City in Uttar Pradesh, India
Getting around Varanasi
How to get around Varanasi
Walk the ghats and old city; use e-rickshaws and autos for longer trips. Boats run along the river. Cars cannot enter the narrow alleys.
Ways to get around Varanasi
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| E-rickshaw | 10–30 INR shared | Cheap on main roads to Godowlia and Assi |
| Auto-rickshaw | 60–150 INR for 5 km | Agree the fare or use an app |
| Rowing boat on the Ganges | 300–600 INR per boat, per hour | Sunrise is most popular; agree price before boarding |
| Vande Bharat and Delhi trains | 1,000–2,500 INR | Fast links to Delhi and Prayagraj; book via IRCTC |
Ride-hailing apps in Varanasi
A 5 km ride costs about ₹60–150 ($0.6–1.6).
- Drivers quote high prices to foreigners. Use apps or the prepaid auto booth at the station, and agree fares before boarding.
Arriving in Varanasi
Lal Bahadur Shastri International (VNS)
About 25 km from the center; prepaid taxi 800–1,200 INR, 45–60 min; app cab similar. Many visitors arrive by train to Varanasi Junction.
Driving and onward travel
- Scooters: Not recommended: alleys are crowded and cows and pedestrians block roads. Cycle rickshaws and walking work better.
- Driving: on the left. IDP plus home licence required; scooters are rented in Goa and the Himalaya; most visitors hire a car with driver.
- Onward travel in India: Trains link most cities: book up to 60 days ahead on IRCTC or use the foreign tourist quota at big stations. Cheap domestic flights and sleeper buses fill gaps.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Varanasi?
Yes. Apps that work here: Uber, Rapido.
What's the best way to get around Varanasi?
Walk the ghats and old city; use e-rickshaws and autos for longer trips. Boats run along the river. Cars cannot enter the narrow alleys.
How do I get from the airport to Varanasi?
About 25 km from the center; prepaid taxi 800–1,200 INR, 45–60 min; app cab similar. Many visitors arrive by train to Varanasi Junction.
Is Varanasi walkable?
Walkable center.
More about Varanasi
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Sources
- IRCTC (Indian Railways tickets)
- Uttar Pradesh Tourism
- Indian Railways (IRCTC)
- Varanasi Airport (Airports Authority of India)
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.