Lucknow to Varanasi Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Lucknow to Varanasi? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 320km 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: Lucknow to Varanasi
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 6h 00m | ₹3,056 Fuel & Tolls |
| flight Flight | 0h 55m | ₹1,120 - ₹2,240 |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹271 – ₹846 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹456 – ₹3,533 |
How to Travel: Lucknow 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
At 320km, both driving (6h 00m) and trains are excellent options. Choose driving for flexibility and scenic stops, or trains for comfort and relaxation.
Before You Leave Lucknow
Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:
Local Specialties
- local_dining Tunday Kababi - renowned for its melt-in-your-mouth galouti kebabs (Aminabad).
- local_dining Idris Biryani - famous for its flavorful and aromatic biryani (Chowk).
- local_dining Prakash Kulfi - try the creamy and delicious kulfi faluda (Aminabad).
Dastarkhwan • Hazratganj
Worth Stopping: Cities Along Your Route
These cities are within 50km of your Lucknow 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.
Raebareli
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)
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: Lucknow to Varanasi
Related Routes from Lucknow
Planning to explore more destinations? Check out these popular routes from Lucknow:
Other Routes to Varanasi
Traveling to Varanasi from a different city? Explore these alternative routes:
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