Chunar Fort

Location & Setting

• Distance: Situated about 35–40 km west of Varanasi in Chunar, Mirzapur district

• Landscape: Perched on a rocky outcrop (part of the Vindhya Range) overlooking the Ganges, the fort’s steep ramparts and riverside position made it a nearly impregnable stronghold

History Through Time

Built in the 11th century by Raja Sahadeo, Chunar Fort has stood witness to the ages. It welcomed:

• King Vikramaditya and later Raja Bharthari, whose samadhi stands inside the fort

• Prithviraj Chauhan, Babur, Sher Shah Suri, Akbar, and subsequent rulers

• Became a military depot under the British East India Company in 1772; Warren Hastings even took refuge here during the Banaras rebellion

Architectural Highlights

• Massive sandstone walls and robust ramparts built from local Chunar stone

• Sonwa Mandap: a 28-pillar pavilion linked via tunnel to the river, built in 1333 AD, with a deep bawdi and legendary connection to a Nepali princess

• British-era buildings inside include a cemetery, hospital, prison, and the bungalow of Warren Hastings

• Underground dungeons, secret tunnels, Well of Love, and Mughal tombs add to the allure

What to Do

• Explore Sonwa Mandap and the legendary bawdi

• Visit shrines: Gangeshwar Nath Temple, Durga Khoh, and lesser-known dargahs

• Enjoy commanding views of the Ganges and Mirzapur plains

• Wander through the British cemetery and colonial-era structures

Practical Info

 Why Include It

• A spectacular offbeat day-trip just outside Varanasi

• Deep historical layers from ancient kings to Mughal, Maratha, and British eras

• Photogenic architecture, secret tunnels, and scenic Ganga views

• Adds variety beyond ghats and temples, ideal for culturally rich itineraries