Learn how to easily reach Sarnath by air, train, or road. This guide covers all transport options and essential travel tips for your journey.
Quick Overview
A glance at transport options
| Mode of Transport | Best For | Main Arrival Point |
|---|---|---|
| By Air | Fast travel | Varanasi Airport |
| By Train | Comfortable / budget travel | Varanasi Junction |
| By Road | Road trips / nearby cities | Main Highways |
| By Bus | Budget intercity travel | Varanasi Bus Stand |
How to Reach Sarnath by Air
Flying to the nearest airport
Sarnath does not have its own airport; the nearest is Varanasi Airport (IATA: VNS), located about 26 kilometers away. It offers domestic flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata.
From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use app-based cab services to reach Sarnath. The drive takes around 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Buses also operate from the airport but are less frequent.
How to Reach Sarnath by Train
Traveling comfortably by rail
The main railway station for Sarnath is Varanasi Junction (Station Code: BSB), well-connected to many cities across India. Major trains run frequently from cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai.
Once you arrive at Varanasi Junction, Sarnath is about a 10-kilometer drive. You can take an auto-rickshaw or a taxi, which will take approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
How to Reach Sarnath by Road
Exploring Sarnath by road
Sarnath is well-connected by road. The most important highways include NH19 and NH31, making it easily accessible from cities like Varanasi (10 km), Lucknow (320 km), and Patna (250 km).
Traveling by car is common, and the roads are generally in good condition. Taxis and private cabs are also available for hire. If you're up for a road trip, it’s a great way to explore the beautiful Indian landscape.
How to Reach Sarnath by Bus
Affordable travel by bus
The main bus terminal for Sarnath is in Varanasi. Many state-run and private buses connect Varanasi with nearby cities like Allahabad, Ayodhya, and Gorakhpur.
From the bus terminal, you can easily take an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach Sarnath, which is about a 30-minute drive, depending on traffic. Buses are budget-friendly options for intercity travel.
How to Reach Sarnath from Major Cities
Transport connections from nearby cities
| From | Approx. Distance | By Air | By Train | By Road |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Varanasi | 10 km | 20 mins | 15 mins | 20 mins |
| Lucknow | 320 km | 1 hour | 8 hours | 6-7 hours |
| Allahabad | 120 km | No direct flights | 2 hours | 3-4 hours |
| Patna | 250 km | No direct flights | 4-5 hours | 7 hours |
| Gorakhpur | 200 km | No direct flights | 4-5 hours | 4-5 hours |
Local Transportation in Sarnath
Getting around the city
Once in Sarnath, you have several local transportation options. Auto-rickshaws are popular for quick trips, while taxis are great for longer distances. Travelers can also rent bikes or scooters for a more local experience.
Walking is a pleasant way to explore, especially around the archaeological sites. Shared transport and app-based cabs are also available for convenience.
Travel Tips for Reaching Sarnath
Helpful advice for a smooth journey
- Book flights or trains early, especially during peak seasons.
- Check the latest transport schedules for your convenience.
- Allow extra time for road traffic when planning your arrival.
- Compare travel times and costs before choosing your transport.
- Make sure to check local transport options from your arrival point to your hotel.
- Keep all your booking information easily accessible during your trip.
