Famous Railway Stations in and Around Varanasi

Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India, is not only a city of temples and ghats but also a major railway hub of North India. Every year, millions of devotees, students, and tourists visit the city, and the railway network of Varanasi plays a vital role in connecting it with the rest of the country.

The region has several important railway stations including Varanasi Junction, Banaras Railway Station, Manduadih, Kashi Station, and Mughalsarai (Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction). Each of these stations is significant in terms of passenger handling, modern facilities, and connectivity.

  1. Varanasi Junction (BSB) – Varanasi Cantt
  2. The busiest and most famous railway station of the city, Varanasi Junction, also known as Cantt Station, serves as the main gateway for travelers. It connects Varanasi to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, and all major Indian cities. Equipped with multiple platforms, waiting rooms, retiring halls, food stalls, and digital boards, it provides modern facilities for passengers.

  3. Banaras Railway Station (BSBS)
  4. Banaras Station is a newly modernized hub located in the city. With upgraded infrastructure, clean platforms, modern waiting areas, and advanced ticketing systems, it has become a preferred boarding point for many travelers. It is directly connected to several cities across Uttar Pradesh and neighboring states.

  5. Manduadih Railway Station (MUV)
  6. Recently developed as a world-class railway station, Manduadih Station is another important terminal in Varanasi. The station features modern architecture, better passenger amenities, spacious waiting areas, and enhanced security. Many premium trains, including express and superfast trains, originate or terminate here.

  7. Kashi Railway Station (KEI)
  8. Kashi Station mainly caters to local passenger trains and short-distance travel. It serves as a convenient option for residents of nearby areas and is gradually being improved to handle more traffic efficiently.

  9. Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction (DDU) – Formerly Mughalsarai
  10. Located around 15 km from Varanasi, this is one of the largest railway junctions in India and a major hub in the East Central Railway zone. Earlier known as Mughalsarai Junction, it was renamed in honor of Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya. With over 400 trains passing through daily, it plays a critical role in connecting eastern India with the rest of the country.

Why These Stations Are Important?

  • High Connectivity –Direct trains to almost every part of India.
  • Pilgrimage Access –Easy routes to Varanasi, Sarnath, Prayagraj, Ayodhya, and Bodh Gaya.
  • Modern Facilities –Renovated stations with lounges, retiring rooms, digital info systems, and better hygiene.
  • Tourist-Friendly –Availability of prepaid taxis, autos, and local transport near stations.

Final Thoughts

Varanasi and its nearby stations like Varanasi Junction, Banaras, Manduadih, Kashi, and Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction (Mughalsarai) form the backbone of railway connectivity in Eastern Uttar Pradesh. Whether you are a pilgrim, tourist, or business traveler, these stations ensure smooth, reliable, and comfortable journeys to and from the holy city.