Bangalore to Varanasi: Complete Travel Guide โ Flights, Trains, Distance & Tips
Planning a trip from Bangalore โ India's technology capital โ to Varanasi, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities and the spiritual heart of India? Whether you seek the transformative experience of the Ganga Aarti, a pilgrimage to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, or simply wish to explore Varanasi's rich cultural tapestry, this guide covers everything you need: distances, transport options with approximate fares, the best time to visit, and top things to do.
Note: All fares and schedules mentioned are indicative and subject to change. Please verify the latest prices on official booking platforms (IRCTC, airline websites, or authorised travel portals) before making reservations.
Bangalore to Varanasi: Distance Overview
The distance between Bangalore and Varanasi varies by mode of travel:
| Mode of Travel | Approximate Distance | Approximate Duration |
|---|---|---|
| By Air (direct flight) | ~1,750 km | 2 hrs 40 min โ 3 hours |
| By Train | ~2,100 โ 2,400 km | 36 โ 42 hours |
| By Road | ~2,200 km | 30 โ 36 hours (3โ4 days) |
How to Travel from Bangalore to Varanasi
1. Bangalore to Varanasi by Flight (Fastest Route)
Flying is the quickest way to travel from Bangalore to Varanasi. Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) connects to Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) through direct and one-stop connecting flights.
Flight Duration: Direct flights take approximately 2 hours 40 minutes to 3 hours. Connecting flights via Hyderabad, Delhi, or Mumbai typically take 5โ8 hours.
Airlines Operating This Route: IndiGo, Air India, Air India Express, and SpiceJet operate on this route. Availability of direct vs. connecting flights varies by season.
Approximate Flight Fares (Economy Class, per person)
| Flight Type | Approx. Fare Range | Best Booking Window |
|---|---|---|
| Direct flight (BLR โ VNS) | โน3,500 โ โน9,000 | 4โ8 weeks in advance |
| Connecting flight (1 stop) | โน2,800 โ โน7,500 | 6โ10 weeks in advance |
| Peak season / last-minute | โน8,000 โ โน15,000+ | โ |
Fares are indicative. Actual prices vary by date, availability, and airline pricing. Always check the airline's official website for accurate fares.
Pro Tips:
- Book 4โ8 weeks in advance for best economy fares.
- Early morning flights are often priced lower and experience fewer delays.
- Avoid last-minute bookings during major festivals (Dev Deepawali, Mahashivaratri) when fares surge.
- Use fare alert tools to track price drops.
2. Bangalore to Varanasi by Train (Budget-Friendly Option)
Train travel is a popular and scenic choice for this journey, offering an affordable and comfortable option โ especially for families and extended stays.
Popular Trains on This Route
| Train Name & Number | Departure | Arrival | Approx. Duration | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sanghamitra Express (12295/12296) | Bangalore City Jn. (SBC) | Varanasi Jn. (BSB) | ~38โ42 hours | Daily |
| BangaloreโVaranasi Exp. (11301/11302) | Bangalore City Jn. (SBC) | Varanasi Jn. (BSB) | ~36โ40 hours | Weekly |
| Udyan Abha Toofan Exp. (11093/11094) | Bangalore City Jn. (SBC) | Varanasi Jn. (BSB) | ~40โ44 hours | Weekly |
Train schedules and availability are subject to change. Always verify on IRCTC (irctc.co.in) before booking.
Approximate Train Ticket Prices (per person)
| Class | Approx. Fare | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Sleeper Class (SL) | โน600 โ โน900 | Budget travellers |
| 3rd AC (3A) | โน1,500 โ โน2,200 | Comfortable budget travel |
| 2nd AC (2A) | โน2,500 โ โน3,800 | Comfort seekers |
| 1st AC (1A) | โน4,500 โ โน6,500 | Premium travellers |
Fares are approximate and may vary by train, quota, and dynamic pricing. Check IRCTC for exact fares.
Pro Tips:
- Book IRCTC tickets 60โ90 days in advance โ AC berths fill quickly.
- Festival seasons see very high demand; book early or use the Tatkal quota.
- The Sanghamitra Express is the most popular and consistently scheduled choice for this route.
3. Bangalore to Varanasi by Road
A road trip covers approximately 2,200 km and is best spread over 3โ4 days with overnight halts, passing through Hyderabad, Nagpur, Jabalpur, and Prayagraj.
Recommended Route: Bangalore โ Hyderabad โ Nagpur โ Jabalpur โ Prayagraj โ Varanasi
Road travel time varies significantly based on traffic and road conditions. This option suits travellers seeking a multi-city road experience, not those prioritising speed.
Bangalore to Varanasi: Travel Comparison at a Glance
| Mode | Distance | Duration | Approx. Cost (per person) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flight (Direct) | ~1,750 km | 2.5 โ 3 hours | โน3,500 โ โน9,000 | Speed & convenience |
| Train (3A class) | ~2,100 โ 2,400 km | 36 โ 42 hours | โน1,500 โ โน2,200 | Budget & comfort |
| Road (Self-drive) | ~2,200 km | 3โ4 days | โน6,000 โ โน12,000 (fuel + tolls) | Flexible exploration |
All costs are approximate and for reference only. Actual expenses depend on individual choices, season, and availability.
Best Time to Visit Varanasi from Bangalore
| Season | Months | Weather | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter (Best) | October โ February | Cool & pleasant (8ยฐC โ 22ยฐC) | Dev Deepawali (Nov), Mahashivaratri (Feb/Mar), Kashi Mahotsav |
| Spring | March โ April | Mild to warm (18ยฐC โ 32ยฐC) | Holi celebrations, fewer crowds |
| Summer (Hot) | May โ June | Hot & dry (30ยฐC โ 45ยฐC) | Low tourist season; lower hotel prices |
| Monsoon | July โ September | Humid, heavy rains | Ghats may be waterlogged; river levels rise |
Top Things to Do in Varanasi
1. Witness the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
The evening Ganga Aarti is one of India's most captivating spiritual rituals โ priests perform synchronised prayers with fire lamps every evening. Arrive 30โ45 minutes early to secure a good spot.
2. Take a Sunrise Boat Ride on the Ganga
A dawn boat ride along the Ganga, with the sun rising over the ancient ghats and temple bells in the air, is an experience many travellers describe as truly memorable. Rides typically cost โน200 โ โน600 โ agree on the price before boarding.
3. Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple โ one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva โ is now accessible via the grand Kashi Vishwanath Corridor linking the temple to the Ganga ghats. Expect security queues on auspicious days.
4. Explore the Ghats of Varanasi
Varanasi has around 84 ghats along the Ganga. Key ones include Manikarnika Ghat (sacred cremation ghat โ visit respectfully), Assi Ghat, Harishchandra Ghat, and Panchganga Ghat.
5. Visit Sarnath
Located approximately 10 km from Varanasi, Sarnath is where the Buddha delivered his first discourse after enlightenment. The Dhamek Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, and Sarnath Museum are key attractions. Entry fees apply.
6. Taste the Street Food of Banaras
Must-tries include Kachori Sabzi, Baati Chokha, Thandai, Malaiyo (a seasonal winter delicacy), and the famous Banarasi Lassi. Stick to busy, well-frequented stalls for the best experience.
7. Shop for Banarasi Sarees & Handicrafts
Varanasi is renowned for handwoven Banarasi silk sarees. Visit Godowlia Chowk, Thatheri Bazaar, and Vishwanath Gali for authentic products. Buy from weavers or government-certified outlets to ensure authenticity.
Where to Stay in Varanasi
| Budget Category | Approx. Nightly Rate | Area to Consider |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Guesthouses | โน500 โ โน1,500 | Assi Ghat, Godowlia |
| Mid-range Hotels | โน1,500 โ โน4,000 | Assi Ghat, Cantt. area, Lanka |
| Premium / Heritage Hotels | โน4,000 โ โน12,000+ | Nadesar area, BHU vicinity |
Hotel rates vary by season and advance booking. Festival periods see sharp price increases. Check current rates on hotel booking platforms before finalising.
Varanasi Travel Tips for Bangalore Travellers
- Carry cash: Many ghat vendors, boat operators, and small shops are cash-only. ATMs are available in the city.
- Dress modestly: Varanasi is a deeply religious city; conservative clothing is appreciated at temples and ghats.
- Easy footwear: You'll remove shoes frequently at temples and ghats โ wear easy-to-slip-off sandals.
- Local transport: E-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and autos are practical for the old city's narrow lanes. Agree on fares before boarding.
- Photography at cremation ghats: Manikarnika Ghat is a sacred cremation site โ photography is considered disrespectful. Follow local guidance.
- Weather preparation: Bangalore's mild climate differs significantly from Varanasi's cold winters and hot summers. Pack accordingly.
- Drinking water: Drink sealed bottled water throughout your stay.
Suggested Itinerary: Bangalore to Varanasi (5 Days)
Day 1: Fly from Bangalore to Varanasi. Check in to your hotel. Evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Day 2: Sunrise boat ride on the Ganga. Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Vishwanath Gali, and the main ghats. Explore street food at Godowlia Chowk.
Day 3: Day trip to Sarnath โ Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandhakuti Vihara, and Sarnath Museum. Return for sunset at Assi Ghat.
Day 4: Explore Ramnagar Fort, BHU campus, and Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum. Shop for Banarasi sarees and handicrafts.
Day 5: Morning Ganga Aarti or a final stroll along the ghats. Depart for Varanasi Airport for your return flight to Bangalore.
Frequently Asked Questions โ Bangalore to Varanasi
Q1: What is the distance from Bangalore to Varanasi?
The aerial distance is approximately 1,750 km. By train, the route distance is approximately 2,100โ2,400 km depending on the train and path taken.
Q2: How long does a direct flight from Bangalore to Varanasi take?
A direct flight takes approximately 2 hours 40 minutes to 3 hours. Connecting flights via Delhi, Hyderabad, or Mumbai can take 5โ8 hours including layover time.
Q3: Which is the best train from Bangalore to Varanasi?
The Sanghamitra Express (12295/12296) is the most popular daily direct train between Bangalore City Junction (SBC) and Varanasi Junction (BSB). Always confirm the latest schedule on IRCTC before booking.
Q4: What is the best time to visit Varanasi from Bangalore?
The best time is October to February โ cool, pleasant weather (8ยฐCโ22ยฐC) and major festivals like Dev Deepawali and Mahashivaratri. Note that accommodation and transport demand is higher during festival periods.
Q5: Is Varanasi safe for solo travellers from Bangalore?
Varanasi is generally considered safe. Exercise standard precautions โ stay aware of your surroundings, avoid isolated areas at night, and use trusted transport services.
Q6: How many days are enough for Varanasi?
A minimum of 3โ4 days is recommended to cover the key experiences โ ghats, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sarnath, local food, and Ganga Aarti. A 5-day trip allows a more relaxed pace.
Plan Your Varanasi Trip with Vibrant Kashi Tour Service
Looking to make your Bangalore to Varanasi trip smooth and memorable? Vibrant Kashi Tour Service offers customised Varanasi tour assistance including ghat boat rides, temple tours, local cab services, and hotel booking support tailored for visitors from Bangalore. Get in touch to discuss your travel dates and requirements.