Kashi by Train: A Spiritual Journey to Varanasi with Food Onboard

Also known as Kashi or Banaras, it is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It is situated along the sacred banks of the Ganga, Varanasi. It’s not just a city, but a living symbol of spirituality, devotion, and India’s timeless traditions. For thousands of years, pilgrims, poets, and philosophers have walked the ghats of Varanasi, seeking inner peace and divine connection.

If you are traveling for religious reasons, cultural exploration, or sheer curiosity, embarking on a Delhi to Varanasi train journey is one of the most rewarding and effective ways to arrive in the city. 

The Journey Begins: Delhi to Varanasi by Train

The Delhi to Varanasi train route is one of India’s most popular rail journeys, not only because it connects two major cities, but also due to the spiritual significance attached to the destination.

Covering approximately 800 kilometers, the train journey from Delhi to Varanasi takes around 10 to 14 hours, depending on the train you choose. 

Multiple daily trains like Shiv Ganga Express, Vande Bharat Express, Kashi Vishwanath Express, and more connect the capital city to the spiritual heart of India. The route passes through culturally rich regions of Uttar Pradesh, offering scenic glimpses of the Gangetic plains, rustic villages, and vibrant stations. It is a slice of India in motion, with the rhythmic hum of the train tracks adding to the charm.

How to reach Varanasi by train? Log into IRCTC, pick from several available options, check travel times, and book your seat. You will find everything from budget-friendly sleeper coaches to air-conditioned compartments for a more comfortable ride.

A Quick Glimpse: Train Options from Delhi to Varanasi

Train Name	Travel Time	Departure	Arrival	Class Options
Shiv Ganga Express	10 hrs	18:55	05:00	2A, 3A, SL
Vande Bharat Express	8 hrs	06:00	14:00	Executive, Chair Car
Kashi Vishwanath Exp	13 hrs	11:35	01:10	2A, 3A, SL

Must-Try Food Items for Fun on Tracks 

From spicy chaat to sweet jalebis, the Delhi to Varanasi train journey offers endless opportunities for fun on tracks, especially for foodies.

Your culinary adventure begins when the train pulls out of Delhi station. Whether you are a food-lover or a traveler who enjoys a warm meal, Indian trains offer plenty of treats along the way, especially with food order services. 

North Indian Snacks (Samosas, Kachoris, Chaat)

No Indian train journey is complete without samosas. Crisp, golden, and stuffed with spicy potato filling, they’re the g o-to comfort food. At stops like Kanpur and Allahabad (Prayagraj), local vendors often hop on the train selling kachoris—a flaky, deep-fried snack filled with lentils and spices.

Are you craving something tangy? Try chaat. From aloo tikki to papdi chaat, these spicy-sweet delights are great pick-me-ups between longer stretches.

Fun Fact: Did you know that samosas were initially brought to India from Central Asia and were once called “sambusak”? Today, they are a staple in every Indian snack box!

Sweet Treats (Jalebi, Ladoos)

Nothing pairs with the scenery better than a fresh jalebi, a bright orange spiral of sugary perfection. Crisp outside and syrupy inside, jalebis are often served with hot milk in the morning on platforms like Tundla or Mughalsarai.

Ladoos, especially motichoor ladoos, are another favorite. These melt-in-mouth sweets are offered by vendors onboard and at major stations. Perfect to celebrate the journey to a holy land.

Traditional Thalis (Vegetarian Meals)

Long journeys call for wholesome meals, and what is better than a traditional North Indian thali? It’s a complete meal with rice, dal, chapatis, sabzi (vegetable curry), pickle, and a sweet, all neatly packed.

Due to snacks delivery in train, you can now order regional delicacies like Banarasi dum aloo, paneer bhurji, or jeera rice delivered hot right to your seat. Clean, safe, and absolutely tasty!

Tips for Comfort and Engaging Kids During Long Train Rides

Traveling by train is an experience in itself. Here are some tips to make your Delhi to Varanasi train journey smooth and spiritually enriching:

• Book Early: Trains to Varanasi fill up fast, especially during festivals. Book your tickets in advance on IRCTC.
• Choose the Right Train: If you’re short on time, opt for faster options like Vande Bharat Express.
• Pack Light but Smart: Keep essentials like a water bottle, power bank, scarf, wet wipes, essential medicines, and sanitizer handy.
• Stay Hydrated: Carry bottled water or buy sealed water bottles from IRCTC-authorized vendors.
• Layer Up: AC coaches can get chilly. A light shawl or blanket helps.
• Download Entertainment: Music, books, or meditation apps can keep you engaged.
• Carry Games and Books: Coloring and activity books can help kids stay happily busy on long journeys. Board games and cards can also add to the fun.

Journey to Varanasi: Celebrate Flavors Delivered Right to Your Seat with Swiggy

Gone are the days when train travel meant settling for bland pantry food. Now, you can feast on curated regional dishes, snacks, and desserts delivered straight to your seat. With Swiggy’s IRCTC Food Order services, you don’t need to compromise on quality, taste, or hygiene.

All you need is your PNR number. Choose from a list of partner restaurants at major stations en route—Delhi, Kanpur, Allahabad, or even Varanasi, and order via Swiggy. You will receive fresh meals right at your seat, with no mess and no stress.

This service is especially helpful for families traveling with kids or older adults, where food preferences and cleanliness matter even more. Imagine enjoying a full vegetarian thali or warm parathas with curd while watching the sunset over the Ganga plains. 

Conclusion

A train journey from Delhi to Varanasi is more than just a travel route, it’s a soulful experience. From the moment you board the train, the anticipation builds. The changing landscapes, the flavors of India on your plate, and the camaraderie of fellow travelers all contribute to the magic.

By the time you reach Kashi, you’re not just physically transported; you are spiritually elevated. And with services like Swiggy ensuring that your food needs are taken care of, you are free to sit back, reflect, and soak in the essence of this sacred pilgrimage.

Whether it is your first visit or the tenth, traveling by train offers a unique, deeply connected way to arrive at India’s spiritual heartland.

FAQ

1. What is the best train to travel from Delhi to Varanasi?

The Vande Bharat Express is the fastest and one of the most comfortable trains on this route. For overnight options, Shiv Ganga Express and Kashi Vishwanath Express are reliable and popular choices.

2. What should I carry with me on the train to make the journey more comfortable?

Carry essentials like a power bank, toiletries, wet wipes, light blanket, reading material, snacks, and a water bottle. A neck pillow and travel slippers can also make the ride more relaxing.

3. How long is the train journey to Varanasi?

The Delhi to Varanasi train journey takes around 10 to 14 hours, depending on the train you choose. Superfast trains like Vande Bharat take under 9 hours.