Places to Visit from Lucknow to Varanasi by Cab

Traveling from Lucknow to Varanasi by cab is a delightful journey through the heart of Uttar Pradesh. The road trip offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, culture, and scenic beauty. Covering approximately 320 km, this route takes around 6–8 hours depending on traffic and stops. While Varanasi is known as one of the oldest living cities in the world, the route to it is dotted with interesting places worth visiting. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, a history buff, or a casual traveler, here are some must-visit spots during your Lucknow to Varanasi cab journey from Lucknow to Varanasi.
1. Lucknow – The City of Nawabs
Before you start the journey, take some time to explore Lucknow if you haven’t already. The capital of Uttar Pradesh is rich in Mughal and British-era architecture.
Places to Explore in Lucknow:
- Bara Imambara: A grand architectural marvel built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula.
- Chota Imambara: A beautiful structure adorned with chandeliers and intricate designs.
- Hazratganj Market: Ideal for shopping and tasting Lucknow’s famous kebabs.
- Rumi Darwaza & British Residency: Historical landmarks that reflect Lucknow’s glorious past.
After enjoying Lucknow’s royal ambiance, hop in your cab and head towards Varanasi, stopping at fascinating places along the way.
2. Raebareli – A Quiet Historical Stop
Located around 80 km from Lucknow, Raebareli is your first potential stop. Known for its political history and connection to prominent leaders, this town is peaceful and offers a break from the busy highway.
Key Attractions:
- Samaspur Bird Sanctuary: A great place for bird watchers, especially during the migratory season.
- Behta Bridge and Sai River: Ideal for a scenic halt and some photography.
Though small, Raebareli is a calm town that adds charm to your road journey.
3. Pratapgarh – Spiritual and Cultural Gem
Next on your route is Pratapgarh, about 120 km from Lucknow. This town is often passed by in a hurry, but it offers some interesting spiritual and cultural experiences.
Places to Visit:
- Bela Devi Temple: A revered Hindu temple located on the banks of the Sai River.
- Pratapgarh Fort Ruins: While not much remains, the site holds historical importance and offers a peaceful retreat.
You can stop here for some local snacks and stretch your legs while absorbing the town’s rural charm.
4. Jaunpur – A Blend of History and Architecture
As you move closer to Varanasi, Jaunpur is one of the most historically significant towns on this route. Located around 60 km before Varanasi, this medieval city is known for its mosques and Indo-Islamic architecture.
Top Attractions:
- Atala Masjid: A stunning example of Sharqi dynasty architecture.
- Shahi Bridge: Built during the Mughal era, this bridge spans the Gomti River and is still in use.
- Jama Masjid: Another grand mosque with intricate carvings and history.
Jaunpur is a hidden treasure and a great spot for photography and historical exploration.
5. Sarnath – The Land of Buddha’s First Sermon
Before you enter Varanasi city, make sure to visit Sarnath, just 10 km away from Varanasi. This is a sacred site for Buddhists all over the world.
Must-Visit Places:
- Dhamek Stupa: Marks the spot where Buddha gave his first sermon.
- Mulagandha Kuti Vihar: A modern Buddhist temple with beautiful frescoes.
- Sarnath Archaeological Museum: Houses relics and ancient statues including the Lion Capital of Ashoka.
Sarnath is serene, spiritual, and offers a complete contrast to the vibrant chaos of Varanasi.
6. Varanasi – The Spiritual Capital of India
Finally, you arrive at Varanasi, one of the most spiritually significant cities in the world. Also known as Kashi or Benares, Varanasi lies on the banks of the Ganges and is famous for its ghats, temples, and ancient traditions.
Key Attractions in Varanasi:
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple: One of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Dashashwamedh Ghat: Famous for the Ganga Aarti performed every evening.
- Manikarnika Ghat: A sacred cremation site that holds deep spiritual meaning.
- Banaras Hindu University (BHU): One of India’s most prestigious educational institutions with a beautiful campus.
- Ramnagar Fort: A Mughal-style fort and museum located across the river.
Don’t forget to take a boat ride on the Ganges, preferably during sunrise or sunset, to witness the magical atmosphere that Varanasi is known for.
Cab Travel Tips:
- Start Early: Begin your journey early to make the most of the stops along the way.
- Book a Reliable Cab Service: Services like Bharat Taxi offer affordable and comfortable rides with experienced drivers.
- Pack Snacks & Water: While there are eateries along the route, having your own supplies helps on long stretches.
- Carry ID & Essentials: Keep your identification, medicines, and phone chargers handy.
- Stay Safe: Avoid night travel in unfamiliar areas and follow GPS or local directions carefully.
The road trip from Lucknow to Varanasi is more than just a highway drive; it’s a cultural and spiritual journey through the soul of Uttar Pradesh. With small towns like Raebareli, Pratapgarh, and Jaunpur offering a peek into history and tradition, and with destinations like Sarnath adding a spiritual touch, your cab journey can turn into a memorable travel experience. So pack your bags, book a cab, and get ready to explore the diverse and vibrant heartland of India.
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