Route Explorer

Lucknow to Varanasi

The journey from Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, to Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, is a classic pilgrimage route covering approximately 320 kilometers. By road, the

Distance

320 km

Duration

6 hrs

Overview

The journey from Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, to Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, is a classic pilgrimage route covering approximately 320 kilometers. By road, the trip takes about 6 hours via the Agra-Lucknow Expressway and NH-19, offering a smooth and scenic drive through the Gangetic plains. This route is popular among devotees heading to the ghats of the Ganges, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and Sarnath. Travelers can choose between private cars, express trains, or state-run buses, each providing a unique perspective on the region's rural and urban landscapes. The journey is not just a transfer but a prelude to the spiritual immersion that awaits in one of the world's oldest living cities.

Route Map

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Transport Options

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By Car

Driving from Lucknow to Varanasi is the most flexible option, allowing you to stop at roadside eateries and explore stopovers like Prayagraj. The route via the Agra-Lucknow Expressway and NH-19 is well-maintained, with tolls and fuel stations along the way.

Distance

320 km

Duration

6 hours

Highlights

•Scenic drive through the Gangetic plains
•Stop at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj
•Roadside dhabas serving local cuisine
•Direct access to Varanasi's old city ghats

Toll Charges

The total toll for a standard car (e.g., Swift Dzire) from Lucknow to Varanasi is approximately ₹850–₹1,000, depending on the exact entry/exit points.

•Agra-Lucknow Expressway toll: ₹195 (from Lucknow to Unnao)
•NH-19 toll plazas: ~₹650–₹800 total
•Use FASTag for seamless payments

Fuel Cost

For a 320 km drive, a car with an average mileage of 15 km/l will consume about 21 liters of petrol, costing around ₹2,000–₹2,200 (at ₹95–₹105 per liter).

•Petrol price in UP (2025): ~₹95/litre
•Diesel cost: ~₹88/litre, if driving a diesel car
•Refuel at Lucknow or Prayagraj for best options

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By Train

Varanasi is well-connected to Lucknow by several daily express trains, with journey times ranging from 5 to 7 hours. Trains offer a comfortable and affordable option, especially for overnight travel, arriving directly at Varanasi Junction (BSB) or Manduadih.

Distance

~300 km (rail route)

Duration

5–7 hours

Highlights

•Comfortable sleeper and AC coaches
•Avoids road traffic and tolls
•Scenic views of rural Uttar Pradesh
•Direct access to Varanasi Junction

Train Fares

Fares vary by train class. For example, the Shiv Ganga Express (12562) from Lucknow to Varanasi has approximate fares: Sleeper ₹300, AC 3-Tier ₹800, AC 2-Tier ₹1,150.

•Sleeper Class: ₹290–₹340
•AC 3-Tier: ₹780–₹850
•AC 2-Tier: ₹1,100–₹1,200
•Book via IRCTC; tatkal fares are higher

Popular Trains

The fastest train is the Shiv Ganga Express (5h 30m), while the Lucknow-Jhansi-Varanasi Intercity (14258) is a convenient daytime option.

•Shiv Ganga Express (12562) – departs ~6:10 AM, arrives ~11:40 AM
•Intercity Express (14258) – departs ~2:30 PM, arrives ~8:30 PM
•Other options: Sabarmati Express, Kaifiyat Express

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By Bus

Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) operates regular AC and non-AC buses from Lucknow to Varanasi. Private operators also offer luxury Volvo buses, making this a budget-friendly choice.

Distance

320 km

Duration

7–8 hours

Highlights

•Budget-friendly fares
•Multiple departure times, including overnight
•No need to drive or navigate
•Drop-off at Varanasi's main bus stand (Cantt)

UPSRTC Bus Fares

UPSRTC ordinary buses cost around ₹400–₹500, while AC buses (Janrath) are priced at ₹700–₹800. Private Volvo buses may cost ₹1,000–₹1,500.

•Ordinary bus: ₹400–₹500
•Janrath AC bus: ₹700–₹800
•Private Volvo: ₹1,000–₹1,500
•Book online via UPSRTC website or RedBus

Bus Terminals

In Lucknow, buses depart from Alambagh (main) and Kaiserbagh. In Varanasi, buses arrive at the Varanasi Cantt Bus Station, near the railway station.

•Alambagh Bus Station – major hub
•Kaiserbagh – for some private operators
•Varanasi Cantt – walking distance to railway station

Stopovers En Route

Prayagraj (Allahabad)

Approximately 200 km from Lucknow, 120 km before Varanasi

Prayagraj, located at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers, is a major pilgrimage site. The Triveni Sangam is a must-visit, especially during the Kumbh Mela, and the city also houses the historic Allahabad Fort and Anand Bhavan.

Multiple dhabas and restaurants along NH-19Fuel stations and restrooms at highway plazasAuto-rickshaws available for local sightseeing

Raebareli

About 80 km from Lucknow, 240 km from Varanasi

Raebareli is a historical town known for its connection to the Nehru-Gandhi family. While it is not a major tourist stop, it offers a convenient break with local eateries serving Awadhi cuisine. The Samaspur Bird Sanctuary is a short detour for nature lovers.

Highway restaurants and tea stallsPublic restrooms at bus stopsPetrol pumps and minor repair shops

Travel Tips

•Start early (by 6 AM) to avoid traffic and reach Varanasi by noon.
•Carry valid ID for hotel check-ins and temple entry.
•Use the Agra-Lucknow Expressway for a faster exit from Lucknow.
•If traveling by train, book tickets at least a week in advance, especially during festival seasons.
•Keep small change for tolls and temple offerings.
•Stay hydrated and carry snacks for the journey, as food options on the expressway are limited.

Budget Estimate

road

Agra-Lucknow Expressway toll: ₹195 (from Lucknow to Unnao)

NH-19 toll plazas: ~₹650–₹800 total

train

Sleeper Class: ₹290–₹340

AC 3-Tier: ₹780–₹850

bus

Ordinary bus: ₹400–₹500

Janrath AC bus: ₹700–₹800

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fastest way to travel from Lucknow to Varanasi?

The fastest way is by train, with the Shiv Ganga Express taking about 5.5 hours. By car, the journey takes 6 hours on a good day, but traffic can extend it.

Are there direct buses from Lucknow to Varanasi?

Yes, UPSRTC and private operators run direct buses from Lucknow's Alambagh Bus Station to Varanasi. The journey takes 7–8 hours, depending on traffic and stops.

What is the approximate cost of a road trip by car?

For a standard car, expect to spend around ₹3,000–₹3,500 on tolls and fuel, excluding food and other expenses. Car rental with driver may cost ₹4,500–₹6,000.

Which is the best stopover for a break?

Prayagraj is the ideal stopover, as it is roughly halfway and offers the chance to visit the Triveni Sangam. Many travelers also stop at Raebareli for a quick meal.

Is it better to travel by road or train for a pilgrimage?

It depends on your preference. Trains are more comfortable and economical, while driving offers flexibility to visit Prayagraj and other stops. For a spiritual journey, many prefer the train to avoid road fatigue.