Chunar Fort, Varanasi – Timings, History, Best Time to Visit
Chunar Fort is a significant historical and architectural fort from the eleventh century. Chunar Fort is a magnificent building to visit, with a portion of the fort’s might stretching over the steep and uneven banks of the Ganga River. Tourists are drawn to it because of its aesthetic charm. The popular Bollywood film “Gangs of Waseypur” also included the fort.
History of Chunar Fort, Varanasi
The Chunar Fort was established by Maharaja Vikramaditya, the King of Ujjain for his brother Raja Bhartihari. As per Alha Khand, King Sahadeo made this fort as his capital and renamed as Nainagarh in 1029 AD. Built and rebuilt several times, Chunar first came into prominence in 1177 AD, when Prithviraj Chauhan established his fort here. Later, the fort was ruled by Mughal ruler Babar in 1525 AD and then Sher Shah Suri took control over the fort in 1532 CE. In 1575 AD, Akbar recaptured this fort and then it passed to the nawabs of Awadh in the 18th century. Finally in 1772 AD, it was captured by the British and used it as a warehouse of weapons and missiles till India’s independence.
Architectural Marvel of Chunar Fort, Varanasi
The Chunar Fort, which blends Hindu and Islamic architectural features, is a wonder of medieval design. The red sandstone fort features elaborate carvings, ornamental designs, and elaborate gates. The fort’s military importance is reflected in its imposing walls and bastions, which offer insight into the defensive tactics of the past. You will be taken back in time to a period of grandeur and majesty as you explore its courtyards and passageways.
The fort, which is surrounded on two sides by the Ganga River, is well-known for both its historical significance and its natural beauty. The fort is a sturdy building that occupies 34,000 square feet and is situated atop a rock that is a separate feature of the Vindhya Range. It is nearly impossible to breach the rocky fort because of its steep slope. A series of low hills that run parallel to the river on its right bank and are covered in bungalows and plantations indicate the approach to Chunar Hill. Small boats can navigate the rocky Ganga River bank where the fort is located in the southeast.
The main features in the fort complex include the Samadhi of Bhartihari, Sonwa Mandap, Hanging Place, Warren Hastings’ bungalow, and the prisons. Additionally, King Vikramaditya built a Well of Love for his adored bride, who uses it for ablutions. The well contains changing rooms and hidden dungeons. Inside the fort, which King Sahadeo erected to honor his conquest of fifty-two rulers, lies a stone umbrella. Additionally, the fort has a subterranean passage that leads to Raigarh and Vijaygarh.
Timings: 10 AM to 4 PM
Entry Fee: Free
