Lucknow to Varanasi
Your options
Ways to make the journey
5.5–6 h
The road runs south-east through Sultanpur and Jaunpur, or partly on the Purvanchal Expressway. Leave Lucknow by 9 am to reach Varanasi by mid-afternoon, check in and walk or take a boat to the evening aarti. Roads are good but slow through towns.
5–6 h
Several express trains connect Lucknow Charbagh and Varanasi in 5 to 6 hours. Morning departures arrive in time for the aarti. Fog can cause delays from mid-December to January, when we prefer the car.
Not direct
Direct flights between Lucknow and Varanasi are rare and change by season. Check current status before you travel. Driving is usually quicker in practice.
Worth a stop
- Jaunpur's Atala Mosque and old bridge
- Sultanpur roadside dhabas
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How long does it take to drive from Lucknow to Varanasi?
About 5.5 to 6 hours for roughly 300 km, depending on the route and traffic through towns. The Purvanchal Expressway can speed part of the journey. We usually leave after breakfast and arrive by mid-afternoon in time for the aarti.
Is there a good train from Lucknow to Varanasi?
Yes, several express trains run the route in about 5 to 6 hours in air-conditioned classes. They are comfortable but can be delayed by fog in winter. We book first-class or executive seats where available and arrange a car and porter at both ends.
What is worth seeing between Lucknow and Varanasi?
Jaunpur, about an hour before Varanasi, has fine 15th-century mosques built by the Sharqi sultans, including the Atala Mosque, and a 16th-century Mughal bridge over the Gomti. A one-hour stop breaks the drive well. Jaunpur also has a small market known for its sweets.
Can I fly from Lucknow to Varanasi?
Direct flights are rare and change from season to season. Flying via Delhi takes longer than driving. Check current status before you travel. For most travellers, the road or train is simpler and quicker. The car also lets you stop at Jaunpur on the way.