Fastest way from Delhi to Varanasi: Flight, about 1h 25min (from €51). Cheapest: Train (Indian Railways), from €8 (about 8h). Main companies selling this route on 12Go (checked on October 13, 2026): IndiGo, Air India, Laxmi Holidays; main departure point: Delhi Airport.
There are 3 ways to get from Delhi to Varanasi
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Companies selling this route on 12Go
Offers listed on 12Go on October 13, 2026 for a departure on November 3, 2026. Timetables and prices change with the date: check them before booking.
| Company | Mode | Departs from | From | Offers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indian Railways | Train | New Delhi | €8 | 2 |
| Laxmi Holidays | Bus | Delhi | €18 | 7 |
| Shyamoli Paribahan | Bus | Delhi | €19 | 3 |
| Sri Krishna Rath | Bus | Delhi | €21 | 2 |
| Gola Bus Service | Bus | Delhi | €23 | 6 |
| Sai Ganraj Travels | Bus | Delhi | €23 | 3 |
| Dharani Trans | Bus | Delhi | €23 | 4 |
| Raj Kalpana Travels | Bus | Delhi | €28 | 3 |
| Bss Cool Cool Travels | Bus | Delhi | €28 | 2 |
| Zingbus | Bus | Delhi | €29 | 3 |
| IndiGo | Flight | Delhi Airport | €56 | 21 |
| SpiceJet | Flight | Delhi Airport | €65 | 2 |
| Air India Express | Flight | Delhi Airport | €67 | 2 |
| Air India | Flight | Delhi Airport | €67 | 8 |
| Akasa Air | Flight | Delhi Airport | €151 | 3 |
Activate an eSIM before you go: internet the moment you land, no SIM to swap, zero roaming fees.
Practical tips
For popular routes like Delhi to Varanasi, train tickets, especially for AC classes (2A, 3A, Sleeper), sell out weeks or even months in advance. Use platforms like 12go.asia or IRCTC to book as soon as your dates are firm to avoid waitlists.
If you choose a bus, always prioritize AC (Air Conditioned) coaches, particularly for overnight or long-distance journeys. Non-AC buses can be hot, crowded, and uncomfortable, making a long trip grueling. Check operator ratings.
While flights are the fastest option, they are not the cheapest. If you're short on time, domestic flights are the quickest way to travel, though they are not the most budget-friendly. Always compare the total travel time vs. cost.
Indian Railways offers various classes. For comfort and safety, AC2 (2-tier AC) and AC3 (3-tier AC) are recommended for overnight trips. Sleeper Class (non-AC) is cheaper but more basic and can be less comfortable for a 14-hour journey.
When comparing options, remember to factor in the time and cost to get to and from the airport or train station. A 2-hour flight can easily become a 5-6 hour journey door-to-door once transfers and check-in are included.
The journey experience
Traveling from Delhi to Varanasi is a classic Indian journey, and you've got several solid options. The key is knowing whether a train, AC coach, or flight suits your travel style and schedule best. This route is a good example of how India's transport network offers diverse choices, from comfortable overnight sleepers to quick domestic flights. We'll break down the real durations and help you decide how far in advance you should book.
For this popular route, you can choose between a train, an AC bus, or a flight. A train ride with Indian Railways typically costs from €8 to €9 and takes about 8 hours, often overnight, making it a cultural experience. Buses, specifically AC Volvo coaches, are a good alternative from about €18 for a journey of 11 to 14 hours. For speed, a domestic flight will get you there in just 1 hour 25 minutes to 1 hour 35 minutes for around €51 to €60, though this doesn't include travel to/from airports.
India is vast, and knowing which option to pick can feel overwhelming. For Delhi to Varanasi, if you value the journey itself and want to save on accommodation, an overnight AC train is often your best bet, but book well in advance (1-2 months for popular classes). If time is critical and you prioritize speed, flying is unbeatable. Buses are a solid middle ground, especially for less common routes, but always aim for an AC coach for comfort on longer trips. Don't assume there's always a train; some destinations are road-only, so always check all options.
Frequently asked questions — Delhi → Varanasi
The 'best' way depends on your priorities. For comfort and a cultural experience, an overnight AC train is highly recommended. If speed is your main concern and budget allows, flying is the quickest option. AC buses are a good compromise for a direct journey without the need for advance train booking.
By train, the journey typically takes around 8h, often overnight. An AC bus will get you there in approximately 11h–14h. If you opt for a flight, the actual flight time is only about 1h25–1h35, but remember to add airport transfer and check-in times.
Train tickets for AC classes start from approximately €8 and go up to €9. AC buses are generally around €18. Domestic flights typically range from €51, though prices can vary significantly based on how far in advance you book and demand.
Yes, many train services from Delhi to Varanasi are overnight, which is a popular choice as it saves on accommodation costs and maximizes your daytime travel. Similarly, several AC bus operators offer comfortable overnight sleeper or semi-sleeper services, allowing you to arrive refreshed.
For trains, especially AC classes (2A/3A), book at least 1-2 months in advance, particularly during peak season or holidays, as they sell out fast. Bus tickets can usually be booked a few days to a week in advance. For flights, booking 2-4 weeks out often yields the best prices.
Why visit Varanasi?
- ✓ Witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a mesmerizing fire ritual on the Ganges river.
- ✓ Explore the labyrinthine alleys of the Old City, discovering ancient temples, street food, and local life.
- ✓ Take an early morning boat ride on the Ganges to observe the ghats and rituals at sunrise.
- ✓ Visit Sarnath, just outside Varanasi, where Buddha gave his first sermon.
- ✓ Experience the spiritual atmosphere by walking along the various ghats and interacting with sadhus and pilgrims.
When to visit Varanasi?
SUBTROPICAL HUMID
October to March — Pleasant weather with cool temperatures, ideal for exploring the ghats and outdoor activities.
What to do in Varanasi?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
How long to visit Varanasi?
For an independent traveler, 3 to 4 full days are ideal to experience Varanasi deeply. This allows time to explore the ghats, take boat rides on the Ganges, wander the labyrinthine old city, and witness the aarti ceremonies without rush. With less time, focus on the main ghats and a morning boat trip; more days enable exploring Sarnath and deeper cultural immersion.
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