premium air-conditioned cabins. You can easily browse schedules and secure your seat through GoAsia.cc to avoid the long queues at the station.
AC First Class (1A) and 2-Tier (2A)
For those seeking the highest level of comfort, the AC First Class (1A) is the way to go. These cabins feature lockable doors and either two or four berths, providing the most privacy you can find on the tracks. AC 2-Tier (2A) is also excellent, offering spacious bunks with curtains for privacy. In these classes, you will be provided with clean pillows, sheets, and blankets, making the long overnight journey quite pleasant. These tickets typically range toward the higher end of the $37 spectrum.
AC 3-Tier (3A) and 3-Tier Economy (3E)
The 3A and 3E classes are the most popular choices for middle-distance travelers. They offer air conditioning and bedding but with three tiers of bunks (lower, middle, and upper) on each side. While it is more crowded than 2A, it is a social and safe way to travel. The Economy (3E) version is a newer addition to the Indian Railways, designed to offer AC comfort at a slightly lower price point by optimizing the cabin space.
Sleeper Class (SL)
Sleeper Class is the budget traveler's go-to. At around $8, it is remarkably cheap. However, be aware that these carriages are not air-conditioned. In the summer months, the open windows provide a breeze, but it can be dusty and noisy. In winter, it can get surprisingly chilly at night. There are no bed linens provided in Sleeper Class, so bringing your own travel sheet or a light sleeping bag is highly recommended.
Gorakhpur to Delhi by Flight
If time is your most precious commodity, flying is the undisputed winner. A direct flight from Gorakhpur Airport (GOP) to Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) takes between 1 hour 20 minutes and 1 hour 35 minutes. This is a massive time saving compared to the half-day or more spent on a train. Prices for economy seats fluctuate based on how far in advance you book, generally ranging from $40 to $188.
Gorakhpur's airport is relatively small and easy to navigate, which minimizes the stress of pre-flight security and check-in. Upon arrival in Delhi, you are landed directly into one of the world's most connected hubs, with the Delhi Metro Airport Express waiting to whisk you into the city center in about 20 minutes. This option is ideal for those who want to maximize their time exploring Delhi's monuments, markets, and food scene.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train (Sleeper) | $8 | 13h - 18h | Basic |
| Train (AC Classes) | $15 - $37 | 13h - 18h | Moderate to High |
| Flight (Economy) | $40 - $188 | 1h 30min | High / Fast |
Tips for Traveling from Gorakhpur to Delhi
- Book Early for Trains: Indian Railways tickets often sell out weeks in advance, especially for the popular AC classes. If you see a 'Waitlist' status, it means the train is technically full, so try to book confirmed seats as early as possible.
- Food on Board: While many trains have pantry cars or offer e-catering services where food is delivered to your seat, it is always a good idea to carry some dry snacks and plenty of water for a 15-hour journey.
- Airport Transit: Gorakhpur Airport is a bit of a drive from the main city center. Ensure you book a taxi or an auto-rickshaw at least an hour before you need to be at the airport to account for local traffic.
- Delhi Arrival: If you arrive in Delhi by train, you will likely land at New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) or Old Delhi Railway Station (DLI). Both are chaotic. Use the official prepaid taxi booths or ride-sharing apps like Uber and Ola to avoid overcharging by independent drivers.
- Winter Fog: During December and January, Northern India often experiences heavy fog. This can lead to significant delays for both trains and flights. Keep a flexible schedule if traveling during the peak of winter.
Timetable
| Flight Gorakhpur - Delhi $ 46.99–85.80 1h 30m – 1h 35m | |
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| Taxi Gorakhpur - Delhi $ 329.00–438.47 10h 35m | |
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| Train Gorakhpur - Delhi $ 6.45–36.45 12h 25m – 17h 35m | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
You can book train, bus, flight, taxi, van, and ferry tickets from Gorakhpur to Delhi directly on GoAsia.cc. Use the booking tool on this page to compare all available options and prices in real time.
The cheapest way to travel is by train in the Sleeper Class (SL), which costs approximately $8. While it lacks air conditioning, it is a very budget-friendly option for the long journey.
The fastest way to reach Delhi is by taking a direct flight, which takes between 1 hour 20 minutes and 1 hour 35 minutes, compared to at least 13 hours on a train.
By air, the journey takes about 1.5 hours. By train, the duration varies significantly between different services, typically taking between 12 hours 55 minutes and 17 hours 35 minutes.
In premium classes like 1A or on specific express trains, meals may be included or available for purchase from the pantry car. For most trains, you can also use e-catering services to have fresh food delivered to your seat at major stations along the way.
Most domestic airlines in India allow 15kg of checked luggage and 7kg of hand luggage in Economy class. Always check your specific ticket details as excess baggage fees can be high at the airport.
Trains from Gorakhpur usually arrive at New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS), Old Delhi Railway Station (DLI), or Anand Vihar Terminal (ANVT). It is important to check your ticket to know exactly where you will be disembarking.