Can I reach Varanasi by road?
Yes. Varanasi is on National Highway 19 (the historic Grand Trunk Road route) and is linked by road to Prayagraj (about 120 km), Ayodhya (about 200 km), Lucknow (about 300 km) and Bodh Gaya (about 250 km). State and private buses arrive at the Cantt bus station, near Varanasi Junction railway station.
On this page
Approximate road distances
| From | Approx. distance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prayagraj | 120 km | Often combined with a Triveni Sangam visit |
| Ayodhya | 200 km | A popular pilgrimage combination |
| Lucknow | 300 km | Via expressways and highways |
| Bodh Gaya | 250 km | Buddhist circuit |
| Delhi | 800+ km | Long drive; trains or flights are faster |
Distances depend on the route; check a live map before travelling.
Buses
Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) and private operators run buses to Varanasi. The main bus station is at Cantt, close to Varanasi Junction railway station. From there, take an auto or cab to Godowlia for the temple.
Driving and parking
- Traffic in Varanasi is dense and slow near the old city.
- Vehicles are not allowed close to the temple and ghats; use designated parking and walk or take an e-rickshaw.
- Hotels on main roads are easier with a car than guesthouses in the lanes.
Pilgrim combinations by road
Varanasi, Prayagraj and Ayodhya form a popular road circuit. See itineraries.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the main bus stand in Varanasi?
At Cantt, close to Varanasi Junction railway station.
Sources and further reading
We link to primary and authoritative sources. External links open in a new tab.
- Uttar Pradesh Tourism — Varanasi (opens in a new tab)
Department of Tourism, Government of Uttar Pradesh — Government source, checked September 2026
- Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (opens in a new tab)
Government of Uttar Pradesh — Government source, checked September 2026
Written and maintained by the KashiVishwanathTemple.net Editorial Team. Last updated . Found an error? Tell us — see our editorial policy.
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