Uttar Pradesh is a state of dualities. Firstly, on one end, you have Lucknow, the City of Nawabs, echoing with refined Tehzeeb, famous kebabs, and grand Imambaras. Meanwhile, Varanasi (Kashi), the City of Lights, stands older than history itself, vibrating with the energy of Ganga Aarti and temple bells. The eternal cycle of life and death. Therefore, choosing a reliable Lucknow to Varanasi taxi service becomes the most comfortable way to experience this iconic road trip comfortably, safely, and at your own pace.
Together, these two cultural powerhouses create a journey every traveler should experience at least once. However, the way you choose to travel ultimately shapes what you see and feel along the way. Moreover, as trains are often crowded and flights feel rushed, a road trip from Lucknow to Varanasi lets you witness India changing mile by mile.
Our Lucknow to Varanasi taxi service is designed for pilgrims, families, and business travelers who want a stress-free journey. Whether you are a pilgrim seeking Moksha, a history buff chasing Mughal and Sharqi architecture, or a family looking for a safe weekend getaway, this guide covers everything you need to know about the Lucknow to Varanasi road trip. And why booking a premium chauffeur-driven cab with MTC Car Hire is the smartest decision you’ll make for this journey.
Lucknow to Varanasi Taxi Service Routes: Expressway vs Heritage Drive
Fortunately, the days of a bumpy, dust-filled 10-hour drive from Lucknow to Varanasi are long gone. In 2025, the infrastructure of Uttar Pradesh has transformed, giving you two distinct route options. Ultimately, your choice depends on what you want to experience.
Option 1: The Express Route (Via Purvanchal Expressway)
● Best For: Business travelers, families with kids, and those who prioritize speed and comfort. With an experienced driver, Lucknow to Varanasi taxi service via Purvanchal Expressway ensures a fast and fatigue-free journey.
● The Drive: To begin with, this route showcases modern India at its finest. Next, you start from Lucknow and seamlessly enter the Purvanchal Expressway. Finally, the 6-lane access-controlled highway allows premium SUVs to cruise smoothly until Varanasi.
● Time: Approximately 5.5 to 6 hours.
● Why MTC Recommends This: Consequently, the smooth tarmac means significantly less fatigue.
You arrive in Varanasi fresh, not exhausted, ready to head straight to the evening Aarti.
Option 2: The Heritage Route (Via NH-31 & Jaunpur)
● Best For: History lovers, photographers, and “slow travel” enthusiasts.
● The Drive: On the other hand, this route takes you through the heart of rural Uttar Pradesh. It is vibrant, occasionally chaotic, yet incredibly scenic. The highlight is the city of Jaunpur, often called the Shiraz-e-Hind.
● The Jaunpur Pause: Ask your MTC chauffeur to stop at the Shahi Bridge (Mughal Bridge). Built in the 16th century by Munim Khan, this massive stone bridge spanning the Gomti River is still in use and makes for a spectacular photo op. You can also glimpse the towering Atala Masjid, a masterpiece of Sharqi architecture.
● Time: 6.5 to 7.5 hours (including stops).
The Spiritual Detour: The “Golden Triangle” of UP (Ayodhya)
Since the consecration of the Ram Mandir, the travel dynamics of this region have changed forever. Many of our guests now choose to turn a simple transfer into a pilgrimage.
The MTC “Temple Trail” Plan:
Instead of driving straight to Varanasi, you can easily customize your MTC booking to include a meaningful stopover in Ayodhya.
- Depart Lucknow: 6:00 AM.
- Arrive Ayodhya: 8:30 AM (Via NH-27).
- Darshan & Lunch: Spend 4-5 hours visiting the Ram Janmabhoomi, Hanuman Garhi, and Kanak Bhawan.
- Depart for Varanasi: 2:00 PM.
- Arrive Varanasi: 7:00 PM (Just in time for dinner by the Ghats).
Why do this with MTC?
Attempting this detour via public transport is a logistical nightmare involving luggage lockers, multiple auto-rickshaws, and rigid train schedules. With a private Lucknow to Varanasi taxi service by MTC, your luggage stays safely locked in the boot while you focus on darshan. Our drivers know the city restrictions and the closest drop-off points to the temple complex, saving you kilometers of walking.
The “Dhaba” Experience: Culinary Pit Stops
In fact, no road trip in North India is truly complete without a hearty meal at a traditional highway Dhaba. The Lucknow-Varanasi corridor offers some rustic gems that serve food hotter and fresher than any 5-star hotel.
● Near Sultanpur: Look out for Sangam Dhaba or Fauji Dhaba. These are family-friendly spots known for their Tandoori Roti, Dal Fry, and Kadhai Paneer. The food is spicy, rich, and cooked in open kitchens.
● The “Kulhad” Chai: Throughout the journey, you will find tea stalls serving tea in clay cups (Kulhads). There is an earthly flavor to this tea that you simply cannot replicate in a city café.
MTC Tip: Our drivers are locals. They know exactly which Dhabas have clean washrooms—a crucial detail for families traveling with women and children!
The Challenge: Navigating the Chaos of Varanasi
Here is the truth that most travel blogs won’t tell you: driving inside Varanasi is not for the faint-hearted.
After all, Varanasi is one of the oldest living cities in the world; therefore, its streets were originally designed for pedestrians and bullock carts rather than SUVs. As you approach the city, however, traffic gradually thickens. Consequently, major intersections like Godowlia and Maidagin often fall under strict “No Vehicle Zones,” especially during the evening Ganga Aarti or festivals.
This is precisely where the MTC Chauffeur Advantage truly shines.
For instance, travelers using self-drive rentals often end up stressed, fined, or stuck in narrow lanes. Consequently, MTC chauffeurs know exactly how close they can safely get you to the Ghats before walking becomes necessary.
- Smart Drop-Offs: As a result, chauffeurs know exactly how close they can get you to the Ghats before walking becomes necessary.
- Parking Woes Solved:Moreover, since parking in Varanasi is scarce, finding a secure spot becomes the driver’s responsibility, not yours.
- Luggage Assistance: Additionally, chauffeurs assist with luggage and coordinate with hotel staff whenever required.
Best Cars for Lucknow to Varanasi Taxi Service
A 7-hour journey naturally requires excellent comfort.
For this reason, MTC India Mobility does not follow a “one car fits all” approach.
Instead, here is how you can choose the right ride for your journey.
● For the Power Couple:
○ Recommendation: Maruti Dzire or Honda Amaze.
○ Why: Economical, efficient, and comfortable for two people with 2-3 bags. Perfect for a quick weekend dash.
● For the Family Vacation (3-5 Pax):
○ Recommendation: Toyota Innova Crysta.
○ Why: The undisputed king of Indian highways. The “Captain Seats” in the middle row provide business-class comfort for parents or elders. The superior suspension flattens out any bumps on the state highways near Jaunpur.
● For the Big Pilgrimage Group (8-12 Pax):
○ Recommendation: Tempo Traveller.
○ Why: Keeping the whole family together is part of the fun. Our Tempo Travellers are spacious, AC-equipped, and allow you to sing bhajans or play games together without being split into two separate cars.
Why Choose MTC for Lucknow to Varanasi Taxi Service
In an otherwise unregulated private taxi market, MTC India Mobility clearly stands out as a reliable and trusted choice for travelers.
1. Police-Verified Chauffeurs
We understand that safety is the primary concern, especially for female travelers or late-night drives. Every MTC driver undergoes rigorous background checks and police verification. They aren’t just drivers; they are trained highway pilots who prioritize your safety over speed.
2. No “Return Fare” Shocks
One of the biggest scams in the taxi industry is the hidden “Return Fare” for one-way drops. With MTC, our pricing is transparent. Whether you book a One-Way Drop (where you pay for the drop distance) or a Round Trip, the fare structure is explained upfront. You pay for what you book. Tolls and taxes are billed on actuals—no markups.
3. Reliability for Early Starts
To beat the Varanasi traffic, we often recommend leaving Lucknow by 6:00 AM. When you book a local taxi, there’s always a fear: “Will he show up?” With MTC, our automated dispatch system and 24/7 control room ensure your car is at your doorstep 15 minutes before time. We track your ride from start to finish.
So, Plan Your Lucknow to Varanasi Road Trip Today
The road from Lucknow to Varanasi is a passage through time. It takes you from the architectural wonders of the medieval era to the spiritual timelessness of the Vedas. Don’t let the stress of driving or the discomfort of public transport dilute this experience.
Finally, sit back, recline your seat, watch the rural landscape of Uttar Pradesh roll by, and let MTC Car Hire drive you to divinity.
Ready to Book?
● Website: www.mtccarhire.com
● Call / WhatsApp: +91-7081609090
● Email: info@mtccarhire.com
Special Offer: Booking a round trip? Ask our support team about special packages for the “Ayodhya-Varanasi-Prayagraj” circuit!