Getting There & Away: Varanasi

Air Travel

Major Airports and Airlines

Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) is the main airport serving Varanasi, located approximately 26 kilometers (16 miles) northwest of the city center.

Air Services

VNS handles both domestic and a limited number of international flights.
Major Indian carriers connect Varanasi with Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other major cities.
Direct international flights from VNS are limited to a few South/Southeast Asian destinations.

Flight Availability & Airport Transfers

No direct flights exist from major global hubs outside of South or Southeast Asia. Travelers connect via major Indian cities like Delhi or Mumbai.

Transfer Options

Flight prices are highest during peak season (October-March).
Pre-paid taxis are a reliable option from the airport; locate the counter inside.
App-based cabs (Ola and Uber) operate; a local SIM card or roaming is helpful.

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Airport Facilities

VNS offers basic facilities: cafes, snack shops, retail, currency exchange, and pre-paid taxi counters.

Self-Driving and Road Conditions

Self-Driving Considerations

Self-driving in Varanasi is not recommended for foreign tourists.
Traffic is chaotic, road rules are often loosely followed, and conditions vary.
Driving in the old city's narrow lanes is especially challenging.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required if you must drive.

Road Conditions and Safety

Roads in the old city are narrow, congested, and may have potholes.
Inter-city highways are generally better but can experience heavy truck traffic.
Driving at night on inter-city roads is risky due to poor visibility and unlit vehicles.
Consider DiscoverCars.com for car rental options if needed elsewhere.

Land Transportation Hubs

Varanasi Junction BSB

Main and busiest railway station, with direct train connections to most major Indian cities.

Banaras BSBS / Manduadih

Another significant, often less crowded, railway station south of Varanasi Junction.

Bus Stands

Main bus stand near Varanasi Junction, offering state-run and private bus services.

Train Connections & Services

Indian Railways Network

Varanasi is excellently connected by India's vast railway network. Trains are a popular and often cost-effective way to travel within India.

Classes of Travel

Various classes: unreserved, air-conditioned (AC) sleepers, AC chair cars.
Booking well in advance is highly recommended, especially for AC classes.
Book through the official Indian Railways website (IRCTC) or authorized agents.

Long-distance Bus Options

Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) operates regular bus connections to nearby cities and towns. These are economical.

Private Bus Services

Numerous private companies offer services, often with more comfortable AC or sleeper buses.
Main bus stand located near Varanasi Junction railway station.
Booking in advance for private AC buses is recommended.

Sea/River Arrivals

While the Ganges River is central to Varanasi's identity, it is not a route for arriving or departing from the city on long-distance journeys.

River Transportation in Varanasi

Varanasi does not have international ferry services or cruise ports.
The Ganges River is used for local transportation (boat rides along the ghats) and spiritual purposes.
Traditional wooden boats are available for hire for sightseeing or short trips.

Border Crossing Information

Varanasi is an inland city in India, not directly on an international border. Therefore, no border crossing information is relevant for reaching Varanasi itself.

Land Entry from Neighboring Countries

Travelers from neighboring countries like Nepal would cross at designated border points.
For example, Sonauli-Bhairahawa from Nepal to Uttar Pradesh.
Continue by bus or taxi to Varanasi after crossing the border.

Departure Information

No separate exit fees or taxes are typically levied at Indian airports for international departures.
For domestic flights (VNS), arrive 2-3 hours before departure; for international, 3-4 hours.
For railway stations, arrive at least 30-45 minutes before scheduled departure.

Be prepared for multiple security checks at airports and railway stations.
VNS Airport offers basic facilities like waiting areas, food stalls, and souvenir shops.
Railway stations provide waiting rooms, basic food vendors, and bookstalls.

Important Travel Advice

Booking Train Tickets

For train travel, use the official IRCTC website or a reputable agent to book tickets in advance. This avoids scams and ensures you get the class of travel you prefer.

Getting There & Away