Varanasi to Gaya Cab Fare — One Way & Round Trip, AC/Non-AC

Book Swift Dzire, Innova Crysta, Ertiga, Tempo Traveller, Urbania Van, Minibus & more with TaxiYatri — no hidden charges, 24×7 service, verified drivers. Distance: ~250 km Travel Time: ~5.5 Hrs One Way Fare From: ₹3,200 Toll Plazas: 4–5. Varanasi to Gaya Cab Fare Guide

Varanasi to Gaya by Road — Everything You Need to Know

The road journey from Varanasi to Gaya covers approximately 250 kilometres via NH-19 (Grand Trunk Road / Purvanchal Highway), one of India’s oldest and most historically significant highways. The drive takes around 5 hours 30 minutes to 6 hours depending on traffic, vehicle type, and any planned stopovers.

Gaya is one of India’s most sacred pilgrimage cities — revered by Hindus for the Pind Daan (ancestor worship) ritual at the Vishnupad Temple and by Buddhists as the city adjacent to Bodh Gaya, where Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. A private cab from Varanasi is by far the most comfortable, flexible, and convenient way to make this sacred journey.

Primary Route (NH-19)

Varanasi → Daffi → Mohania → Sasaram → Aurangabad → Dobhi → Gaya (~250 km, ~5.5 hrs)

Alternate Route (NH-20)

Varanasi → Chandauli → Robertsganj → Aurangabad → Gaya (~265 km, ~5.5–6 hrs, scenic)

Shortest Route

Via Mughalsarai / PT Deen Dayal Upadhyaya → Sasaram → Gaya (~220–230 km, ~4.5 hrs)

Best Travel Time

Early morning (5–7 AM) departure recommended to avoid traffic in Varanasi city and reach Gaya by noon. TaxiYatri Tip: All TaxiYatri fares include driver allowance, fuel, and night charges. Toll tax, state entry tax (UP→Bihar), and parking charges are included in the quoted fare — no surprises at the end of your trip.

Varanasi to Gaya Cab Fare Guide— All Vehicles (AC & Non-AC)

Below is the complete, transparent fare chart for all cab types operating on the Varanasi–Gaya route. Prices are indicative for 2025 and may vary slightly based on booking date, season, and fuel prices. All fares are all-inclusive (driver bata, toll, state tax, fuel) with no hidden charges.

🚗 Sedan & Hatchback Category (Up to 4 Passengers)

🚙 SUV / MUV Category (Up to 6–7 Passengers)

🚌 Tempo Traveller & Group Vehicles (10–20 Passengers)

🚐 Luxury & Premium Vehicles

Toll Booths & State Tax: Varanasi to Gaya Route

The Varanasi–Gaya route on NH-19 (Grand Trunk Road) crosses two states — Uttar Pradesh and Bihar — and passes through multiple NHAI toll plazas. Here is a detailed breakdown of all toll plazas and applicable taxes you will encounter:

State Entry / Green Tax (UP to Bihar)

Total Toll Estimate (One Way, including state tax): Sedan ~₹600–750 | SUV ~₹850–1,050 | Tempo Traveller ~₹1,300–1,650 | Minibus ~₹2,000–2,800. These amounts are included in TaxiYatri’s quoted fares — you pay nothing extra at the toll booth.

Local Pickup Points in Varanasi & Drop Points in Gaya

TaxiYatri offers doorstep pickup from all major localities, hotels, and transit hubs in Varanasi, and drop-off at all key locations in Gaya and Bodh Gaya. Below are the most commonly served pickup and drop points:

📍 Varanasi — Pickup Points

• Varanasi Junction (Cantt.) Railway Station
• Manduadih / Pt. DD Upadhyaya Railway Station
• Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS)
• Godaulia Crossing / Dashashwamedh Ghat
• Assi Ghat
• Lanka / BHU Gate
• Sigra / Nadesar
• Sarnath (Buddhist circuit pickup)
• Shivpur / Pandeypur
• Hotel Pickup (any area in Varanasi)
  

📍 Gaya — Drop Points

• Gaya Junction Railway Station
• Gaya Airport (GAY)
• Vishnupad Temple, Falgu River Ghat
• Bodh Gaya Bus Stand / Mahabodhi Temple
• Bodh Gaya Hotel Zone (various hotels)
• Great Buddha Statue (80 ft)
• Dungeshwari Cave Temple (Mahakala Caves)
• Pretshila Hill / Ramshila Hill
• Sujata Sthan / Niranjana River
• Tekari / Sherghati (on request)
  

Best Stopovers & Sightseeing Points on the Varanasi–Gaya Route

The NH-19 corridor is rich in history, spirituality, and natural beauty. If you have time, consider adding these worthwhile stops along the way. All can be arranged as a customised multi-stop cab booking with TaxiYatri.

• ~10 km Sarnath The Birthplace of Buddha’s Teachings Just 10 km from Varanasi, Sarnath is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon (Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta) after attaining enlightenment. Must-visit: Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, Sarnath Museum (oldest Buddhist relics). Ideal morning stopover before heading to Gaya. Allow 1–2 hours.

• ~90 km Mohania — Hanuman Temple & Highway Dhaba Break A natural midpoint rest stop on NH-19 near the UP–Bihar state border. The Hanuman Temple here is a popular pitstop for pilgrims. Excellent highway dhabas for North Indian breakfast/lunch. Fuel stations and restrooms available.

• ~130 km Sasaram — Sher Shah Suri’s Magnificent Tomb The historic town of Sasaram in Rohtas District is home to the breathtaking Sher Shah Suri Mausoleum — a masterpiece of Indo-Afghan architecture set in the middle of a lake. Built in 1545 CE, it’s one of India’s finest pre-Mughal monuments. Well worth a 30–45 minute stop.

• ~145 km Dehri-on-Sone — Scenic River View & Rest Located on the left bank of the River Sone, Dehri is a peaceful spot for a break, especially in winter when the river view is scenic. The Son River Barrage is also visible from here. A calm, unhurried stop for self-reflection mid-journey.

• ~180 km Aurangabad (Bihar) — Heritage & Local Food Aurangabad district in Bihar has historical forts and temples. It’s also known for its distinctive local food stalls. A great lunch spot. Umga Temple (Sun Temple), Kutumba Sun Temple, and Dev Surya Mandir are nearby if you’re making a pilgrimage circuit.

• ~248 km Bodh Gaya — The World’s Most Sacred Buddhist Site Just 13 km from Gaya city, Bodh Gaya is the ultimate destination for Buddhist pilgrims worldwide. The Mahabodhi Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Bodhi Tree, Great Buddha Statue, and international monasteries are all here. Plan a full day if possible.

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Best Places to Visit in Gaya & Bodh Gaya — Complete Tourist Guide

Gaya is a dual pilgrimage city — sacred to Hindus for Pind Daan rites and to Buddhists as the gateway to Bodh Gaya, site of Buddha’s enlightenment. Here are the top places every visitor must experience: 01

Vishnupad Temple Hindu Pilgrimage

The most iconic landmark of Gaya city, Vishnupad Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is believed to enshrine a 40-cm long footprint of Lord Vishnu imprinted in basalt rock (the Dharmasila). Situated on the sacred banks of the Falgu River, this 8-spire, 100-foot high temple was rebuilt in 1787 by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore. Hundreds of priests perform Pind Daan (ancestor rites) here year-round. Entry is restricted to Hindus only. 02

Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya UNESCO World Heritage

The Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya (~13 km from Gaya) is one of the holiest sites in world Buddhism and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is the exact spot where Siddhartha Gautama attained Nirvana (enlightenment) approximately 2,600 years ago. The current 170-ft pyramid-shaped temple was built during the Gupta period (5th–6th century CE). The Bodhi Tree inside the complex is believed to be a direct descendant of the original fig tree under which the Buddha meditated. Open daily 5 AM–9 PM. 03

Great Buddha Statue (80 Feet) Must Visit

One of India’s most awe-inspiring Buddhist monuments, the Great Buddha Statue in Bodh Gaya stands 80 feet tall (some sources cite 64–80 feet) and depicts the Buddha in deep meditation (Dhyana Mudra). Carved from red granite and sandstone, it was consecrated by the 14th Dalai Lama in November 1989. Surrounded by serene gardens and ten smaller statues of disciples, this is a stunning photo opportunity and place of quiet meditation. 04

Dungeshwari Cave Temples (Mahakala Caves) Sacred Caves

Located 12 km northeast of Bodh Gaya, the Dungeshwari Cave Temples (also called Mahakala Caves or Sujata Sthan) are where Lord Buddha is believed to have meditated and practiced severe austerities for six years before descending to Bodh Gaya for enlightenment. Three main caves contain Buddhist shrines including a golden emaciated Buddha sculpture. One cave contains a Hindu shrine to Goddess Dungeshwari. A sacred and historically significant detour. 05

Pretshila Hill & Ramshila Hill Pind Daan Site

Two sacred hills that are important Pind Daan sites. Pretshila Hill (also called “Ghost Hill”) has an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Yama (god of death) perched on top. Devotees climb stone steps to perform ancestral rites. Ramshila Hill, 8 km from the city, offers panoramic views and houses the Pathaleshwar Mahadev Temple. Lord Ram is believed to have performed Pind Daan here for his ancestors. 06

Falgu River Ghats & Akshayavat Tree Spiritual

The Falgu River (also called Niranjana) is Gaya’s sacred river where Pind Daan and Pitru Tarpan (ancestor homage) rituals are performed daily. The Akshayavat — an ancient Peepal tree on the river’s bank — is considered eternal and undying. According to the Ramayana, Goddess Sita performed Pind Daan for King Dasharatha here, using sand from the river when ingredients weren’t available. The site is deeply moving for Hindu pilgrims. 07

International Monasteries & Temples (Bodh Gaya) Multi-Country Architecture

Bodh Gaya has an extraordinary concentration of monasteries built by Buddhist nations, each showcasing distinct national architecture. Must-visits include: Thai Monastery (golden pagoda), Japanese Indosan Nippon Temple, Chinese Temple (with 200-year-old Buddha statue), Tibetan Monastery (Namgyal Monastery), Royal Bhutan Monastery, Vietnamese Temple, and the Burmese Vihara. A world tour of Buddhist cultures in one town. 08

Bodh Gaya Archaeological Museum History & Art

Adjacent to the Mahabodhi Temple, this museum is a hidden gem for history enthusiasts. It houses ancient terracotta artefacts, 1st-century sculptures, silver and gold Hindu deity idols, and the fascinating Dashavatar Gallery depicting the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu. Artefacts span the Mauryan, Gupta, and Mughal periods. Mughal-era coins are also on display. Entry is nominal; allow 45–60 minutes. 09

Mangla Gauri Temple Shakti Peetha

One of the 18 Shakti Peethas in India, the Mangla Gauri Temple is dedicated to Goddess Sati and is set atop the Mangla Gauri Hill in Gaya. The two rounded stones here are believed to symbolise the breasts of Goddess Sati. It is a significant site for Shakti worshippers and a deeply revered Hindu pilgrimage point with sweeping views from the hilltop. 10

Tibetan Refugee Market Shopping

Located 500 metres from the Bodh Gaya Bus Stand, the Tibetan Refugee Market operates seasonally from November to March. It’s a vibrant bazaar selling warm woollen clothes, Tibetan handicrafts, bronze Buddha statues (in sandalwood and metal), prayer flags, beads, and souvenirs. Exotic Tibetan and Chinese food stalls are also a highlight. Perfect for buying meaningful mementos from your pilgrimage.

Best Time to Visit Gaya — Month-by-Month Weather & Festival Guide

Gaya has a tropical climate. Choosing the right season significantly impacts your pilgrimage or tourist experience:

✅ October – March (BEST)

Winter. Temperatures 8°C–28°C. Perfect weather for outdoor temple visits, Bodh Gaya monasteries, and Gaya ghats. Busiest tourist season.

🟡 September – October (PITRU PAKSHA)

Peak Hindu pilgrimage season. Thousands perform Pind Daan during Pitru Paksha (Mahalaya). Book cabs well in advance — very high demand.

⚠️ June – August (Avoid)

Monsoon season. High humidity, heavy rains, possible flooding near Falgu River ghats. Road conditions on NH-19 can deteriorate.

🟡 April – May (Acceptable)

Hot summer. Temperatures reach 40–45°C. Visit temples early morning. Less crowded but physically demanding without proper preparation.

Key Festivals & Pilgrimage Dates in Gaya

Why TaxiYatri is the #1 Choice for Varanasi to Gaya Cab Booking

All-Inclusive Pricing

Toll, state tax, driver bata, night charges — everything included. Zero hidden costs, guaranteed.

8+ Vehicle Options

Dzire to Minibus, Non-AC to Luxury Urbania — every group size and budget covered.

24×7 Availability

Early morning yatra departures, late-night returns — we’re always available.

Doorstep Pickup

Hotel, railway station, airport, ghat — we pick up from any location in Varanasi.

Pilgrimage Specialists

Our drivers know every temple route in Gaya, Bodh Gaya, and surrounding areas.

All Payment Modes

UPI, credit/debit card, net banking, wallet — secure online payment options.

FAQs

Q: What is the distance from Varanasi to Gaya by road?

The road distance from Varanasi to Gaya is approximately 250 kilometres via NH-19 (Grand Trunk Road). The journey typically takes 5 hours 30 minutes to 6 hours by private cab, depending on traffic and any planned stops. An alternate route via Chandauli–Robertsganj is slightly longer at ~265 km but less congested.

Q: What is the cab fare from Varanasi to Gaya for a Swift Dzire?

The Swift Dzire (AC) one-way fare from Varanasi to Gaya is approximately ₹3,200 to ₹3,500. The round-trip fare starts at ₹5,800 to ₹6,200. Non-AC Dzire one-way fare is ₹2,800–₹3,000. All fares include toll, driver allowance, and state tax.

Q: How much does an Innova Crysta cab cost from Varanasi to Gaya?

The Toyota Innova Crysta (AC) one-way fare from Varanasi to Gaya starts at ₹5,500 to ₹6,000. Round trip fares range from ₹8,800 to ₹9,500. The Innova Crysta is ideal for families of 5–7 with ample luggage space and superior ride comfort over long distances.

Q: What is the tempo traveller fare from Varanasi to Gaya for a group?

For a 12-seater AC Tempo Traveller, the one-way fare from Varanasi to Gaya is approximately ₹7,500 to ₹8,500. A 17-seater costs ₹9,500–₹11,000, and a 20-seater costs ₹11,500–₹13,500 one-way. For a Luxury Tempo Traveller with push-back seats and amenities, fares start at ₹12,000. Group pilgrimage groups, families, and organisations save significantly by splitting tempo traveller costs compared to booking multiple smaller cabs.

Q: How many toll booths are there from Varanasi to Gaya and what is the total toll?

On the Varanasi–Gaya NH-19 route, you will pass through approximately 4 to 5 toll plazas: Daffi Toll (Varanasi), Mohania Toll (Bihar border), Sasaram Toll, Aurangabad/Sherghati Toll, and Dobhi Toll (near Gaya). The total toll for a sedan/car is approximately ₹400–₹500 one-way, plus state entry/green tax of ₹200–₹250. For SUVs, total toll + tax is approximately ₹700–₹900. All TaxiYatri fares include these charges.

Q: What is the Urbania Van fare from Varanasi to Gaya?

The Force Urbania Van (13–17 seater, AC) one-way fare from Varanasi to Gaya is approximately ₹13,500 to ₹16,500. Round-trip fares start at ₹23,000. The Urbania offers premium push-back seats, USB charging ports, panoramic glass, and a wider body than standard tempo travellers — the most comfortable large-group vehicle for this route.

Q: What is the best time to visit Gaya for Pind Daan?

The most auspicious time for Pind Daan in Gaya is during Pitru Paksha (the 15-day lunar fortnight in the Hindu month of Ashwin, typically September–October). Thousands of Hindu pilgrims travel to Gaya during this period. Year-round Pind Daan is performed at Vishnupad Temple, Falgu River ghats, and Akshayavat. For comfortable travel, October to March (post-Pitru Paksha) is ideal as weather is pleasant.

Q: Can I book a one-way cab from Varanasi to Gaya?

Yes, TaxiYatri offers both one-way cab and round-trip cab service from Varanasi to Gaya. One-way cabs are ideal if you’re returning by train, flight, or bus from Gaya. Round-trip cabs give you greater flexibility to explore Gaya, Bodh Gaya, and surrounding areas at your own pace without depending on other transport.

Q: Is the Varanasi to Gaya cab fare inclusive of toll and tax?

Yes, all TaxiYatri cab fares for the Varanasi to Gaya route are fully inclusive of toll charges, state entry tax (UP to Bihar), driver allowance, fuel, and night charges. There are no hidden fees. The price you see at booking confirmation is the final price you pay. TaxiYatri provides GST invoices on request.

Q: What is the Ertiga cab fare from Varanasi to Gaya?

Ertiga (AC, 6+1 seater) one-way fare from Varanasi to Gaya is approximately ₹4,200 to ₹4,600. Round trip is ₹7,500–₹8,200. The Ertiga is the most popular choice for families of 5–6 people, offering more space than a Dzire at a far lower cost than an Innova Crysta. Non-AC Ertiga one-way fare starts at ₹3,600.

Q: Which is the best route from Varanasi to Gaya by road?

The fastest and most popular route from Varanasi to Gaya is via NH-19 (Grand Trunk Road) through Daffi → Mohania → Sasaram → Aurangabad → Dobhi → Gaya (~250 km, ~5.5 hrs). This is a well-maintained 4-lane national highway for most of the stretch. An alternate scenic route via NH-20 through Chandauli–Robertsganj–Aurangabad is slightly longer (~265 km) but has less truck traffic.

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Abhishek Singh

I’m a wanderer who loves venturing on to unknown and unseen places. I explore freely to various fun and adventurous places, whether it be spiritual temple tours, captivating landscapes, and more. I wonder around in search of hidden gems and tourist attractions, temples, and other places.