How to Get from Howrah to Varanasi

Leaving the colonial grandeur and bustling markets of Kolkata for the spiritual heartbeat of India in Varanasi is a journey that moves you from the banks of the Hooghly to the sacred ghats of the Ganges. This route is a passage through the fertile plains of West Bengal and Bihar, leading you to one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Whether you are pulled by the evening Ganga Aarti or the labyrinthine alleys of the old city, the transition from Howrah to Varanasi is an essential Indian experience.

The choice between the rhythmic clatter of the tracks and the quick hop over the clouds depends entirely on your schedule and budget. While the train remains the soul of Indian travel, offering a window into the changing landscape, flights provide a swift alternative for those eager to reach the spiritual capital without delay. You can easily book your preferred tickets for this journey on GoAsia.cc to ensure a smooth transition between these two iconic destinations.

Howrah to Varanasi by Train

The train is arguably the most authentic way to travel this route. Dozens of trains connect Howrah Junction and other Kolkata stations to Varanasi Junction (BSB) or Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction (DDU). Prices for this journey are incredibly accessible, ranging from $8 to $48, with durations varying significantly between 7 hours and 53 minutes to nearly 15 hours depending on the service you choose.

AC First Class (1A) and 2-Tier (2A)

For those seeking the highest level of comfort, the AC First Class Sleeper (1A) offers lockable compartments and the most privacy. At the top end of the $48 price range, it is the most expensive rail option but provides a serene environment to rest. The AC 2-Tier (2A) is an excellent middle ground, featuring four berths per open compartment with curtains for privacy. Both classes provide bedding and are well-air-conditioned, making them ideal for the longer overnight hauls.

AC 3-Tier (3A and 3E)

The AC 3-Tier (3A) and the newer 3-Tier Economy (3E) are the workhorses of the Indian Railways. These coaches have six berths per compartment and lack privacy curtains, but they are clean, cool, and much more affordable. This is where you will find many Indian families and solo travelers, offering a great balance of cost and comfort for the roughly 8 to 14 hour journey.

Sleeper Class (SL) and Second Sitting (2S)

If you are traveling on a strict budget or want to experience the raw energy of the rails, Sleeper Class (SL) and Second Sitting (2S) are available starting at just $8. Sleeper Class has open windows and no air conditioning, which can be wonderful for photography during the cooler months but quite dusty and hot in the summer. Second Sitting is the most basic option, suitable for shorter daytime journeys if you do not mind a firmer seat and a crowded atmosphere.

Kolkata to Varanasi by Flight

For travelers short on time, flying from Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) in Kolkata to Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (VNS) in Varanasi is the fastest solution. The flight takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes, saving you nearly a full day of travel compared to the slower train services. Prices typically range from $69 to $103.

Economy class is the standard offering on this short domestic hop. While you miss out on the rural scenery of the Indo-Gangetic Plain, the convenience of arriving in Varanasi in under 90 minutes is hard to beat. Upon arrival in Varanasi, the airport is located about 25 kilometers from the main ghats, so you will need to arrange a taxi or pre-paid cab to reach the riverside.

Comparing Your Options

Tips for Traveling from Howrah to Varanasi

• Book Early: Indian Railways tickets, especially in AC classes, can sell out weeks in advance. Use GoAsia.cc to secure your seat as soon as your travel dates are fixed.
• Station Codes: Note that many fast trains stop at Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction (DDU) instead of Varanasi Junction (BSB). DDU is about 15-20 kilometers from the city center, and plenty of autos and taxis are available there.
• Food and Water: While many trains offer catering services or e-catering, it is always wise to carry a large bottle of sealed water and some snacks for the journey.
• Arrival Timing: Try to choose a train that arrives in Varanasi during daylight hours. Navigating the narrow, winding alleys of the old city (near the ghats) is much easier when it is light out.
• Luggage Safety: If traveling in Sleeper or 3-Tier classes, bring a small chain and lock to secure your luggage to the metal loops under the lower berths.