Book Bus Tickets to and from Varanasi

Varanasi bus booking on zingbus connects this oldest continuously inhabited city in the world and the spiritual capital of India to Delhi, Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Allahabad, and Patna. The city sits on the western bank of the Ganga River in Uttar Pradesh. Bharat Benz AC Sleeper coaches operate on the principal Delhi corridor.

The Varanasi bus booking experience on zingbus features premium Bharat Benz AC Sleeper coaches with onboard washroom on the long Delhi route. Every coach offers live GPS tracking through the zingbus app and trained marshals on board. Verified drivers handle the NH 19 corridor with extensive Varanasi route experience.

Pilgrim travellers from Varanasi often plan family religious visits, Kashi Vishwanath darshan, and Ganga Aarti tours. For these needs, zingbus offers reliable bus rental services that can be arranged for any route or group size. The service covers Varanasi and the wider Uttar Pradesh and Delhi NCR corridor network.

Why Choose zingbus for Your Varanasi Bus Travel?

• Live GPS Tracking: Track your bus in real time via the zingbus app throughout the journey to or from Varanasi.
• Safety First:
  • CCTV, FDSS fire suppression, fire retardant interiors, and 10 kg extinguishers on every coach.
  • AIS 119 compliant with 4 exits: emergency door, 2 roof hatches, and side exit.
  • Two driver policy applies on the long Delhi corridor service.
  • Window hammers placed at each berth. Collapsible steps fitted on the side exit door.
• Verified Crew: Professional drivers and trained marshals experienced on the eastern UP corridor are on board every trip.
• Female Friendly: Women only seating is available on select routes. Solo female pilgrims can book women only seats at checkout.
• 24/7 Support: WhatsApp assistance is available at +91 82870 09889 before, during, or after your journey on the Varanasi corridor.
• Premium Lounges: Check the zingbus app for lounge availability at your Delhi NCR or major boarding point before the journey.

Types of Buses Available for Varanasi Travel

Bus Type	Best For	Amenities
Bharat Benz A/C Sleeper (with Washroom)	Premium long distance overnight Delhi corridor pilgrim travel	AC, full berths, onboard washroom, charging ports, water bottle, blanket
Bharat Benz A/C Sleeper/Seater (Washroom)	Mixed configuration overnight Delhi NCR pilgrim travel	AC, mixed layout, onboard washroom, charging ports, water bottle, blanket
AC Sleeper	Standard intercity Uttar Pradesh corridor travel	AC, full berths, charging ports, water bottle, blanket

Explore All the Verticals of zingbus

zingbus offers diverse coach categories tailored for different travel preferences:

• zingbus Plus: Premium coaches with more legroom, priority boarding, and upgraded amenities.
• zingbus Maxx: Seven star luxury fleet featuring airline style seating and exceptional onboard service.
• ValueBus: Budget friendly option with reliable service and essential comfort.
• zingbus Electric (EV): Sustainable travel with zero emissions and modern amenities.

Whether you prioritise luxury or budget, zingbus ensures a high quality travel experience across all coach categories.

Popular Boarding and Dropping Points in Varanasi

Boarding Points in Varanasi

• Varanasi Cantt Bus Stand: The primary zingbus boarding point in Varanasi located near the Cantonment area. Outbound passengers heading to Delhi, Lucknow, and Gorakhpur board here. Local autos cover the bus stand from the Kashi Vishwanath Temple area in around 20 minutes. Arrive 15 minutes before scheduled departure and verify the map pin on the zingbus app.
• Varanasi Sigra Bus Stand: A secondary boarding point at Sigra crossing convenient for passengers staying in central Varanasi. The location connects to the Ganga ghats and surrounding hotels via short auto rides.

Dropping Points in Varanasi

• Varanasi Cantt Bus Stand: The main drop point for inbound passengers from Delhi NCR and Lucknow. Buses arrive in early morning hours from overnight Delhi services. Local autos are available at all hours for onward connectivity to the Ghats, temples, and surrounding pilgrim accommodations.
• Varanasi Sigra Bus Stand: The secondary drop point convenient for travellers heading directly to the central commercial market and the ghat approach roads. The location offers easier onward access to the historic temple precinct.

For other bus stops, refer to the booking page of the respective route on the zingbus app or website.

Key Boarding and Drop-off Points in Other Cities (On Varanasi Routes)

• Delhi: For the Delhi to Varanasi corridor, passengers board from ISBT Kashmere Gate, Anand Vihar ISBT, and Dhaula Kuan boarding points. The 800 km eastward corridor takes around 12 to 13 hours.
• Lucknow: For the Lucknow to Varanasi corridor, passengers board from Alambagh, Charbagh, and other major Lucknow boarding points. The 300 km route via NH 27 takes around 5 to 6 hours.
• Gorakhpur: For the Gorakhpur to Varanasi corridor, passengers board from the Gorakhpur Bus Stand. The 200 km route via the eastern UP highway takes around 4 hours.
• Patna: For the Patna to Varanasi corridor, passengers board from verified Patna boarding points. The 250 km route via NH 19 connects Bihar to Uttar Pradesh.
• Allahabad (Prayagraj): For the Allahabad to Varanasi corridor, passengers board from the Allahabad ISBT. The 125 km route via NH 19 takes around 2 hours 30 minutes.

Varanasi Bus Routes and Duration

Route	Distance	Duration	Bus Types Available
Delhi to Varanasi	~800 km	~13h	Bharat Benz A/C Sleeper (Washroom)
Varanasi to Delhi	~800 km	~13h	Bharat Benz A/C Sleeper (Washroom)
Varanasi to Lucknow	~300 km	~5h 30m	AC Sleeper
Varanasi to Allahabad	~125 km	~2h 30m	AC Seater/Sleeper

Note: Varanasi operates as the principal pilgrim hub of Uttar Pradesh with Bharat Benz Washroom services on the long Delhi corridor. Durations and distances are approximate and may vary based on traffic and road conditions. For confirmed pricing and real time seat availability, check the zingbus app or website.

Best Time to Visit Varanasi

October to March | 8 to 30 degrees C

The most comfortable season for travel through Varanasi and the holy Ganga ghat circuit. Daytime temperatures stay pleasant in the high 20s. Dev Deepawali in November is the year’s biggest cultural and religious event. Pilgrim demand peaks during this window. The Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat looks particularly atmospheric during the cool winter evenings.

April to June | 28 to 44 degrees C

Peak eastern UP summer brings intense heat across the Gangetic plains. AC bus travel becomes essential. Most temple visits are best timed for early morning or late evening hours. The premium Bharat Benz Washroom coaches provide critical comfort on the long Delhi journey.

July to September | 26 to 35 degrees C

The southwest monsoon brings significant rainfall to the Ganga plains. The Ganga River swells significantly during this period. NH 19 remains operational throughout the monsoon. Heavy spells during August can occasionally extend journey times. The ghats remain partially submerged during peak monsoon.

Dev Deepawali (November) | 14 to 26 degrees C

Dev Deepawali, celebrated on Kartik Purnima, transforms the Varanasi ghats into a sea of lakhs of diyas. Inbound corridor services run at peak booking demand during this 2 to 3 day window. Book at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance for confirmed berths during this peak.

What to Expect on the Varanasi Bus Journey

Varanasi sits on the western bank of the holy Ganga River with zingbus operating premium Bharat Benz services on the long Delhi corridor.

• Delhi corridor: The approximately 800 km route from Delhi to Varanasi takes around 13 hours via NH 19. Premium Bharat Benz AC Sleeper coaches with onboard washroom operate on this corridor.
• Lucknow corridor: The 300 km route from Lucknow to Varanasi takes around 5 hours 30 minutes via NH 27 through Sultanpur and Jaunpur.
• Gorakhpur corridor: The 200 km route via the eastern UP highway connects to the Gorakhnath Temple city.
• Allahabad (Prayagraj) corridor: The 125 km route via NH 19 connects to the Sangam pilgrim destination.
• Patna corridor: The 250 km route via NH 19 connects Bihar to the holy city.
• All coaches feature AC, full berths, water bottles, blankets, and charging ports throughout the journey. Delhi corridor coaches include onboard washroom.

Pro Tips for Varanasi Bus Travel

zingbus operates to and from Varanasi on Delhi NCR, Lucknow, and eastern UP corridors. Here are the practical essentials worth knowing before booking.

• Bharat Benz Washroom Delhi Service: The Delhi to Varanasi service features onboard washroom for the long 13 hour journey. Book this option for the most comfortable overnight pilgrim ride.
• Ganga Aarti Timing Planning: The daily evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat begins at sunset. Plan an evening arrival from Delhi for next day Aarti viewing.
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple Visit: The new Kashi Vishwanath corridor connects directly to the Ganga ghats. Arrive early morning for the easiest darshan experience.
• Sarnath Day Trip (10 km): Sarnath is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. The location is accessible from Varanasi as a half day trip.
• Dev Deepawali Booking Strategy: Book 3 to 4 weeks ahead for the November Dev Deepawali festival period when pilgrim demand peaks.
• Boat Ride Aarti Booking: Book the morning and evening boat rides on the Ganga in advance during peak tourist season.

Why Varanasi Over Other Hindu Pilgrim Cities?

Varanasi stands as the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world and the most sacred Hindu pilgrim destination.

• Oldest Continuously Inhabited City: Varanasi has been continuously inhabited for over 3,000 years, with continuous Hindu pilgrimage tradition.
• Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga: One of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and one of the most important Shaivite shrines in India.
• Dashashwamedh Ghat and Ganga Aarti: The principal ghat where the daily evening Ganga Aarti is performed before lakhs of devotees.
• 84 Ghat Heritage: The 84 ghats along the western bank of the Ganga form one of the most distinctive religious and cultural heritage zones in India.
• Buddhist and Jain Connections: Sarnath (10 km) is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon, adding Buddhist significance to the pilgrimage.

Varanasi works as a Hindu pilgrim journey, a Ganga ghat heritage experience, a Sarnath Buddhist trip, or a spiritual research and academic destination.

Chyll by zingbus: Tour Packages from Varanasi

Chyll by zingbus is the tour packages service from zingbus, offering all inclusive group trips to select destinations.

Packages currently cover select routes, with more destinations being added. View the full list of available packages and upcoming departure dates at zingbus.com/tour-packages.

Places Near Varanasi Worth Exploring

• Sarnath (10 km): The Buddhist pilgrim site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Home to the Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath Museum, and modern Buddhist monasteries.
• Allahabad (Prayagraj, 125 km): The Sangam city at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. Home to Triveni Sangam and the Kumbh Mela.
• Chunar Fort (40 km): A historic 16th century fort on the banks of the Ganga with significant Mughal and British era heritage.
• Vindhyachal (90 km): Home to the Vindhyavasini Devi Temple, a Shakti Peetha and major Devi pilgrimage destination.
• Bodh Gaya (260 km): The Buddhist pilgrim destination where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree.
• Mirzapur (90 km): A traditional UP city with the Vindhyachal hills, the carpet weaving heritage, and Devrahwa Baba Ashram.

A Traveller’s Guide to Varanasi

Getting Around Varanasi After Arriving by Bus

Varanasi is a complex pilgrim city with traffic congestion during peak hours. Auto rickshaws, e-rickshaws, and cycle rickshaws cover all destinations from the Cantt Bus Stand to the ghats, temples, and surrounding accommodations in 20 to 45 minutes. UPSRTC local buses connect Varanasi to Sarnath, Allahabad, Lucknow, and surrounding eastern UP destinations throughout the day.

Varanasi Junction Railway Station is on the Northern Railway with extensive trains to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and other major Indian cities. Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi (25 km) handles domestic and international flights to Delhi, Mumbai, Bangkok, and other destinations.

Top Attractions in Varanasi

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: The most important Shiva temple in Varanasi and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. The new Kashi Vishwanath corridor connects directly to the Ganga ghats.
• Dashashwamedh Ghat: The principal ghat where the daily evening Ganga Aarti is performed before lakhs of devotees with elaborate ritual fire offerings.
• Manikarnika Ghat: The most sacred cremation ghat where Hindu funeral rites are performed continuously. Considered one of the holiest places to attain moksha.
• Sarnath (10 km): The Buddhist pilgrim destination with the Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath Museum, and the Ashoka Pillar with the famous lion capital.
• Banaras Hindu University (BHU): One of India’s largest residential universities with the New Vishwanath Temple, the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum, and extensive campus heritage.
• Ramnagar Fort: An 18th century fort on the eastern bank of the Ganga housing the royal museum of the Kashi Maharaja with vintage cars, weapons, and royal artefacts.

Hidden Gems in Varanasi

• Tulsi Ghat: A less crowded ghat associated with the great poet saint Tulsidas who composed Ramcharitmanas here.
• Assi Ghat Morning Aarti: A morning alternative to the famous Dashashwamedh evening Aarti, drawing fewer crowds in the dawn hours.
• Banaras Silk Weaving Workshops: Traditional silk weaving artisan workshops in the Madanpura and surrounding areas, showcasing authentic Banarasi silk production.

Religious and Spiritual Places

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: The principal Shiva Jyotirlinga shrine with year round pilgrim activity and elaborate aarti ceremonies.
• Annapurna Temple: A revered Devi temple adjacent to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in the same complex.
• Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: A major Hanuman temple in the southern part of Varanasi with traditional architecture and significant local devotee following.
• Tulsi Manas Mandir: A modern temple built in 1964 displaying verses of the Ramcharitmanas across its walls.

Where to Shop in Varanasi

Varanasi’s shopping reflects its ancient cultural heritage and traditional craft traditions.

• Banarasi Silk Sarees (Madanpura, Pilikothi): The world famous Banarasi silk sarees and brocades are produced in traditional weaving workshops. Direct outlets sell authentic pieces.
• Vishwanath Gali Markets: The lanes around the Kashi Vishwanath Temple sell brass and copper puja items, prayer beads, Rudraksha, and devotional items.
• Chowk Market: The central commercial belt with traditional UP textiles, household goods, and the famous Banaras sweets.
• Godowlia Market: A bustling market near the Ganga ghats with religious souvenirs, silk products, and traditional handicrafts.

Most shops in Varanasi operate from 8 AM to 9 PM, with longer hours during the festival seasons.

Food and Street Eats

Varanasi’s food scene blends traditional Banarasi cuisine with strong Vaishnav vegetarian temple food traditions.

• Banarasi Chaat (Kachori Sabzi, Tamatar Chaat): The legendary Varanasi street food with kachori served with spicy potato curry and tamatar chaat. Available from approximately Rs. 30 to Rs. 80.
• Banarasi Paan: The famous Banaras paan with various sweet and savoury fillings, served at traditional paan shops across the city. Available from approximately Rs. 30 to Rs. 200.
• Litti Chokha: The signature eastern UP and Bihari preparation of roasted wheat balls stuffed with sattu, served with chokha. Available from approximately Rs. 80 to Rs. 200.
• Banarasi Thali (Vegetarian): Complete vegetarian Banarasi meal with rice, dal, vegetables, papad, and curd. Available from approximately Rs. 150 to Rs. 350.
• Banaras Sweets (Malaiyo, Rabri): Traditional winter speciality Malaiyo (saffron flavoured milk foam) and Rabri available at heritage sweet shops. Available from approximately Rs. 100 to Rs. 400.
• Lassi and Thandai: The famous Banarasi lassi (sweet and salted) and Holi season thandai with bhang. Available from approximately Rs. 30 to Rs. 150 per glass.

All prices are approximate and may vary by season and establishment.

Cultural and Festive Events

• Dev Deepawali (November, Kartik Purnima): The biggest annual festival when the ghats are illuminated with lakhs of diyas. The festival draws devotees and tourists from across India.
• Maha Shivaratri (February to March): The night of Shiva worship with grand celebrations at Kashi Vishwanath Temple and across Varanasi.
• Ganga Mahotsav (November to December): An annual cultural festival celebrating the Ganga River with classical music, dance, and cultural performances on the ghats.
• Diwali (October to November): Celebrated with traditional Banarasi rituals, oil lamp illumination across the ghats, and family gatherings.

Why zingbus Is Best for Eastern UP and Ganga Pilgrim Routes

• NH 19 Corridor Trained Drivers: Professional drivers experienced with the Delhi to Varanasi NH 19 highway including the long eastern UP overnight stretch.
  
• Premium Bharat Benz Washroom Fleet: The Delhi corridor operates premium Bharat Benz AC Sleeper coaches with onboard washroom for the 13 hour overnight journey.
  
• Two Driver Policy on Long Corridors: On the long Delhi service, two drivers rotate at midpoint stops to prevent fatigue.
  
• GPS on Eastern UP Highways: Live tracking remains active throughout the NH 19 and connecting Uttar Pradesh state highways.
  
• Network Coverage Across Eastern UP and Bihar: Direct connectivity from Varanasi to Delhi, Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Allahabad, and Patna through major boarding points.
  
• Premium Lounges at Delhi NCR: Check the zingbus app for lounge availability at the Delhi major boarding points.
  

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How do I book a bus to or from Varanasi on zingbus?

A: Visit zingbus.com or download the zingbus app, select Varanasi, and book online.

Q2. What types of buses does zingbus run from Varanasi?

A: Bharat Benz A/C Sleeper coaches with onboard washroom and AC Sleeper coaches operate on Varanasi corridors.

Q3. How long does Delhi to Varanasi take by bus?

A: Approximately 13 hours covering 800 km on the NH 19 eastward corridor.

Q4. Where is the main zingbus boarding point in Varanasi?

A: The Varanasi Cantt Bus Stand in the Cantonment area is the primary boarding point.

Q5. What is Varanasi famous for?

A: Varanasi is famous as the oldest continuously inhabited city and home to Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga.

Q6. How far is Sarnath from Varanasi?

A: Sarnath is approximately 10 km from Varanasi, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon.

Q7. Does the Delhi to Varanasi bus have a washroom?

A: Yes. The Bharat Benz AC Sleeper coaches on the Delhi corridor include an onboard washroom.

Q8. Is Varanasi safe for solo and female travellers?

A: Yes. Women only seating is available on overnight zingbus routes at booking checkout.

Q9. Can I track my bus from Varanasi in real time?

A: Yes. The zingbus app provides live GPS tracking on all Varanasi corridor routes.

Q10. What is the best time to visit Varanasi?

A: October to March is most comfortable. Dev Deepawali in November drives peak pilgrim demand.

Q11. Does zingbus connect Varanasi to Lucknow?

A: Yes. Direct AC Sleeper services connect Varanasi to Lucknow covering approximately 300 km.

Q12. Can I cancel my Varanasi bus ticket on zingbus?

A: Yes. Cancellation is available anytime before departure on the app with applicable refund terms.

Q13. What is the luggage limit on zingbus from Varanasi?

A: One bag up to 15 kg in storage. One small handbag is permitted inside the bus.

Q14. Is there an airport in Varanasi?

A: Yes. Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is 25 km from Varanasi with domestic and international flights.

Q15. Does zingbus connect Varanasi to Patna?

A: Yes. Direct AC Sleeper services connect Varanasi to Patna covering approximately 250 km.