A road trip from Varanasi to Prayagraj takes you to a enlightened journey of two most sacred and historic cities of India. Where Varanasi is known for its versatile and prosperous ghats, Ganga aarti rituals, never-ending chorus of chants and the eternal light of devotion, Prayagraj is famous as teerthraj and most visited for holy dip at Sangam- Confluence of three rivers – Ganga, Yamuna, and the hidden Saraswati. Both these places are filled with great stories which are older than history and connect you with deep spiritual experiences.
Let us take you on a journey which is more than just travel. Explore the legends of ancient temples, quiet riverbanks, and live peaceful moments of faith. From the Temple tour in Varanasi to the calm waters of Triveni Sangam, this trip brings you closer to India’s heart and soul and make it perfect for those who seek culture and spirituality together.
Varanasi to Prayagraj Distance
Distance between Varanasi and Prayagraj citiy is 120 km approx and it takes 2-3 hours to reach by road.
Best Route: Varanasi- Mohansarai- Gopiganj- Andawa- Prayagraj
How to Reach Prayagraj from Varanasi?
Formerly known as Allahabad, you will find several trains in the name of this city from Varanasi as well as public buses. You can start this short and worthwhile trip from Varanasi via several ways. In festive season or traffic, travel time can increase. If you choose to go by train, road, or your car, the smooth and well-connected networks of transportation will make your journey comfortable and convenient with a right planning.
By Train
If you are looking for a fast and budget-friendly option, then trains are best for you. The Vande Bharat Express (Varanasi- New Delhi) is one of the quickest ways to reach Prayagraj, completing the journey in 1.5 hours. If time is not the priority, then you may go with other trains that offer a slightly slower but more economical ride. Most of the trains take 2-3 hours for the journey depending on the route.
- Major stations in Varanasi: Varanasi Junction and Banaras Railway Station.
- Major stations in Prayagraj: Prayagraj Junction and Prayagraj Chheoki Junction.
- Booking: IRCTC, Paytm, and MakeMyTrip make the process easy
- Travel time: 2-3 Hours when train depart and reach on time.
By Bus
These are another cost efficient and simple option to travel from Varanasi to Prayagraj by road. You can select between government UPSRTC buses or private operators, based on your comfort and budget. AC, Non-AC, Sleeper, and Seater buses are available options.
- Travel time: Approx 2 to 3 hours (without traffic)
- Various platforms to book: You can hire a bus on rent in Varanasi from any trusted travel platform or travel with government-run buses, which are budget-friendly and easily available near to several locations.
- Booking Charges: Per person cost comes approx ₹250 to ₹450, depending on bus facility and service.
By Taxi or Tempo Traveller
If a relaxed or comfortable journey is the priority, then choosing a road trip in a comfortable private vehicle is the best option. If you love to self-drive, travel in your car or rent a car or Tempo Traveller in Varanasi for a comfortable group tour. These services are easily available with pick up at your location and custom trip plan as per your needs. You can make plan for full day, 8 hours, one way trip or 2 days trip according to your requirements.
- 12 Seater Tempo Traveller Cost for Varanasi to Prayagraj road trip: ₹8,000 to ₹12,000 for Same Day Round Trip
- Travel time: Around 2.5 hours
- Benefit: More flexibility, comfort, privacy, Complete control over where to pause, stop for food or sightseeing, and enjoy the road at your own pace
- Route Tip: NH31 via Handia is the most used route, offering smooth highways and scenic views
Suggested Read: How to Go Ayodhya from Varanasi?
Best Time to Visit Prayagraj
The Teerthraj City can be visited any time of the year for a Pavitra Snan at Sangam or any specific rituals you want to perform. If you are planning a trip to Prayagraj for sightseeing tours, best time to visit Prayagraj is from October to March with a moderate weatherwhen temperature remains lower and good to roam around. For locals who are planning for a day outing with family on a Sunday or weekend trip, anytime is perfect- but must check the temperature. For a comfortable trip, the winter months are perfect. If you are planning for Kumbh Mela, then travel as per the snan dates marked in Hindu Calendar.
What are the Famous Things to Do on a Prayagraj Tour?
Whenever you heard of Prayagraj, you must have a religious picture appearing in your mind. But let us tell you, there are more things to do in Prayagraj from visiting museums, gardens to adventure in water park.
Religious Trips- People coming to Prayag for spiritual tour can explore various temples such as Alopi Mata Temple, bade Hanuman Temple, Patalpuri Temple, Someshwar Mahadev Temple, Shivalaya Park, Kalyani Devi Temple, Mankameshwar Temple and Triveni Sangam for holy dip, puja rituals.
Also Explore: Varanasi Ayodhya Prayag Mathura Vrindavan Trip Plan
Weekend Trip with Family- If you are enough of exploring Varanasi and looking for some change, head to Allahabad for a day outing. Visit Khusro Bagh, Allahabad Fort, Anand Bhawan, Shivalaya park and enjoy a day in Fun Gaon water park.
Top Attractions to Explore in Prayagraj
- Triveni Sangam
The holy meeting point of three spiritual rivers. The Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati. A dip here is believed to wash away sins. Take a peaceful boat ride and soak in the calm.
- Bade Hanuman Ji Temple- A must visit temple near Sangam is famous for big idol of Lord Hanuman lying down. You will see a crowd of pilgrims here always specially on Tuesday and Saturday.
- Alopi Mata Temple- A Durga Shaktipeeth where people gather mostly in Navratris for darshan and puja rituals. It is said that, the last part of Sati fell here and got disappeared. People do prayers in front of an empty wooden carriage.
- Allahabad Fort
This fort was built during the rule of Akbar; it stands tall with its Mughal charm. Inside this fort, you will find the Ashoka Pillar and the underground Patalpuri Temple. Entry is limited, but the aura is timeless.
- Anand Bhavan and Swaraj Bhavan
These silent colonial homes once echoed with the voices of India’s freedom leaders. A must-visit place that feels close to the Nehru family’s legacy.
- Chandrashekhar Azad Park (Alfred Park)
A calm green space with echoes of history, the place where Azad made his stand for freedom.
- All Saints Cathedral
With its beautiful architecture and quietness, this is a place to quietly reflect on life.
- Khusro Bagh
Step into Mughal history. Beautiful tombs, arched gateways, and silent gardens tell the story of a royal past. A little bit of Mughal history lives on here. The beautiful tombs, arched gateways, and serene gardens help to tell the story of a royal place.
Where to Eat in Prayagraj: A Flavour You Won’t Forget
Food in Prayagraj has its flavour; simple, flavoursome, and served with a smile. If you would like a cool dine-in experience, EDEN by Connoisseur at Hotel Samrat is the spot, or enjoy the old-school comfort at Indian Coffee House. El Chico is great for continental bites, while Eat-On is perfect if you are craving a plate of spicy biryani. Tamarind Tree is great when you want chill vibes and comfort vegetarian food.
If you want to experience local food (which I would recommend), hot kachoris from Netram Mulchand Sons are something you should not miss. Taste a variety of sweets from Hira Halwai. As you walk around the city, keep an eye out for small roadside stalls — that’s where the real magic of Prayagraj’s street food lives. Try what the locals love, and let your taste guide you.
Where to Stay in Prayagraj
For comfort and convenience, Civil Lines is a good place where you can find various accommodation options to choose from. Few names include luxury options like Max Hotels, mid-range stays like Kunjpur Guest House, or several budget options like Itsy Hotels Royal Galaxy. OYO rooms and many affordable stay options exist in all areas of the city.
Guide for a Smooth Trip to Prayagraj from Varanasi
1. Try to pre-book the trains as well as the hotels if you are traveling in peak season or during festive seasons.
2. Always carry a valid ID for checking into hotels and while traveling.
3. If you are taking a road trip, try to leave Varanasi early to avoid traffic. For return trip, also try to depart between 4-5 PM or 7-8 PM to skip traffic.
4. Be aware of local customs and traditions, temples, and dress appropriately while visiting holy places.
5. During Kumbh Mela or any special event, travel time and darshan time at temples can increase, so plan accordingly.
FINAL WORDS
This Varanasi to Prayagraj Road Trip is more than a journey; this is an experience you feel within you. As you put one foot in front of the other and cross each mile, you leave behind the movement and chanting of Varanasi, to the serenity and grace of the Sangam in Prayagraj. The distance might just be a few hours, but what you experience along the way will last much longer.
This is not only about temples or rivers, but taking your time, breathing in the stories around you, and allowing the land to speak to your heart. If you have ever wanted for a journey to feel as if it moves your soul, this one will gently promise to do so.
Let the rivers move you. Let the silence of the Sangam speak. And perhaps, maybe you will carry more than just memories when you return home.