🚗 Agra to Varanasi Distance & Travel Guide | Travel Taxi

Explore the complete Delhi to Haridwar distance guide covering the 220 km journey to this sacred destination. Find detailed information on routes, transportation options, travel durations, stopover points, and seasonal considerations to plan your perfect spiritual journey from India's capital to the holy banks of the Ganges.

Table of Contents

• Introduction

• Agra to Varanasi Distance Overview

• Best Routes from Agra to Varanasi

• Transportation Options

• Road Trip Experience

• Ideal Stopovers

• Travel Taxi Services

• Best Time to Travel

• Trip Planning Guide

• Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction

The journey from Agra to Varanasi connects two of India's most culturally significant destinations—from the iconic Taj Mahal to the spiritual ghats of the Ganges. Understanding the Agra to Varanasi distance and travel options is essential for travelers planning to experience both the Mughal splendor and Hindu heritage on a single trip. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about navigating this important cultural corridor in North India.

Travel expert Raj Sharma notes, "The Agra to Varanasi route takes travelers through the heartland of India, offering glimpses into both royal history and spiritual traditions. While the distance is considerable, the journey itself becomes an enriching part of the experience." Whether you're a foreign tourist on the Golden Triangle circuit extending to Varanasi or a domestic traveler on a spiritual journey, this guide will help you plan the most comfortable and efficient trip between these two iconic destinations.

Agra to Varanasi Distance Overview

The Agra to Varanasi distance spans approximately 565 kilometers (351 miles) via the most direct route. As two major tourist destinations in Uttar Pradesh, these cities are well-connected, though the journey involves significant travel time regardless of the mode of transportation chosen.

Distance Breakdown by Transportation Mode:

Note: The flight option requires a connection as there are no direct flights between Agra and Varanasi. Most air travelers need to connect via Delhi or Lucknow.

Key Distance Markers:

• Agra to Kanpur

  : 285 km (halfway point, common stopover)

• Agra to Lucknow

  : 336 km (potential flight connection point)

• Agra to Allahabad (Prayagraj)

  : 430 km (important cultural stopover)

• Allahabad to Varanasi

  : 135 km (final stretch of the journey)

Best Routes from Agra to Varanasi

Route 1: Via Kanpur and Allahabad (Most Popular)

Total Distance: 565 km Estimated Driving Time: 10-12 hours Road Condition: Good to excellent, primarily national highways

Route Breakdown:

• Agra to Kanpur via NH19 (Formerly NH2): 285 km (5-6 hours)

• Kanpur to Allahabad via NH19: 145 km (3-4 hours)

• Allahabad to Varanasi via NH19: 135 km (2.5-3 hours)

This route follows the well-maintained National Highway 19 for most of the journey, passing through major cities that offer good rest stops and food options. The highway is part of the Golden Quadrilateral network and features four to six lanes throughout most sections.

Key Attractions En Route:

• Kanpur: Industrial city with historical sites like Jajmau and Kanpur Memorial Church

• Allahabad (Prayagraj): The sacred confluence of three rivers (Triveni Sangam), Anand Bhavan, Allahabad Fort

Route 2: Via Lucknow

Total Distance: 620 km Estimated Driving Time: 11-13 hours Road Condition: Good, with some sections under improvement

Route Breakdown:

• Agra to Lucknow via Agra-Lucknow Expressway: 336 km (4.5-5 hours)

• Lucknow to Varanasi via NH27 and NH19: 284 km (6-7 hours)

This route is slightly longer but offers the advantage of traveling on the modern Agra-Lucknow Expressway for the first section, which is one of India's best highways. It's an excellent option for those who wish to include Lucknow's Nawabi heritage sites in their itinerary.

Key Attractions En Route:

• Lucknow: Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara, Rumi Darwaza, British Residency

Route 3: Via Raebareli (Scenic Alternative)

Total Distance: 640 km Estimated Driving Time: 12-14 hours Road Condition: Mixed, with some excellent stretches and some single-lane sections

Route Breakdown:

• Agra to Lucknow: 336 km

• Lucknow to Raebareli: 77 km

• Raebareli to Varanasi via Pratapgarh: 227 km

This route is recommended for travelers who prefer scenic drives through rural Uttar Pradesh and are not in a hurry. While slightly longer, it offers glimpses of authentic village life and fewer traffic congestions compared to the main highways.

Key Attractions En Route:

• Raebareli: Historical town with the Fort of Raebareli and Indira Gandhi's political constituency

• Pratapgarh: Known for its guava orchards and historical significance

Transportation Options

By Car (Taxi or Self-Drive)

Travel Taxi Services: Our premium car rental services offer the most flexible way to travel from Agra to Varanasi, with options including:

• Sedan Package: Comfortable cars like Swift Dzire or Honda City for 1-4 passengers

  • One-way fare: ₹8,000-10,000

  • Round-trip fare: ₹16,000-18,000 (including driver's stay)

• SUV Package: Spacious vehicles like Toyota Innova or Mahindra XUV for 4-6 passengers

  • One-way fare: ₹10,000-12,000

  • Round-trip fare: ₹20,000-22,000 (including driver's stay)

All Travel Taxi services include an experienced driver familiar with the route, fuel costs, toll charges, and vehicle maintenance. Overnight journey options are also available with additional driver rotation for safety.

Self-Drive Rental: Limited options are available from agencies in Agra, with average costs of ₹3,500-5,000 per day plus fuel. International driving permit required for foreign tourists.

By Train

Train travel offers a convenient and authentic way to experience the Agra to Varanasi distance, with multiple daily options:

Top Train Options:

Legend: SL - Sleeper, 3A - AC Three Tier, 2A - AC Two Tier, 1A - AC First Class

Booking Information:

• Advance reservations recommended (60-120 days before travel date for foreign tourists)

• Tatkal (emergency) quota available 1 day before journey

• Foreign Tourist Quota available at select stations

Station Information:

• Agra

  : Main departures from Agra Cantt Station (AGC)

• Varanasi

  : Arrivals at Varanasi Junction (BSB)

By Flight (Indirect)

While there are no direct flights between Agra and Varanasi, connecting flights provide the fastest overall journey:

Common Flight Routes:

1. Via Delhi:

   • Agra to Delhi by road (4 hours)

   • Flight time Delhi to Varanasi (1.5 hours)

   • Total journey time: approximately 7-8 hours including transfers

2. Via Lucknow:

   • Agra to Lucknow by road (4.5 hours)

   • Flight time Lucknow to Varanasi (40 minutes)

   • Total journey time: approximately 6-7 hours including transfers

Airlines Servicing Varanasi: IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, Vistara

Airport Information:

• Agra Airport (AGR) has limited commercial operations

• Varanasi Airport (Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport - VNS) well-connected to major cities

Road Trip Experience

The Agra to Varanasi road trip offers a compelling journey through the cultural heartland of North India, with the distance providing opportunities to experience Uttar Pradesh's diverse landscapes and heritage.

Road Conditions

• NH19 (Main Route): Part of India's Golden Quadrilateral highway network

  • 4-6 lanes throughout most stretches

  • Regular fuel stations and rest areas

  • Toll charges approximately ₹800-1,000 for the entire journey

• Agra-Lucknow Expressway:

  • Modern 6-lane expressway with controlled access

  • 110 km/h speed limit (among the highest in India)

  • Limited but well-equipped service areas

• State Highways:

  • Generally 2-lane roads in good condition

  • Lower speed limits (50-70 km/h)

  • Fewer facilities compared to national highways

Safety Considerations

• Night Driving

  : Not recommended due to poor lighting on some stretches

• Wildlife Crossing

  : Watch for animals on rural sections of the route

• Weather Impact

  : Fog can severely affect visibility during winter months (December-January)

• Traffic Conditions

  : Expect congestion while passing through urban areas like Kanpur

Driving Tips

• Start Early

  : Depart Agra by 6:00 AM to reach Varanasi before nightfall

• Regular Breaks

  : Plan 15-20 minute stops every 2-3 hours for driver rest

• Meal Planning

  : Major food options available in Kanpur and Allahabad

• Fuel Planning

  : Fill up in major cities as rural fuel stations may have limited options

• Navigation

  : Mobile connectivity is generally good throughout the route for GPS usage

Ideal Stopovers

Breaking the Agra to Varanasi distance with strategic stopovers enhances the journey and reduces travel fatigue. Consider these recommended stops:

For One-Night Journeys

Allahabad (Prayagraj)

Distance from Agra: 430 km (8-9 hours) Distance to Varanasi: 135 km (2.5-3 hours)

Recommended Stay: 1 night Accommodation Options:

• Luxury: Kanha Shyam Hotel, Hotel Hermitage

• Mid-range: Hotel Milan Palace, Hotel Ajay International

• Budget: Hotel Prayag, Yatri Niwas

Must-Visit Attractions:

• Triveni Sangam (confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers)

• Allahabad Fort

• Anand Bhavan (Nehru family house)

• Khusro Bagh (Mughal garden complex)

Kanpur

Distance from Agra: 285 km (5-6 hours) Distance to Varanasi: 280 km (5-6 hours)

Recommended Stay: 1 night Accommodation Options:

• Luxury: The Landmark Hotel, Hotel Bliss

• Mid-range: Hotel Royal Cliff, Hotel Vijay Intercontinental

• Budget: Hotel Ashok, Hotel Embassy

Must-Visit Attractions:

• Jajmau (archaeological site)

• Kanpur Memorial Church

• JK Temple

• Kanpur Zoo

For Two-Night Journeys

Lucknow + Allahabad Combination

Day 1: Agra to Lucknow (336 km, 5-6 hours) Day 2: Lucknow to Allahabad (230 km, 4-5 hours) Day 3: Allahabad to Varanasi (135 km, 2.5-3 hours)

Must-Visit Attractions in Lucknow:

• Bara Imambara and Bhool Bhulaiya (labyrinth)

• Chota Imambara

• British Residency

• Rumi Darwaza

• Lucknow's famous Tunday Kebabs and Awadhi cuisine

Travel Taxi Services

Travel Taxi offers specialized services for the Agra to Varanasi route, catering to different travel preferences and group sizes.

Our Fleet Options

Special Services

• Heritage Tour Package: Includes guided stops at historical sites en route

  • Additional ₹3,000 with expert local guides at major attractions

• Spiritual Journey Package: Focuses on religious sites between Agra and Varanasi

  • Additional ₹2,500 including temple assistance and prasad arrangements

• Photography Tour: Customized stops at scenic locations for photography enthusiasts

  • Additional ₹2,000 with stops timed for optimal lighting conditions

Exclusive Travel Taxi Benefits

• Experienced Drivers

  : Professionally trained with extensive route knowledge

• Customized Stops

  : Flexibility to adjust itinerary based on your interests

• Vehicle Amenities

  : Free Wi-Fi, bottled water, sanitizers, and travel pillows

• 24/7 Support

  : Dedicated customer service throughout your journey

• Fixed Pricing

  : No hidden charges, toll and parking included

• Cashless Payment

  : Multiple payment options including international cards

Booking Process

1. Online Booking

   : Visit

   Travel Taxi website

2. Phone Reservation

   : Call +91-9899386471

3. Hotel Booking

   : Arrange through your hotel concierge in Agra

4. Advance Booking Discount

   : 10% off when booked 7+ days in advance

Best Time to Travel

The optimal time to undertake the Agra to Varanasi journey depends on weather conditions, festival seasons, and your personal preferences. The distance feels different across seasons due to varying road and weather conditions.

Season-wise Guide

Winter (October to February)

Pros:

• Pleasant daytime temperatures (15-25°C)

• Ideal for sightseeing at both destinations

• Clear skies perfect for photography

Cons:

• Dense fog can affect visibility (December-January)

• Potential delays if traveling early morning or evening

• Extremely cold mornings if traveling by road

Travel Taxi Winter Special: Fog-equipped vehicles and flexible departure times based on weather conditions

Summer (March to June)

Pros:

• Clear roads with excellent visibility

• Fewer tourists on the route

• Lower accommodation costs in both cities

Cons:

• Extreme heat (35-45°C) can make the journey exhausting

• Need for frequent hydration stops

• AC vehicles essential for comfort

Travel Taxi Summer Special: Complimentary extra water bottles and cooling towels during summer journeys

Monsoon (July to September)

Pros:

• Lush green landscapes throughout the journey

• Cooler temperatures compared to summer

• Magical atmosphere at the Varanasi ghats during light rains

Cons:

• Potential for waterlogging on certain road stretches

• Slower driving speeds required

• Occasional roadwork during this season

Travel Taxi Monsoon Special: All-weather vehicles with experienced drivers familiar with monsoon road conditions

Festival Considerations

Major Festivals Affecting Travel:

Travel Taxi Festival Packages: Special rates and crowd navigation expertise during major festivals

Trip Planning Guide

Sample Itineraries

Express Journey (2 Days)

Day 1: Depart Agra early morning → Lunch at Kanpur → Overnight in Allahabad Day 2: Morning visit to Triveni Sangam → Lunch en route → Evening arrival in Varanasi

Leisurely Exploration (4 Days)

Day 1: Agra sightseeing → Afternoon departure → Overnight in Kanpur Day 2: Morning exploration of Kanpur → Afternoon drive to Lucknow → Overnight in Lucknow Day 3: Lucknow sightseeing → Afternoon departure → Overnight in Allahabad Day 4: Morning visit to Sangam → Afternoon drive → Evening arrival in Varanasi

Packing Essentials

• Documents

  : ID proof, hotel reservations, emergency contacts

• Technology

  : Phone charger, power bank, car charger adapter

• Comfort Items

  : Travel pillow, sunglasses, light blanket for overnight journeys

• Medications

  : Personal prescriptions, motion sickness pills, basic first aid

• Food & Hydration

  : Water bottle, dry snacks, fruits for between meals

Budget Planning

Sample Budget for Two Travelers (3-Day Journey):

Money-Saving Tips:

• Travel during weekdays for better hotel rates

• Book transportation at least 1 week in advance

• Combine meals with rest stops to save time

• Consider train travel for significant savings

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the exact distance between Agra and Varanasi by road?

The exact road distance from Agra to Varanasi is 565 kilometers (351 miles) via the most direct route through Kanpur and Allahabad. Alternative routes may add 50-80 kilometers but might offer better road conditions or interesting stopover points. The journey typically takes 10-12 hours of pure driving time, not including stops for rest, meals, or sightseeing.

Is it possible to travel from Agra to Varanasi in a single day?

While physically possible, completing the 565 km journey from Agra to Varanasi in a single day is extremely tiring and not recommended for safety reasons. The drive takes a minimum of 10-12 hours without stops, and Indian highways are not always well-lit for night driving. If absolutely necessary, we recommend using two drivers for rotation and planning for a very early morning departure (around 5:00 AM). Most travelers find a one-night stopover in Allahabad or Kanpur makes the journey more enjoyable and safe.

What are the must-see attractions along the Agra to Varanasi route?

The journey offers several noteworthy attractions that can enrich your travel experience:

1. Kanpur

   : Visit the historical Jajmau archaeological site and the Kanpur Memorial Church

2. Lucknow

   (slight detour): Explore the magnificent Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara, and taste authentic Awadhi cuisine

3. Allahabad (Prayagraj)

   : Experience the sacred Triveni Sangam (confluence of three rivers), Allahabad Fort, and Anand Bhavan

4. Mirzapur

   (on the final stretch): Known for its carpet industry and as the setting for the popular web series

Travel Taxi offers customized packages that can include guided stops at these locations as part of your journey.

Which is better for the Agra to Varanasi journey: train or taxi?

Both options have distinct advantages:

Train Advantages:

• More economical (₹500-2,500 depending on class)

• Overnight options allow you to sleep during travel

• Environmentally friendly

• Opportunity to meet locals

Taxi Advantages:

• Complete flexibility with timing and stops

• Door-to-door convenience

• Ability to explore attractions en route

• Comfort of private space

• No luggage handling concerns

For travelers who value convenience and flexibility, a taxi is often worth the additional cost. For budget travelers or those who enjoy train journeys, the overnight train provides good value while covering the substantial distance.

What hotels are recommended for an overnight stop between Agra and Varanasi?

For travelers breaking the journey with an overnight stay, we recommend:

In Allahabad (Prayagraj):

• Luxury

  : Kanha Shyam Hotel (₹4,500+)

• Mid-Range

  : Hotel Milan Palace (₹2,500-3,500)

• Budget

  : Hotel Prayag (₹1,200-1,800)

In Lucknow:

• Luxury

  : Taj Mahal Lucknow (₹7,000+)

• Mid-Range

  : Comfort Inn (₹3,000-4,000)

• Budget

  : Hotel Silvete (₹1,500-2,500)

In Kanpur:

• Luxury

  : The Landmark Hotel (₹4,000+)

• Mid-Range

  : Hotel Royal Cliff (₹2,000-3,000)

• Budget

  : Hotel Ashok (₹1,000-1,800)

Travel Taxi can assist with hotel bookings as part of your journey package.

How does the monsoon season affect travel between Agra and Varanasi?

The monsoon season (July to September) can impact your journey in several ways:

• Travel time may increase by 1-2 hours due to slower driving speeds on wet roads

• Certain low-lying sections near Allahabad may experience waterlogging during heavy rains

• The scenic value of the journey increases with lush green landscapes throughout

• Rural roads may become challenging, making main highways the preferred option

• Accommodation prices typically decrease during this season

Our Travel Taxi drivers are specially trained for monsoon driving conditions and know alternative routes if main roads face any issues. We recommend keeping your travel plans flexible during this season to accommodate weather-related adjustments.

What is the best way to plan a cultural tour from Agra to Varanasi?

A cultural tour maximizing the heritage sites between these two iconic cities ideally spans 4-5 days:

Day 1: Agra sightseeing → Afternoon departure → Evening arrival in Lucknow Day 2: Full day exploring Lucknow's Nawabi heritage Day 3: Morning drive to Allahabad → Afternoon visit to Sangam and Allahabad Fort Day 4: Morning drive to Varanasi with stop at Chunar Fort → Evening arrival in Varanasi for Ganga Aarti Day 5: Varanasi exploration

Travel Taxi offers a specialized Cultural Corridor Package covering this itinerary with expert guides at each location, traditional meal experiences, and carefully selected heritage accommodations where possible.

Are there any good vegetarian food options along the Agra to Varanasi route?

The route offers excellent vegetarian dining options, as Uttar Pradesh cuisine is rich in vegetarian specialties:

Near Agra:

• Brijwasi Restaurant (Highway NH19) - Famous for North Indian thalis

In Kanpur:

• Thaggu Ke Laddu - Legendary sweets shop

• Shivaji Restaurant - Pure vegetarian South Indian cuisine

In Allahabad:

• Hari Ram & Sons - Famous for their dahi bhalla and sweets

• El Chico Restaurant - Diverse vegetarian options

Near Varanasi:

• Puran Das Road Bhandar (60km before Varanasi) - Authentic Banarasi cuisine

Travel Taxi drivers can recommend establishments based on authentic local food, cleanliness, and good service.