Direct trains
Several trains run from Varanasi Junction to Mathura Junction. EaseIndiaTrip lists the Pnbe Kota Express (13239) leaving at 16:35 and arriving next morning around 06:40, about 14 hours 5 minutes, on set weekdays. The Humsafar Express (19670) leaves around 05:05 and arrives around 20:10. The Koaa-AGC Express (13167) leaves at 23:00 and reaches around 14:30.
Other named options include the Avadh Express (19037) and the Paschim Express (12925). Departure days change, so confirm on IRCTC.
Flight option
Varanasi has frequent flights to Delhi, usually about an hour and a half. From Delhi Airport a pre-booked cab reaches Vrindavan in 3 to 3.5 hours. This is the quickest way for three travellers or more, and it saves a night on the train.
The Kashi to Braj circuit
Pilgrims ask for a plan that connects Kashi Vishwanath, the Ganga aarti, and then Braj. We suggest doing Kashi first, then boarding a train that arrives in the morning at Mathura. Rest in Vrindavan, and begin with Banke Bihari on the afternoon darshan.
On the way back, Prayagraj or Ayodhya can be added with advance bookings.
Four days in Braj
- Day 1: arrive, rest, Vrindavan temples and evening aarti.
- Day 2: Mathura, Vishram Ghat and Dwarkadhish, and Gokul.
- Day 3: Govardhan and Radha Kund by cab.
- Day 4: Barsana and Nandgaon, then a night train home.
What Varanasi pilgrims value
Varanasi visitors tend to appreciate the quiet, and the connection between Shiva and Krishna in Braj: Gopeshwar Mahadev in Vrindavan is where Shiva took the form of a gopi to join the Raas. We include this in guided walks.
A long journey, well planned
Fourteen hours on a train is easier when you prepare. Carry a light shawl, a book of bhajans, and a flask. Pack dry snacks that suit elders. Many Varanasi families treat the train as a part of the yatra itself, with the Gita or Hanuman Chalisa read aloud.
If you leave from Varanasi Cantt or Manduadih rather than the Junction, tell us, because that changes how we plan the timing for your arrival.
Where Shiva meets Krishna
Braj has its own Shiva temples: Gopeshwar in Vrindavan, Bhuteshwar in Mathura, Chakleshwar at Govardhan and Nandeshwar at Nandgaon. For a Kashi pilgrim, these are special, and a guide can tell why Krishna's land welcomes Mahadev so warmly.
Ghats, arti and the Yamuna
Varanasi people know ghats. Vrindavan has Keshi Ghat in Vrindavan, Vishram Ghat in Mathura, where Krishna is said to have rested after Kansa, and Brahmand Ghat in Gokul. The Yamuna aarti in the evening at Vishram Ghat is a calm contrast to Kashi's grand Ganga aarti.
Sit on the steps and let the evening happen; there is no need to hurry.
- Running days and timings for 13239, 19670, 13167
- Varanasi to Delhi flight times and operators
- Gopeshwar Mahadev darshan timings
Dates checked: 2026-10-23