BEYOND GHATS & GULLIES-PLACES TO VISIT NEAR VARANASI

There are many places to see near Varanasi, including rocks and ravines, canyons or cliffs, waterfalls or valleys, forts/stupas, prehistoric art, and artisans. Many secrets are hidden in rugged terrains. These rocks tell a story through their art. The land is blessed with sacred stupas and silent statues. The landscape is filled with stories, including lost ruins and forts. Although I’ve been to Varanasi a few times, I was always fascinated by the beauty of the surrounding areas. It was a moment when I thought I might be in Uttar Pradesh or have strayed into Madhya Pradesh. These five unique places are worth a visit if you’re looking for heritage or offbeat locations around Varanasi.

1. Chunar Fort is the land of Chandrakanta

There are many stories to be told about the mysterious and historic Chunar Fort, located just 30 kilometers from Varanasi and equidistant from Mirzapur. The fort overlooks the River Ganga, and the surrounding settlements date back to 56 BC, during the reign of Raja Vikramaditya. Legend has it that the king went to this area to search for his brother Bharatthari who was living in the woods as a recluse or hermit. Here, the king built a tiny home, and locals still worship the black stone. It is believed that the saint’s spirit lives nearby and is possessed of the black stone.

The fort was built in the 11th century, according to historical records. However, it was later rebuilt by the British and Mughals. Here are descriptions of battles between the Mughal king Humayan, Sher Shah Suri, Sher Khan, and the Pathan. The British later took control of the fortress, and the inhuman underground dungeons were used to house prisoners. It still retains traces of its past and eerie stories.

However, Chunar Fort is mystically filled with legends. It is also the land of Chandrakanta novels. This terrain is also known as Charanadri because it is believed that Bhagwan Vishith or Bawaan Bhagwan walked on it in the “avatar of Vamana. Bhagwan Vishnu requested three feet of land from Maharaja Bali. Bhagwan put his foot on the universe to symbolically and mythically represent the area around Chunar Fort. According to one of the priests from the small temple within the fort complex, the area around the fort was blessed, and the land is now considered holy. It is still believed that God lives within the defense and visits Varanasi every three hours to protect the fortress. Chunar is my favorite destination because it’s a place I enjoy telling stories. The many layers of history and levels revealed as I explored the fort surprised me at every turn.

Even though the walls are now breached, I still see the ramparts built along the river banks. Although the gates are engraved with Mughal inscriptions, the most striking feature is the Sonwa Mandap open pavilion made of sandstone. It has 28 pillars, arches, and a few carvings. Named after a princess from Nepal, the pavilion is named after her. The pavilion is a remarkable monument that stands out among the dark, dank barracks and prisons. It is a testament to the skillful local masons of the time. Chunar Fort, one of the most popular places near Varanasi, is still being developed as a destination.

2. The sundial at Warren Hastings bungalow

Another bungalow, located a little further from the Chunar Fort, was once home to Warren Hastings, the former Governor General of India. It dates back to the 18th century. According to legend, he and his troops sought refuge in the fort during the siege by local rulers. There are still a few graves around the defense today. The bungalow is not much more than a simple bungalow. However, the garden has a 300-year-old sundial.

The fort and its buildings were used as armories and treasuries, and there are still legends about hidden treasures. Locals still need to learn about a place near Varanasi since most tourists don’t know about the story behind the bungalow.

3. Naugarh Dam Aurwaratand Waterfalls

The Chandauli district in Uttar Pradesh is home to the Chandra Prabha Wildlife Park. It features stunning rock formations, ravines, canyons, and cliffs. The Aurwathand waterfalls dramatically drop off the cliffs, forming water bodies below. The cascades are spectacular and attract many adventure travelers, but the prehistoric art carved onto the rocks fascinates me. This was one of my favorite destinations. It made me question whether I was in UP or MP.

Our ancestors wanted to tell stories through art or record their daily lives. You can see the paintings on the rocks. This place is an excellent spot for adventure and cultural tourists.

4. Rajdari & Devdari Waterfalls

Thundering waterfalls in Uttar Pradesh was something I did not expect; they are incredibly close to Varanasi. Aurwathand was terrific, but the twin waterfalls were truly stunning. Two spectacular waterfalls, Rajdari (or Devdari), are located just 30 kilometers from Aurwathand. They form part of Chandra Prabha Wilderness Park in the Chandauli District. They are only 700m apart and are surrounded by rugged, raw, and rugged terrains. Although they are often overlooked, the waterfalls are a treasure trove for locals.

Tourists will be able to enjoy the wildlife park and waterfalls near Varanasi. They are also being developed as tourist destinations. They are being set in a way that I’m curious about. I like the rugged beauty of these destinations.

5. Sarnath is the Lion Capital

Sarnath, located at the confluence of the Ganges-Varuna rivers, is only 10 kilometers from Varanasi. This is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon following his awakening. The area where the speech was delivered is marked by the Dhamek Stupa, which stands tall at 128 feet and measures 92 feet in circumference. There are also ruins of monasteries and ancient stupas, some dating back to the pre-Ashoka era.

The Archaeological Museum also has the Lion Capital and Wheel of Dharma. It houses treasures from many eras. I’ve been to Sarnath before. It is one of the most popular tourist spots near Varanasi and one of four major pilgrimage destinations for Buddhists.

You can also visit other tourist attractions near Varanasi. What other places would you recommend around Varanasi?