India’s spiritual heart beats through its sacred cities, and Varanasi and Mathura are two of its most iconic centers of devotion. While Varanasi is revered as the eternal city of Lord Shiva, Mathura holds immense significance as the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Every year, thousands of pilgrims and cultural travelers include both destinations in their journey to experience the profound spiritual heritage of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers.
Traveling from Varanasi to Mathura is common among those seeking to connect the divine dots across northern India. This travel guide provides practical, up-to-date information on how to reach Mathura from Varanasi using trains, flights, buses, and private transport. Whether you prioritize speed, cost-efficiency, or convenience, we’ve covered all possible travel routes and tips to help you plan a smooth and enriching journey.
2. Distance Between Varanasi and Mathura
Understanding the distance and logistics between Varanasi and Mathura is key to planning your trip efficiently.
- By road: Around 600–620 km via NH19
- By train: Rail distance varies between 580–640 km, depending on the route
Average travel time:
- By car or taxi: 10–12 hours
- By train: 9–11 hours (depending on train type)
- By flight (with road connection): 6–8 hours total travel time
Most routes go through major cities like Prayagraj, Kanpur, and Agra. If you’re driving or hiring a car, these make for convenient stopovers. For train travelers, most services pass through Tundla, Kanpur, or Etawah before reaching Mathura Junction.
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3. Best Way to Reach Mathura from Varanasi
Depending on your budget, schedule, and comfort preference, the best way to reach Mathura from Varanasi may vary:
- Trains are the most economical and commonly used method.
- Flights with a road/train leg (via Delhi or Lucknow) are the fastest but costlier.
- Private car or taxi offers flexibility and is ideal for families or group travel.
- Buses are the cheapest option but less comfortable for long journeys.
If you’re a solo traveler or pilgrim on a budget, opt for a Varanasi to Mathura train. For those prioritizing time and comfort, book a flight to Delhi and take a cab or train from there to Mathura. Use apps like IRCTC, RedBus, MakeMyTrip, or Goibibo to compare fares and availability.
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4. Varanasi to Mathura by Train
Traveling from Varanasi to Mathura by train remains one of the most reliable and cost-effective methods for travelers. Several direct and weekly trains serve this route, making it easy to plan both in advance and at short notice.
Direct Weekly Trains:
19670 HUMSAFAR EXPRESS
- Departs Varanasi Jn (BSB) at 05:05
- Arrives at Mathura Jn (MTJ) around 20:10
- Duration: Approx. 15h 05min
13239 PNBE KOTA EXP
- Departs Varanasi Jn at 16:35
- Arrives Mathura Jn at 06:40 next day
- Duration: Approx. 14h 05min (fastest train)
- Runs on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday
13167 KOAA AGC EXPRESS
- Departs Varanasi Jn at 23:00
- Reaches Mathura Jn at 14:30 next day
- Duration: Approx. 15h 30min
13237 PNBE KOTA EXP
- Similar timings and frequency as 13239, with minor differences
Additional Train Options:
- 19037 AVADH EXP
- 15909 AVADH ASSAM EXP
- 12925 PASCHIM EXPRESS
- 11062 JYG LTT EXP
- 12618 MNGLA LKSDP EXPRESS
Key Details:
- Travel time: 14–15.5 hours
- Availability: Weekly or bi-weekly options
- Classes: Sleeper, AC 3-tier, AC 2-tier
Booking Tips:
- Use IRCTC or popular platforms like Trainman, ConfirmTkt, or Paytm for booking
- Check running status and seat availability ahead of time
- Choose overnight trains to save on accommodation
Boarding stations: Varanasi Junction (BSB), Banaras (BSBS), Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyay Junction (DDU)
Destination: Mathura Junction (MTJ) — well-connected to local transport and religious sites
5. Mathura from Varanasi by Flight
There are no direct flights from Varanasi to Mathura, as Mathura doesn’t have a commercial airport. However, combining a flight with road/train travel can reduce your overall journey time.
Step-by-step flight route:
- Fly from Varanasi Airport (VNS) to Delhi (DEL) or Agra (AGR)
- From Delhi or Agra, take a cab or train to Mathura
Flight duration:
- Varanasi to Delhi: ~1.5 hours
- Varanasi to Agra: ~2 hours (fewer flights available)
Post-flight travel time:
- Delhi to Mathura: ~3 hours by train or road
- Agra to Mathura: ~1–1.5 hours by cab or train
Estimated total cost: ₹3,500–₹6,000
Estimated total time: 6–8 hours
This is a good option if you’re short on time or already planning to visit Delhi or Agra. Use apps like IndiGo, SpiceJet, or Air India for real-time schedules.
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6. Varanasi to Mathura by Road (Car or Taxi)
For travelers who enjoy scenic drives or want the flexibility of stops, road travel from Varanasi to Mathura is a solid option.
Route:
- Varanasi → Prayagraj → Kanpur → Etawah → Agra → Mathura
- Covers around 600–620 km
Estimated travel time: 10–12 hours (without long stops)
Estimated fuel cost: ₹3,500–₹4,500 (one-way in petrol/diesel car)
Driving tips:
- Start early to avoid urban traffic in Varanasi and Kanpur
- NH19 is generally in good condition
- Rest stops and dhabas are available near Prayagraj and Kanpur
Car rental options:
- Zoomcar, Revv for self-drive
- Savaari, Ola Outstation, or local taxi services for chauffeur-driven cabs
This mode is great for families, small groups, or those looking to stop at places like Prayagraj or Agra en route.
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7. Mathura from Varanasi by Bus
If you’re traveling on a tight budget and have the stamina for a long haul, buses are a workable option. However, no direct government or private buses typically run from Varanasi to Mathura daily.
Here’s how you can travel via bus:
- Take a bus from Varanasi to Kanpur or Agra
- From Kanpur/Agra, catch a connecting bus to Mathura
Timings and Fare:
- Total travel time: 12–15 hours (including transfers)
- Fare: ₹600–₹1,000 depending on the type of bus
Bus types:
- Non-AC sleeper
- AC sleeper (limited availability)
Booking platforms:
- RedBus
- UPSRTC (Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation)
- AbhiBus, Paytm Travel
Bus travel is suitable for budget backpackers or those unable to secure train tickets, but it’s not ideal for families or senior citizens due to the longer and less comfortable journey.
8. Suggested Religious Circuit: Varanasi – Ayodhya – Mathura
If you’re on a pilgrimage, you might consider including Ayodhya between Varanasi and Mathura to complete a spiritual triangle:
Route: Varanasi → Ayodhya → Mathura
- Varanasi to Ayodhya: ~220 km (by train or car)
- Ayodhya to Mathura: ~515 km
Why include Ayodhya?
- Birthplace of Lord Rama
- Rich in temples and mythological history
This circuit lets you experience the spiritual essence of three major deities: Shiva (Varanasi), Rama (Ayodhya), and Krishna (Mathura).
You can plan train or road legs between these cities, or look for religious package tours that cover the entire route with accommodation and guided experiences.
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9. Travel Time and Cost Comparison
Here’s a practical comparison table for Varanasi to Mathura travel options:
| Mode | Time (Approx.) | Cost Range | Comfort Level | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train | 9–11 hours | ₹400–₹1,200 | Moderate to High | Pilgrims, budget travelers |
| Bus (with transfer) | 12–15 hours | ₹600–₹1,000 | Low to Moderate | Backpackers, budget travelers |
| Car/Taxi | 10–12 hours | ₹3,500–₹5,000 | High | Families, small groups |
| Flight + Train/Road | 6–8 hours | ₹4,000–₹7,000 | High | Time-sensitive travelers |
Choose based on your available time, travel comfort needs, and whether you want to make stops along the way.
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10. Travel Tips for Journey Mathura from Varanasi
Make your journey from Varanasi to Mathura smoother with these practical travel tips:
- Advance bookings: Trains and flights can get fully booked quickly, especially during festivals
- Travel off-peak: Avoid major festivals unless you enjoy crowds; off-season travel is quieter
- Stay hydrated and carry snacks for long journeys
- Overnight trains help save time and money on accommodation
- Check train platforms and coach position using apps like NTES or Where is My Train
- Verify bus operators and reviews before booking long-distance buses
- Secure your belongings in trains and buses—use locks and keep valuables close
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11. Places to Explore Between Varanasi and Mathura
If you’re driving or planning a longer journey, consider exploring these noteworthy attractions en route:
Prayagraj (Allahabad):
- Triveni Sangam, Anand Bhavan, and Kumbh Mela site
Kanpur:
- JK Temple, Allen Forest Zoo, and Kanpur Memorial Church
Etawah Safari Park:
- Wildlife park on the Agra–Lucknow Expressway
Agra:
- Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Mehtab Bagh, and Fatehpur Sikri
Adding even a few hours in these cities can make your journey far more enriching and memorable.
12. Conclusion
Traveling from Varanasi to Mathura connects two of India’s most sacred spiritual centers. Whether you take a train for cost-efficiency, a car for flexibility, or a flight for speed, there are multiple ways to make the journey smooth and convenient.
Pilgrims, families, and explorers alike will find the route spiritually uplifting and culturally vibrant. Planning ahead and choosing the right travel mode can enhance your experience manifold.
Plan your route, book your tickets, and get ready to discover the divine journey between Kashi and Krishna Bhoomi!
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