Haridwar to Varanasi — Distance, Route & Travel Guide

Uttarakhand to Uttar Pradesh · Compare flights, trains, buses & driving options

Haridwar
Uttarakhand
Varanasi
Uttar Pradesh
702 km
aerial distance (straight line)
436 miles · Road distance: ~948 km
How to get from Haridwar to Varanasi
By Flight
No direct flights
Nearest to Haridwar: Dehradun (DED)
🚆
By Train
~17.2 hrs
948 km · Multiple daily trains
View Trains
🚌
By Bus
~23.7 hrs
948 km · AC/Non-AC available
Search Buses
🚗
By Car
~19 hrs
948 km via highway
🚆 Haridwar to Varanasi Trains (4)
Train Dep Arr Duration Classes
Dehradun Varanasi Janata Express
#14266 · Exp
20:35 15:45 19h 10m 2A,3A,SL
Doon Express
#13010 · Exp
22:15 16:00 17h 45m 2A,3A,SL
Kumbh Express
#12370 · SF
23:55 13:15 13h 20m 2A,3A,SL
Upasana Express
#12328 · SF
23:55 13:15 13h 20m 2A,3A,SL
View full train schedule →
Quick facts
Aerial distance
702 km (436 mi)
Road distance
~948 km
Fastest mode
Train (~17.2 hrs)
Cheapest mode
Bus
📍 Haridwar to Varanasi distance overview

The straight-line (aerial) distance from Haridwar to Varanasi is approximately 702 km (436 miles). By road, the distance increases to approximately 948 km due to the terrain, highways, and road networks connecting Uttarakhand to Uttar Pradesh.

702 kmAerial distance
~948 kmBy road
~17.2 hrsFastest route
🚆 By train — Haridwar to Varanasi
~17.2 hours ~948 km Multiple daily trains

Indian Railways connects Haridwar and Varanasi with multiple daily services. The journey takes around 17.2 hours — Rajdhani and Shatabdi express trains are faster, while mail and passenger trains make more stops.

AC First Class (1A)Premium, 2-berth cabins
AC 2-Tier (2A)Curtained berths, comfortable
AC 3-Tier (3A)Popular, good value
Sleeper Class (SL)Budget, non-AC

Book in advance through IRCTC, especially during festivals and holidays when seats fill up quickly.

Check Trains on IRCTC
🚌 By bus — Haridwar to Varanasi
~23.7 hours ~948 km Most affordable

Bus travel is a popular and affordable option. The journey takes approximately 23.7 hours covering ~948 km. Both government and private operators service this route.

Volvo ACPremium comfort, reclining seats
AC SleeperFull-length beds, ideal for overnight
AC SeaterAir-conditioned, mid-range
Non-ACBudget-friendly, basic comfort

Night buses are especially popular for this distance — travel while you sleep and arrive fresh at your destination.

Search Haridwar to Varanasi Buses
🚗 By car — Haridwar to Varanasi
~19 hours ~948 km

A road trip from Haridwar to Varanasi covers approximately 948 km and takes around 19 hours. Actual time depends on traffic, road quality, and stops along the way.

Start early to avoid city traffic and use daylight hours, especially on mountainous or rural terrain. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and carry sufficient fuel for remote stretches.

💡 Travel tips for Haridwar to Varanasi
📅
Book early
Book flights and trains 2-3 weeks in advance during peak season (Oct-Mar) for better prices and availability.
🌧️
Check weather
Avoid monsoon (Jun-Sep) for road trips. Road conditions can deteriorate and flights may face delays.
💳
Carry valid ID
Aadhaar, Passport, or Voter ID is required for train travel and recommended for bus journeys.
💤
Plan rest stops
For drives over 8 hours, plan overnight halts. Fatigue driving is dangerous on Indian highways.
Where to stay in Varanasi
Budget to luxury hotels from ₹999/night. Compare prices on FareEagle.
View Varanasi Hotels
🔗 Useful travel resources

For official travel information, regulations, and booking services:

IRCTC — Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation — Book train tickets online

Airports Authority of India — Airport information and flight status

DGCA — Directorate General of Civil Aviation — Indian aviation regulator

Incredible India — Official tourism portal of India

Frequently asked questions
What is the distance from Haridwar to Varanasi?
The aerial (straight-line) distance from Haridwar to Varanasi is approximately 702 km (436 miles). The road distance is approximately 948 km, which takes about 19 hours by car.
What is the fastest way to travel from Haridwar to Varanasi?
The fastest option is by train, taking approximately 17.2 hours. Varanasi does not have a major airport, so flying requires reaching the nearest airport at a nearby city.
Are there buses from Haridwar to Varanasi?
Yes, multiple bus operators run services on the Haridwar to Varanasi route. The journey takes approximately 23.7 hours. You can search and book bus tickets on FareEagle with AC Sleeper, AC Seater, and Non-AC options.
What is the best time to travel from Haridwar to Varanasi?
The best time to travel depends on the weather at your destination. Generally, October to March offers the most pleasant weather across most of India. Avoid monsoon season (June-September) if travelling by road, as heavy rains can cause delays and road closures. For hill stations, summer (April-June) is peak season.
How long does the train take from Haridwar to Varanasi?
The train journey from Haridwar to Varanasi takes approximately 17.2 hours. Express trains like Rajdhani and Shatabdi are faster, while mail/passenger trains take longer with more stops. Check train schedules and availability on IRCTC.
Can I book Haridwar to Varanasi travel on FareEagle?
Yes! FareEagle lets you compare and book bus tickets, and hotels for the Haridwar to Varanasi route. Compare prices across operators, get instant confirmation, and enjoy transparent pricing with no hidden charges.
Routes from Haridwar