How to Get from Varanasi to Delhi
How to travel from Varanasi to Delhi: IndiGo flights of about 1.5 hours, the Vande Bharat Express and overnight sleeper trains.
Contents
Varanasi and Delhi show two very different sides of India. Varanasi is the spiritual heart, where ancient rituals play out each day on the banks of the Ganges. Delhi is a sprawling metropolis of Mughal grandeur and wide avenues, with bustling markets in between. The trip from the timeless ghats to the capital is a classic North Indian journey.
Pilgrims, locals and international visitors all use the route, so you can choose between a modern Vande Bharat train and a short domestic flight. About 676 km separate the two cities as the crow flies.[1]
Varanasi to Delhi by Flight
To swap the incense-filled air of Varanasi for the monuments of Delhi in the shortest time, fly. IndiGo flights take generally 1.5 hours, and fares are around ₹6,000 to ₹10,000, depending on when you book.[1] Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) is about 25 km from the city center,[2] and Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Palam is 16 km from the city, connected by the Airport Express, app-based taxis and bus shuttles.[1]
Allow plenty of time for the drive to the Varanasi airport, since it can take close to an hour.[1] Flying is also a smart choice in the peak of winter, when heavy fog in North India can disrupt ground transport. Compare flights and book on GoAsia.cc.
Varanasi to Delhi by Train
There is something deeply romantic about boarding a train in Varanasi. As the city fades away, the rural heartland of Uttar Pradesh rolls past your window. The Vande Bharat Express (22415/22416) between Varanasi and New Delhi, introduced in December 2023, made the run in about 8 hours at launch, leaving Varanasi at 06:00 and arriving in New Delhi at 14:05, with return departures from New Delhi at 15:00. It stops at Prayagraj and Kanpur Central.[3] Overnight, the Mahamana Express (22417) leaves Varanasi Junction at 18:55 and reaches New Delhi at 08:25, while the Kashi Vishwanath Express (14257) leaves at 14:00 and arrives at 06:15 the next morning.[4]
AC First Class Sleeper (1A)
This is the most comfortable and private way to travel by rail. The 1A cabins have lockable doors, clean bedding and the quietest atmosphere.
AC 2-Tier Sleeper (2A)
The 2-Tier carriages are a fine middle ground. The berths sit in an open compartment, and curtains give you privacy.
AC 3-Tier Sleeper (3A)
For budget-conscious travelers who still want air conditioning, the 3-Tier sleeper is the standard choice. It is more crowded than 2A, but it is a safe and reliable way to cover the distance.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | How it works | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Flight | IndiGo, generally 1.5 hours, fares around ₹6,000 to ₹10,000[1] | Saving time |
| Vande Bharat train | Daytime service via Prayagraj and Kanpur Central[3] | A comfortable daytime ride |
| Overnight train (1A, 2A, 3A) | Mahamana Express 22417 and Kashi Vishwanath Express 14257 with sleeper berths[4] | Saving a night's accommodation |
Tips for Traveling from Varanasi to Delhi
- Book Train Tickets Early: Indian Railways tickets often sell out well in advance, especially for the 1A and 2A classes. With fixed dates, do not wait until you arrive in India to book.
- Airport Transfers: The drive to Varanasi airport can take close to an hour. Always allow extra time for the narrow, crowded streets near the Ganges.[1]
- Station Selection: Varanasi has several stations, including Varanasi Junction (BSB) and Banaras (BSBS). Check your ticket to head to the right one.[2]
- Food on Trains: Many trains offer catering, but bring your own snacks and a large bottle of water for a long journey.
- Winter Fog: In December and January, North India often has heavy fog that delays both flights and trains. Keep your schedule flexible.
Timetable
| Flight Varanasi - Delhi $ 51.47–186.09 1h 30m – 2h 40m | |
|
|
| Train Varanasi - Delhi $ 15.54–43.47 8h – 14h 35m | |
|
| Flight Varanasi - Ghaziabad $ 49.62–55.98 1h 20m – 6h 50m | |
|
Frequently Asked Questions
Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Varanasi to Delhi, including current prices and schedules.
The train is the most affordable option, in particular the AC 3-Tier (3A) and AC 2-Tier (2A) sleeper classes. Sleeper berths on overnight trains also save you a night's accommodation.
Flying is the fastest option. IndiGo flights take generally 1.5 hours.
A flight takes generally 1.5 hours. The Vande Bharat Express took about 8 hours at launch. The overnight Mahamana Express leaves Varanasi at 18:55 and arrives at 08:25.
The Vande Bharat Express arrives at New Delhi station. Other trains can use different Delhi terminals, so check your train number for the arrival station.
An overnight train saves a night's accommodation and lets you experience Indian rail travel, while a flight is better if you are short on time or prefer to avoid long journeys.
On flights, meals depend on the airline and fare type. On trains, some premium services include meals in the ticket price, while on others you can buy food from the pantry car or by e-catering.
Sources and background
Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.
- [1] IndiGo: Varanasi to Delhi Flights. Retrieved October 25, 2026.
- [2] Incredible India (Ministry of Tourism): Places to Visit In Varanasi. Retrieved October 15, 2026.
- [3] Northern Railway: PM flags off the second Vande Bharat Express train between Varanasi and New Delhi. Retrieved October 25, 2026.
- [4] Indian Railways: Mail/Express/Superfast Train List. Retrieved October 25, 2026.
Guide prices and journey times are indicative, not live quotes. A booked package may include transfers and waiting time as well as the main journey. Check the selected offer, pickup point and current conditions before booking.