Last Updated on June 10, 2025 by admin
The road trip from Gorakhpur to Varanasi is a spiritual and cultural passage between two of India’s most deeply rooted cities. While Gorakhpur is known for its historic Gorakhnath Math and peaceful temples, Varanasi (Kashi) stands as one of the world’s oldest living cities on the banks of the sacred Ganga River. Whether you’re a pilgrim, a history lover, or a visitor looking for a peaceful break, this trip will offer you the perfect mixture of spirituality, history, and local flavour.
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It has a distance of around 220–230 km which takes around 4-5 hours. Gorakhpur to Varanasi road trip is ideal for weekend getaways, religious visits, or exploring the roots of Indian culture. And, riding by a taxi from Gorakhpur to Varanasi will be a good option whether travelling with family or friends or planning a solo ride.
1. Route Overview: Gorakhpur to Varanasi Road Trip
While planning to ride at this route, generally you will ride via NH-28 and NH-31. It will cover around 220 to 230 kilometres via Azamgarh town. This journey typically takes 4 to 5 hours, depends on traffic and weather conditions too. The roads of Gorakhpur-Varanasi are generally in good condition, especially near major towns, but some stretches may have construction or slow-moving traffic, particularly during monsoons or festival seasons.
Route Highlights:
- Gorakhpur → Deoria → Salempur → Mau → Ghazipur → Varanasi (NH-29/NH-31)
- Alternate Route: Gorakhpur → Dohrighat → Azamgarh → Varanasi (if you want to explore eastern UP towns or avoid the highway)
During the trip, you’ll pass through rural Uttar Pradesh area, grain fields, small towns, and local market-places, giving you a true taste of eastern India’s local cultures.
2. Places to Visit on the Route
The trip from Gorakhpur to Varanasi is one of the top routes in Uttar Pradesh and good in the view of road condition and traffic. You will get various opportunities to take a break, explore, and soak in the unique vibe of eastern Uttar Pradesh. From river-side scenic beauty to busy markets and traditional dhabas, the journey itself will be just as memorable as the city of ghats.
a. Ghaghara River Banks
As you move through the Deoria or Ballia region, a short taxi-ride will take you to the banks of the Ghaghara River. This river is a significant tributary of the Ganga and flows gracefully through rural areas and offers a peaceful break from the highway. The riverside of the Ghaghara is especially scenic during sunrise or sunset when the light reflects gently off the water. Here, you can stretch your legs, click a few selfies, or enjoy the quiet sounds of nature.
b. Deoria
Deoria is a good town on the route via Chauri Chaura – a historical spot that reminds freedom fighters. It is a good place to experience the local culture. Known for its colourful bazaars and traditional temples, Deoria gives a glimpse into small-town life in UP. You can explore markets for regional snacks, handcrafted items, or textiles. Temples like the Somnath Mandir and Siddheshwar Nath Temple are peaceful places for a quick visit. And, the town offers a few small eateries where you can enjoy local-style meals or snacks.
c. Mau
Mau is a well-known stop for those interested in traditional weaving. The town has a strong reputation for its handloom textile industry, especially in sarees and other ethnic fabrics. If you’re curious about how local artisans work or want to shop directly from the source, this is a great place to halt. Besides textiles, Mau also has some different food flavours and rest areas for travellers visiting the town. You can find it as a mini cultural experience with traditional Indian craftsmanship.
d. Highway Dhabas and Tea Shops
No road trip in North India is complete without a break at a roadside dhaba. The highways between Gorakhpur and Varanasi are dotted with local dhabas and tea stalls that serve hot food and authentic regional snacks. Enjoy delicious parathas, spicy samosas, or piping hot jalebis along with a strong cup of chai. All these route stops are not only great for food but also give you a chance to mingle with locals, stretch out, and refresh yourself.
e. Ghazipur (Optional Stop)
If you have some extra time, a taxi-journey to Ghazipur will add a different variety to your journey to the city of ghats. This town is famous for its historic Ganga Bridge and gorgeous flower markets. The ghats here are less crowded, making them friendly for peaceful moments by the river. The town also offers a few temples and local markets worth exploring. Especially if you’re in the mood to discover offbeat places along the route, it may be a good stop.
3. Top Things to Do in Varanasi
After completing the Gorakhpur to Varanasi road trip, once you arrive in Varanasi city, the spiritual energy of the city instantly surrounds you. The city offers the ghats, temples, sounds of bells, and holy chants that make it a timeless experience. Here are the top things you must not miss:
a. Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
This grand evening ceremony with lamps, chants, and music is a soul-stirring experience. Arrive early to grab a spot or book a boat to watch the Aarti from the river.
b. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Kashi Vishwanath temple is one of the most famous temples belongs to Lord Shiva. This sacred temple attracts thousands of pilgrims each year. A darshan here is a must for anyone visiting Varanasi.
c. Boat Rides in the Ganga
A morning boat ride during sunrise is the best way to witness life on the ghats. From cremation rituals at Manikarnika Ghat to morning prayers, the view from the river is unforgettable.
d. Sarnath
Located just 10 km from Varanasi city, Sarnath is a tourist spot where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, and Sarnath Museum to explore Buddhist history.
e. Street Food and Local Shopping
Try Varanasi’s famous kachori-sabzi, tamatar chaat, and sweets like malaiyyo or rabri. Don’t miss shopping for Banarasi silk sarees, brass idols, and wooden toys in markets like Godowlia and Vishwanath Gali.
4. Food and Stay in Varanasi
Once you reach Varanasi, the city’s flavour is as rich in taste as it is in culture. You can start your religious journey with a plate of kachori sabzi from one of the many street vendors in Godowlia or Thatheri Bazar. Pair it with a glass of creamy Banarasi lassi topped with malai. Don’t forget to try the iconic Banarasi paan, a symbol of the city’s unique identity.
For a proper sit-down meal, restaurants like Baati Chokha, Kashi Chat Bhandar, or Deena Chaat Bhandar are popular among locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re looking for spicy street food or a full North Indian thali, Varanasi has something to satisfy every palate.
In terms of stay options, you can choose according to your budget and preferences:
- Budget & Mid-range: Hotels and guesthouses near Assi Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, or Luxa Road offer affordable yet comfortable rooms with easy access to temples and ghats.
- Luxury: The Cantonment area has upscale hotels like Taj Ganges, Radisson Hotel, or BrijRama Palace, which offer premium services, Ganga views, and a peaceful ambience after a long day.
5. Best Time for a Road Trip
The best months to plan your Gorakhpur to Varanasi road trip are from October to March. The weather during this time is cool and ideal for sightseeing, temple visits, and boat rides. These months also cover major festivals like Dev Deepawali, Makar Sankranti, and Holi, which make the ghats even more vibrant and lively.
The monsoon season (July to September) brings lush greenery along the route, but roads can become slippery, and some areas may face waterlogging. If you’re planning during this time, it’s advisable to check the weather forecast and leave with extra time in hand.
Summer months (April to June) is very hot in this region. If you travel during these months, you should carry water and wear light cotton clothes. Also, you can plan your outdoor activities during early morning or late evening hours to avoid the heat.
6. Why Choose a Taxi for Gorakhpur to Varanasi Road Trip?
When planning a trip between these two cities, booking a taxi may be the best option, whether alone or with family. At the place of public transport, a cab booking gives you the freedom to stop where you want, take breaks at scenic points or dhabas, and travel according to your own schedule. There’s no need to adjust to train timings or struggle with crowds at bus stations.
By booking a taxi for a Gorakhpur to Varanasi road trip, you will get clean, well-maintained vehicles driven by professional and courteous drivers. Whether you’re travelling alone, with family, or with elders, you’ll appreciate the door-to-door pickup and drop-off service, 24/7 support, and flexible options. You can book a sedan, SUV, or tempo traveller based on your group size. The ride becomes smooth and worry-free when the cabs and driver are both reliable—something a taxi service ensures every time.
7. Why Book with Bharat Taxi?
When you’re planning a Gorakhpur to Varanasi road trip like this, choosing the right travel partner matters—and that’s where Bharat Taxi comes in.
Here’s why our customers love booking with us:
- Multiple Cab Types: From budget hatchbacks and sedans to spacious SUVs and tempo travellers—we have options for every group size and budget.
- Local Drivers: Our drivers are experienced and familiar with local routes, traffic, and the best places to stop.
- 24/7 Booking Support: Whether you need help booking, modifying a trip, or during the journey, our support team is available round the clock.
- Clean & Sanitised Cabs: You will get clean and well-sanitised cabs that will make your ride comfortable.
- Affordable Cab Packages: We offer taxi packages for one-way trips, round trips, and multi-day packages.
8. Travel Tips for a Safe Journey
To make the most of your Gorakhpur to Varanasi road trip, here are some helpful tips:
- Carry Valid ID Proofs: You can keep it for hotel check-in and smooth border movement if you’re heading beyond Varanasi.
- Pack Light Snacks & Water: Especially helpful during longer stretches with fewer shops.
- First-Aid Kit: Basic medicines for motion sickness, fever, or minor injuries.
- Mobile Chargers & Power Banks: Your mobile is both your camera and navigator—keep it charged.
- Dress Comfortably: Light cotton clothes in summer; a light jacket in winter.
- Respect Local Customs: Especially near temples and ghats.
- Vehicle Hygiene: All Bharat Taxi vehicles are regularly sanitised, and our drivers follow COVID-era cleanliness practices.
Whether you’re planning a spiritual journey to Varanasi or a quick family road trip, the Gorakhpur to Varanasi route offers culture, serenity, and great memories. With Bharat Taxi as your travel partner, your ride becomes more than just a transfer—it becomes part of the experience.
Our main goal is to offer safe, clean, and affordable travel facilities so you can focus on what matters: spending quality time, visiting holy places, and enjoying the journey.