Ranchi Varanasi

straighten 481 km
schedule 8h 00m
flight 1h 15m
flight_takeoff Flight Available

Ranchi to Varanasi Complete Travel Guide 2026

Planning a trip from Ranchi to Varanasi? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 481km 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.

straighten Distance
481 km
Total Distance
directions_car By Car
8h 00m
Drive Time
₹4,594
₹1,149/person (4 pax)
flight By Air
1h 15m
Flight Time
train By Train
~12-16h
Est. Time
₹381 – ₹1,218
Min – Max
directions_bus By Bus
~6-8h
Est. Time
₹685 – ₹5,310
Min – Max
info

All prices are estimates. Train: Check IRCTC. Bus: Prices vary 25-50%, check redBus (not recommended >2,500km). Flight: Check airlines for current rates. Drive: Costs assume 4 travelers; fuel/tolls may vary.

info
Train availability: Prices shown are estimates based on distance. Please check IRCTC or train booking platforms for actual availability, routes, and current ticket prices as they vary by class, train type, and booking time.

analytics Travel Comparison: Ranchi to Varanasi

Mode Duration Estimated Cost
directions_car Private Car 8h 00m ₹4,594 Fuel & Tolls
flight Flight 1h 15m ₹1,684 - ₹3,367
train Train 12h – 16h ₹381 – ₹1,218
bus Bus 12h – 16h ₹685 – ₹5,310

How to Travel: Ranchi to Varanasi

Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.

directions_car

By Car

Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips

8h 00m
Duration
481 km
Distance
₹4,594
Fuel + Tolls
flight

By Flight

Speed, long distances, business travel

1h 15m
Flight Time
481 km
Distance
₹1,684 — ₹3,367
Airfare Range

lightbulb Our Recommendation

At 481km, both driving (8h 00m) and trains are excellent options. Choose driving for flexibility and scenic stops, or trains for comfort and relaxation.

Before You Leave Ranchi

Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:

restaurant

Local Specialties

  • local_dining
    Dhuska - a deep-fried snack made from rice flour and lentils (try at street food stalls)
  • local_dining
    Litti Chokha - baked wheat balls served with mashed potatoes and eggplant (try at local restaurants)
  • local_dining
    Madua Roti - flatbread made from finger millet flour (try at local restaurants)
location_on Recommended Restaurant

Yellow Sapphire • Main Road

Worth Stopping: Cities Along Your Route

These cities are within 50km of your Ranchi to Varanasi route and offer excellent attractions worth a brief detour:

location_city

Sarnath

schedule Approximately 15-30 minutes off the main route
Stop #1

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
schedule 1.5 hours payments ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)

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
schedule 2 hours payments ₹5 (Indians), ₹100 (foreigners)

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
schedule 1 hour payments Free

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.

location_city

Mirzapur

schedule Approximately 15-30 minutes off the main route
Stop #2

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
schedule 2-3 hours payments Free

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
schedule 1-2 hours payments Free

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
schedule 1 hour payments Free

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: Ranchi to Varanasi

What is the distance from Ranchi to Varanasi?
The distance from Ranchi to Varanasi is 481 kilometers by road.
How long does it take to drive from Ranchi to Varanasi?
It takes approximately 8h 00m to drive from Ranchi to Varanasi, depending on traffic conditions and the number of stops you make along the way.
What is the cheapest way to travel from Ranchi to Varanasi?
The most budget-friendly option is usually by bus or train. Driving costs approximately ₹4,594 for fuel and tolls. Buses are typically the cheapest, while trains offer a good balance of comfort and affordability.
Is there a direct flight from Ranchi to Varanasi?
Yes, flights are available from Ranchi to Varanasi with a flight time of approximately 1h 15m. Flight costs typically range from ₹1,684 to ₹3,367 depending on booking time and airline.
What are the best stops between Ranchi and Varanasi?
Popular stops along the route include Sarnath, Mirzapur. These cities offer interesting attractions, local cuisine, and comfortable rest facilities.
What is the best time to travel from Ranchi to Varanasi?
October to March is generally the best time for road trips in India, with pleasant weather and clear skies.

Related Routes from Ranchi

Planning to explore more destinations? Check out these popular routes from Ranchi:

Other Routes to Varanasi

Traveling to Varanasi from a different city? Explore these alternative routes:

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