Varanasi is not only a spiritual city but also a perfect starting point for short escapes and fun-filled journeys. You can easily plan a road trip from here, where you get a unique mix of culture, nature and history. If you want to take a little break from the daily routine, there are plenty of amazing weekend getaways from Varanasi, which make the best option for a road trip. Within a short drive, you can experience heritage towns, serene riverside spots, wildlife sanctuaries and natural beauty.
Places to visit near Varanasi by road include popular tourist hubs as well as offbeat destinations where the crowds are less and the vibes are very peaceful. These trips are ideal for couples, families and friends as there is something special to be found at every place. Whether you like adventure or a calm atmosphere, road trips from Varanasi make your weekend memorable. So start planning now and discover those hidden gems that are just a drive away from this city on the Ganges.
Why Take a Road Trip from Varanasi?
A road trip from Varanasi is not just about reaching a destination but also about enjoying the journey. Varanasi road trip options are perfect for those who want to take a break from the city’s spiritual hustle and explore nearby gems. Whether you are looking for weekend escapes from Varanasi or a longer holiday drive, the roads open up to many exciting experiences. From scenic countryside views to historical towns and natural spots, road trips from Varanasi give you a mix of culture and adventure. Driving through highways and small villages makes the journey memorable and gives you a real taste of local life. So if you are planning your next getaway, a Varanasi road trip can be the best way to relax, explore and create unforgettable travel memories.
Best Places to Visit Near Varanasi by Road (Under 300 km)
If you are searching for places to visit near Varanasi within 300 Km for your short drive, you will find ample options that will confuse you. There are several wonderful tourist attractions near the city that you can easily visit during your road trips from Varanasi. Whether you are looking for a spiritual detour, a historical trail or weekend gateways near Varanasi, these places offer you a wonderful experience.
Prayagraj (Allahabad) – Approximately 120 km away from Varanasi, drive time is 3-4 hours. The road is on NH19, which is quite smooth and well-maintained. The spiritual view of the confluence of the Yamuna and Ganga and heritage sites like Allahabad Fort make it a peaceful getaway. The best time to plan a Varanasi to Prayagraj cab drive is during winter and the months of Magh Mela.
Chitrakoot – Almost 250 km away, it takes 6 hours to reach here. The roads are a bit mixed, but the greenery and natural charm of the Vindhya hills make the journey beautiful. Chitrakoot is famous for its Ramayan connection and events. It is best to visit between October and March.
Bodh Gaya – It is a journey of 255 km and takes 6-7 hours. It is best to travel via NH19 and NH22, where the highway is quite smooth. The spiritual charm of the yatra is further strengthened by the Mahabodhi Temple and monasteries. The winter months are perfect for visiting here.
Ayodhya – It is one of the most popular attractions for travellers from Varanasi. It is located just a 220 km drive, which takes around 5-6 hours to complete. Roads are mostly in good condition, and the scenic views of the countryside make the trip pleasant. Ayodhya is a must-visit for its several ancient temples, including the renowned Ram Mandir and religious vibes. The best time is from October to March.
Kaushambi – It is one of the centers of historical sites and religious destinations near Varanasi, just 170 km away. The roads between Varanasi and Kaushambi are decent, and the fields and rural views give you a calm feel. The town is famous as a renowned historical Buddhist site that attracts heritage lovers. Winters and early summers are good times to visit here.
Lucknow –It is a long drive of around 320 km, which takes 6-7 hours. The roads are quite smooth, and the highway journey is comfortable. Lucknow is a perfect weekend getaway for its Nawabi heritage, kebabs and shopping. October to February is the best season.
Hill Stations Near Varanasi by Road
If you want a little break from the heat and want to enjoy the cold air around Varanasi, then some amazing hill stations near Varanasi by road can be a perfect choice for you. These destinations are not only full of natural beauty but also make the road trip experience memorable.
Sonbhadra – Almost 100 km away from Varanasi, it takes around 3 hours to reach here. The road is mostly smooth, and the green hills and villages in between look quite scenic. The forests and small hill ranges here give you a peaceful break. During the summer, this place is considered one of the best summer getaways from Varanasi.
Mirzapur – It is around 65 km away from Varanasi and a drive of 2 hours. The road is winding but quite well-maintained. Mirzapur is famous for its waterfalls, hills and temples. Monsoon and winter are the best times to visit here, as that is when the natural beauty is at its peak. If you want to visit cool places near Varanasi, then Mirzapur is a must-visit.
Chunar Fort – It is just 40 km away from Varanasi and can be easily reached in 1 to 1.5 hours. Built on the banks of the Ganges, this historic fort gives a royal feel amidst the hills. The road is simple and smooth, from where you get a beautiful view of the river and small hills. The best season here is winter, when the weather is cool and comfortable.
Rajdari & Devdari Waterfalls –These waterfalls are in the Sambhada district and are around 80 km away from Varanasi. The drive takes 2.5 to 3 hours, and the road passes between hills and green valleys, which are quite scenic. These waterfalls display their full flow beauty during the monsoon season, and it is best to visit at that time. This place is a hidden paradise for nature lovers.
Offbeat & Less-Crowded Escapes Near Varanasi
If you want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Varanasi and are in the mood for a peaceful weekend trip, then these offbeat places near Varanasi will be perfect for you. There are fewer crowds here, and one gets a calm vibe with nature, which makes the travel experience even more special.
Aurwatand Canyon & Falls (Chandauli) – Almost 75 km away from Varanasi, it takes around 2 hours to reach here. The road is mostly smooth, and the route passing through the jungle is quite scenic. The raw natural beauty of the waterfalls and canyons here will make you feel absolutely different. The best time to visit is the monsoons and winters, when greenery and water flow are at their peak. Truly one of the hidden places near Varanasi, which is a must for photography and nature lovers.
Rohtasgarh Fort (Bihar Border) – This ancient fort is approximately 130 km from Varanasi, and the travel time takes around 4 hours. The road is mixed, sometimes smooth and sometimes a little rough, but because of the hilly route, the journey itself becomes an adventure. Along with the scenic views, you also get a glimpse of history. The best season to visit is winter, when the weather is cool and hiking is comfortable. This is an extremely offbeat place near Varanasi where you spot less crowd.
Jaunpur –It is just 65 km from Varanasi, and the road is quite smooth and fast, such that you can easily reach there in 1.5 hours. The Shahi Qila, Atala Masjid and historical bridges here give you a cultural vibe. The scenic appeal may not be too natural, but it is perfect for experiencing a heritage and peaceful town. You can visit here year-round, but the winter and spring seasons are the most comfortable.
Ahraura – This small town is on the Mirzapur side and is around 60 km away from Varanasi. It takes approximately 2 hours, and the road is quite scenic as it passes through hills and greenery. The lakes and forests here give a very calm and relaxing vibe, which is best for peaceful weekend trips from Varanasi. The best seasons are monsoons and early winters when the weather is cool and nature looks fresh.
Adventure & Wildlife Getaways Near Varanasi
If you want to add a little adventurous and wild touch to your Varanasi trip, then nearby wildlife spots are the best option, where you can enjoy a safari along with road trips. These wildlife places near Varanasi not only showcase natural beauty but also offer a different experience, which feels perfect with family or friends.
Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary: It is approximately 90 km from Varanasi, and it easily takes 2-3 hours to reach here by car. The road is mostly smooth, and there are green fields and small hill views on the sides of the highway, which make the drive more scenic. Here you get a chance to see leopard, sloth bear and multiple bird species. The best time is from November to March when the weather is pleasant.
Panna National Park: It is a bit of a long drive, around 380 km from Varanasi, and it takes 7-8 hours to reach here. The roads are mostly highways with a few forest patches where the scenic beauty gets enhanced further. This park is famous for its Royal Bengal Tiger and gharial. Winter and early summer, i.e. the October to April season, is considered the best for safari.
Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary: It is only 65 km away and can be comfortably reached in 2 hours. The road is narrow but passes through nature, which gives a peaceful vibe to the drive. Along with waterfalls, deer, blue deer and small mammals are easily spotted here. The time from September to February after the monsoon is the most beautiful here.
Kushinagar: Along with the wildlife, it also gives a spiritual touch as it is known for Buddha's Mahaparinirvana place. It is 230 km from Varanasi and approximately a 5-6-hour drive. Roads are mostly smooth, and sugarcane fields and rural charm are visible on the route. For adventure, eco-parks and bird watching options are available here. The best season is from October to March when the climate is travel-friendly.
Spiritual Places Near Varanasi
If you have come to Varanasi and want to explore the spiritual places near Varanasi, then there are some of the best options for you, which are perfect for religious road trips. To explore them, you can choose local transport or a comfortable Varanasi car rental. All these places are famous for temples and sacred spots, and you can also enjoy scenic views during the road trip.
Vindhyachal ( 70 km | 2 hours)
Vindhyachal is a very popular pilgrimage site located in the Mirzapur district. The Maa Vindhyavasini Temple here attracts lakhs of devotees every year. The road from Varanasi to Vindhyachal is mostly smooth, and the highway drive is quite comfortable. The scenic appeal is seen in the views of the hills and the Ganga River. The best season is from October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant.
Sitamarhi ( 60 km | 1.5 hours)
Sitamarhi is known for the Sita Mata Temple and is a peaceful spot where you will feel religious vibes. The road from Varanasi to here is good and passes through greenery, which makes the road trip relaxing. Scenic appeal will be found through rural landscapes and traditional villages. The best time to visit here is from November to February.
Triveni Sangam, Allahabad/Prayagraj ( 120 km | 3 hours)
This is the place where Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati meet, and it has immense religious significance. The highway drive from Varanasi to Triveni Sangam by cab is smooth and wide, and you get views of local ponds and fields en route. The scenic appeal comes from the sacred aura of the riverside and Sangam area. The best season is during Makar Sankranti or Kumbh Mela, but this trip is even more soothing during the winter months.
Deo Kund (Dewakund) (55 km | 1.5 hours)
Deo Kund is famous for a sacred pond and temple, which are associated with stories of ghosts and gods. The natural surroundings and clear reflection of water make this spot quite peaceful. The religious road trip from Varanasi is moderate with some rural patches, but the journey is overall enjoyable. The scenic appeal is created by the natural water body and lush greenery. The best season is from after the monsoon to winter, when the pond is full and the surroundings look fresh.
Travel Tips for Road Trips from Varanasi
If you are starting your journey from Varanasi, then a little smart planning is necessary so that the trip becomes smooth and stress-free. The first and most important tip is to always start your road trip early in the morning, especially during weekends or peak season days, so that you can avoid traffic and enjoy it with a fresh mind. Also, keep a stock of snacks and water in your bag so that you do not face any problem on long stretches and energy is saved. Do carry power banks because during road trips, both phones' GPS and entertainment keep working.
Also, do not forget to check the weather and road conditions before setting out, because some routes can become slow during the monsoon or construction time. It is also important to keep cash handy because not every toll or small dhaba accepts online payment. And for the easiest and most comfortable option, use CabBazar, where you can easily book a cab online and make your Varanasi road trip hassle-free. If you follow these small Varanasi road trip tips, your travel experience will become even smoother and memorable.
Best Time to Visit These Places from Varanasi
Varanasi is one of the religious destinations that welcomes devotees and tourists with open arms at any time of the year. But to enjoy its cultural activity and spiritual richness, visiting the city during peak time is best. So, for the best Varanasi gateway timing, just read the points below and choose which is perfect for you to plan.
Summer (Mar–Jun): If you plan a getaway from Varanasi in the summer season, then the best option is the nearby hill destinations because the heat is quite intense here. The hills of Mirzapur and Chunar come in a range of around 120-150 km, which can be covered in 3-4 hours by car. The road condition is mostly smoother than NH, and in between, one gets views of the Ganga banks and greenery, which make the trip a little scenic. The hill areas give a little cool atmosphere in summer, so it is the best time for short road trips.
Monsoon (Jul–Sep): During the monsoon time, the route around Varanasi becomes absolutely green and fresh and short drives and trips around the ghats seem perfect. Places like Vindhyachal and Allahabad, at a distance of around 80-100 km, attract the audience, where the drive takes about 2-3 hours. The roads can be a little slippery, but the greenery and the view of the clouds above the Ganges give a unique vibe. It is important to drive a little carefully during this season, but the travel experience is very peaceful.
Winter (Oct–Feb): This season is the most popular for travelling from Varanasi, as the weather is cool and comfortable. Destinations like Ayodhya and Bodh Gaya are easily covered in a range of 150-200 km, and the drive takes about 4-5 hours. The highways are quite smooth, and there are historical as well as scenic points on the route. Festivals like Dev Deepawali and Makar Sankranti are quite special in winter, and if you travel at this time, the experience of local culture gets doubled.
FAQs
Q1. What are the best weekend getaways near Varanasi by car?
Sarnath, Allahabad, Ayodhya and Chunar Fort are very popular options for weekend getaways from Varanasi. All these places are easily accessible by road and can be covered in a 2–4 hour drive.
Q2. Can I take a one-day road trip from Varanasi?
Yes absolutely. You can visit Sarnath, Vindhyachal, Chunar Fort or Ramnagar Fort in one day. All these spots are at a short distance where you can leave in the morning and return at night.
Q3. What are some good family-friendly destinations from Varanasi?
For a family trip, Sangam of Allahabad, temples of Ayodhya and the spiritual vibe of Bodh Gaya are best. These destinations are perfect for every age group, and one gets a cultural experience along with sightseeing.
Q4. How can I book a cab for a road trip near Varanasi?
You can book a cab through online cab booking platforms or local travel service providers. It is best to book in advance so that the trip goes smoothly and the driver can also guide you well on local routes and tourist spots.
Q5. Are there hill stations within 300 km of Varanasi?
Yes, there are limited hill stations around Varanasi, but the Vindhyachal Hills of Mirzapur and the green landscapes around Chunar make for a perfect little hill getaway. If you want to travel a little farther, you can explore the hill stations near Netarhat and Ranchi.
If you want to take a little break from your busy city life, then now is the time to plan a relaxing journey with your family or friends. Whether you want a short weekend outing or want to enjoy a long drive, you can easily plan a road trip from Varanasi and explore the hidden gems nearby. CabBazar makes this experience even smoother for you with clean cabs, verified drivers and pocket-friendly fares. You just have to choose your destination, and the rest of the journey becomes hassle-free. Next time, when you search for weekend getaways from Varanasi cabs, do not forget to book with CabBazar, as this journey becomes not just a trip but a memorable experience. So what's the delay? Pack your bags and enjoy a safe and comfortable ride with Cab Bazaar.
