Surat to Varanasi: Complete Travel Guide โ Trains, Flights, Distance & Tips
From the diamond city of Surat to the spiritual city of Varanasi (Kashi) โ this journey connects two of India's most vibrant cities. Whether embarking on a spiritual pilgrimage or a cultural exploration, this guide covers everything about the Surat to Varanasi journey โ transport options with approximate fares, distances, and what to expect in Varanasi.
Note: All fares and schedules are indicative and subject to change. Verify on official booking platforms before making reservations.
Surat to Varanasi: Distance Overview
| Mode | Approx. Distance | Approx. Duration |
|---|---|---|
| By Train | ~1,500 โ 1,700 km | 20 โ 28 hours |
| By Air (via Mumbai or direct) | ~1,200 km aerial | 3 โ 5 hours (including connection) |
| By Road | ~1,600 km | 24 โ 28 hours (2โ3 days recommended) |
Note: Surat does not have a major airport with direct flights to Varanasi. Most travellers fly via Mumbai or Ahmedabad, or take the train directly from Surat.
How to Travel from Surat to Varanasi
1. By Train (Most Popular Option)
Train is by far the most popular mode of travel for Surat residents heading to Varanasi โ comfortable, affordable, and with direct connections available.
Popular Trains on This Route
| Train Name & Number | Departure | Arrival | Approx. Duration | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SuratโVaranasi Express (19066 / 19065) | Surat (ST) | Varanasi Jn. (BSB) | ~22โ26 hours | Weekly (check IRCTC) |
| Tapti Ganga Express (12167 / 12168) | Surat (ST) | Varanasi Jn. (BSB) | ~20โ24 hours | Check IRCTC for days |
| Mahanagari Express (11093 / 11094) | Surat / Mumbai area | Varanasi Jn. (BSB) | ~22โ26 hours from Surat | Weekly (check IRCTC) |
Train schedules 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) | โน400 โ โน700 | Budget travellers |
| 3rd AC (3A) | โน1,100 โ โน1,800 | Comfortable budget travel |
| 2nd AC (2A) | โน1,900 โ โน3,000 | Comfort seekers |
| 1st AC (1A) | โน3,500 โ โน5,500 | Premium travellers |
Fares are approximate and may vary by train, class, quota, and dynamic pricing. Check IRCTC for exact fares.
Pro Tips:
- Book 60โ90 days in advance โ berths fill quickly, especially in AC classes.
- Festival seasons (Mahashivaratri, Dev Deepawali) see very high demand โ book early or use Tatkal quota.
2. By Air (Via Mumbai or Ahmedabad)
Surat Airport (STV) has limited domestic connectivity. The practical option is to travel to Mumbai (BOM) or Ahmedabad (AMD) by road or train, then fly to Varanasi (VNS).
| Route | Approx. Fare (Economy) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mumbai (BOM) โ Varanasi (VNS) | โน3,500 โ โน9,000 | Direct flights available; ~2 hrs |
| Ahmedabad (AMD) โ Varanasi (VNS) | โน2,500 โ โน7,000 | Direct flights available; ~1.75 hrs |
Fares are indicative. Check airline websites for current fares. Factor in Surat to Mumbai/Ahmedabad travel time and cost.
3. By Road
Approximately 1,600 km via AhmedabadโUdaipur or NagpurโJabalpurโPrayagrajโVaranasi. Best done over 2โ3 days. Not recommended for those prioritising speed.
Travel Comparison: Surat to Varanasi
| Mode | Duration | Approx. Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train (3A class) | 20โ28 hours | โน1,100โโน1,800 | Budget & comfort (most popular) |
| Air (via Mumbai/AMD) | 4โ6 hours total | โน4,000โโน10,000 | Speed |
| Road | 2โ3 days | โน5,000โโน10,000 | Flexible exploration |
All costs are approximate and for reference only.
Best Time to Visit Varanasi from Surat
| Season | Months | Weather | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter (Best) | October โ February | Cool & pleasant (8ยฐC โ 22ยฐC) | Dev Deepawali (Nov), Mahashivaratri (Feb/Mar) |
| Spring | March โ April | Mild to warm | Holi celebrations, fewer crowds |
| Summer (Avoid) | May โ June | Hot & dry (30ยฐC โ 45ยฐC) | Low tourist season |
| Monsoon | July โ September | Humid, heavy rains | Ghats may be waterlogged |
Top Things to Do in Varanasi
1. Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
The evening Ganga Aarti is one of India's most captivating spiritual rituals. Arrive 30โ45 minutes early for a good spot.
2. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, now accessible via the grand Kashi Vishwanath Corridor. Expect queues on auspicious days.
3. Sunrise Boat Ride on the Ganga
A dawn boat ride typically costs โน200โโน600. Agree on the price before boarding.
4. Sarnath
Located 10 km from Varanasi โ where the Buddha delivered his first sermon. The Dhamek Stupa and Sarnath Museum are key attractions. Entry fees apply. (ASI-protected monument.)
5. The Ghats
Varanasi has around 84 ghats along the Ganga. Manikarnika Ghat (sacred cremation ghat โ no photography, visit respectfully), Assi Ghat, and Harishchandra Ghat are among the most significant.
Where to Stay in Varanasi
| Budget Category | Approx. Nightly Rate | Area |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Guesthouses | โน500 โ โน1,500 | Assi Ghat, Godowlia |
| Mid-range Hotels | โน1,500 โ โน4,000 | Assi Ghat, Cantt. area |
| Premium Hotels | โน4,000 โ โน12,000+ | Nadesar, BHU vicinity |
Hotel rates vary by season. Festival periods see sharp price increases.
Travel Tips for Surat Visitors
- Carry cash: Many ghat vendors are cash-only.
- Dress modestly: Conservative clothing appreciated at temples and ghats.
- Weather: Varanasi winters (NovโFeb) are colder than Surat โ carry warm clothing.
- Local transport: E-rickshaws and autos for the old city. Agree on fares before boarding.
- Photography at Manikarnika Ghat: Considered disrespectful โ follow local guidance.
Plan Your Varanasi Trip with Vibrant Kashi Tour Service
Vibrant Kashi Tour Service offers customised Varanasi tour assistance for visitors from Surat and Gujarat. Get in touch to discuss your travel dates and requirements.