By Road
See the road route from Kolkata to Varanasi, including the onward journey and practical travel notes.
Read road route →Kolkata to Varanasi Route
A well-served overnight rail route between two of eastern India's great river cities - most pilgrims travel by train, boarding in the evening and arriving in Varanasi by morning.
How to Reach Varanasi from Kolkata by Road
Buses and private taxis cover the route, but at this distance the overnight train is almost always more comfortable and better value.
How to Reach Varanasi from Kolkata by Train
Trains including the Vibhuti Express and Sealdah-Varanasi services connect the two cities, taking roughly 12-14 hours. Most run overnight, which makes this the practical choice - you save a hotel night and arrive ready for early-morning ghat visits, when Varanasi is at its best.
Book to Varanasi Junction (BSB) for the main station, or Banaras (MUV) if you are staying nearer Assi Ghat.
How to Reach Varanasi from Kolkata by Air
Direct flights operate between Kolkata and Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS), about 26 km from Varanasi. Flying saves time but adds airport transfers at both ends - for an overnight journey, the train often works out simpler.
Kolkata to Varanasi Travel FAQs
How long is the train from Kolkata to Varanasi?⌄
Roughly 12-14 hours. Trains such as the Vibhuti Express and Sealdah-Varanasi services run this route, most of them overnight.
Is it better to fly or take the train from Kolkata?⌄
The overnight train is usually the more practical choice - it saves a hotel night and arrives in time for early-morning ghat visits. Flights are faster in the air but add transfers at both ends.
Which station should I get down at in Varanasi?⌄
Varanasi Junction (BSB) is the main station, about 3 km from the city centre. Banaras (MUV) is quieter and closer to Assi Ghat.