Best Way to Travel in Varanasi - Complete 2026 Guide
Discover the best transportation options in Varanasi. Compare auto, taxi, scooty, and bike rental. Expert tips for exploring Banaras efficiently.
Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities. Navigating this ancient city requires understanding your transportation options. This comprehensive guide helps you choose the best way to travel in Varanasi.
Transportation Options in Varanasi
1. Renting a Scooty (Recommended)
Best for: Solo travelers, couples, budget tourists
Advantages:
- Navigate narrow lanes easily
- Most economical at ₹299/day
- Complete freedom to explore
- Easy parking near ghats and temples
- Fuel efficient (45-50 kmpl)
Disadvantages:
- Requires valid driving license
- Not ideal in heavy rain
- Need to be comfortable with traffic
Perfect for exploring: Ghats circuit, temple tours, BHU campus, Sarnath day trip
2. Renting a Bike
Best for: Experienced riders, long-distance travel
Advantages:
- More power for highway rides
- Comfortable for two riders
- Better for outstation trips
- Premium riding experience
Starting from: ₹499/day for Honda CB Shine, ₹799/day for Royal Enfield
3. Auto Rickshaws
Best for: Short distances, no license
Typical Fares:
- Varanasi Cantt to Godowlia: ₹80-100
- Assi to Dashashwamedh: ₹50-70
- BHU to Cantt: ₹100-120
Disadvantages:
- Meter rarely used
- Bargaining required
- Can't reach narrow lanes
- Costs add up quickly
4. Cycle Rickshaws
Best for: Old city exploration, short distances
Advantages:
- Environment friendly
- Access to narrower lanes
- Cultural experience
- Budget friendly (₹20-50)
Disadvantages:
- Very slow
- Limited distance coverage
- Not comfortable in heat
5. App Cabs (Ola/Uber)
Availability: Limited in Varanasi
Best for: Airport/railway station transfers
Typical Fares:
- Airport to Assi: ₹350-450
- Cantt to Assi: ₹150-200
6. Walking
Best for: Ghat exploration, old city lanes
Many areas of old Varanasi are best explored on foot, especially the ghats and temple lanes.
Our Recommendation: Rent a Scooty or Bike
For 90% of tourists, renting a scooty or bike is the best option. Here's why:
Cost Comparison (3-Day Stay)
- Auto rickshaws: ₹500-700/day = ₹1500-2100 total
- Scooty rental: ₹299/day + ₹150 fuel = ₹1347 total + complete freedom
- Bike rental: ₹499/day + ₹200 fuel = ₹1697 total + touring capability
Freedom & Flexibility
With your own vehicle:
- Visit ghats at sunrise (5-6 AM)
- Explore Sarnath at your pace
- Stop anywhere for photos
- Return to hotel anytime
- Discover hidden gems
Areas Perfect for Two-Wheeler Exploration
- Ghat Circuit: Assi → Dashashwamedh → Manikarnika → Panchganga
- Temple Tour: Kashi Vishwanath → Durga Temple → Sankat Mochan → Tulsi Manas
- BHU Campus: Vishwanath Temple → Museum → Gardens
- Sarnath Day Trip: 10 km from Varanasi, perfect for scooty
Tips for Riding in Varanasi
- Start Early: Less traffic before 9 AM
- Helmet Mandatory: Always wear helmet (provided with rental)
- GPS Navigation: Download offline maps
- Fuel Stations: Available in Sigra, BHU, Cantt areas
- Parking: Use paid parking near ghats (₹10-20)
- Traffic: Left-hand traffic, be cautious at roundabouts
Best Areas to Stay for Easy Transportation
- Assi Ghat: Best for tourists, close to everything
- Sigra: Central location, well-connected
- Lanka/BHU: Student area, budget friendly
- Mahmoorganj: Near Cantt railway station
When NOT to Rent a Vehicle
- Staying only 1 day with tight schedule
- Only visiting ghats by boat
- Not comfortable with Indian traffic
- Heavy monsoon season (July-August)
Booking Your Scooty/Bike in Varanasi
Pick-up Locations:
- Varanasi Cantt Railway Station
- Assi Ghat area
- BHU/Lanka
- Sigra
- Mahmoorganj
What You Need:
- Valid driving license
- Aadhar card/ID proof
- Refundable security deposit (₹1000-3000)
Conclusion
For independent travelers wanting to maximize their Varanasi experience, renting a scooty or bike is the clear winner. It combines affordability, flexibility, and authentic local experience.
At just ₹299/day for a scooty, you save money compared to daily auto fares while gaining complete freedom to explore this magical city.
Related Articles
Ready to explore Varanasi? Book your scooty or bike today and experience the freedom of riding through the spiritual capital of India!