From Rajarata to Varanasi — The Ultimate Budget Overland Adventure

 From Rajarata to Varanasi — The Ultimate Budget Overland Adventure

Embarking on a pilgrimage or an adventure to the sacred city of Varanasi doesn't always have to be by air. Traveling across land and sea brings a raw, authentic charm to cross-border exploration. Here is the complete breakdown of the journey starting from Anuradhapura all the way to Chennai en route to Varanasi.

The Night Mail to Jaffna & Kankesanthurai

The expedition begins under the starry skies of Anuradhapura. Boarding the Colombo–KKS Night Mail train at midnight in First Class (LKR 2,000) provides comfortable reclining seats, charging sockets, and ample luggage room. As dawn breaks over the northern peninsula, the train glides past Jaffna toward Kankesanthurai (KKS) railway station, just a kilometer away from the international ferry port.

 Crossing the Palk Strait by Ferry

At Kankesanthurai port, smooth immigration checks lead to the passenger ferry sailing across the historic waters to Nagapattinam, India.

The Route: KKS Port to Nagapattinam Port

Duration: ~4.5 hours

Onboard Experience: Comfortable Economy and Executive decks, safety briefings, multimedia entertainment, and an onboard canteen serving instant hot meals like spicy khichdi and warm chai at fair prices.

Essential Tip: Keep all travel documents, visas, and passport details ready for port immigration on arrival.

 Overnight Sleeper Bus Across Tamil Nadu

Stepping onto Indian soil at Nagapattinam, the road journey kicks off toward Chennai (approx. 300 km). Opting for an AC sleeper coach gives travelers their own bunk with charging points and smooth highway cruising. Booking via travel apps like Ixigo or MakeMyTrip simplifies planning for international travelers.

 Stepping Stone in Chennai — Mahabodhi Center

Arriving around Chennai Egmore, the iconic Sri Lanka Mahabodhi Society temple serves as a welcoming hub for Sri Lankan pilgrims and backpackers. The surrounding area makes it easy to purchase local SIM cards with passport verification, refresh, and prepare for the massive 2,100 km long-distance train ride toward Varanasi.