Where Is IIT BHU? A Guide (2025)

Imagine studying at one of the most prestigious engineering institutes in India, surrounded by history, culture, and a serene environment. Situated in the heart of the historic city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, IIT BHU offers a unique blend of academic excellence and cultural richness. This prestigious institute is part of Banaras Hindu University (BHU), one of the oldest and most respected universities in India. 

Located just a few kilometers away from the famous ghats of the Ganges River, IIT BHU’s location provides students with an inspiring environment for their studies, while offering easy access to the city’s vibrant spiritual and cultural heritage. Whether you’re planning your visit or looking to understand more about its surroundings, this article will guide you through the details of where IIT BHU is and how to easily reach the campus from different parts of the country.

Overview of IIT BHU

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) BHU is one of the premier engineering institutes in India, offering world-class education and research opportunities. Established in 1919 as the Banaras Engineering College, it was later upgraded to an IIT in 2012, making it a part of the esteemed network of IITs across the country. Located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, IIT BHU has quickly become one of the top choices for students aiming to pursue a career in engineering, technology, and research.

IIT BHU is part of the Banaras Hindu University (BHU), one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in India. The university itself was founded in 1916 by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, and since then, it has been a hub for academic excellence. The institute’s transformation into an IIT has elevated its status, further enhancing its reputation both in India and globally.

The IIT BHU campus spans across 425 acres of land within the larger 1,300-acre BHU campus, which is located on the banks of the Ganges River. The campus is equipped with modern infrastructure, including well-equipped classrooms, research labs, libraries, and sports facilities, making it an ideal place for students to pursue their academic and extracurricular interests. In addition to this, the natural beauty surrounding the campus, with lush green spaces and the nearby historical landmarks of Varanasi, adds to the appeal of the location.

IIT BHU Rankings

IIT BHU is consistently ranked among the top engineering colleges in India.

Ranking Category	Rank	Source
QS World Ranking (2025)	531	QS
QS Asia Ranking (2024)	271-280	QS
NIRF Overall Ranking (2024)	30	NIRF
NIRF Engineering Ranking (2024)	10	NIRF

Where is IIT BHU?

IIT BHU is located in Varanasi, a city in Uttar Pradesh, India. Varanasi, also known as Banaras, is one of the oldest and most culturally significant cities in the world. Famous for its historic temples, sacred ghats along the Ganges River, and its spiritual ambiance, Varanasi draws people from all over the globe for its deep-rooted heritage and cultural experiences. Beyond its spiritual significance, Varanasi is also a center for education, art, and music, with a history of intellectual pursuits dating back centuries.

The exact location of IIT BHU is within the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) campus, which is situated in the southern part of Varanasi. The BHU campus covers 1,300 acres, with IIT BHU occupying 425 acres of this vast land. The campus is well-connected to key parts of the city, providing students with a comfortable blend of academic rigor and cultural richness. The proximity of IIT BHU to the famous Ganges River adds to its peaceful and inspiring environment, making it an ideal place for students to pursue their studies and grow personally.

Exact Location

Indian Institute of Technology (BHU)
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – 221005
GPS Coordinates: 25.2677° N, 82.9913° E

The campus is situated near major landmarks in Varanasi, such as Assi Ghat and Dashashwamedh Ghat, both of which are central to the city’s spiritual life. The campus is a short distance away from the bustling areas of the city, offering students easy access to both modern and traditional aspects of Varanasi. Whether you’re walking through the historic streets of Varanasi or studying at IIT BHU, the city offers a unique and enriching experience.

How to Reach IIT BHU?

Reaching IIT BHU is easy, whether you are traveling by air, train, or road. The institute is located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Varanasi is well connected to major Indian cities. You can choose your travel option based on distance, budget, and convenience.

1) By Air

The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (Babatpur). It is located around 35 kilometers from the IIT BHU campus. You can take direct flights to Varanasi from major cities like:

• Delhi
• Mumbai
• Kolkata
• Hyderabad
• Bangalore
  

Many budget and full-service airlines operate on these routes. Flight duration from Delhi or Kolkata is around 1.5 hours.

Once you reach the airport, you can easily reach the IIT BHU campus by:

• Taxi: It takes around 1 hour to reach the campus. The cost is usually between ₹600 to ₹800.
• App-based cabs (Uber/Ola): These are also available. You can book them from the airport itself using mobile apps.
  

The roads are smooth, and the drive is comfortable. Most cabs drop you at Lanka Gate, which is the main entry point to the campus.

2) By Train

Varanasi is a major railway hub in eastern Uttar Pradesh. You can reach Varanasi by train from almost all parts of India.

Varanasi Junction (also known as Varanasi Cantt.): This is the main railway station, and it is just 10 kilometers from the IIT BHU campus. From here, you can reach IIT BHU by:

• Auto-rickshaw (reserved): Around ₹150 to ₹250 (varies with time)
• Shared auto-rickshaw: Around ₹15 per person
• Taxi: ₹300 to ₹350
  

Travel time is about 25 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction (formerly Mughalsarai Junction): This is another important railway station near Varanasi. It is about 20 kilometers from the campus. From this station:

• Reserved auto-rickshaw: ₹250-₹300
• Shared auto-rickshaw: ₹50-₹75 
• Taxi: ₹400 to ₹500
  

It usually takes about an hour to reach IIT BHU from here.

3) By Road

If you live in nearby cities like Lucknow, Prayagraj, or Gorakhpur, you can also reach IIT BHU by road.

UPSRTC Buses

• Government buses run frequently to Varanasi.
• You can take a direct bus to the Lanka area of Varanasi.
• The nearest stop is Lanka Gate, just outside the IIT BHU campus.
  

Self-Drive or Car: Varanasi is well connected by NH19 (Delhi–Kolkata highway) and other national highways. If you are coming by car:

• Follow directions to Banaras Hindu University.
• Use Google Maps to reach the Lanka Gate or IIT BHU Main Gate.
• Parking is available near the entrance for visitors.
  

Local Transport in Varanasi: Once you are in Varanasi, local transport is easily available.

• E-rickshaws: Cheap and useful for short distances inside the city.
• Cycle-rickshaws: Common near BHU gates and markets.
• BHU Internal Buses: Free shuttle services run inside the BHU campus for students and staff.
  

These buses stop at major points like hostels, departments, and canteens. They are helpful for daily travel within the huge campus.

IIT BHU Academics

IIT BHU has 11 engineering departments, 3 science departments, and a dedicated Humanities Department. The engineering departments are central to the academic offerings, with faculties specializing in various areas.

The Naresh C Jain School of Decision Sciences and Engineering offers interdisciplinary programs that combine technical education with decision-making skills and analytics.

Additionally, IIT BHU offers postgraduate courses in the Humanities Department, where students can take courses in English, History, Philosophy, Linguistics, and Sociology. This provides a balanced education, combining technical expertise with a deeper understanding of human society and culture.

Undergraduate Programs

IIT BHU offers four-year Bachelor of Technology (BTech) programs in various engineering disciplines. These BTech programs are highly sought after by students across the country. Some of the key engineering disciplines include:

• Architecture, Planning and Design
• Ceramic Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Computer Science and Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Electronics Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Metallurgical Engineering
• Mining Engineering
• Pharmaceutical Engineering & Technology
• Biochemical Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science and Technology
  

Postgraduate Programs

IIT BHU offers a variety of Master of Technology (MTech) programs across several engineering disciplines. Admission to MTech programs is through the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE), which is a national-level exam that tests the knowledge of engineering subjects.

Along with MTech, IIT BHU also offers PhD programs in a wide range of fields such as Engineering, Sciences, and Humanities. Admission to the PhD programs is conducted through an application process. Interested candidates must check the official IIT BHU website for details on the PhD application process..

IIT BHU Campus Layout

The IIT BHU campus is located within the larger Banaras Hindu University (BHU) campus in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, and spans across a vast area of 425 acres. The entire BHU campus, however, covers 1,300 acres, making it one of the largest university campuses in India. The IIT BHU section offers a unique combination of modern infrastructure, historical landmarks, and lush green surroundings that create an ideal environment for academic learning and personal development.

Key Landmarks and Buildings

The campus features several iconic buildings and landmarks that are essential to the student experience:

• Main Building (BENCO): This historic engineering block houses classrooms, laboratories, and faculty offices. It is one of the most prominent landmarks and symbolizes the rich academic legacy of IIT BHU.
• Lanka Gate: Serving as the primary entrance to the IIT BHU campus, the Lanka Gate marks the boundary between the university and the city. This gateway is easily recognizable and is a central point for both students and visitors.
• Assi Ghat and Dashashwamedh Ghat: Located around 5 km and 7 km away from the campus, these famous ghats along the Ganges River are key cultural landmarks of Varanasi. They provide students with peaceful spaces to relax and experience the city’s spiritual and cultural essence.

IIT BHU Student Life

IIT BHU provides a well-rounded student life, balancing academics with a vibrant extracurricular environment. Students can engage in various activities ranging from sports and cultural events to entrepreneurship and media. The vibrant campus culture is a product of the collaborative efforts of various student-run organizations, festivals, and initiatives that create a supportive environment for holistic development.

Gymkhana and Extracurricular Activities

The IIT BHU Gymkhana, located in Kings’ Pavilion, is the heart of all extracurricular activities at the institute. It houses five major councils that play a crucial role in organizing events and student affairs:

• Games and Sports Council – This council manages all sporting events, ensuring a wide range of physical activities for students, from competitive sports to recreational ones.
• Cultural Council – It handles the cultural events, including dance, music, drama, and other artistic expressions.
• Science and Technology Council – This council focuses on events related to scientific advancements, innovation, and technology.
• Film and Media Council – It organizes film screenings, media discussions, and helps develop the campus’s engagement with digital arts.
• Social Service Council – This council focuses on community service, helping students engage in social causes, charity work, and awareness campaigns.
  

Each council is managed by a Counsellor, working closely with the Dean (Student Affairs), while the student side is led by a General Secretary and Joint General Secretaries. The council heads are responsible for the smooth operation of activities within their council, ensuring that every student has the chance to engage in extracurricular activities. Additionally, each council organizes various events and festivals throughout the year, contributing to the campus’s rich student life.

Festivals at IIT BHU

IIT BHU boasts some of the most exciting student-run festivals in India. These festivals not only provide a platform for students to showcase their talents but also foster a sense of community and creativity.

1) Technex – Technex is the annual techno-management festival of IIT BHU and holds the title of Asia’s oldest techno-management fest. The event brings together innovators, engineers, and management professionals to showcase their skills and ideas. Workshops, competitions, and guest lectures make this festival a prominent part of IIT BHU’s student life.

2) Kashiyatra – Kashiyatra is IIT BHU’s annual socio-cultural festival, celebrating the rich cultural diversity of India. It includes events such as dance, music, drama, and various interactive activities. This festival attracts participants from all over the country, making it one of the most awaited events of the year.

3) Spardha – Spardha is the sports festival of IIT BHU, where students engage in a variety of competitive sports, including athletics, cricket, football, and indoor games. The festival encourages a healthy competitive spirit and promotes physical fitness among students.

4) FMC Weekend – The Film and Media Council organizes the FMC Weekend, an annual festival dedicated to film screenings, media discussions, and creative competitions. It gives students an opportunity to explore the art of filmmaking and media expression.

Along with these major festivals, each department at IIT BHU also hosts its own departmental festivals and events. Furthermore, the students participate in Spandan, the Inter-college festival of Banaras Hindu University (BHU), which is held annually in February. Spandan includes a wide array of cultural and sports events, promoting cross-campus collaboration.

Institute Magazine: IIT BHU Connect

The IIT BHU Connect is the institute’s official newsletter, published bi-yearly. Launched in 2016, this magazine serves as a platform to highlight the achievements, events, and advancements within the IIT BHU community. Each edition features in-depth cover stories on a range of topics, including recent student achievements, faculty contributions, and technical innovations. The magazine is managed by a dedicated student team of around twenty students, with one Student Editor overseeing the content. The publication has received positive reviews for its coverage and is an excellent way for students to stay connected to the latest developments within the institute.

Malaviya Centre for Innovation, Incubation, and Entrepreneurship (MCIIE)

IIT BHU also encourages entrepreneurship through the Malaviya Centre for Innovation, Incubation, and Entrepreneurship (MCIIE), established in 2008. The center provides students and alumni with resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to turn their innovative ideas into successful ventures. Some of the major programs under MCIIE include:

• Open Learning Programme in Entrepreneurship (OLPE): This initiative offers students a platform to learn the fundamentals of entrepreneurship.
• Entrepreneurship Development and Awareness Programs: These programs help students gain business insights and start their ventures.
• Technology Business Incubator (TBI): Sponsored by the National Science and Technology Entrepreneurship Development Board (DST, New Delhi), this program supports students with technical assistance and commercial opportunities.
  

MCIIE has been instrumental in nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit at IIT BHU, helping several student startups gain traction.

Conclusion

IIT BHU is more than just a top engineering college. It’s a place where students grow both academically and personally. With a strong history, great faculty, and a beautiful campus inside BHU, it offers a unique college experience. The location in Varanasi adds a cultural and spiritual touch that you won’t find in many other IITs.

The institute provides everything a student needs—modern labs, hostel facilities, canteens, student clubs, and easy access to local markets and transport. Whether you are coming from across the country or nearby, reaching IIT BHU is simple by flight, train, or road.

If you are preparing for JEE or planning higher studies, keep IIT BHU on your list. It has the academic strength of an IIT and the charm of one of India’s oldest cities. For many students, IIT BHU is not just a college—it becomes a second home and a launchpad for their future.