Distance and estimated driving time
Embarking on a road trip from Kolkata to Varanasi covers approximately 423 miles, with an estimated travel time of nearly 11 hours and 53 minutes. The route mainly follows the AHI highway, ensuring a straightforward drive through scenic landscapes and urban centers. Travelers should prepare for potential traffic conditions and rest breaks to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. Planning ahead with fuel stops and meal breaks can help make the long drive more manageable and enjoyable.
Driving route
Embarking on a journey from Kolkata to Varanasi, travelers will traverse a diverse array of cities and towns across eastern India. The route begins in Kolkata, progressing through key hubs such as Asansol, Jamshedpur, and Gamharia before reaching Tatanagar, renowned for its industrial significance. Continuing northeast, the journey covers Kharagpur, Balasore, and Bhubaneswar, offering cultural and historical landmarks, then proceeds through Cuttack, Dhenkanal, and Angul. The route then moves further inland, passing through Dhampur, Lalitpur, Kanpur, and Etawah, before reaching the heart of Uttar Pradesh via Auraiya, Hamirpur, Rae Bareli, and Sultanpur. Finally, travelers arrive in Varanasi, a spiritual city renowned for its temples, ghats, and vibrant cultural heritage.
Best time to travel
The best time to travel from Kolkata to Varanasi is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and temperatures are moderate. Traveling during this period helps avoid the intense heat of summer and the monsoon rains, making the journey more comfortable. Additionally, winter months offer better visibility and safer driving conditions, especially through regions that can experience heavy rainfall or high temperatures. Planning your trip within this timeframe ensures a smoother, more enjoyable journey with fewer weather-related interruptions.
Road conditions and safety tips
Traveling from Kolkata to Varanasi involves passing through diverse road conditions, ranging from well-maintained highways to narrower, congested routes. It is essential to stay attentive to road signs and adjust your speed according to the terrain and traffic flow to ensure safety. Regularly checking your vehicle's condition, including brakes and tires, is crucial for a smooth journey. Additionally, taking breaks at safe intervals, staying alert for other drivers, and avoiding nighttime driving can significantly reduce the risk of accidents on this extensive route.
Major tolls and fees
Driving from Kolkata to Varanasi involves passing through several states, and travelers should anticipate multiple tolls along the route. Major toll plazas are located near Asansol, Jamshedpur, Kharagpur, Bhubaneswar, and Kanpur, where fees vary based on vehicle type. These tolls are collected to maintain the highways and ensure smooth transportation across different regions. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash or digital payment methods to facilitate quick transactions at these toll booths, thereby reducing travel delays.
Recommended stops and sightseeing attractions
Traveling from Kolkata to Varanasi offers numerous interesting stops and sightseeing opportunities along the route. In Asansol, visitors can explore local markets and the beautiful Anand Vihar Lake, while Jamshedpur is known for the Tata Steel Zoological Park and Jubilee Park. Kharagpur features the historic Kharagpur Railway District, and Bhubaneswar boasts temples like Lingaraj and Mukteshvara, reflecting rich ancient architecture. Upon reaching Varanasi, travelers can visit iconic sites such as the ghats along the Ganges River, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and Sarnath for spiritual and cultural experiences.
Fuel stations en route
Starting from Kolkata, fuel stations are readily available in Asansol and Jamshedpur, ensuring convenient refueling options early in the journey. As you pass through Kharagpur and Balasore, multiple fuel stations offer reliable services, especially near major junctions. Continuing towards Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, fuel stations are plentiful, supporting travelers heading northeast. Approaching Kanpur, Etawah, and finally Varanasi, numerous fuel outlets are accessible, making it easy to maintain fuel levels throughout the road trip.
Accommodation options for overnight stays
Travelers driving from Kolkata to Varanasi have a variety of accommodation options for overnight stays along the route. Cities such as Jamshedpur, Kharagpur, Bhubaneswar, and Kanpur offer numerous hotels ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels, ensuring comfort for different preferences and budgets. Smaller towns like Balasore, Dhenkanal, and Lalitpur also provide decent lodgings suitable for short stays, often with local hospitality. Planning ahead is advisable, especially in larger cities, to secure accommodations that suit your needs and ensure a restful night before continuing your journey.
Local cuisine and dining spots
Along the journey from Kolkata to Varanasi, travelers can enjoy a diverse array of local cuisines and dining experiences. In Kolkata, savor authentic Bengali dishes such as macher jhol (fish curry) and sweets like rasgulla, enjoyed at local eateries. As you pass through Jamshedpur and Bhubaneswar, you can indulge in regional flavors like South Indian dosas and Odia cuisine, with many roadside stalls offering spicy and flavorful options. Approaching Varanasi, the city's renowned street food scene offers delectable chaats, lassi, and traditional Banarasi dishes, making every meal a memorable cultural experience.
Emergency contacts and roadside assistance
When traveling from Kolkata to Varanasi, it is essential to be prepared for emergencies by keeping a list of important contacts. Roadside assistance services can provide help in case of breakdowns, tire issues, or accidents along the route, ensuring safety and quick resolution. It's advisable to have the contact numbers of local police, ambulance services, and major roadside assistance providers saved beforehand. Staying connected and informed can make your journey smoother and safer, especially on long-distance routes through multiple states.