Bilaspur to Varanasi Travel Guide

Introduction

Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Situated on the banks of the holy Ganges River in Uttar Pradesh, it is regarded as the spiritual capital of India. Every year, millions of pilgrims, tourists, photographers, researchers, and international travelers visit Varanasi to witness its ancient temples, mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, vibrant ghats, and rich cultural heritage.

If you are planning a trip from Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, to Varanasi, this comprehensive travel guide will help you understand everything you need to know before starting your journey. Whether you are traveling by train, bus, car, or flight, this guide covers transportation options, major attractions, accommodation, local food, travel budget, weather, safety tips, and a suggested itinerary.

Distance Between Bilaspur and Varanasi

By Road

The distance between Bilaspur and Varanasi by road is approximately 500–550 kilometers, depending on the route you choose.

By Train

The railway distance is approximately 520 kilometers.

By Air

There is no direct flight between Bilaspur and Varanasi. Travelers usually connect through cities such as Raipur, Delhi, or Hyderabad.

How to Reach Varanasi from Bilaspur

By Train (Best Option)

Train travel is the most affordable and convenient option.

Popular Trains

Bilaspur–Varanasi Express (subject to schedule)
Chhattisgarh Express (connecting routes)
Weekly Superfast Trains
Various long-distance trains passing through Bilaspur Junction

Journey Time

Around 8 to 11 hours
Depends on train category and number of stops.

Ticket Fare

Sleeper Class: ₹350–₹500
3AC: ₹900–₹1,500
2AC: ₹1,500–₹2,200
1AC: ₹2,500+

Train travel is recommended for families, solo travelers, students, and pilgrims.

By Road

Driving from Bilaspur to Varanasi offers beautiful countryside views.

Major Route

Bilaspur → Pendra Road → Ambikapur → Renukoot → Robertsganj → Varanasi

Travel Time

Approximately 10–12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Suitable For

Road trip enthusiasts
Family vacations
Group travel

By Bus

There are limited direct buses.

Most travelers take connecting buses through:

Ambikapur
Renukoot
Prayagraj

Travel time ranges from 12 to 15 hours.

By Flight

No direct flight is available.

Possible route:

Bilaspur → Raipur Airport
Raipur → Delhi/Lucknow
Delhi/Lucknow → Varanasi

Flight duration including layovers can range from 5 to 10 hours.

Best Time to Visit Varanasi

Winter (October to March)

The most pleasant season.

Temperature:

8°C to 25°C

Ideal for:

Sightseeing
Temple visits
Boating
Photography
Ganga Aarti

Summer (April to June)

Temperature can reach 45°C.

Travel is possible but afternoon sightseeing can be uncomfortable.

Monsoon (July to September)

The city becomes greener.

The Ganges River rises significantly.

Some ghats may become partially submerged.

Top Places to Visit in Varanasi

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

One of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.

Millions of devotees visit every year.

The newly developed corridor makes the temple easily accessible from the ghats.

Dashashwamedh Ghat

The most famous ghat in Varanasi.

Known for:

Evening Ganga Aarti
Boat rides
Photography
Religious ceremonies

Assi Ghat

Popular among students and international tourists.

Morning yoga sessions and sunrise boat rides are major attractions.

Manikarnika Ghat

One of the holiest cremation ghats in Hinduism.

Visitors should maintain silence and respect local customs.

Sarnath

Located about 10 km from Varanasi.

This is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.

Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

One of India’s largest and most prestigious universities.

Its campus includes:

Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum
Vishwanath Temple
Beautiful gardens

Ramnagar Fort

Situated across the Ganges River.

The fort showcases royal artifacts, vintage cars, weapons, and historical collections.

Tulsi Manas Temple

Built at the place where Goswami Tulsidas is believed to have written the Ramcharitmanas.

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Dedicated to Lord Hanuman.

A peaceful place visited by thousands of devotees every day.

Famous Things to Do in Varanasi

Experience Ganga Aarti

The evening ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat is unforgettable.

Hundreds of priests perform synchronized rituals with lamps, bells, and Vedic chants.

Sunrise Boat Ride

Watching the sunrise over the Ganges is one of the most memorable experiences in India.

Walk Through Old Varanasi

Explore narrow lanes filled with:

Temples
Street food
Silk shops
Sweet shops
Traditional houses

Shop for Banarasi Silk Sarees

Varanasi is famous worldwide for handcrafted silk sarees.

Other popular shopping items include:

Brass idols
Wooden toys
Rudraksha beads
Religious souvenirs

Taste Local Street Food

Don’t miss:

Kachori Sabzi
Tamatar Chaat
Chena Dahi Vada
Banarasi Paan
Rabri
Jalebi
Lassi
Malaiyyo (winter specialty)

Suggested 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Morning

Check into your hotel.
Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

Afternoon

Explore local markets.
Enjoy authentic Banarasi cuisine.

Evening

Attend Ganga Aarti.
Take a night boat ride.

Day 2

Morning

Sunrise boat ride.
Visit Assi Ghat.

Afternoon

Explore BHU.
Visit Tulsi Manas Temple.
Visit Sankat Mochan Temple.

Evening

Shop for Banarasi silk.

Day 3

Morning

Visit Sarnath.

Afternoon

Explore Ramnagar Fort.

Evening

Return journey to Bilaspur.

Accommodation Options

Budget Hotels

Price Range:

₹700–₹1,500 per night

Suitable for:

Students
Solo travelers
Budget families

Mid-Range Hotels

Price:

₹2,000–₹4,500

Includes:

Air-conditioned rooms
Restaurant
Wi-Fi
Parking

Luxury Hotels

Price:

₹5,000–₹15,000+

Includes:

River views
Premium dining
Spa
Swimming pool
Concierge services

Estimated Travel Budget

Budget Trip

Train: ₹500
Hotel: ₹1,000
Food: ₹700
Local Transport: ₹600
Entry Tickets & Miscellaneous: ₹500

Total:

Approximately ₹3,500–₹5,000 per person

Comfortable Trip

3AC Train: ₹1,200
Hotel: ₹3,000
Food: ₹1,500
Local Travel: ₹1,000
Shopping: ₹2,000

Total:

Approximately ₹8,000–₹12,000 per person

Local Transportation

Auto Rickshaws

Widely available across the city.

E-Rickshaws

Affordable and ideal for short distances.

Cycle Rickshaws

Perfect for exploring the narrow lanes.

Boat Services

Available at almost every major ghat.

Different options include:

Shared boats
Private boats
Sunrise tours
Evening Aarti cruises

App-Based Cabs

Cab services are available for airport transfers and longer city trips.

Local Food You Must Try

Breakfast

Kachori Sabzi
Jalebi

Lunch

Banarasi Thali
Dal
Seasonal Vegetables
Roti
Rice

Snacks

Tamatar Chaat
Chaat
Samosa

Desserts

Rabri
Lassi
Malaiyyo
Gulab Jamun

Famous Drink

Banarasi Lassi served in traditional clay cups.

Shopping Guide

What to Buy

Banarasi Silk Sarees
Silk Dupattas
Brass Handicrafts
Wooden Crafts
Rudraksha Mala
Religious Books
Incense Sticks
Marble Idols

Popular Shopping Areas

Vishwanath Gali
Godowlia Market
Chowk Area
Thatheri Bazaar

Travel Tips

Before You Travel

Book train tickets well in advance.
Carry a valid ID proof.
Wear comfortable walking shoes.
Keep drinking water with you.

While Visiting Temples

Dress modestly.
Follow temple security rules.
Mobile phones may not be allowed inside certain temple areas.
Respect local customs and religious practices.

During Boat Rides

Wear a life jacket if provided.
Choose licensed boat operators.
Avoid overcrowded boats.

Health and Safety

Drink bottled or filtered water.
Eat from clean and hygienic food stalls.
Keep your valuables secure in crowded places.
Avoid isolated areas late at night.

Nearby Places to Explore

Prayagraj

Approximately 120 km away.

Known for the Triveni Sangam and historical landmarks.

Chunar Fort

A historic fort overlooking the Ganges River.

Vindhyachal

A major pilgrimage destination dedicated to Goddess Vindhyavasini.

Mirzapur

Famous for carpets, waterfalls, and scenic landscapes.

Why Visit Varanasi from Bilaspur?

Spiritual Experience

Varanasi offers one of the deepest spiritual experiences in India with its ancient temples, sacred rituals, and centuries-old traditions.

Cultural Heritage

From classical music and Sanskrit learning to silk weaving and religious festivals, the city reflects India’s timeless cultural legacy.

Historical Importance

With a history spanning more than 3,000 years, Varanasi has been a center of education, philosophy, and devotion for generations.

Affordable Travel

Thanks to excellent railway connectivity and a wide range of accommodation options, a trip from Bilaspur to Varanasi is suitable for both budget and luxury travelers.

Conclusion

A journey from Bilaspur to Varanasi is much more than a simple trip—it is an opportunity to experience India’s spiritual soul, ancient traditions, and vibrant culture. Whether you seek religious blessings at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, wish to witness the enchanting Ganga Aarti, explore centuries-old ghats, enjoy a peaceful sunrise boat ride, or savor authentic Banarasi cuisine, Varanasi promises an unforgettable travel experience. With proper planning, advance bookings, and a well-organized itinerary, your visit can be comfortable, enriching, and memorable. From solo travelers and families to pilgrims and photography enthusiasts, Varanasi welcomes everyone with its timeless charm, making it one of the most rewarding destinations to visit from Bilaspur.