Varanasi runs three passenger stations, and booking into the wrong one costs an unplanned cross-city ride: Varanasi Junction (BSB) is the main station and the closest to the ghats (~4 km, reported); Banaras (BSBS) — the rebuilt Manduadih — mainly originates premium trains; Kashi (KEI) serves local and passenger halts farther out (~6 km, reported).
Checked 01 October 2026 from rail-guide reporting; confirm your train’s station on the ticket and IRCTC.
The comparison
| Station | Code | Role | To ghats | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Varanasi Junction | BSB | Most long-distance expresses | ~4 km (reported) | Default choice |
| Banaras | BSBS | Premium originating (Jan Shatabdi 15125/26, Vizag Express 18523/24 — reported) | ~4 km | Those specific trains |
| Kashi | KEI | Local/passenger halts | ~6 km | Short-hop riders |
Arriving, practically
- Prepaid/auto stand outside BSB — agree the fare or use app-cabs (Uber operates citywide, its own page confirms; supply thins in the old lanes).
- Godowlia is your drop point for ghat-belt hotels — the final lanes are foot-only.
- Night arrivals: BSB-side stays beat the ghats for a 10 PM check-in; move to the ghat belt next morning.
- Triangle travellers: BSB serves the Ayodhya and Prayagraj legs; the circuit guide’s leg times apply (2 h 24 m and ~1 h 25 m fastest, reported).
Frequently asked questions
Which station is closest to the ghats?
Varanasi Junction (BSB), ~4 km reported — also the busiest for expresses.
BSB vs BSBS — what’s the difference?
BSB = main junction, most trains. BSBS = Banaras station, premium originating services. Your ticket’s code decides where you get off.
