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Find Kathmandu to Varanasi bus tickets

from
Kathmandu, Nepal
to
Varanasi, India

Why Choose Bus from Kathmandu to Varanasi

Traveling from Kathmandu to Varanasi offers a unique experience that blends culture and adventure. Choosing the right mode of transportation is essential to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

💰 Scenic Journey

pros
  • The bus route from Kathmandu to Varanasi provides stunning views of the Himalayan mountains and lush landscapes, making the long journey visually rewarding.
  • Travelers can enjoy close-up encounters with local culture and traditions as the bus passes through various villages and towns.
cons
  • The extended travel time of approximately 20 hours and 33 minutes can be tiring for some passengers.

🛎️ Affordability

pros
  • Bus tickets range from $39 to $42, making it a budget-friendly option compared to flights which can be significantly more expensive.
  • This economical choice allows travelers to allocate their budget for other activities during their stay in Varanasi.
cons
  • Limited amenities compared to air travel, which might deter some travelers looking for added comfort during long journeys.

⭐ Convenient Departures and Arrivals

pros
  • Buses from Kathmandu typically depart from central locations, providing easy accessibility for travelers staying in the city.
  • Arrival in Varanasi's main bus terminal places you close to key attractions, allowing for immediate exploration of the city.
cons
  • Long wait times at the border crossing can add to the total travel duration, potentially complicating tight travel itineraries.

highlights:

Travelers should be prepared for a lengthy journey with unexpected delays, particularly at border checkpoints.

Experience breathtaking landscapes throughout the journey, enhancing the travel experience.

Cost-effective travel allows for more financial flexibility during your trip.

Direct access to city centers means less hassle with transportation upon arrival.

Bus Options from Kathmandu to Varanasi

Typecompanydeparture stationarrival stationdeparture timearrival timeFrequencyDurationPrice Rangelayover city
DirectHimalaya TravelsKantipath, KathmanduBus Station, Varanasi06:30, 07:00, 07:3003:03, 03:33, 04:03Every day20h 33m
$
39-42
ConnectingSita TravelsKantipath, KathmanduBus Station, Varanasi08:00, 08:3005:30, 06:00Twice daily24h
$
40-42
Gorakhpur
ConnectingGreenline TravelsKantipath, KathmanduBus Station, Varanasi10:0008:00Daily22h
$
39-41
Sunauli

Comparison of Bus Operators from Kathmandu to Varanasi

Comparing bus operators on the Kathmandu to Varanasi route is essential for travelers seeking the best value and experience. The competition among various operators results in diverse pricing strategies, varying levels of service, and amenities that impact the overall journey. Understanding key criteria such as price, pricing policies, amenities, baggage allowance, and accessibility helps travelers make informed choices tailored to their individual needs.

CriteriaHimalayan TravelsTravelNepalKingdom Buses
Price Range$ 39 - $ 42$ 38 - $ 41$ 40 - $ 42
pricing policies
refund policyTickets are refundable up to 48 hours before departure for a 90% refund.No refunds within 72 hours of departure.Full refunds allowed up to one week in advance, partial thereafter.
Ticket ChangesTicket changes can be made up to 24 hours before departure with a change fee of $5.Free ticket changes if made 48 hours in advance; otherwise, a $10 fee applies.$15 fee for changes made within 48 hours of departure.
discounts15% discount for students with valid ID.5% early bird discount for tickets purchased a month in advance.Group discounts available for bookings of 10 or more.
amenitiesWi-Fi, Air conditioning, Refreshments, Charging portsRest stops, Comfortable seating, Onboard entertainmentReclining seats, Wi-Fi, Snacks, Charging stations
baggage allowance
free allowanceOne piece of luggage up to 20 kg and one hand luggage.Two pieces of luggage not exceeding 30 kg total.One piece of luggage up to 25 kg and one carry-on.
Additional FeesExtra luggage fees apply at $10 per additional 10 kg.Oversized baggage incurs a fee of $15.Extra luggage fees of $12 per 10 kg.
accessibilityBuses are wheelchair accessible and have designated seating.Limited accessibility options available on selected buses.Fully accessible buses with special features for passengers with disabilities.

When choosing a bus operator for the Kathmandu to Varanasi route, travelers should consider their budget, flexibility in ticket changes, and specific amenities that meet their travel preferences. Himalayan Travels offers a good balance of services with generous baggage allowance and discounts for students, while TravelNepal provides economical options for budget-conscious travelers who book early. Kingdom Buses stands out for group travel with special discounts and enhanced accessibility. Each operator presents unique advantages, allowing travelers to prioritize what matters most to them for this long journey.

Bus Stops and Stations from Kathmandu to Varanasi

Understanding the bus stops and stations is essential for smooth travel between Kathmandu and Varanasi.

Main Bus Stations in Kathmandu

Kantipath Bus Park

Located in the heart of Kathmandu, close to tourist destinations such as Thamel and Durbar Square.
facilities
  • Restrooms available on site
  • Waiting areas with seating
  • Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
  • Luggage storage lockers
  • Free Wi-Fi access
  • Cafés and vending machines for food and beverages
  • ATMs and currency exchange services
  • Accessibility features including ramps and elevators
Transportation Links
  • Local buses run frequently to various parts of the city
  • Ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available
  • Public parking facilities for private vehicles nearby
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure
  • Be prepared for security checks at the station
  • Try to avoid morning and evening rush hours to minimize crowding
  • Explore nearby shops and restaurants if you have some spare time

Main Bus Stations in Varanasi

Varanasi Kashi Vishwanath Bus Station

Situated close to the historic Ghats, this station is easily accessible from major tourist attractions.
facilities
  • Public restrooms
  • Seating areas to wait for transport
  • Ticket counters for bus and other transport services
  • Limited food and beverage stalls
  • Basic ATMs available and currency exchange services nearby
  • Ramps for accessibility
Transportation Links
  • Local auto-rickshaws serve as convenient transport options
  • Buses to surrounding areas and cities
  • Taxi services are readily available at the station
  • Aim to arrive at least 20 minutes before arrival to ensure smooth transfers
  • Take note of local traffic patterns to avoid delays
  • Check the bus schedules as they can change frequently
  • Look out for small local eateries near the station to try local cuisine

En Route Stops

Bardaghat

Duration: 1h

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Small kiosks for snacks
  • Seating areas

Nepalgunj

Duration: 30m

facilities

  • Restroom facilities
  • Local food options
  • Waiting areas

Maharajganj

Duration: 15m

facilities

  • Basic refreshments available
  • Seating areas on the roadside

Familiarizing yourself with the bus stations and stops along the route from Kathmandu to Varanasi will enhance your travel experience and ensure a smoother journey.

Travel Tips

  • ⛰ Pack Snacks and Water

    The bus journey from Kathmandu to Varanasi can take anywhere from 15 to 20 hours, so come prepared with snacks and plenty of water. Local shops may be limited along the route, and you’ll want to stay energized during long stretches.

  • 📍 Dress Comfortably and Respectfully

    Dress in layers as temperatures change throughout the journey. Additionally, be mindful of local customs regarding attire, especially in Varanasi, where modest clothing is generally appreciated by locals, especially in temples.

  • 🚍 Explore Scenic Stops

    Keep your camera handy! The bus will likely make stops at scenic spots such as the picturesque hills of Dhulikhel and the bustling town of Lumbini. Take advantage of these breaks to stretch your legs and soak in the breathtaking mountain views.

  • 🎭 Understand Border Crossing Procedures

    Expect a border crossing at Sunauli that may involve paperwork checks and customs. Make sure you have your passport, visa, and any other necessary documents organized for a smooth transition from Nepal to India.

  • 🏛 Stay Informed About Festivals

    Check local calendars for festivals in Varanasi, as these might result in crowded travel conditions. Not only will it affect your bus timing, but experiencing a local festival can also add a rich cultural experience to your journey!

FAQ

Travelers need a valid Indian visa to enter India from Nepal. Ensure to apply for one before your trip, as obtaining one at the border is not possible.
The bus ride typically takes between 15 to 20 hours, depending on traffic and border crossing times. It's a long journey, so be prepared!
Yes, major stops usually include Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, and other scenic viewpoints in between. Confirm with your bus service about specific stopovers.
While Nepali is predominantly spoken in Kathmandu, Hindi and English are more common in Varanasi. Basic knowledge of Hindi phrases could enhance your interaction with locals.
Amenities vary by bus company but often include reclining seats, blankets, and occasional snacks. Check in advance what your specific bus service offers for a more comfortable ride.

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