Varanasi (Benaras) Travel Guide: Kolkata/Howrah Route, Sightseeing & Budget Plan

Situated on the banks of the holy Ganges, Varanasi (also known as Benaras or Kashi) is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities and India's spiritual capital. From the sacred darshan at Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the mesmerising Ganga Aarti to exploring narrow heritage alleys and ancient ghats, Benaras offers an unforgettable spiritual experience.

If you are planning a trip to Varanasi from Kolkata or Howrah, this comprehensive travel guide covers routes, sightseeing itineraries, local street food, budget accommodations, and estimated costs.

How to Reach Varanasi from Kolkata / Howrah

Travelling from Kolkata to Varanasi is well-connected through daily train services and flights.

1. By Train (Most Popular & Affordable)

Multiple direct trains operate from Howrah Junction (HWH) and Sealdah (SDAH) to Varanasi Junction (BSB) or Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction (DDU):

• Vande Bharat Express (22436): Fastest day-train option from Howrah.

• Doon Express (13009): Daily service from Howrah Junction.

• Vibhuti Express (12333): Popular overnight train from Howrah.

• Kolkata - Jammu Tawi Express (13151): Daily train from Sealdah.

Travel Tip: If your train arrives at DDU (Mughalsarai) station, you can easily find shared autos or taxis that reach central Varanasi in about 45 minutes.

2. By Air

Direct flights operate daily from Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata (CCU) to Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi (VNS). The flight time is approximately 1.5 hours.

Varanasi 3-Day Sightseeing Itinerary

A 2 to 3-day trip is ideal to explore all the major attractions in Varanasi without feeling rushed:

Day 1: Kashi Vishwanath Darshan & Dashashwamedh Ganga Aarti

1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Visit early in the morning via the grand Kashi Vishwanath Corridor to offer prayers at the Jyotirlinga.

   • Important Note: Mobile phones, cameras, leather items, and bags are prohibited inside. Free locker facilities are available near the corridor gates.

2. Annapurna & Vishalakshi Temples: Located within the Vishwanath Gali, these sacred temples are highly revered.

3. Dashashwamedh Ghat Evening Aarti: In the evening, witness the world-famous Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. Booking a boat to view the Aarti from the river provides a spectacular view.

Day 2: Morning Boat Ride, Ghat Hopping & Sarnath Excursion

1. Early Morning Boat Ride: Take a morning wooden boat ride from Assi Ghat to Manikarnika Ghat. The sunrise views over the ancient ghats are magical.

2. Assi Ghat & Subah-e-Banaras: Visit Assi Ghat early morning to experience classical music, Vedic chanting, and yoga.

3. Sarnath Excursion: Take an auto to Sarnath (approx. 10 km from Varanasi), where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Key highlights include the Dhamek Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, and Sarnath Archaeological Museum.

4. Kal Bhairav Temple: End your day by visiting the Kal Bhairav Temple, dedicated to the guardian deity of Varanasi.

Day 3: Heritage Walking, Shopping & Local Food

1. Banarasi Silk Shopping: Explore the heritage markets of Chowk and Vishwanath Gali for authentic Banarasi silk sarees, dupattas, and handicrafts.

2. BHU Campus & New Vishwanath Temple: Visit the sprawling Banaras Hindu University (BHU) campus, home to the New Vishwanath Temple (Birla Temple) and the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum.

Must-Try Street Food in Benaras

Varanasi is famous for its rich and flavorful vegetarian food culture:

• Kachori Sabzi & Jalebi: The classic morning breakfast at Ram Bhandar or local eateries near Godowlia.

• Tamatar Chaat & Palak Chaat: A unique Benarasi specialty served hot in clay pots (kulhad) at Kashi Chat Bhandar.

• Thick Rabri Lassi: Rich yogurt drinks served with rabri and malai at Blue Lassi or Pehalwan Lassi.

• Banarasi Paan: End your culinary tour with a famous betel leaf pan near Godowlia Crossing.

Budget Hotels & Where to Stay

Choosing the right area to stay will save you travel time and local transportation costs:

• Recommended Areas: Stay near Godowlia Crossing, Dashashwamedh Ghat, or Assi Ghat for easy access to temples and ghats.

• Budget Hotels: ₹1,000 to ₹1,800 per night (Double occupancy).

• Hostels & Dharamshalas: ₹400 to ₹800 per night (Options like Zostel, Moustache Hostel, or local dharamshalas).