Is first-class train travel cheaper than flying in India, for example from Haridwar to Varanasi?

From messages by 3 participants in 1 source · Last activity: 42 days ago

TL;DR

Trains in India are usually cheaper than flights: IRCTC showed a roughly ₹1,200 1A fare from Haridwar to Varanasi. Travelers reported that flights rarely cost under ₹3,500, although flying is much faster when fares are close.

What the community said

IRCTC displayed a roughly ₹1,200 First AC (1A) fare for Haridwar to Varanasi. That is far below a typical flight price, so check the selected train, travel date and class before booking.

Haridwar–Varanasi, 1A: about ₹1,200

Based on traveler experience, trains are generally cheaper than flights, while domestic airfares in India rarely drop below ₹3,500. Rail is usually the better choice when saving money is the priority.

Flights: from ₹3,500

First-class train berths and flights can sometimes be priced similarly. When that happens, flying may be preferable for speed and overall comfort; choose the train when the fare difference is significant.

First AC (1A)