Kathmandu to Varanasi

from $20: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Kathmandu to Varanasi with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Plane

1h 24m

Fastest

$108-276

Drive, Train

13h 38m

Cheapest

$20-40

Bus, Train

17h 23m

$50-59

Bus

20h 33m

$39-42

Drive

7h 33m

$60-1080

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Traveling From Kathmandu to Varanasi

Your journey from Kathmandu to Varanasi takes you from the serene heights of the Himalayas to the bustling spiritual hub on the banks of the Ganges, offering diverse experiences that range from tranquil temple visits to vibrant street life.

Best Neighbourhoods in Varanasi

Varanasi boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for travelers.

Assi Ghat

• Home to lively morning rituals and yoga sessions.

• Popular for riverside cafes and stunning sunsets.

Dasaswamedh Ghat

• Famous for the Ganga Aarti ceremony each evening.

• Bustling atmosphere with shops and local cuisine.

Nawabganj

• Features quiet lanes with traditional architectural charm.

• Offers a more local experience away from tourist crowds.

Best Times To Visit Varanasi's Attractions

Timing your visits to Varanasi's hotspots can elevate your experience significantly.

Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Arrive at least 30 minutes early in the evening for a prime viewing spot without overwhelming crowds.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Visit in the early morning to enjoy a serene atmosphere before the rush begins.

Assi Ghat

Explore during sunrise for breathtaking views and a peaceful start to your day.

Varanasi Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Varanasi experiences a hot semi-arid climate with sweltering summers, mild winters, and a brief monsoon season, which influences travel plans significantly. The best times to visit are during the cooler months from October to March, when the weather is more comfortable for exploring the city's rich culture and historic sites.

Dining Recommendation in Varanasi

Savor the iconic 'Kachori Sabzi' at a local eatery like Deena Chat Bhandar, which showcases a deep-fried spicy pastry served with rich, flavorful curry, offering a stark contrast to the milder flavors often found in Kathmandu. The lively street atmosphere and the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients create an unforgettable dining experience that immerses you in Varanasi's vibrant culinary scene.

How to Get from Kathmandu to Varanasi: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

by carBest price

352 kmDistance

1h 24m Fastest

Kathmandu - Varanasi operators

Explore transport companies operating between Kathmandu and Varanasi, with prices starting at $20. These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane

Website

buddhaair.com

Plane from Kathmandu (KTM) to Varanasi (VNS)

Average Duration

1h 24m

Estimated price

$108-276

Train

Contact phone

14646

Website

https://www.irctc.co.asia/en/operator/indian-railways

Train from Raxaul Jn to Varanasi City

Average Duration

11h 25m

Estimated price

$20-40

Train from Gorakhpur to Varanasi Jn

Average Duration

Estimated price

$50-59

Bus

Contact phone

02228916622

Website

http://www.shubhambus.com/

Bus from Civil Mall, Kathmandu to Gorakhpur

Average Duration

11h 15m

Estimated price

$50-59

Bus from Kathmandu to Varanasi

Average Duration

20h 20m

Estimated price

$39-42

Other Show other routes

Other from Kathmandu to Varanasi

Average Duration

7h 33m

Estimated price

$60-1080

Kathmandu to Varanasi: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Kathmandu and Varanasi offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic journey from Kathmandu to Varanasi by car, covering a distance of 311 miles. The road trip offers a perfect blend of adventure and cultural exploration. 💰 Experience affordable travel options with car prices ranging from $60 to $95 for the Kathmandu to Varanasi route. Enjoy the flexibility and comfort of traveling at your own pace through diverse landscapes. 🕌 Arrive in the spiritual city of Varanasi after approximately 7 hours and 33 minutes of drive time. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, ancient temples, and the sacred Ganges River for a truly unforgettable experience.

Average price

$60 - $95

🛫 Flying from Kathmandu to Varanasi is a quick and convenient journey, with direct flights taking just 55 minutes from Kathmandu Airport to Varanasi Airport. 🌏 Buddha Air Ltd is one of the airlines that offers flights on this route, providing a comfortable and efficient travel experience for passengers. In total, the flight duration between Kathmandu and Varanasi typically lasts around 1 hour and 24 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between Varanasi and Kathmandu can range from $108 to $276, offering travelers a range of options to suit their budget and schedule for this exciting cross-border journey.

Departure Point

Kathmandu Airport

Arrival Point

Varanasi Airport

🚌 Embark on an adventurous journey from Kathmandu to Varanasi by bus, with a travel time of approximately 20 hours and 33 minutes. 💰 Prices for bus tickets between Varanasi and Kathmandu range from $39 to $42, offering a budget-friendly mode of transportation for this cross-border trip.

Useful tips for bus travellers

• Book your bus tickets in advance with reliable operators like Greenline Nepal (greenline.com.np) or Shree Airlines (shreeairlines.com), as they often fill up quickly for this popular route.

• Be prepared for border crossing delays at Sunauli; ensure you have all necessary documents including a valid passport, visa for India, and any required vaccination proof to expedite the process.

• Upon arrival at Varanasi's main bus station (Manduadih Bus Stand), make use of local auto-rickshaws; familiarize yourself with nearby landmarks such as the Kashi Vishwanath Temple to help navigate your way, and consider downloading a map of the city for easier navigation.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Kathmandu to Varanasi.

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The distance between Kathmandu and Varanasi is 219 miles or 311.3 miles by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By plane, it takes approximately 1 hour and 24 minutes to travel from Kathmandu to Varanasi. If driving, it takes around 13 hours and 38 minutes, including the time for a train transfer. Taking a bus from Kathmandu to Varanasi can take up to 20 hours and 33 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Kathmandu to Varanasi is by bus, which costs around $27-$29 and takes approximately 20 hours and 33 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest way to travel is by airplane, which can take as little as 1 hour and 24 minutes, but costs between $95-$270. Depending on your budget and travel preferences, either option can be chosen for a convenient journey between the two cities.

The price of a bus ticket between Kathmandu and Varanasi is $28. Please note that prices may vary depending on the specific bus company and any additional amenities provided. It is always best to check with different bus companies for the most up-to-date pricing information.

To get from Kathmandu to Varanasi without using public transportation, you can hire a car or arrange for a private taxi. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 311 miles, and it takes around 7 hours and 33 minutes to drive from Kathmandu to Varanasi. The cost of hiring a car or taxi for this journey can range from $60 to $95.

To travel from Kathmandu to Varanasi without a car, the best option is to take a combination of bus and train. This journey takes approximately 17 hours and 23 minutes and costs between $45 and $60. The bus will take you from Kathmandu to the border town of Sunauli, where you will then transfer to a train that will take you to Varanasi. This route is a convenient and cost-effective way to reach Varanasi without a car.

The flight between Kathmandu and Varanasi typically takes 55 minutes. The prices for this flight vary between $97 and $269.

There are numerous accommodation options available near Varanasi. With over 816 hotels to choose from, travelers have a wide range of options to suit their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Varanasi start at $18 per night, providing travelers with affordable options. Whether you prefer luxury hotels or budget guesthouses, Varanasi has a variety of accommodations to choose from.