Varanasi or Banaras is one of the oldest cities of India, still treasuring the rich cultural heritage of the country. Located at the banks of River Ganges of the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, the aura of this ancient Hindu city often shadows the remarkable tourist destinations encircling Varanasi. Let us checkout some exquisite tourist destinations around Varanasi.
The Peace Paradise of Sarnath
One of the four pilgrimage sites for the Buddhists, Sarnath is located at 13 km north east from Varanasi. It is believed that Lord Buddha preached his first sermon at the Deer Park of Sarnath. The first ‘Sangha’ of Buddhism was also built at this quaint village of Uttar Pradesh. One of the major characteristics of Sarnath is that it has several monasteries and Buddhist shrines built here by countries where Buddhism is followed on a massive scale, namely, Tibet, Thailand, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Japan. Each monastery and shrine is unique bearing the architectural style of its country. Tourists can witness the simple lifestyle of the monks at these monasteries while chitchatting with the ever smiling monks.
The Dhamek Stupa is another popular tourist spot of Varanasi in Sarnath. This 128 feet high and 93 m wide monument was constructed in 200 BC and is believed to the site where Lord Buddha preached ‘Dharma.’ The Chaukhnadi Stupa is another historical structure of Sarnath. This octagonal tower was built by Emperor Ashoka in the 5th century. The Ashoka Pillar with four lions carved back to back, which is the national emblem, is also found here. Last but not the least; turn the golden pages of Buddhism at the Sarnath Museum. This museum stores ancient sculptures and images of Lord Buddha and Bodhistavas.
The Shaktipeeth of Vindhyachal
Located at 64 km from Varanasi, this religious town is dedicated to Goddess Durga. It is believed that Vindhyavasini, an incarnation of Goddess Durga resided here after defeating demon Mahishasura. Sita Kund is a popular tourist spot of the city. After climbing 48 steps to the Sita Kund, tourists come across the sacred Ashtabhuja Temple. The place is known for its cave temples, like the Kali temple. Devotees bath in the holy waters of Brahmakund and Agastyakund to cleanse their souls.
The wilderness of Chandra Prabha Sanctuary
Located approximately at 55 km from Varanasi, the Chandra Prabha Sanctuary is known for its breathtaking beauty. While tourists can enjoy picnics with their families here, the dense forests are safe shelters to various species of deer, like the black bucks, chital and sambar. Nilgai, wild boar and porcupines are the other fauna found here.
The power of Ram Nagar Durg
Located just at 14 km from Varanasi, this fort lies at the opposite bank of River Ganges. Visit this fort to check out its museum which displays the royal belongings, like vintage cars, ivory work, antique clocks, decorative palanquins, old guns, swords and armours. Tourists can also witness fine stone carvings at the Durga Temple and Chinnamastika Temple. The Ved Vyasa and the Dakshin Mukhi temples are also located at the fort complex.
The Mighty Fort of Chunar
The Chunar Fort is located at about 40 km from Varanasi. This powerful fort is famous for the huge sundial and a large well. The Sonwa Mandap is historically important as several stories revolve around this beautiful place. The Raja Bhartihari Samadhi and the Bhavan Khambha also narrate the glorious days ancient India.
Hence, besides praying at the Varanasi temple and sailing on River Ganges, set on a journey to the nearby tourist spots to make your India Tours special.
