Traveling from Delhi to Varanasi by train is one of the most convenient and popular ways to explore the cultural and spiritual heart of India. Varanasi, often referred to as the spiritual capital of India, attracts millions of tourists, pilgrims, and travelers every year, while Delhi, the bustling capital city, serves as a major transportation hub. With a distance of approximately 745-784 kilometers between the two cities (depending on the route), Indian Railways offers a variety of trains to suit every traveler’s needs. Whether you’re looking for speed, comfort, affordability, or luxury, this comprehensive guide on the best trains from Delhi to Varanasi will provide you with detailed information, including time tables, routes, fares, and other essential details.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the list of best trains from Delhi to Varanasi, focusing on their schedules, routes, travel durations, and key features. We’ll also include tips for booking tickets, station details, and why these trains stand out as top choices for this journey. With a keyword density optimized for searchability (e.g., “best trains from Delhi to Varanasi,” “Delhi to Varanasi train time table,” “Delhi to Varanasi train routes”), this article is designed to help you plan your trip efficiently.
Why Choose Trains from Delhi to Varanasi?
Before diving into the list of best trains from Delhi to Varanasi, let’s understand why train travel is a preferred option for this route. Trains offer a blend of affordability, comfort, and scenic views of India’s diverse landscapes. The Delhi to Varanasi route is well-connected, with multiple daily and weekly trains catering to different budgets and preferences. From superfast trains like the Vande Bharat Express to reliable options like the Shiv Ganga Express, there’s something for everyone.
The journey typically takes between 8 to 18 hours, depending on the train type and stops. Major stations in Delhi, such as New Delhi (NDLS), Old Delhi (DLI), and Anand Vihar Terminal (ANVT), serve as departure points, while Varanasi Junction (BSB) and Varanasi City (BCY) are the primary arrival stations in Varanasi. With this in mind, let’s explore the best trains from Delhi to Varanasi, complete with their time tables and route details.
Top 10 Best Trains from Delhi to Varanasi: Time Table, Routes, and Details
Here’s a detailed list of the best trains from Delhi to Varanasi, handpicked based on speed, comfort, reliability, and passenger reviews. Each entry includes the train’s time table, route, travel duration, and other important details to help you choose the right option.
1. Vande Bharat Express (Train No. 22436)
- Category: Superfast, Semi-High-Speed
- Departure Station: New Delhi (NDLS)
- Arrival Station: Varanasi Junction (BSB)
- Departure Time: 06:00 AM
- Arrival Time: 02:00 PM
- Travel Duration: 8 hours
- Frequency: Daily (except Thursday)
- Distance Covered: 771 km
- Route: New Delhi – Kanpur Central – Prayagraj Junction – Varanasi Junction
- Fare: Approx. ₹1,800 (Chair Car), ₹2,800 (Executive Class)
- Key Features: The Vande Bharat Express is India’s fastest train on this route, offering a premium travel experience with modern amenities like Wi-Fi, ergonomic seats, and onboard catering. It’s ideal for travelers seeking speed and luxury.
The Vande Bharat Express tops our list of the best trains from Delhi to Varanasi due to its unmatched speed and comfort. Departing early in the morning, it ensures you reach Varanasi by afternoon, giving you ample time to explore the city. The train’s limited stops (Kanpur and Prayagraj) make it the fastest option, covering the distance in just 8 hours.
2. Shiv Ganga Express (Train No. 12560)
- Category: Superfast
- Departure Station: New Delhi (NDLS)
- Arrival Station: Banaras (BSBS)
- Departure Time: 07:05 PM
- Arrival Time: 05:10 AM (next day)
- Travel Duration: 10 hours 5 minutes
- Frequency: Daily
- Distance Covered: 755 km
- Route: New Delhi – Kanpur Central – Prayagraj Junction – Banaras
- Fare: Approx. ₹400 (Sleeper), ₹1,100 (3AC), ₹1,600 (2AC), ₹2,700 (1AC)
- Key Features: Overnight journey, comfortable berths, and reliable service make it a favorite among travelers.
The Shiv Ganga Express is a top pick for those who prefer an overnight journey. Departing from New Delhi in the evening, it arrives in Varanasi early the next morning, allowing you to rest during the trip. Its consistent schedule and affordable fares make it one of the best trains from Delhi to Varanasi.
3. Swatantrata Senani Express (Train No. 12562)
- Category: Superfast
- Departure Station: New Delhi (NDLS)
- Arrival Station: Varanasi Junction (BSB)
- Departure Time: 09:10 PM
- Arrival Time: 08:00 AM (next day)
- Travel Duration: 10 hours 50 minutes
- Frequency: Daily
- Distance Covered: 776 km
- Route: New Delhi – Aligarh – Kanpur Central – Prayagraj Junction – Varanasi Junction
- Fare: Approx. ₹420 (Sleeper), ₹1,150 (3AC), ₹1,650 (2AC), ₹2,800 (1AC)
- Key Features: Comfortable overnight travel, punctual service, and multiple class options.
The Swatantrata Senani Express is another excellent overnight option on the Delhi to Varanasi train time table. With a slightly longer duration than the Shiv Ganga Express, it offers a relaxed journey with ample stops for boarding convenience. It’s a reliable choice for families and solo travelers alike.
4. Poorva Express (Train No. 12382)
- Category: Superfast
- Departure Station: New Delhi (NDLS)
- Arrival Station: Varanasi Junction (BSB)
- Departure Time: 05:35 PM
- Arrival Time: 05:05 AM (next day)
- Travel Duration: 11 hours 30 minutes
- Frequency: Monday, Tuesday, Friday
- Distance Covered: 769 km
- Route: New Delhi – Aligarh – Kanpur Central – Prayagraj Junction – Varanasi Junction
- Fare: Approx. ₹410 (Sleeper), ₹1,120 (3AC), ₹1,600 (2AC), ₹2,700 (1AC)
- Key Features: Spacious coaches, good food options, and a scenic evening departure.
The Poorva Express is a popular choice among the best trains from Delhi to Varanasi for its balance of speed and comfort. While it operates only three days a week, its evening departure and early morning arrival make it ideal for those who want to maximize daytime hours in both cities.
5. Shramjeevi Superfast Express (Train No. 12392)
- Category: Superfast
- Departure Station: New Delhi (NDLS)
- Arrival Station: Varanasi Junction (BSB)
- Departure Time: 01:10 PM
- Arrival Time: 04:40 AM (next day)
- Travel Duration: 15 hours 30 minutes
- Frequency: Daily
- Distance Covered: 776 km
- Route: New Delhi – Moradabad – Bareilly – Lucknow – Varanasi Junction
- Fare: Approx. ₹430 (Sleeper), ₹1,180 (3AC), ₹1,700 (2AC), ₹2,900 (1AC)
- Key Features: Day-to-night journey, multiple stops, and budget-friendly fares.
The Shramjeevi Superfast Express offers a longer but scenic route via Lucknow, making it a great option for travelers who enjoy daytime views. Its daily frequency ensures flexibility, securing its spot on the list of best trains from Delhi to Varanasi.
6. Banaras Superfast Express (Train No. 12582)
- Category: Superfast
- Departure Station: New Delhi (NDLS)
- Arrival Station: Banaras (BSBS)
- Departure Time: 10:35 PM
- Arrival Time: 10:00 AM (next day)
- Travel Duration: 11 hours 25 minutes
- Frequency: Daily
- Distance Covered: 755 km
- Route: New Delhi – Kanpur Central – Prayagraj Junction – Banaras
- Fare: Approx. ₹400 (Sleeper), ₹1,100 (3AC), ₹1,600 (2AC), ₹2,700 (1AC)
- Key Features: Late-night departure, comfortable overnight travel, and consistent performance.
The Banaras Superfast Express is a reliable overnight train, perfect for those who want to depart late and arrive by mid-morning. Its daily service and competitive fares make it a strong contender among the best trains from Delhi to Varanasi.
7. Lichchivi Express (Train No. 14006)
- Category: Express
- Departure Station: Anand Vihar Terminal (ANVT)
- Arrival Station: Varanasi Junction (BSB)
- Departure Time: 06:00 PM
- Arrival Time: 06:00 AM (next day)
- Travel Duration: 12 hours
- Frequency: Daily
- Distance Covered: 780 km
- Route: Anand Vihar – Moradabad – Lucknow – Varanasi Junction
- Fare: Approx. ₹400 (Sleeper), ₹1,050 (3AC), ₹1,500 (2AC), ₹2,500 (1AC)
- Key Features: Affordable fares, overnight journey, and a scenic route via Lucknow.
The Lichchivi Express is an economical choice for travelers starting from Anand Vihar Terminal. Its overnight schedule and reasonable pricing make it one of the best trains from Delhi to Varanasi for budget-conscious passengers.
8. Kashi Vishwanath Express (Train No. 15128)
- Category: Express
- Departure Station: New Delhi (NDLS)
- Arrival Station: Varanasi Junction (BSB)
- Departure Time: 11:35 AM
- Arrival Time: 04:40 AM (next day)
- Travel Duration: 17 hours 5 minutes
- Frequency: Daily
- Distance Covered: 793 km
- Route: New Delhi – Moradabad – Bareilly – Lucknow – Varanasi Junction
- Fare: Approx. ₹420 (Sleeper), ₹1,150 (3AC), ₹1,650 (2AC), ₹2,800 (1AC)
- Key Features: Long but scenic journey, multiple stops, and daily availability.
Named after Varanasi’s famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, this train is ideal for those who don’t mind a longer journey. Its extensive route offers a glimpse of rural India, earning it a place on the list of best trains from Delhi to Varanasi.
9. Neelachal Express (Train No. 12876)
- Category: Superfast
- Departure Station: Anand Vihar Terminal (ANVT)
- Arrival Station: Varanasi Junction (BSB)
- Departure Time: 07:30 AM
- Arrival Time: 08:00 PM
- Travel Duration: 12 hours 30 minutes
- Frequency: Tuesday, Friday, Sunday
- Distance Covered: 780 km
- Route: Anand Vihar – Kanpur Central – Prayagraj Junction – Varanasi Junction
- Fare: Approx. ₹430 (Sleeper), ₹1,180 (3AC), ₹1,700 (2AC), ₹2,900 (1AC)
- Key Features: Daytime travel, comfortable coaches, and a shorter duration than express trains.
The Neelachal Express is a great daytime option for those who prefer to travel during the day. Its weekly schedule requires planning, but its speed and comfort make it one of the best trains from Delhi to Varanasi.
10. Dibrugarh Rajdhani Express (Train No. 20506)
- Category: Rajdhani (Premium)
- Departure Station: New Delhi (NDLS)
- Arrival Station: Varanasi Junction (BSB)
- Departure Time: 11:25 AM
- Arrival Time: 10:50 PM
- Travel Duration: 11 hours 25 minutes
- Frequency: Thursday, Sunday
- Distance Covered: 776 km
- Route: New Delhi – Moradabad – Lucknow – Varanasi Junction
- Fare: Approx. ₹1,500 (3AC), ₹2,100 (2AC), ₹2,900 (1AC)
- Key Features: Premium service, meals included, and high punctuality.
The Dibrugarh Rajdhani Express offers a luxurious travel experience with its premium amenities and faster travel time. Though it operates only twice a week, it’s a top choice for those seeking comfort on the Delhi to Varanasi train routes.
Comparison Table: Best Trains from Delhi to Varanasi
| Train Name | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Frequency | Distance | Fare Range (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vande Bharat Express | 06:00 AM | 02:00 PM | 8 hrs | Daily (exc. Thu) | 771 km | 1,800–2,800 |
| Shiv Ganga Express | 07:05 PM | 05:10 AM | 10 hrs 5 mins | Daily | 755 km | 400–2,700 |
| Swatantrata Senani Express | 09:10 PM | 08:00 AM | 10 hrs 50 mins | Daily | 776 km | 420–2,800 |
| Poorva Express | 05:35 PM | 05:05 AM | 11 hrs 30 mins | Mon, Tue, Fri | 769 km | 410–2,700 |
| Shramjeevi Superfast Express | 01:10 PM | 04:40 AM | 15 hrs 30 mins | Daily | 776 km | 430–2,900 |
| Banaras Superfast Express | 10:35 PM | 10:00 AM | 11 hrs 25 mins | Daily | 755 km | 400–2,700 |
| Lichchivi Express | 06:00 PM | 06:00 AM | 12 hrs | Daily | 780 km | 400–2,500 |
| Kashi Vishwanath Express | 11:35 AM | 04:40 AM | 17 hrs 5 mins | Daily | 793 km | 420–2,800 |
| Neelachal Express | 07:30 AM | 08:00 PM | 12 hrs 30 mins | Tue, Fri, Sun | 780 km | 430–2,900 |
| Dibrugarh Rajdhani Express | 11:25 AM | 10:50 PM | 11 hrs 25 mins | Thu, Sun | 776 km | 1,500–2,900 |
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Train
When selecting from the list of best trains from Delhi to Varanasi, consider the following factors:
- Travel Duration: If speed is your priority, opt for the Vande Bharat Express (8 hours). For a leisurely journey, the Kashi Vishwanath Express (17 hours) is ideal.
- Departure Time: Overnight trains like Shiv Ganga and Banaras Superfast save daytime hours, while daytime options like Vande Bharat and Neelachal suit those who prefer to travel awake.
- Comfort Level: Premium trains like Rajdhani and Vande Bharat offer superior amenities, while express trains like Lichchivi are more budget-friendly.
- Frequency: Daily trains provide flexibility, while weekly trains require advance planning.
- Budget: Fares range from ₹400 (Sleeper) to ₹2,900 (1AC), so choose based on your budget.
Delhi to Varanasi Train Routes: A Closer Look
The Delhi to Varanasi train routes vary slightly depending on the train. Here are the two primary routes:
- Route via Kanpur and Prayagraj (755-771 km):
- Stations: New Delhi – Kanpur Central – Prayagraj Junction – Varanasi Junction/Banaras
- Trains: Vande Bharat Express, Shiv Ganga Express, Banaras Superfast Express, Poorva Express
- Highlights: Faster route with fewer stops, ideal for superfast trains.
- Route via Moradabad and Lucknow (776-793 km):
- Stations: New Delhi/Anand Vihar – Moradabad – Bareilly – Lucknow – Varanasi Junction
- Trains: Shramjeevi Superfast Express, Lichchivi Express, Kashi Vishwanath Express, Dibrugarh Rajdhani Express
- Highlights: Scenic route with more stops, offering a glimpse of rural Uttar Pradesh.
Both routes are well-maintained and pass through significant cities, ensuring a smooth journey. The choice of route often depends on the train’s schedule and your preferred travel time.
How to Book Tickets for Delhi to Varanasi Trains
Booking tickets for the best trains from Delhi to Varanasi is easy with these steps:
- IRCTC Website/App: Log in to the official IRCTC portal, enter “Delhi” as the source and “Varanasi” as the destination, select your date, and choose from the available trains.
- Third-Party Platforms: Websites like MakeMyTrip, redRail, and ConfirmTkt offer user-friendly interfaces and additional discounts.
- Advance Booking: Reservations open 120 days in advance, so book early for popular trains like Vande Bharat and Rajdhani.
- Tatkal Option: For last-minute travel, use the Tatkal quota, available 24 hours before departure (except for Vande Bharat).
Station Details: Departure and Arrival Points
Departure Stations in Delhi
- New Delhi (NDLS): The main railway station, centrally located and well-connected by metro and buses.
- Anand Vihar Terminal (ANVT): Ideal for east Delhi residents, with modern facilities.
- Old Delhi (DLI): Historic station, suitable for some express trains.
Arrival Stations in Varanasi
- Varanasi Junction (BSB): The primary station, close to the city center and major attractions like the Ganges.
- Banaras (BSBS): A newer station, slightly outside the main city but well-connected.
Both cities offer multiple transport options (autos, cabs, and buses) from the stations to your destination.
Tips for a Comfortable Delhi to Varanasi Train Journey
- Pack Light: Overnight trains have limited storage, so carry essentials only.
- Food Options: Premium trains include meals, but others have pantry cars or allow pre-ordering via apps like RailYatri.
- Arrive Early: Reach the station 30-60 minutes before departure to avoid last-minute hassles.
- Check Live Status: Use apps like IXIGO or Trainman to track your train’s real-time status.
Why Varanasi is Worth the Train Journey from Delhi
Varanasi is a city steeped in history, spirituality, and culture. From the ghats of the Ganges to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, it’s a destination that captivates every traveler. The best trains from Delhi to Varanasi make this journey accessible, allowing you to experience the city’s magic without breaking the bank or compromising on comfort.
Final Thoughts!
The list of best trains from Delhi to Varanasi offers something for every traveler—whether you prioritize speed with the Vande Bharat Express, comfort with the Rajdhani, or affordability with the Lichchivi Express. With detailed Delhi to Varanasi train time tables and route information, planning your trip has never been easier. Book your tickets today and embark on a memorable journey from the bustling capital to the spiritual heart of India.
For the latest updates on schedules and fares, check the IRCTC website or trusted travel platforms. Which of these best trains from Delhi to Varanasi will you choose for your next trip? Let us know in the comments!