India is full of cities that are steeped in culture and spirituality. Varanasi and Prayagraj are two of the main cities among them. Varanasi is often called the spiritual capital of India and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad) is the site of the Triveni Sangam where the Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati rivers meet. A road trip between these two cities is a journey of history, culture, and faith. This blog post will cover everything you need to know to travel from Varanasi to Prayagraj – travel options, en route attractions, route and time.
Varanasi to Prayagraj Distance
The distance between Varanasi and Prayagraj is approximately 121 kilometres by road. So, this route will give you access to plan a short trip. Depending on the mode of transport, it takes around 2.5 to 3.5 hours to travel between the two cities. If you travel Varanasi to Prayagraj by train then the journey is slightly shorter and takes around 2 to 3 hours.
These two historic cities are often paired in itineraries because of their proximity to each other. Although both of these cities are located so close to each other but each city has a different atmosphere and unique attractions which will make your journey worth visiting.
How to Travel: Train, Road, or Air?
When it comes to traveling between Varanasi and Prayagraj you have many options:
By Train
Indian Railways is a reliable and affordable way to travel between the two cities. The main superfast and passenger trains are (11062) Pawan Express (22415) New Delhi Vande Bharat Express (22178) Mahanagari SF Express. The ticket price will range from ₹150 to ₹700 depending on the class you choose. But it is advisable to check the tickets on IRCTC platform and book from there only as it is one of the trusted platforms for train ticket booking.
By Road
Travelling by road from Varanasi to Prayagraj is another option. The journey via NH 19 is smooth because the roads are well maintained and you can find traffic rarely on this route. That is why you can cover this distance of 125 km in only 3 hours of drive. You can travel by your own car or can rent a car or take the bus. State run buses and private operators ply the route frequently. If you choose Luxury Tempo Traveller in Varanasi with us, you can take flexible stops at interesting places on the way and travel both of the places in full comfort along with your whole group.
By Air
There are no direct flights between the two cities, but both Varanasi and Prayagraj are connected by air to other major Indian cities. If you prefer to fly you can book a flight to either city from Delhi or Mumbai and then choose local transportation for this short journey.
What Are the Highlights of the NH 19 Road Route?
You can find many astonishing places along the route from Varanasi to Prayagraj. Let’s check out these places:
Bhadohi: Known as the Carpet City of India, Bhadohi is famous for its beautiful handwoven carpets. Take a quick detour to one of the carpet showrooms or weaving workshops and you will have a great time.
Mirzapur: If you love nature then Mirzapur has scenic views, waterfalls and greenery. Vindhyachal Temple dedicated to Goddess Vindhyavasini is a famous religious place that attracts pilgrims throughout the year.
Rural Uttar Pradesh: The drive also passes through rural areas of Uttar Pradesh. See the traditional life, small markets and farming activities.
What Makes the Triveni Sangam So Special?
Once you reach Prayagraj, Triveni Sangam is a must-see. It’s the confluence of three rivers – Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. For Hindus, taking a dip here is believed to cleanse the soul and wash away sins. During Kumbh Mela millions of pilgrims come here to take the dip.
The calm water and devotees performing aarti creates a peaceful and mesmerizing atmosphere. You can also hire a boat to go closer to the confluence point which is marked by a small platform in the river.
What is the Significance of the Kumbh Mela?
Kumbh Mela is the largest religious gathering in the world and is held every 12 years in Prayagraj. The Mela rotates between four cities in India but Prayagraj hosts the Maha Kumbh Mela which is the biggest of all.
The Mela is a festival of devotion, millions come to take a holy dip at the Sangam. Saints, sadhus and religious leaders take out processions and perform rituals, it’s a vibrant and colourful atmosphere. If your visit coincides with Kumbh Mela, do plan ahead as accommodation and transport get booked fast.
Can One Cover Prayagraj in a Day?
If you are short of time then you can prefer this one-day trip to Prayagraj. We have covered some of the top attractions in Prayagraj in this itinerary. Here’s an ideal one-day itinerary:
Early Morning: Start your day with Triveni Sangam. Spend a couple of hours and take a boat ride.
Late Morning: Visit Allahabad Fort, a Mughal-era structure which gives you a glimpse of India’s architecture and history.
Afternoon: Go to Anand Bhavan, the ancestral home of the Nehru family. This museum is a treasure trove of artefacts and photos of India’s freedom movement.
Evening: End with Khusro Bagh, a beautiful garden where Mughal tombs are located and where you can unwind before you head back.
What are the Cultural Experiences to Explore Along the Way?
The journey from Varanasi to Prayagraj is not about reaching the place; it’s about soaking in the culture of the region. Some of the experiences are:
Handicrafts and Textiles: Both the cities and the surrounding areas are famous for traditional crafts. Varanasi is famous for Banarasi silk sarees, Prayagraj for leather goods and wooden crafts. Exploring local markets en route can be a treat for those interested in traditional art forms.
Festivals: If your journey coincides with festivals like Makar Sankranti, Diwali or Holi you will see the region come alive. Ganga Aarti in Varanasi and cultural programs in Prayagraj during festivals are a must-see.
Local tales: Ask locals at dhabas or small eateries about the region’s history and mythology. You will hear some interesting stories about Ganga or about famous places.
What Are Some Hidden Gems in Prayagraj?
While Prayagraj’s famous landmarks like Triveni Sangam and Allahabad Fort are well known, the city has many hidden gems:
Patalpuri Temple and Akshaya Vat: Inside the Allahabad Fort, this underground temple is one of the oldest in the city. Akshaya Vat (the eternal banyan tree) is another sacred place within the fort complex.
Nag Vasuki Temple: Dedicated to the serpent god Vasuki, this temple is near the Ganges and a great spot for spiritual visitors.
Chandra Shekhar Azad Park: This big park was earlier known as Alfred Park. It was here that Chandra Shekhar Azad fought his last battle against the British.
How to Make the Most of the Local Cuisine?
No trip is complete without trying the local flavours of the place. Here’s what not to miss:
Varanasi Specials: Before you leave Varanasi, try street food like Kachori-Sabzi, Tamatar Chaat and Malaiyo, a frothy winter dessert.
Prayagraj Delights: Prayagraj is famous for its guavas, known as the “Allahabadi amrood”. Sweet shops in the city offer Imarti, Kulfi and Lassi.
For a full meal experience, visit local eateries or dhabas on the way. They serve authentic North Indian dishes like Aloo Puri, Parathas and Dal Tadka.
Suggested Read: Varanasi to Ayodhya by Road
What Are Some Practical Tips for Travellers?
Here are some tips to make your Varanasi to Prayagraj trip smooth and enjoyable:
Plan Your Route: Use GPS or maps to know the best routes and traffic conditions. If you are traveling during peak hours or festivals you should start early to avoid delays.
Book in Advance: Whether you are taking the train or staying overnight in Prayagraj, book your tickets and accommodations in advance, especially during big events like Kumbh Mela.
Pack Smart: Carry water bottles, snacks and first-aid kits. If travelling in summer, carry sunscreen and sunglasses; if travelling in winter, pack warm clothes.
Be Local: Both Varanasi and Prayagraj are religious cities. Dress modestly when visiting temples and other sacred places.
Stay Alert: Keep an eye on the weather forecast and travel alerts. Monsoon rains can sometimes disrupt road conditions, so plan ahead.
Conclusion
The journey from Varanasi to Prayagraj is not just about covering 121 kilometres, it’s about discovering the heart of India. From the ghats of Varanasi to the Sangam of Prayagraj, everything on this trip has meaning. This guide has all you need to know, from travel options and en route attractions to cultural insights and practical advice. Whichever way you travel, the experience will stay with you long after you are done. So, plan your visit, embrace the sights and sounds of these historic cities, and immerse yourself in the timeless spirit of India.
