Varanasi to Calcutta — Distance, Route & Travel Guide

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

Varanasi
Uttar Pradesh
Calcutta
West Bengal
624 km
aerial distance (straight line)
388 miles · Road distance: ~842 km
How to get from Varanasi to Calcutta
By Flight
No direct flights
Nearest to Calcutta: CCU
🚆
By Train
~15.3 hrs
842 km · Multiple daily trains
View Trains
🚌
By Bus
~21.1 hrs
842 km · AC/Non-AC available
Search Buses
🚗
By Car
~16.8 hrs
842 km via highway
Quick facts
Aerial distance
624 km (388 mi)
Road distance
~842 km
Fastest mode
Train (~15.3 hrs)
Cheapest mode
Bus
📍 Varanasi to Calcutta distance overview

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

624 kmAerial distance
~842 kmBy road
~15.3 hrsFastest route
✈️ Reaching Calcutta by air
No direct airport

Calcutta does not have its own commercial airport. The nearest airport is CCU. Travellers typically fly to the nearest airport and then continue their journey by road or rail.

Search Flights to Nearest Airport
🚆 By train — Varanasi to Calcutta
~15.3 hours ~842 km Multiple daily trains

Indian Railways connects Varanasi and Calcutta 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 — Varanasi to Calcutta
~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 Varanasi to Calcutta Buses
🚗 By car — Varanasi to Calcutta
~16.8 hours ~842 km

A road trip from Varanasi to Calcutta 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 Varanasi to Calcutta
📅
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.
🔗 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 Varanasi to Calcutta?
The aerial (straight-line) distance from Varanasi to Calcutta 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 Varanasi to Calcutta?
The fastest option is by train, taking approximately 15.3 hours. Calcutta does not have a major airport, so flying requires reaching the nearest airport at CCU.
Are there buses from Varanasi to Calcutta?
Yes, multiple bus operators run services on the Varanasi to Calcutta 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 Varanasi to Calcutta?
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 Varanasi to Calcutta?
The train journey from Varanasi to Calcutta 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 Varanasi to Calcutta travel on FareEagle?
Yes! FareEagle lets you compare and book bus tickets, and hotels for the Varanasi to Calcutta route. Compare prices across operators, get instant confirmation, and enjoy transparent pricing with no hidden charges.
Routes from Varanasi