Chennai to Varanasi: Complete Travel Guide โ Flights, Trains, Distance & Tips
From the cultural capital of South India โ Chennai โ to the spiritual capital of North India โ Varanasi (Kashi) โ this journey is one of the most iconic cross-India travel experiences. Whether you are a Tamil pilgrim seeking blessings at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a history enthusiast, or a curious traveller, this guide covers everything about the Chennai to Varanasi trip โ distances, transport options with approximate fares, travel tips, and top attractions.
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.
Chennai to Varanasi: Distance Overview
The distance between Chennai and Varanasi varies by mode of travel:
| Mode of Travel | Approximate Distance | Approximate Duration |
|---|---|---|
| By Air (direct flight) | ~1,750 km | 2.5 โ 3 hours |
| By Train | ~2,100 โ 2,400 km | 30 โ 38 hours |
| By Road | ~2,200 โ 2,400 km | 35 โ 40 hours (4+ days recommended) |
How to Travel from Chennai to Varanasi
1. Chennai to Varanasi by Flight (Best for Time-Saving)
Chennai International Airport (MAA) connects to Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) through direct and one-stop connecting flights.
Flight Duration: Direct flights take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Connecting flights via Hyderabad, Delhi, or Mumbai can take 5โ8 hours.
Airlines Operating This Route: IndiGo, Air India, Air India Express, and SpiceJet. Direct flight availability may vary by season โ always verify before booking.
Approximate Flight Fares (Economy Class, per person)
| Flight Type | Approx. Fare Range | Best Booking Window |
|---|---|---|
| Direct flight (MAA โ VNS) | โน3,500 โ โน9,000 | 4โ8 weeks in advance |
| Connecting flight (1 stop) | โน3,000 โ โน7,500 | 6โ10 weeks in advance |
| Peak season / last-minute | โน8,000 โ โน16,000+ | โ |
Fares are indicative. Actual prices vary by date, availability, and airline pricing. Always check the airline's official website.
Pro Tips:
- Book 4โ8 weeks in advance for best economy fares.
- Early morning flights tend to be cheaper and experience fewer delays.
- Avoid last-minute bookings during festival periods when demand surges sharply.
2. Chennai to Varanasi by Train (Scenic, Affordable Option)
Several trains connect Chennai to Varanasi, making train travel a popular choice for this cross-country journey.
Popular Trains on This Route
| Train Name & Number | Departure | Arrival | Approx. Duration | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tamil Nadu Sampark Kranti Express (12671/12672) | Chennai Central (MAS) | Varanasi Jn. (BSB) | ~33โ36 hours | Weekly (check IRCTC) |
| Kashi Tamil Sangam Express (20501/20502) | Chennai Egmore (MS) | Varanasi Jn. (BSB) | ~30โ34 hours | Check IRCTC for days |
| Sanghamitra Express (12295/12296) via Chennai | Bangalore/Chennai | Varanasi Jn. (BSB) | ~32โ36 hours from Chennai | Daily |
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) | โน550 โ โน850 | Budget travellers |
| 3rd AC (3A) | โน1,400 โ โน2,100 | Comfortable budget travel |
| 2nd AC (2A) | โน2,200 โ โน3,500 | Comfort seekers |
| 1st AC (1A) | โน4,000 โ โน6,000 | Premium travellers |
Fares are approximate and may vary by train, quota, and dynamic pricing. Check IRCTC for exact fares.
Pro Tips:
- Book 60โ90 days in advance โ AC berths fill quickly on long-distance routes.
- Festival seasons see very high demand; book early or use the Tatkal quota.
3. Chennai to Varanasi by Road
Driving covers approximately 2,200โ2,400 km and is best spread over 4โ5 days.
Route: Chennai โ Hyderabad โ Nagpur โ Jabalpur โ Prayagraj โ Varanasi
This option suits travellers who enjoy extended road journeys through multiple states; not recommended for those prioritising speed.
Travel Mode Comparison: Chennai to Varanasi
| 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 | 30 โ 38 hours | โน1,400 โ โน2,100 | Budget & comfort |
| Road (Self-drive) | ~2,200 โ 2,400 km | 4โ5 days | โน8,000 โ โน15,000 (fuel + tolls) | Flexible exploration |
All costs are approximate and for reference only.
Best Time to Visit Varanasi from Chennai
| 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 (Avoid) | 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 Attractions in Varanasi for Chennai Travellers
1. Ganga Aarti โ Dashashwamedh Ghat
The evening Ganga Aarti is one of India's most captivating spiritual rituals. Arrive 30โ45 minutes early for a good vantage point.
2. Kashi Vishwanath Temple & Corridor
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple โ one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva โ is now accessible via the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor. Expect security queues on auspicious days.
3. Sunrise Boat Ride on the Ganga
A dawn boat ride is a deeply memorable experience. Rides typically cost โน200โโน600. Agree on the price before boarding.
4. Sarnath
Located 10 km from Varanasi, Sarnath is where the Buddha delivered his first sermon. The Dhamek Stupa and Sarnath Archaeological Museum are key attractions. Entry fees apply. (Sarnath is an ASI-protected monument.)
5. The Ghats
Varanasi has around 84 ghats along the Ganga. Manikarnika Ghat (sacred cremation ghat โ approach respectfully, no photography), Assi Ghat, and Harishchandra Ghat are among the most significant.
6. Banarasi Street Food
Must-tries: Kachori Sabzi, Banarasi Lassi, Malaiyo (seasonal winter delicacy), and Thandai. Stick to busy, well-frequented stalls.
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.
Varanasi Travel Tips for Chennai Travellers
- Carry cash: Many ghat vendors and small shops are cash-only. ATMs are available in the city.
- Dress modestly: Conservative clothing is appreciated at temples and ghats.
- Weather gap: Varanasi winters are significantly colder than Chennai โ carry warm clothing if visiting NovemberโFebruary.
- Local transport: E-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and autos navigate the old city's lanes. Agree on fares before boarding.
- Photography at cremation ghats: Photography is considered disrespectful at Manikarnika Ghat โ follow local guidance.
- Drinking water: Drink sealed bottled water throughout your stay.
Suggested Itinerary: Chennai to Varanasi (5 Days)
Day 1: Morning flight from Chennai. Arrive Varanasi, check in. Evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Day 2: Sunrise boat ride. Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the ghats. Street food at Godowlia Chowk.
Day 3: Day trip to Sarnath โ Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath Museum, Buddhist temples. Return for sunset at Assi Ghat.
Day 4: Ramnagar Fort, BHU campus, Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum. Shop for Banarasi sarees.
Day 5: Morning Ganga Aarti. Head to Varanasi Airport for return flight to Chennai.
Frequently Asked Questions โ Chennai to Varanasi
Q1: What is the distance from Chennai to Varanasi?
The aerial distance is approximately 1,750 km. By train, the route is approximately 2,100โ2,400 km depending on the train taken.
Q2: Are there direct flights from Chennai to Varanasi?
Direct flights are available, taking approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Connecting flights take 5โ8 hours. Direct flight frequency may vary by season.
Q3: Which is the best train from Chennai to Varanasi?
The Kashi Tamil Sangam Express and Tamil Nadu Sampark Kranti Express are well-known trains on this route. Always confirm availability on IRCTC before booking.
Q4: What is the best time to visit Varanasi from Chennai?
The best time is October to February โ pleasant weather and major festivals. Festival periods see higher demand for transport and accommodation.
Q5: How many days are enough for Varanasi?
A minimum of 3โ4 days is recommended. A 5-day trip allows a more relaxed and immersive experience.
Plan Your Varanasi Trip from Chennai with Vibrant Kashi
Looking to make your Chennai to Varanasi journey smooth and memorable? Vibrant Kashi Tour Service offers customised Varanasi tour assistance โ airport transfers, hotel booking support, guided ghat tours, and temple visit arrangements. Get in touch to discuss your travel dates and requirements.