Prayagraj to Varanasi Distance: Travel Information
Key Distance Facts
- Road Distance: 125 km via NH19 (now part of Delhi-Kolkata route)
- Rail Distance: 121 km (shortest route)
- Air Connectivity: No direct flights (connecting flights via Delhi/Lucknow)
By Road: Prayagraj to Varanasi
Route Details
- Primary Route: Prayagraj → Handia → Ghughli → Varanasi (NH19)
- Alternative Route: Prayagraj → Mirzapur → Varanasi (NH135)
- Travel Time: 2.5-3.5 hours by car
Transport Options
- Private Taxi: ₹1,800-₹2,500 (AC Sedan)
- Bus Services:
- UPSRTC Ordinary Bus: ₹150-₹200
- AC Volvo Bus: ₹400-₹600
- Private Bus Operators: ₹300-₹500
By Train: Rail Connectivity
Frequent Trains
| Train Number | Name | Departure | Arrival | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19483 | Prayagraj-Varanasi Express | 06:15 AM | 09:15 AM | 3 hours |
| 13347 | SSM-DLI Express | 03:10 PM | 06:05 PM | 2h 55m |
| 13133 | KOAA-JAT Express | 08:45 PM | 11:40 PM | 2h 55m |
- Ticket Fare: ₹80-₹140 (SL Class), ₹280-₹400 (3AC)
- Frequency: 15+ daily trains
By Air: Flight Options
Connecting Flights
- Nearest Airports:
- Prayagraj: Allahabad Airport (IXD)
- Varanasi: Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (VNS)
Flight Routes
- Prayagraj → Delhi → Varanasi (5-7 hours with layover)
- Prayagraj → Lucknow → Varanasi (4-6 hours with layover)
- Avg. Airfare: ₹6,000-₹9,000 (one-way, including layovers)
Travel Considerations
Best Times to Travel
- Road: Early morning (5-7 AM) to avoid traffic
- Train: Overnight journeys for cooler travel
- Weather: October-March (pleasant temperatures)
Local Transport Tips
- Prayagraj Pickup: Cheoki Railway Station (PYG) for trains
- Varanasi Drop: Varanasi Junction (BSB) or Cantt Road area
- Auto Rickshaw Rates: ₹50-₹100 for short distances in both cities
Safety Notes
- Night driving not recommended on NH19
- Pre-book taxis through verified operators
- Confirm train schedules via IRCTC website/app
Why This Route Matters
Connecting Uttar Pradesh's two spiritual capitals, this frequently traveled corridor serves:
- Religious tourists visiting Kumbh Mela sites and Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Students attending Banaras Hindu University
- Business travelers accessing industrial zones
Distance Comparison Table
| Mode | Distance | Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car | 125 km | 2.5-3.5 hrs | ₹1,800-₹2,500 |
| Bus | 125 km | 3.5-4.5 hrs | ₹150-₹600 |
| Train | 121 km | 2.5-3.5 hrs | ₹80-₹400 |
| Flight | 250 km* | 5-7 hrs* | ₹6,000-₹9,000 |
*Includes connecting flight distance and layover time
