Gaya to Varanasi Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Gaya to Varanasi? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 255km journey. Watch the interactive route animation above to visualize your journey, then explore detailed information about travel options, costs, attractions along the way, and insider tips to make your trip memorable.
analytics Travel Comparison: Gaya to Varanasi
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 5h 30m | ₹2,435 Fuel & Tolls |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹227 – ₹695 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹363 – ₹2,815 |
How to Travel: Gaya to Varanasi
Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.
By Car
Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips
lightbulb Our Recommendation
At 255km, both driving (5h 30m) and trains are excellent options. Choose driving for flexibility and scenic stops, or trains for comfort and relaxation.
Before You Leave Gaya
Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:
Local Specialties
- local_dining Litti Chokha - A traditional Bihari dish made of wheat balls stuffed with roasted gram flour and served with mashed potatoes and eggplant (try it at local dhabas).
- local_dining Sattu Paratha - A flatbread stuffed with roasted gram flour and spices (available at most local restaurants).
- local_dining Khaja - A sweet, flaky pastry (try it at Gaya's sweet shops).
Basant Vihar • Central Gaya
Worth Stopping: Cities Along Your Route
These cities are within 50km of your Gaya to Varanasi route and offer excellent attractions worth a brief detour:
Sarnath
Sarnath is a significant Buddhist site located near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India. It is where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma after his enlightenment, delivering his first sermon.
attractions Top Attractions
Dhamek Stupa
The Dhamek Stupa is a massive stone structure believed to mark the spot where Buddha delivered his first sermon to his five disciples. It is the most prominent structure in Sarnath and a major pilgrimage site.
Sarnath Archaeological Museum
The Sarnath Archaeological Museum houses a rich collection of Buddhist artifacts excavated from the Sarnath site. It includes sculptures, relics, and inscriptions dating back to the 3rd century BC.
Mulagandha Kuti Vihara
The Mulagandha Kuti Vihara is a modern Buddhist temple built by the Mahabodhi Society. It houses beautiful frescoes depicting the life of Buddha and a golden statue of Buddha.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Baigan Bharta - A smoky eggplant dish, best tried at local dhabas.
Bodhgaya
Bodh Gaya
Mirzapur
Mirzapur, a city in Uttar Pradesh, is known for its carpet weaving industry and proximity to the Vindhyachal temple. Situated on the banks of the Ganges River, it offers a blend of cultural and natural attractions.
attractions Top Attractions
Vindhyavasini Temple
One of the most important Shaktipeeths in India, dedicated to Goddess Vindhyavasini. It is believed that the goddess fulfills the wishes of her devotees.
Ashtabhuja Temple
Dedicated to Goddess Ashtabhuja, another form of Durga. The temple is situated on a hill, offering scenic views of the surrounding area.
Kali Koh Temple
A cave temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. The idol is housed inside a natural cave formation.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Baati Chokha - A traditional dish made of wheat balls baked in cow dung fire, served with mashed potatoes and eggplant (try at local dhabas)
Nalanda
Nalanda is an ancient center of learning located in Bihar, India. It was a renowned Buddhist monastic university that flourished for over 700 years, attracting scholars from across Asia. Today, the site stands as impressive ruins, offering a glimpse into India's rich intellectual and cultural past and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.
attractions Top Attractions
Nalanda Archaeological Site
The Nalanda Archaeological Site encompasses the ruins of the ancient university. It showcases the remnants of classrooms, dormitories, temples, and stupas.
Nalanda Archaeological Museum
The Nalanda Archaeological Museum houses a collection of artifacts unearthed from the ruins. These include sculptures, pottery, seals, and other relics.
Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall
The Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall commemorates the famous Chinese Buddhist monk who studied at Nalanda University. It features a museum and a library dedicated to his life and travels.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Litti Chokha - A traditional Bihari dish made of wheat balls stuffed with roasted gram flour and served with mashed vegetables (try at local dhabas).
Explore Varanasi
Varanasi offers a unique travel experience. For detailed information about local attractions, dining options, accommodations, and insider tips, visit our comprehensive destination guide.
Frequently Asked Questions: Gaya to Varanasi
Related Routes from Gaya
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Other Routes to Varanasi
Traveling to Varanasi from a different city? Explore these alternative routes:
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