Historical Monuments in Varanasi: Capturing The Essence Of The Ancient Civilization
Best historical monuments in Varanasi to visit and discover the heritage of Varanasi
Kashi is one of the oldest cities in the world which has still preserved its history. You can witness the ancient architecture and designs as you walk through the streets. However, historical monuments in Varanasi are perhaps the best way to experience history.
The next time you’re in the city, make sure to also visit these monuments aside from temples. They have the most intricate architecture representing a time when most modern civilizations didn’t even exist. So let’s find out what the best Varanasi monuments are and how to visit them.
Ramnagar Fort
The Ramnagar Fort is a celebrated monument in Varanasi history, one that still stands in the city. The fort’s architecture has both Islamic and Hindu architecture features in it. The fort is well preserved and all the structures are made from stones, marbles, and exquisite materials.
Additionally, the fort also has a temple and museum inside it, which visitors can witness to know more about Varanasi.
Things To Do:
- Visit the fort museum
- Pray at the fort temple
- Have the famous lassi outside
Location: Varanasi Rd, Ram Nagar, Ramnagar, Uttar Pradesh 221008
Timings: 10 am to 5 pm daily
Aurangzeb’s Mosque/ Alamgir Masjid
You must be aware of the time when Aurangzeb destroyed the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. He also destroyed a Vishnu Temple right above the Panchganga Ghat. After doing so, he created a mosque in its place which is the Alamgir Masjid.
The mosque is a beautiful Varanasi monument that shows a unique architecture and design than the other monuments.
Things To Do:
- Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Have Chaat and local street food.
- Take a walk to the ghat
Location: Panchganga Ghat, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
Timings: Open 24 hours daily
Chaukhandi Stupa
Another important Buddhist monument, the Chaukhandi Stupa is one of the famous places in Varanasi. It is another location where Lord Buddha spent his time and met his five bhikshus again.
The stupa is situated at the beginning of Sarnath from Varanasi, and visitors can also enjoy the gardens and other areas.
Things To Do:
- Visit the gardens
- Eat from local street vendors
- Visit Sarnath temples
Location: Rishpattan Rd, Near, Sarnath, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221007
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm daily
Dhamekh Stupa
The Dhamekh Stupa is crucial to the history of Varanasi, especially for Buddhists. It is said that the Dhamekh Stupa was the location where Lord Buddha offered his first sermon. The stupa is a cylindrical structure surrounded by gardens and greenery.
Alongside the stupa structure, there is also a museum near it that offers historical facts and information.
Things To Do:
- Go to the museum
- Visit Sarnath temples
- Relax in the gardens
Location: Dharmapala Rd, Singhpur, Sarnath, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Timings: 6 am to 5 pm daily
St. Mary’s Cathedral
Set in the Varanasi Cantonment, St. Mary’s Cathedral is another important historical monument. Though it isn’t as old as some other monuments on this list, it is religiously important for Catholics. The Cathedral served and still serves as a place of worship for devotees.
If you come to Varanasi near Christmas time, you can witness a beautiful fest in the Cathedral and take part in it.
Things To Do:
- Explore the Varanasi Cantonment
- Visit trendy restaurants
- Go to the JHV Mall
Location: 8XJM+FH4, Patel Nagar, Varanasi Cantonment, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221002
Timings: 7 am to 8 pm daily
Rajghat Fort & Tomb Of Lal Khan
One of the lesser-known historical monuments in Varanasi is the Rajghat fort area. It is an official Archaeological Survey of India location and has beautiful architecture. It also has the Tomb of Lal Khan, who was a Mughal noble.
The site is situated right next to the Ganga and has architecture from many periods that are still preserved.
Things To Do:
- Visit the riverside ghat
- Admire the tomb
- Visit the Rajghat School
Location: Rajghat, Varanasi
Timings: Open 24 hours daily
Chunar Fort
Though Chunar is almost fifty kilometers away from Varanasi, it is a must-visit monument. The Chunar Fort is a beautiful location by the ghat. The fort was used by the Mughals, British, and has a rich history.
You can book a taxi and visit Chunar, which will take you around 1-2 hours to reach. You can be back in Varanasi in the evening once you’ve seen the fort.
Things To Do:
- Visit the Bhathari Samadhi
- Drop by the bank of Ganga
- Enjoy delicious local cuisine
Location: 4VFG+87X, Tammanpatti, Uttar Pradesh 231304
Timings: 8am to 5pm
Conclusion
If you’re a visitor looking for Varanasi places to visit, you can give monuments a shot. The historical monuments in Varanasi display the most beautiful designs and ancient stories. Since they are a reminder of the old city, they are like a revisit to the past.
As important as modern locations are, historical places in Varanasi are also memorable. They still hold traces of a life that was once present in the ancient city. So these monuments are a must-visit for tourists coming to Banaras.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any forts or palaces in Varanasi?
Yes, two major forts count as historical monuments in Varanasi.
Are there any historical landmarks present in Varanasi?
Yes, many stupas, forts, ghats, and religious spots count as historical places in Varanasi.
Are historical places well preserved in Varanasi?
Though the preservation process of monuments was not as meticulous, some monuments are still present in Varanasi. However, they are not in their best condition, so preservation is lacking somewhere.
