Varanasi Travel Guide

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Excursions

Sarnath (Within municipal limits) (10kms.)
From Varanasi is the site where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon (in Buddhist terminology, 'turned the wheel of the law' Maha -Dharm- chakra Pravartan") after his enlightenment.

Sarnath is one of the richest in Buddhist antiquities ranging in date from the times of Ashoka, down to the 12th century A.D. Ashoka built here the Dharmarajika Stupa and near it erected a pillar surmounted by the magnificent capital of four adorsed lions, which today form the national emblem of India. Among other structures at Sarnath are the ruins of the brick temple representing the Mula-gandha kuti, ruins of stupas and monasteries. Among the more imposing ones is the Dhamekh Stupa, adorned with delicate floral carvings in the lowerpart, the Chaukhandi Stupa and Mahabodhi society's Mulgandha Kuti Vihar Temple.

Sarnath has also yielded an extremely rich collection of Buddhist sculptures comprising of numerous Buddha and Bodhisatva images, which can be seen at Archaeological Museum Sarnath.
Open 1000- 1700 Hrs. Closed on Fridays.

Ramnagar (14 kms)
The fort at Ramnagar houses a museum displaying the Royal collection which includes vintage cars, royal palkies, an armory of swords and old guns, ivory work and antique clocks. The Durga Temple and Chhinnamastika Temple are also located at Ramnagar.

Vindhyachal (90 Kms)
One of the Shaktipeeths, Vindhyavasini Devi Temple, Ashthbhuja and Kalikhoh are the major attractions.

Allahabad (128 kms)
From Varanasi and located at the confluence (Sangam) of the rivers Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati, Allahabad - one of the oldest cities of India and a pilgrimage centre of utmost importance is also famous for the Kumbh and Ardh Kumbh Melas held every twelve and six years respectively. These re attended by the largest congregation of saints, believers and followers of Hindu religion in India and from across the world. Allahabad is also known for its annual Magh Mela (mini Kumbh Mela) and colorful Dussehra festival.

Chunar Fort (40 kms.)
Bhartrihari took live Samadhi inside the fort. The historical fort at Chunar is ascribed to one of the greatest warrior- rulers, Sher Shah Suri. Sonwa Mandap, Sun clock and huge well are some of the attractions inside the fort. The fort offers a splendid view of the river ganga.

Kaushambi (185 Kms)
This ancient city is ascribed to the Pandav brothers of Mahabharat. The ruins of an old gigantic fort are testimony to the city's antiquity. Lord Buddha visited Kaushambi in the 6th and 9th years after his enlightenment, giving several sermons and discourse. Elevating it to a great centre of Buddhism.

Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary (70 kms.)
Forests of Chandraprabha nestle within them the Rajdari and Devdari water falls. A beautiful secluded spot for a relaxed outing or a picnic.

Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary (130 kms)
Spread over an area of 500 sq. kms., the sanctuary has a variety of wildlife.

Other Tourist attractions include the Mukha waterfalls are a tourist attraction. Jaunpur 58 Kms. Sheetla Chowkia Dham, Yamdagni Ashram, Atala Mosque and Char Angul ki Masjid are the major attractions.


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