Below are some of the most enchanting places that you can visit around Kashi for an unforgettable trip.
Ramnagar Fort – Legacy of Kashi Kings :
Situated across the sacred river Ganges, Ramnagar Fort is a magnificent reminder of Varanasi's royal past. Built by Maharaja Balwant Singh in 1750, the fort is made of Chunar sandstone and shows a perfect blend of Mughal and Indian architectural styles. The fort houses a museum which includes ancient manuscripts, old cars, royal artefacts and weapons of Kashi rulers. Watching the sunset from the riverside courtyard of the fort is one of the most peaceful experiences during your spiritual journey from Varanasi.
Read More....
Chunar Fort – Pride of Heritage Tourism :
A short drive from Varanasi takes you to the historic Chunar Fort, one of the most impressive heritage sites near Kashi. Situated on a rocky hill on the banks of river Ganga, the fort has witnessed the rule of Sher Shah Suri, the Mughals and the British. Its strong stone walls, underground passages and ancient charm make it a paradise for history lovers. Chunar Fort tourism offers visitors a deep glimpse of centuries of valor and architecture.
Read More....
Mirzapur Waterfalls – Beauty of Nature near Varanasi:
If you want nature and peace, then definitely visit Mirzapur Falls. Located just a few hours away from the city, Wyndham Falls is a stunning picnic and trekking spot, managed by the Mirzapur Forest Department. Surrounded by lush green forests, crystal-clear waters and a peaceful environment, it is one of the best nature destinations near Varanasi. Don't miss the nearby Vindhyachal Temple, a holy site dedicated to Goddess Vindhyavasini.
Read More....
Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary – Where nature meets peace :
Located in Chandauli district, about 64.9 km from Varanasi, Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary is spread over an area of 78 square kilometers. Established in 1957, it is home to the serene Chandraprabha Dam as well as picturesque waterfalls like Rajdari and Devdari. With its dense forests, tranquil walking trails and diverse flora and fauna, the sanctuary is an ideal destination for wildlife lovers and peace seekers.
Read More....
Kaimur Hills – A land of ancient caves and hidden wonders :
The Kaimur Hills spread over the Uttar Pradesh-Bihar border are a paradise for adventure seekers and those interested in history. This area is full of prehistoric rock paintings, mysterious caves and rare fossils thousands of years old. Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary adds even more charm with its lush green forests, waterfalls and rich biodiversity – making it a must-see place for those exploring natural heritage near Kashi.
Read More....
Prehistoric rock paintings near Robertsganj:
The Vindhya and Kaimur mountain ranges are home to about 250 rock art sites dating from the Mesolithic to the Chalcolithic age. These ancient paintings depict daily life, hunting and customs of early civilizations. It is a fascinating destination for travelers interested in archeology and ancient Indian history – a true window into prehistoric life around Varanasi.
Read More....
Vindhyachal – a sacred Shakti Peetha near Varanasi
Located close to Mirzapur, Vindhyachal is one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites in North India. It is believed that there used to be more than 150 temples in this temple town dedicated to Goddess Vindhyavasini. Even today, it attracts devotees who come to seek blessings at temples like Kali Khoh and Ashtabhuja Devi Temple. With the beautifully flowing river Ganges nearby, Vindhyachal radiates divine energy and is an important stopover for spiritual journeys from Varanasi.
Read More....
Bodh Gaya – A Sacred Buddhist Pilgrimage from Varanasi
About 255 km from Varanasi lies Bodhgaya, one of the most sacred places for Buddhists across the world. It was here that Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Mahabodhi Temple Complex is a major attraction that attracts monks, devotees and travelers from all over the world. The peaceful environment of Bodh Gaya makes it an ideal place for meditation and spiritual growth.
Read More....
Prayagraj (Allahabad) – Where faith flows with rivers
About 122 km from Varanasi, Prayagraj (Allahabad) is home to the Triveni Sangam, the sacred confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna and the legendary Saraswati rivers. It is one of the most sacred places in Hinduism and hosts the world famous Kumbh Mela every twelve years. With its ancient temples and historical sites, Prayagraj perfectly complements the spiritual aura of Varanasi.
Read More....
FAQs – Must-Visit Tourist Spots Around Varanasi
Q1. Which are the most stunning locations to visit near Varanasi?
Some of the most scenic and cultural attractions near Varanasi include Ramnagar Fort, Chunar Fort, Vindhyachal Temple, Mirzapur Waterfalls, Sarnath, and Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary. Each destination offers a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage and natural beauty.
Q2. What is special about Ramnagar Fort near Varanasi?
Ramnagar Fort, located across the Ganga River, is renowned for its royal architecture, museum of ancient artifacts, and the grand Ramlila festival organized by the Kashi royal family. It’s one of the best heritage destinations to explore during a Varanasi sightseeing tour.
Q3. How old is Chunar Fort and why should tourists visit it?
Dating back several centuries, Chunar Fort has witnessed the reigns of Sher Shah Suri, Mughal emperors, and the British. Its massive sandstone walls, riverside views, and mysterious underground tunnels make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and photographers.
Q4. Are there natural attractions or waterfalls near Varanasi?
Yes, Vindham Waterfall in Mirzapur is a popular natural getaway surrounded by dense forests and rocky terrain. It’s an ideal picnic and hiking spot for those looking to unwind in nature near Varanasi.
Q5. Which wildlife sanctuaries can I explore near Varanasi?
Nature lovers can visit Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary in Chandauli or Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary on the UP–Bihar border. Both are known for their lush forests, scenic waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna, offering a refreshing escape from city life.
Q6. What are some popular spiritual places to visit around Varanasi?
Nearby spiritual sites include
Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon;
Vindhyachal, dedicated to Goddess Vindhyavasini; Bodh Gaya; and Prayagraj, home to the sacred Triveni Sangam.
Q7. How far is Bodh Gaya from Varanasi and what makes it important?
Located about 255 km from Varanasi, Bodh Gaya is one of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. It was here that Lord Buddha attained enlightenment, and the Mahabodhi Temple complex is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Q8. Why is Prayagraj (Allahabad) an important destination from Varanasi?
Situated about 122 km away, Prayagraj is revered for the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of three holy rivers – Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati. It is also world-famous for hosting the Kumbh Mela, one of the largest spiritual gatherings on Earth, symbolizing peace, history, and divine splendor.
Top Things to do in Varanasi