Varanasi City Railway Station: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Varanasi City Railway Station, also known as Varanasi Junction (code: BSB), is a major railway station serving the holy city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India. Situated on the banks of the River Ganges, the station is a hub for both domestic and international rail travel, connecting Varanasi to major cities across the country and beyond.
Key Facts and Figures
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Established: 1862
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Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Railway Zone: North Eastern Railway (NER)
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Platforms: 11
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Tracks: 25
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Annual passenger traffic: Over 50 million
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Daily trains: Over 300
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International destinations: Nepal, Bangladesh
Infrastructure and Facilities
Varanasi City Railway Station is a modern and well-equipped facility, offering a wide range of amenities to passengers. These include:
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Booking counters: 36 computerised booking counters
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Waiting halls: For different classes of passengers
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Retiring rooms: For overnight stays
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Cloakroom: For storing luggage
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Restaurants and food stalls: Featuring local and international cuisine
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Medical assistance: Provided by the Indian Red Cross Society
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Tourist information: Assisted by the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department
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Free Wi-Fi: Throughout the station
Connectivity
Varanasi City Railway Station is well-connected to other modes of transport, making it easy to reach the station and travel onwards to different destinations.
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Road: The station is located on the Varanasi-Mirzapur Highway and has ample parking space for cars and buses.
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Air: The Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) is located approximately 26 kilometers from the station, with regular bus and taxi services connecting the two.
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Boat: Boat services are available from the station to different ghats along the River Ganges.
Train Services
Varanasi City Railway Station is served by a wide range of train services, including:
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Intercity Express: Trains connecting Varanasi to major cities across India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai.
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Shatabdi Express: High-speed trains offering premium travel experience and amenities.
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Duronto Express: Overnight trains designed for long-distance travel.
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Rajdhani Express: Luxury trains connecting Varanasi to New Delhi.
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International trains: Trains connecting Varanasi to Kathmandu, Nepal, and Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Why Varanasi City Railway Station Matters
Varanasi City Railway Station plays a crucial role in the connectivity and economic development of Varanasi.
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Pilgrimage Hub: Varanasi is one of the holiest cities in India, attracting millions of Hindu pilgrims every year. The railway station serves as a vital gateway for pilgrims from all over the country.
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Tourism: The station also serves as a starting point for tourists visiting Varanasi and exploring its rich cultural and historical heritage.
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Business and Commerce: Varanasi is a major commercial center, and the railway station facilitates the movement of goods and people.
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Employment: The railway station employs a significant number of people, both directly and indirectly.
Benefits of Using Varanasi City Railway Station
There are numerous benefits to using Varanasi City Railway Station.
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Convenience: The station is conveniently located near the city center and major attractions.
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Connectivity: The station offers excellent connectivity to both national and international destinations.
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Accessibility: The station is easily accessible by road, air, and boat.
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Amenities: The station provides a wide range of amenities and services to enhance passenger comfort.
Stories and Lessons Learned
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The Lost Train Pilgrim: A pilgrim from a remote village missed his train from Varanasi to Haridwar. Desperate and lost, he approached a station official for help. The official went above and beyond to locate the pilgrim's train and ensure he boarded it in time.
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Lesson: The importance of timely assistance and compassionate service.
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The Foreign Traveler's Dilemma: A foreign traveler arrived at Varanasi station with limited knowledge of Hindi and Indian customs. A kind-hearted local passenger offered to guide the traveler through the station and help him purchase a ticket.
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Lesson: The kindness and hospitality of strangers.
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The Power of Teamwork: During a severe storm, the railway staff at Varanasi station worked tirelessly to ensure the safety and comfort of passengers. They coordinated efforts to reschedule trains and provide shelter to stranded passengers.
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Lesson: The value of teamwork and dedication in challenging situations.
How to Reach Varanasi City Railway Station
By Road:
- Take National Highway 2, also known as the Grand Trunk Road, to reach Varanasi City Railway Station from nearby cities.
- Local buses and taxis are also available from major cities in Uttar Pradesh and other states.
By Air:
- Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) is the nearest airport to Varanasi City Railway Station.
- Take a bus or taxi from the airport to the station, which takes approximately 30-45 minutes.
By Boat:
- Ferries and motorboats operate from various ghats along the River Ganges to Varanasi City Railway Station.
- This scenic route allows you to experience the beauty of the holy river while traveling to the station.
Step-by-Step Guide to Traveling from Varanasi City Railway Station
Before Departure:
- Book your train tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid last-minute surprises.
- Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before your train's scheduled departure for check-in and security screening.
- Keep your ID card or passport handy for verification purposes.
At the Station:
- Locate the departure platform for your train.
- Board the train and find a comfortable seat.
- Stow your luggage in the overhead racks or under your seat.
- Relax and enjoy the journey.
Upon Arrival:
- Gather your belongings and exit the train at the destination station.
- Check the station maps or ask station officials for directions to your onward destination.
- Utilize the various transportation options available, such as taxis, buses, or rental cars.
FAQs
Q: What is the station code for Varanasi City Railway Station?
A: The station code is BSB.
Q: How many platforms does Varanasi City Railway Station have?
A: 11 platforms.
Q: Can I get food and beverages at the station?
A: Yes, there are several restaurants and food stalls offering a variety of cuisines.
Q: Is there Wi-Fi at the station?
A: Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the station.
Q: Can I book train tickets at the station?
A: Yes, there are 36 computerised booking counters available for ticket booking.
Q: Is there a cloakroom at the station?
A: Yes, a cloakroom is available for storing luggage.
Q: How do I get to the Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport from the station?
A: You can take a bus or taxi from the station to the airport, which takes approximately 30-45 minutes.
Useful Tables
| Table 1: Top 5 Destinations from Varanasi City Railway Station |
|---|---|
| Destination | Number of Trains |
| Delhi | 25 |
| Mumbai | 15 |
| Kolkata | 12 |
| Chennai | 10 |
| Patna | 8 |
| Table 2: Train Classes Available at Varanasi City Railway Station |
|---|---|
| Class | Amenities |
| First Class AC (1A) | Full-length reclining seats, TV, meals |
| Second Class AC (2A) | Berths with AC, bedding, meals |
| Third Class AC (3A) | Berths with AC, bedding |
| Sleeper Class (SL) | Berths without AC, bedding |
| General Compartment (GEN) | Non-reserved seating |
| Table 3: Station Services with Contact Information |
|---|---|
| Service | Contact Information |
| Booking Counters | 0542-2410142 |
| Retiring Rooms | 0542-2410134 |
| Cloakroom | 0542-2410135 |
| Tourist Information | 0542-2410143 |
| Medical Assistance | 0542-2410136 |