Agra -> Varanasi - by train or fly?

Hi.
I need to travel from Agra -> Varanasi on 19Feb 2008. (sorry, the subject on this post was misleading)
I know i can catch a 1 hr flight for 3000Rps.
But im wondering whether to catch an overnight train instead.
Does anyone know what the departure time, price and duration details for the train journey, and which is the better option?
Any help greatly appreciated!
Happy travelling!

Check out this website:

http://erail.in

Put Agra as Starting station
and Mughal Sarai as Destination station (not far from Varanasi, get a taxi + more trains stop at Mughal Sarai as it is a major junction).

The only problem is that you will reach MSarai at an odd time say, 2-2:30 am. The other option is to take a super fast Day time train.

Cheers

Nattusbs

I've flown this route a couple of times. Small airport with none of the hassles you might encounter at the train station. The cab ride is about an hour to the old city (if I remember correctly).

The train seems like a better option, Rs3000 for the flight is only the beginning of the cost, add the cost of getting to Delhi airport from Agra, then add the cost of your hotel. (an overnight train would save the cost of the hotel)

So, do you save time by flying? (add the time you'll spend sleeping in the hotel)


Agra to Varanasi.

Train 4864 departs Agra Fort (Tue, Wed, Fri & Sun.) at 21:15 and gets to Varanasi at 08:15

2A = Rs 1073
3A = Rs 690
SL = Rs 256

Train 4854 departs Agra Fort (Mon, Thu & Sat.) at 21:15 and gets to Varanasi at 09:30

2A = Rs 1119
3A = Rs 719
SL = Rs 266

Ah, I was indeed mislead by the post title. Train from Agra would probably be best.

OP

Steven_Ber is absolutely correct (that's why he is the Maestro) - follow his advice, not mine.

Cheers

Nattusbs

Guys,
Thanks so much for posting your suggestions (special thanks to Steven!).
2 questions...
1. I would prefer to take a direct/express train into Cantonment station since this seems to put me in the heart of Varanasi.
Which express train would you suggest to do this?

2. Im currently in UK, and would prefer to book the tickets online in advance. Can you recommend a reliable online website (do i use the indianrail.gov.in site?).
Alternatively, is it ok to book 2 days in advance at the railway station while im in India, or do rail tickets (2nd class sleeper) get booked out quickly?

Thanks for your advice, greatly appreciated!

Where are you getting your info?