Kolkata to Varanasi — Distance, Route & Travel Guide

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

Kolkata
West Bengal
Varanasi
Uttar Pradesh
624 km
aerial distance (straight line)
388 miles · Road distance: ~842 km
How to get from Kolkata to Varanasi
By Flight
~54 min
CCU → VNS · Fastest option
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🚆
By Train
~15.3 hrs
842 km · Multiple daily trains
Check on IRCTC
🚌
By Bus
~21.1 hrs
842 km · AC/Non-AC available
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🚗
By Car
~16.8 hrs
842 km via highway
Quick facts
Aerial distance
624 km (388 mi)
Road distance
~842 km
Fastest mode
Flight (~0.9 hrs)
Cheapest mode
Bus
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📍 Kolkata to Varanasi distance overview

The straight-line (aerial) distance from Kolkata to Varanasi is approximately 624 km (388 miles). By road, the distance increases to approximately 842 km due to the terrain, highways, and road networks connecting West Bengal to Uttar Pradesh.

624 kmAerial distance
~842 kmBy road
~0.9 hrsFastest route
✈️ By flight — Kolkata to Varanasi
Fastest option CCU → VNS ~0.9 hours

Flying is the fastest way to cover the 624 km distance. Flights from CCU to VNS take approximately 0.9 hours including boarding and taxiing. Multiple airlines operate on this route, and fares vary depending on the season, time of booking, and class of travel.

For the best prices, book 2-3 weeks in advance and opt for mid-week departures (Tuesday, Wednesday) which are typically cheaper than weekend flights.

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🚆 By train — Kolkata to Varanasi
~15.3 hours ~842 km Multiple daily trains

Indian Railways connects Kolkata and Varanasi with multiple daily services. The journey takes around 15.3 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 — Kolkata to Varanasi
~21.1 hours ~842 km Most affordable

Bus travel is a popular and affordable option. The journey takes approximately 21.1 hours covering ~842 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 Kolkata to Varanasi Buses
🚗 By car — Kolkata to Varanasi
~16.8 hours ~842 km

A road trip from Kolkata to Varanasi covers approximately 842 km and takes around 16.8 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 Kolkata 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 Kolkata to Varanasi?
The aerial (straight-line) distance from Kolkata to Varanasi is approximately 624 km (388 miles). The road distance is approximately 842 km, which takes about 16.8 hours by car.
What is the fastest way to travel from Kolkata to Varanasi?
The fastest way is by flight, taking approximately 0.9 hours from CCU to VNS. You can search and compare flight prices on FareEagle.
How much does a flight from Kolkata to Varanasi cost?
Flight prices vary by airline, date, and booking time. To find the best fares, search on FareEagle where you can compare prices across all airlines and book instantly. Booking 2-3 weeks in advance typically gives the best prices.
Are there buses from Kolkata to Varanasi?
Yes, multiple bus operators run services on the Kolkata to Varanasi route. The journey takes approximately 21.1 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 Kolkata 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 Kolkata to Varanasi?
The train journey from Kolkata to Varanasi takes approximately 15.3 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 Kolkata to Varanasi travel on FareEagle?
Yes! FareEagle lets you compare and book flights, bus tickets, and hotels for the Kolkata to Varanasi route. Compare prices across operators, get instant confirmation, and enjoy transparent pricing with no hidden charges.
Routes from Kolkata