Prayagraj to Varanasi Distance
Prayagraj to Varanasi Distance and Travel Cost Guide The distance between Prayagraj (Allahabad) and Varanasi is around 120 kilometers by road. Both cities are located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh and are famous for their religious and cultural importance. Both towns are situated along the holy River Ganga and attract thousands of devotees and travelers every year. If you are planning a trip, it’s essential to know the best time to travel from Prayagraj to Varanasi and the distance between them.
Travel Time
It takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to travel from Prayagraj to Varanasi by road, depending on the traffic and route you choose.
Best Routes
- Via NH19 (National Highway 19)
- Distance: Around 120 km
- Travel Time: 2.5 to 3 hours
- Route: Prayagraj → Handia → Gopiganj → Chunar → Varanasi
- This is the fastest and most popular route for travelers.
- Via NH35 and NH19
- Distance: Around 130 km
- Travel Time: 3 to 3.5 hours
- Route: Prayagraj → Meja → Mirzapur → Varanasi
- This route offers beautiful countryside views.
Travel Options
- By Car or Taxi:
- You can hire a cab or drive your own car. It is a comfortable and quick option for families and groups.
- By Bus:
- Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) runs regular buses between Prayagraj and Varanasi. Both AC and Non-AC buses are available.
- By Train:
- Many trains connect the two cities, such as:
- Varanasi Express
- Sarnath Express
- Kashi Express
- Travel time by train is around 2 to 3 hours.
How to Reach Prayagraj to Varanasi Distance
1. By Road (Car or Taxi)
- Distance: 120 km
- Travel Time: Around 3 hours
- Route: Prayagraj → Handia → Varanasi (via NH19)
- Taxi Price: ₹2,000 – ₹3,000 (one way) depending on the car type
- Private Car Fuel Cost: Around ₹800 – ₹1,000
This is the most comfortable way if you want to enjoy a road trip with family or friends Prayagraj to Varanasi Distance and Travel Cost Guide.
2. By Train
- Travel Time: 2 to 3 hours
- Popular Trains:
- Vande Bharat Express
- Prayagraj–Varanasi Express
- Mahanagari Express
- Ticket Price:
- Sleeper Class – ₹120 to ₹200
- AC Chair Car – ₹400 to ₹700
Trains are fast, affordable, and readily available from Prayagraj Junction to Varanasi Junction.
3. By Bus
- Travel Time: Around 3 to 4 hours
- Bus Types: Government (UPSRTC) and Private
- Bus Fare: ₹200 – ₹500 depending on comfort (AC/Non-AC)
- Boarding Points: Civil Lines Bus Stand, Prayagraj
Buses run frequently between the two cities and are a budget-friendly option.
4. By Air
There are no direct flights between Prayagraj and Varanasi since the distance is short. Road or train is the best way to travel.
Places to Visit on the Way
1. Triveni Sangam, Prayagraj
Start your journey from Triveni Sangam, the holy meeting point of three rivers – Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati. It is one of the most sacred spots in India and a must-visit for every traveler.
2. Anand Bhavan, Prayagraj
Before leaving Prayagraj, visit Anand Bhavan, the ancestral home of the Nehru family. It is now a museum showing India’s freedom movement history Prayagraj to Varanasi Distance and Travel Cost Guide.
3. Shringverpur
Located about 35 km from Prayagraj, Shringverpur is an ancient town linked to the Ramayana. It is believed that Lord Rama crossed the Ganga River from this place. The site has old temples and a calm atmosphere.
4. Handia Fort
Near Handia town, you can explore an old Mughal fort built for defense during ancient times. It gives a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
5. Sitamarhi Temple
This temple is dedicated to Goddess Sita, and it is believed she entered the earth here after completing her time on earth. The place is peaceful and ideal for spiritual visitors.
6. Mirzapur
If you take a slightly longer route, you can visit Mirzapur, known for the Vindhyachal Temple and Tanda Waterfall. The scenic hills and natural beauty make it a perfect stop for photography lovers.
7. Sarnath (Near Varanasi)
Before entering Varanasi, visit Sarnath, one of the most famous Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Lord Buddha gave his first sermon here. The Dhamek Stupa and Sarnath Museum are must-see attractions.
8. Varanasi Ghats
Finally, reach Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest living cities. Explore the holy Ganga Ghats, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and enjoy the evening Ganga Aarti for a divine experience.
Top Attractions in Varanasi
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Assi Ghat
- Sarnath
- Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
Best Time to Travel
The best time to travel from Prayagraj to Varanasi is during the winter season, from October to February. The weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing and temple visits.
Season-wise Travel Guide:
- Winter (October to February): Best time to visit. Cool weather and ideal for exploring temples and ghats.
- Summer (March to June): Very hot with temperatures up to 45°C. Avoid daytime travel.
- Monsoon (July to September): Moderate rain; roads may be slippery but the greenery is beautiful.
The Prayagraj to Varanasi journey is short and full of spiritual and scenic beauty. Whether you go by road or train, this route connects two of India’s holiest cities — making it a memorable travel experience.
Read More:
Vizianagaram Saraswathi Temple
Complete Travel Guide to Uchila Mahalaxmi Temple