There are 2 way(s) to get from Lucknow to Varanasi
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
Indian Railways tickets, especially for AC classes, can sell out days or even weeks ahead. To secure your preferred class and avoid waitlists, book as soon as your dates are firm. Use reliable online platforms like 12go.asia or the official IRCTC site.
While not strictly overnight for Lucknow-Varanasi, for longer routes, an AC sleeper coach is a game-changer. It ensures a comfortable night's rest, far superior to a gruelling non-AC bus. Always check reviews for operators.
Don't assume all destinations have train access. For hill stations like Manali or Dharamshala, roads are often the only option. AC Volvo coaches are your best bet for comfort and reliability on these scenic but winding routes.
Before booking, take a moment to compare trains, AC coaches, and even flights for your specific route. Platforms like 12go.asia display all options, durations, and prices clearly, helping you make an informed decision and avoid booking a 30-hour train when a cheap flight is available.
Indian Railways offers various classes (AC 1A, 2A, 3A, Sleeper, 2S). AC classes are generally comfortable and recommended for tourists. Sleeper class is fan-cooled, more basic, and often crowded but an authentic experience. Choose based on your budget and desired comfort level.
🛣️ The journey experience
Traveling from Lucknow to Varanasi connects two of Uttar Pradesh's most culturally rich cities, and you've got solid options to get there. It's a relatively short hop, making it an excellent opportunity to experience India's overland travel system without committing to an epic journey. Knowing whether a train or bus is best for this route depends on your priorities: comfort, speed, or budget. We'll break down the real durations and help you pick the perfect ride.
For this route, your primary choices are train or bus. Indian Railways offers a comfortable and authentic experience, taking around 5 hours and costing roughly €4 in a decent class. Buses are a bit quicker, often completing the journey in about 4 hours, but they are pricier at around €14. While both are viable, the train provides a more relaxed journey, especially if you opt for an AC chair car or sleeper class, allowing you to stretch out and enjoy the scenery.
When crossing India, it's common for options to overlap. For Lucknow to Varanasi, the train is often the preferred choice due to its balance of cost, comfort, and reliability. It's advisable to book your train ticket a few days in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season or want a specific AC class, to avoid the frustration of sold-out tickets and long waitlists. Buses are more flexible for last-minute travel but may not offer the same comfort level as an AC train coach.
Frequently asked questions — Lucknow → Varanasi
For most travelers, the train is the best option for Lucknow to Varanasi. It offers a balance of comfort and cost, with a journey time of around 5 hours. AC classes provide a relaxing experience. Buses are slightly faster (around 4 hours) but often less comfortable and more expensive.
By train, the journey typically takes around 5 hours. Buses are a bit quicker, often completing the trip in approximately 4 hours, depending on traffic and the number of stops. Neither option usually involves an overnight journey for this particular route.
Train tickets for the Lucknow to Varanasi route start from around €4 for basic classes and go up for AC classes. Bus tickets are typically more expensive, costing approximately €14. Prices can vary based on the operator, class, and how far in advance you book.
For trains, it's highly recommended to book at least a few days to a week in advance, especially for popular AC classes or during peak travel seasons, to secure your seat. Bus tickets offer more flexibility and can often be booked closer to the travel date.
✨ 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 francophone 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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