A Tale of Two Trains
The route between New Delhi and Varanasi is now serviced by not one, but two Vande Bharat Express trains, enhancing connectivity and offering greater flexibility for travellers. The original service, train number 22436, caters to early risers with a morning
departure. More recently, a second afternoon service, train number 22416, was introduced to accommodate growing demand. This dual-service model effectively creates a high-speed rail corridor, allowing passengers to choose a departure time that best suits their itinerary, whether they are travelling for business, pilgrimage, or leisure. Both trains offer a premium travel experience, effectively halving the time it once took on other express services and making a weekend trip a comfortable reality.
Schedule, Speed, and Amenities
The Vande Bharat Express completes the journey between New Delhi (NDLS) and Varanasi Junction (BSB) in approximately eight hours, a remarkable feat for the distance. The first train (22436) departs New Delhi at 6:00 AM, reaching Varanasi by 2:00 PM. It runs on all days except Thursday. The second service (22416) leaves New Delhi at 3:00 PM and arrives in Varanasi at 11:05 PM, operating six days a week, with no service on Tuesday. Onboard, passengers are treated to modern amenities designed for comfort and convenience. These include plush reclining seats, GPS-based passenger information systems, automatic sliding doors, bio-toilets, and CCTV cameras for security. Catering is included in the ticket fare, with meals and snacks served at your seat, ensuring a seamless and relaxing journey.
A Look at Fares and Classes
Travellers can choose between two classes: the AC Chair Car (CC) and the Executive Chair Car (EC). The Executive Class offers more spacious seating with a 2x2 configuration and rotating seats, providing a more luxurious experience. The AC Chair Car features a comfortable 3x2 seating arrangement. Fares are dynamic and can vary based on the time of booking, but as a general guide, a ticket in the AC Chair Car costs approximately ₹1,800, while the Executive Chair Car is priced around ₹3,300. These fares are inclusive of all catering charges, so you don't have to worry about buying food during your journey. Booking can be done online through the IRCTC website or app, and it is advisable to book in advance, as these trains are very popular.
Travel Possibility 1: Kanpur Central
The first major stop on this route is Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh's industrial hub. While many use Kanpur as a transit point, the city offers its own unique points of interest for those willing to explore. Historically known as the 'Manchester of the East', Kanpur is famous for its high-quality leather goods, and a quick visit to the market can be a rewarding shopping experience. For history enthusiasts, the Kanpur Memorial Church, an elegant Gothic structure built in memory of British soldiers from the 1857 uprising, offers a quiet and contemplative stop. Another significant nearby site is Bithoor, a serene town on the banks of the Ganga, steeped in Hindu mythology and history. The Vande Bharat's brief halt makes a quick exploration challenging, but it opens possibilities for planned stopovers.
Travel Possibility 2: Prayagraj Junction
The second stop, Prayagraj, is a destination in itself. As one of India's holiest cities, it holds profound spiritual significance. The city is famed for the Triveni Sangam, the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. A boat ride to the Sangam to witness the meeting of the waters is a quintessential Prayagraj experience. The city is also home to the massive Allahabad Fort, built by Emperor Akbar, which stands at the edge of the confluence. Within its vicinity lies the Patalpuri Temple. For those interested in modern Indian history, a visit to Anand Bhavan, the ancestral home of the Nehru family, is a must. The Vande Bharat makes Prayagraj more accessible than ever for a dedicated spiritual or historical tour.
