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Leaving the ancient ghats of Varanasi for the sacred foothills of Haridwar connects two of India's holiest cities. Varanasi lives by the daily rituals of the Ganges on the plains, while Haridwar is where the river leaves the Himalayas and enters the plains, a gateway to the gods in Uttarakhand. Pilgrims, seekers and curious travelers make the trip, and you can catch the evening Ganga Aarti in a new city.
The journey crosses the heart of North India. It is a classic rail trip, with private transfers as a door-to-door alternative for travelers who want comfort and flexibility.
Varanasi to Haridwar by Train
The train is the quintessential way to travel between the two holy cities, and it is a window onto the changing landscapes of Uttar Pradesh. The ride takes from about 14 hours. On booking platforms, fares start at about $8 (October 2026) for Sleeper class and reach about $35 in the AC classes.[1]
Classes on this route are Sleeper (SL), AC 3-Tier (3A), AC 3-Tier Economy (3E), AC 2-Tier (2A) and AC First Class (1A).[1] For a restful night, 2A and 1A give you the most space, privacy and quiet, and you wake up in Haridwar ready to explore. 3A is the popular middle choice, and Sleeper class is the budget option, with open windows, dust and plenty of conversation.
Varanasi to Haridwar by Bus
Booking platforms list an overnight AC Sleeper bus on this route, a long ride of about 17 hours at about $60 (October 2026).[1]
Varanasi to Haridwar by Private Transfer
A private car picks you up at your Varanasi hotel and drops you at your accommodation in Haridwar, with stops at local dhabas on the way. The drive takes from about 11 hours 40 minutes. On booking platforms, private transfers start at about $180 (October 2026), and larger vehicles cost more.[1]
Hatchbacks, sedans and comfort sedans suit small parties, SUVs add suspension for the long highway, and vans carry groups of 6 to 8 who want to share the cost.[1]
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Train | $8 - $35 | From about 14h[1] |
| Bus (AC Sleeper) | About $60 | About 17h[1] |
| Private Transfer | $180 - $781 | From about 11h 40min[1] |
Tips for Traveling from Varanasi to Haridwar
- Book Trains Early: This is a busy route, especially during Kumbh Mela and the month of Shravan, and tickets can sell out weeks ahead.
- Check Your Station: Trains can leave from Varanasi Junction (BSB) or from the nearby Banaras (BSBS) station. They are different stations.
- Food and Water: Carry bottled water and dry snacks. On a private transfer, your driver will know good roadside dhabas.
- Pack for the Weather: North India is scorching in May and June and chilly in December and January. An AC class is a good idea in summer.
- Arrival in Haridwar: The area around Har Ki Pauri is busy with pedestrians, so a private car may drop you at a parking area and you may need a short rickshaw ride to your hotel.
Timetable
| Bus Varanasi - Haridwar $ 60.09 16h 50m | |
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| Taxi Varanasi - Haridwar $ 178.90โ776.99 11h 40m โ 15h | |
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| Train Varanasi - Haridwar $ 7.81โ35.19 13h 55m โ 19h 35m | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Varanasi to Haridwar, including current prices and schedules.
The train in Sleeper class is the cheapest. On booking platforms, fares start at about $8 (October 2026). The carriage has no air conditioning and can be crowded.
A private transfer can take from about 11 hours 40 minutes. The train takes from about 14 hours.
Private transfers take from about 11 hours 40 minutes and trains from about 14 hours, and the bus takes about 17 hours. Traffic and delays can add time.
Yes. The AC classes are 3A, 3E, 2A and 1A, and on booking platforms they cost about $15 to $35 (October 2026).
Yes. Vans for 6 or 8 passengers are available, which suits families and groups who want to travel together.
Sources and background
Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.
- [1] 12Go: Varanasi - Haridwar timetable. Retrieved October 31, 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.