Banaras Station

Sonali Singh March 6, 2025 Banaras No Comment

Banaras Station: A Complete Guide to Varanasi’s Railway Hub

Banaras Station is one of the most significant railway stations in Varanasi, connecting the city to major destinations across India. It plays a crucial role in transportation, providing convenience to thousands of travelers daily. Whether you’re a tourist, a pilgrim, or a local commuter, understanding the features and facilities of Banaras Station is essential.

History of Banaras Station

Banaras Station, formerly known as Manduadih Railway Station, has a long-standing historical significance. The station was recently renamed Banaras Junction to enhance its identity and align it more closely with the city’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

Established in the early 20th century.
Recently modernized to improve passenger experience.
Major junction for trains traveling to eastern and northern India.

Location and Connectivity

Banaras Station is strategically located, providing easy access to various parts of the city and neighboring states. It serves as an alternative to the busy Varanasi Junction.

Address: Manduadih, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Distance from Key Landmarks:
- Varanasi Junction – 5 km
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple – 6 km
- Banaras Hindu University – 9 km
- Assi Ghat – 8 km
Connectivity:
- Well-connected by local transport such as auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses.
- Railway lines link it to Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai.

Facilities at Banaras Station

Banaras Station has undergone recent upgrades, making it a passenger-friendly railway hub.

Ticketing Services

Online and offline ticket booking available.
Reservation counters for general and tatkal bookings.
Digital kiosks for quick ticket printing.

Waiting Rooms and Lounges

AC and non-AC waiting halls.
Retiring rooms for travelers requiring overnight stays.
Clean and well-maintained seating areas.

Food and Refreshments

Multiple food stalls and restaurants offering local and continental cuisine.
IRCTC-approved food services with hygienic meal options.
Tea stalls and vending machines for quick snacks.

Cleanliness and Sanitation

Well-maintained restrooms and washrooms.
Regular cleaning and waste management.
Drinking water facilities at multiple points.

Security and Safety

Presence of Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP).
CCTV surveillance for enhanced security.
Emergency helpline numbers displayed at various points.

Types of Trains at Banaras Station

Banaras Station serves various types of trains catering to different categories of travelers.

Express Trains – Connect major cities with limited stops.
Superfast Trains – Faster travel with higher ticket fares.
Passenger Trains – Budget-friendly options with multiple halts.
Luxury Trains – Special trains for tourists, including Buddhist Circuit Trains.

Popular Trains from Banaras Station

Train Name	Destination	Frequency
Banaras – New Delhi Express	New Delhi	Daily
Kashi Vishwanath Express	Mumbai	4 Days a Week
Banaras – Howrah Superfast	Kolkata	Daily
Mahamana Express	Varanasi – Delhi	3 Days a Week

Future Developments at Banaras Station

Banaras Station is undergoing major redevelopment projects aimed at improving passenger experience.

Expansion of platforms to accommodate more trains.
Introduction of modern escalators and elevators.
Smart station initiatives, including digital displays and AI-based information systems.

Nearby Attractions

If you have a layover or spare time, consider visiting these popular attractions near Banaras Station:

Kashi Vishwanath Temple (6 km) – One of the most revered temples in Hinduism.
Dashashwamedh Ghat (7 km) – Famous for its evening Ganga Aarti.
Sarnath (12 km) – An important Buddhist pilgrimage site.
Banaras Hindu University (9 km) – One of India’s top educational institutions.
Manikarnika Ghat (7 km) – A sacred cremation site on the Ganges.

How to Reach Banaras Station

By Train: Direct trains from major Indian cities.
By Road: Well-connected via NH-19 and NH-31.
By Air: Nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, 25 km away.

Conclusion Banaras Station is more than just a railway hub; it’s a gateway to the spiritual and cultural essence of Varanasi. With its modern facilities, strategic location, and easy connectivity, it serves as a vital transport link for pilgrims, students, and tourists alike. Whether you’re arriving for a spiritual journey or exploring the city’s rich heritage, Banaras Station ensures a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.