Indian Railways Route Guide · Updated 2026-06-06

Varanasi to Delhi Train

Quick Answer

The fastest Varanasi to Delhi train is the Vande Bharat Express (22436) — departing Varanasi Junction (BSB) at ~15:00 and arriving New Delhi (NDLS) in 8 hours. Shiv Ganga Express (12560) is a popular overnight return with Sleeper and AC classes. Distance: 821 km. Sleeper from ₹375, 3AC from ₹1,005.

821 km 10–13 hours Sleeper from ₹375 3AC from ₹1,005 2AC from ₹1,445

Popular Varanasi to Delhi Train Trains

More trains run on this route. See all trains with live seat availability →

Varanasi to Delhi Train — Distance, Duration & Fares

DetailInfo
Rail Distance~821 km
Journey Duration10–13 hours
Sleeper Class (SL)From ₹375 approx.
3 Tier AC (3AC / 3A)From ₹1,005 approx.
2 Tier AC (2AC / 2A)From ₹1,445 approx.
Advance Booking Opens120 days before journey at 8:00 AM IST
Tatkal Booking Opens1 day before — AC at 10:00 AM, Non-AC at 11:00 AM IST

* Fares are approximate base fares. Actual fares vary by train, quota, and season. Check live fares on IRCTC before booking.

How to Book Varanasi to Delhi Train Ticket

  1. Check seat availability first — use PNR Alert route search to see which trains have confirmed seats on your travel date and class.
  2. Choose train and class — Rajdhani is fastest, AC-only. For Sleeper class, choose Express or Superfast trains. Compare departure times, days, and classes.
  3. Book on IRCTC — go to irctc.co.in or IRCTC Rail Connect app. Log in, select train/class/quota, and pay. Book up to 120 days in advance at 8:00 AM.
  4. Note your PNR number — your 10-digit PNR appears in the IRCTC booking confirmation email and SMS. Enter it on PNR Alert to track status and get WhatsApp alerts.

Booking Tips

Book return tickets at the same time as your departure — pilgrim season return trains fill up just as fast.
Shiv Ganga Express 3AC is the best overnight return for comfort on this 12-hour journey.
Vande Bharat Chair Car sells out quickly — book early at the 120-day window.
Tatkal opens 1 day before at 10 AM (AC) / 11 AM (non-AC).
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On travel day, use live running status to track train location and delay.

Fastest Return: Vande Bharat Express (22436)

The Vande Bharat Express (22436) departs Varanasi Junction (BSB) in the afternoon and arrives New Delhi (NDLS) approximately 8 hours later. Chair Car only (CC and Executive). Ideal for pilgrims or travellers returning to Delhi in the same day or late evening arrival. Catering included.


Overnight Option: Shiv Ganga Express (12560)

The Shiv Ganga Express (12560) departs Varanasi in the evening and arrives at New Delhi (NDLS) in the morning — a comfortable overnight return. Sleeper, 3AC, and 2AC classes available. Popular with pilgrims returning from Kashi after a multi-day visit.


Post-Pilgrimage Booking Tips

After festival visits to Varanasi (Mahashivratri, Navratri, Dev Deepawali, Kartik Purnima), return trains fill up weeks in advance. Always book your return leg at the same time as your departure ticket, especially for pilgrim peak seasons.


Varanasi Junction (BSB)

Varanasi Junction (BSB) is the main station — 3–5 km from Dashashwamedh Ghat. Pre-paid taxis (₹150–250) and e-rickshaws are available outside the station. Note: Manduadih station (now Vande Bharat Nagari) also serves some Delhi-bound trains — check which station your train departs from.

Frequently Asked Questions — Varanasi to Delhi Train

Vande Bharat Express (22436) is the fastest — ~8 hours, Chair Car only. Shiv Ganga Express (12560) is the best overnight option with Sleeper and AC classes.
Vande Bharat: ~8 hours. Shiv Ganga: ~12 hours overnight. Distance: 821 km.
Most trains depart from Varanasi Junction (BSB). Some trains depart from Manduadih (MDH, now renamed Banaras) — check your IRCTC ticket for the exact departure station.
Vande Bharat: Chair Car and Executive Chair Car. Shiv Ganga: Sleeper, 3AC, 2AC. Kashi Vishwanath Express: Sleeper, 3AC, 2AC.
Sleeper from ₹375. 3AC from ₹1,005. Vande Bharat Chair Car: approximately ₹1,005–₹1,500. Fares vary by class and season.
Yes — especially during pilgrim seasons (Mahashivratri, Navratri, Dev Deepawali, Kumbh Mela extensions). Book very early. WL on GNWL basis can still confirm, but don't rely on it for peak pilgrim dates.
Enter your 10-digit PNR at pnralert.in/pnr-status — no login needed. Subscribe for free WhatsApp alerts for automatic updates.
From Dashashwamedh Ghat or Assi Ghat, take an auto-rickshaw to Varanasi Junction (BSB) — approximately 20–30 minutes and ₹100–200. E-rickshaws are also available but slower.

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