Varanasi to Lucknow Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Varanasi to Lucknow? 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: Varanasi to Lucknow
| 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: Varanasi to Lucknow
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
By Train
Comfort, scenic views, budget-friendly
By Bus
Budget travel, multiple stops
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.
Local Food Guide Coming Soon
We're working on adding local food recommendations for Varanasi. In the meantime, explore local restaurants and street food when you arrive!
Worth Stopping: Cities Along Your Route
These cities are within 50km of your Varanasi to Lucknow 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)
Top Attractions in Lucknow: What to See and Do
Once you arrive in Lucknow, explore these must-visit attractions that showcase the best of the city:
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Bara Imambara
⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 ₹50 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) • 🕐 06:00-17:00 dailyBara Imambara is a historical complex built by Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784, featuring a large Asfi mosque, the Bhul-bhulaiya (a labyrinth), and a stepwell. It was constructed as a relief project during a major famine.
Best Time to Visit: Morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
💡 Insider Tip: Hire a guide to navigate the Bhul-bhulaiya, as it's easy to get lost.
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Chota Imambara
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 ₹30 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners) • 🕐 08:00-18:00 dailyChota Imambara, also known as the Hussainabad Imambara, is an elegant monument built by Muhammad Ali Shah in 1838. It houses the tombs of Muhammad Ali Shah and his mother.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon to see it illuminated.
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during Muharram to witness special ceremonies and decorations.
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Rumi Darwaza
⏱ 30 minutes • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open 24 hoursRumi Darwaza is an imposing gateway built in 1784, modeled after the Sublime Porte in Istanbul. It serves as an entrance to the old city of Lucknow.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for photographs with the illuminated gate.
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during festivals for special decorations and events around the gate.
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British Residency
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 ₹25 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners) • 🕐 07:00-18:00 dailyThe British Residency is a historical site that witnessed the Siege of Lucknow during the 1857 Indian Rebellion. The ruins serve as a reminder of the intense fighting that took place here.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler.
💡 Insider Tip: Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the site.
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Hazratganj Market
⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 11:00-21:00 daily (closed on Sundays)Hazratganj is a bustling shopping district in the heart of Lucknow. It's a place where you can find everything from traditional chikankari embroidery to modern apparel.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for shopping and dining.
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during the Lucknow Mahotsav for special discounts and cultural events.
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Ambedkar Memorial Park
⏱ 2 hours • 💰 ₹20 (Indians), ₹200 (foreigners) • 🕐 11:00-17:00 dailyAmbedkar Memorial Park is a large public park dedicated to B.R. Ambedkar, an Indian jurist, economist, and social reformer. It features several impressive structures made of red sandstone.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during the evening for a beautiful view of the illuminated structures.
Where to Eat in Lucknow: Local Cuisine Guide
Must-Try Dishes in Lucknow
Don't leave Lucknow without tasting these local specialties:
- Tunday Kababi - renowned for its melt-in-your-mouth galouti kebabs (Aminabad).
- Idris Biryani - famous for its flavorful and aromatic biryani (Chowk).
- Prakash Kulfi - try the creamy and delicious kulfi faluda (Aminabad).
- Ratimlal's Poori - enjoy the crispy and flavorful poori sabzi (Hazratganj).
Recommended Restaurants in Lucknow
Dastarkhwan
Awadhi • ₹₹ (₹600-800 for two)
Specialty: Mutton Biryani, Chicken Masala
A popular restaurant serving authentic Awadhi cuisine. The atmosphere is casual and the food is delicious. Expect a wait during peak hours.
📍 Hazratganj
The Terrace - Renaissance Lucknow Hotel
Multi-cuisine • ₹₹₹ (₹1500-2000 for two)
Specialty: Buffet
Offers a wide variety of dishes in a buffet setting. The atmosphere is upscale and the service is excellent. A good choice for a special occasion.
📍 Gomti Nagar
Royal Sky
North Indian • ₹₹ (₹800-1200 for two)
Specialty: Butter Chicken, Dal Makhani
A rooftop restaurant with a pleasant ambiance. The food is tasty and the service is prompt. A good place to enjoy a meal with a view.
📍 Aliganj
Wahid Biryani
Awadhi • ₹₹ (₹500-700 for two)
Specialty: Mutton Biryani
Known for its flavorful and authentic biryani. The restaurant is simple but the food is delicious. A popular spot with locals.
📍 Aminabad
Where to Stay in Lucknow: Accommodation Options
Budget Hotels (₹500-1500/night)
La Place Sarovar Portico
Price: ₹1500-2500/night
Location: Hazratganj
A comfortable hotel with essential amenities and a convenient location. Good value for money.
Hotel Deep Avadh
Price: ₹1200-2000/night
Location: Near Charbagh Railway Station
A basic but clean hotel close to the railway station. Suitable for budget travelers.
Mid-Range Hotels (₹2000-5000/night)
Golden Tulip Lucknow
Price: ₹3000-5000/night
Location: Gomti Nagar
A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and good facilities. Offers a pleasant stay.
Clarks Avadh
Price: ₹3500-5500/night
Location: Hazratganj
A well-established hotel with a central location and good service. Provides a comfortable and convenient stay.
Luxury Hotels (₹8000+/night)
Taj Mahal, Lucknow
Price: ₹8000+/night
Location: Vipin Khand, Gomti Nagar
A luxurious hotel with elegant rooms and excellent dining options. Offers a premium experience.
Hyatt Regency Lucknow
Price: ₹7000+/night
Location: Vibhuti Khand, Gomti Nagar
A stylish hotel with modern amenities and spacious rooms. Provides a comfortable and sophisticated stay.
Best Time to Travel from Varanasi to Lucknow
Plan your trip according to the season for the best experience in Lucknow:
Best Time: October to March
Temperature: 10-25 degrees C
Weather: Pleasant and dry weather makes it ideal for sightseeing. The days are sunny and the nights are cool.
Why Visit: The weather is perfect for exploring historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities. Several cultural festivals also take place during this time, offering a vibrant experience. It's the best time to savor the delicious street food without the discomfort of extreme heat.
Important Note: This is peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. Book accommodations and transportation well in advance.
Shoulder Season: July to September
Temperature: 28-35 degrees C
Weather: Monsoon season with occasional heavy rainfall. Humidity levels are high.
Why Visit: The landscape turns lush green, and the city looks refreshed. You can find discounted rates on accommodations and enjoy fewer crowds at attractions.
Important Note: Heavy rainfall can disrupt travel plans and make it difficult to explore outdoor attractions. Some activities may be limited.
Avoid: April to June
Temperature: 35-45 degrees C
Weather: Extreme heat and dry winds make it unbearable to be outdoors. This is the peak of summer in Lucknow.
Why Visit: Avoid visiting during this period due to the scorching heat. It's difficult to enjoy sightseeing or outdoor activities.
Important Note: Unless you have a specific reason to visit during this time, it's best to postpone your trip.
Practical Travel Tips for Lucknow
💰 Money & Budget
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹5000+
ATMs: Widely available
Payment Methods: Cash is preferred for small transactions, while cards are accepted at larger establishments.
Bargaining: Expected in markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers.
🏥 Health & Safety
Water: Drink bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach problems. Avoid ice from unknown sources.
Food Safety: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food that looks unhygienic. Be cautious of spicy food if you're not used to it.
Common Health Issues: Heatstroke during summer, stomach infections, and air pollution. Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary medications.
📱 Communication
SIM Cards: Available at the airport and in the city. Airtel and Vodafone are popular networks. You'll need a passport and visa.
WiFi Availability: Available at most hotels and some restaurants.
👕 What to Wear
Light and breathable clothing is recommended, especially during the summer months. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Frequently Asked Questions: Varanasi to Lucknow
Related Routes from Varanasi
Planning to explore more destinations? Check out these popular routes from Varanasi:
Other Routes to Lucknow
Traveling to Lucknow from a different city? Explore these alternative routes:
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