Kolkata to Varanasi Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Kolkata to Varanasi? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 682km 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: Kolkata to Varanasi
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 12h 00m | ₹6,513 Fuel & Tolls |
| flight Flight | 1h 30m | ₹2,387 - ₹4,774 |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹518 – ₹1,684 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹842 – ₹5,729 |
How to Travel: Kolkata to Varanasi
Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.
By Car
Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips
By Flight
Speed, long distances, business travel
lightbulb Our Recommendation
For this 682km long-distance journey, consider flying (1h 30m) to save time, or take a train for a more scenic and relaxed experience.
Before You Leave Kolkata
Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:
Local Specialties
- local_dining Rosogolla - A syrupy cheese-based dessert (try at KC Das)
- local_dining Macher Jhol - Fish curry (try at 6 Ballygunge Place)
- local_dining Biryani - Kolkata-style biryani with potatoes and eggs
6 Ballygunge Place • Ballygunge
Worth Stopping: Cities Along Your Route
These cities are within 50km of your Kolkata to Varanasi route and offer excellent attractions worth a brief detour:
Howrah
Bokaro
Bokaro, a planned city in Jharkhand, is known primarily for its massive steel plant. Established in the 20th century, it represents India's industrial progress. The city offers a unique blend of industrial landscapes and well-maintained urban spaces.
attractions Top Attractions
Bokaro Steel Plant
The Bokaro Steel Plant is one of the largest steel plants in India, showcasing the country's industrial capabilities. It's a fascinating look into the steel-making process.
Jawaharlal Nehru Biological Park
A large zoo and biological park, home to a variety of animals and birds. It offers a green escape within the industrial city.
City Park
A popular recreational park with gardens, fountains, and a musical fountain show in the evenings. It's a great place to relax and unwind.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Dhuska - A deep-fried snack made from rice and lentil batter (try at local street stalls)
Bishnupur
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.
Dhanbad
Dhanbad, often called the 'Coal Capital of India,' is a major industrial city in Jharkhand. It's known for its extensive coal mines and related industries in the Damodar River valley. While not a typical tourist destination, it offers a unique glimpse into India's industrial heartland.
attractions Top Attractions
Maithon Dam
Maithon Dam is a multipurpose dam located on the Barakar River. It's one of the first of its kind in Southeast Asia, built for flood control and power generation.
Panchet Dam
Panchet Dam is another major dam built on the Damodar River as part of the Damodar Valley Corporation. It's an earth-fill dam with a scenic reservoir.
Birsa Munda Park
Birsa Munda Park is a well-maintained park in the heart of Dhanbad city. It's a popular spot for locals to relax and unwind.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Litti Chokha - A traditional Jharkhandi dish made of wheat balls stuffed with sattu (roasted gram flour) and served with mashed vegetables (try at roadside 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: Kolkata to Varanasi
Related Routes from Kolkata
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Other Routes to Varanasi
Traveling to Varanasi from a different city? Explore these alternative routes:
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