About ten kilometers from Varanasi’s downtown stands the ancient wonder known as Ramnagar Fort. Situated on the eastern bank of the Ganges River, Varanasi is home to this famous historical landmark that dates back to the 17th century. There is a temple and a museum within the fort complex that is well worth seeing. The temple is dedicated to Ved Vyas, who composed the Hindu epic Ramayana. A different temple honoring Lord Hanuman is located close to Ramnagar Fort.
On the other hand, the museum showcases an extensive and distinctive collection of ancient clocks, swords, old firearms, palanquins, and vintage cars that once belonged to royal families. This well-known Varanasi fort’s Darbar Hall formerly stood at this museum. It also contains jewelry, silk robes, and elephant saddles. The black musical instrument—which, regrettably, has gone white—and the astronomical clock are the talk of the museum’s display.
The Ramnagar fort comes alive with color and vibrancy during the Dushhera celebration, making it one of Varanasi’s must-see tourist attractions. The fort has been Kashi Naresh and his family’s residence since its establishment.
Let’s learn more about this fantastic and fascinating fort of Varanasi.
History Of Ramnagar Fort
Ramnagar was the home and penance place of Veda Vyas during the Mahabharata era. In the eighteenth century, this fort was constructed as a tribute to the sage. On the other hand, the writing on the fort wall is from the seventeenth century. The area became known as Ramnagar in the 18th century as a result of the numerous theatrical plays based on the life of Lord Ram that were performed there. It was known as Vyas Kashi before then. Kashi Naresh and his family inhabited the Ramnagar fort, and he subsequently constructed numerous temples within. Aside from the end of royal rule, tourists can now visit the fort. Inside the fort, the current royal family continues to reside.
Architecture Of The Fort
The structure of Ramnagar Fort features exquisite chunar sandstone embellishments and an excellent Mughal architectural design. The fort has several carved balconies, pavilions, and roomy courtyards. It is constructed on a tall, elevated platform. A short set of steps leads up to the top of the fort’s two white turrets.
Museum And Astronomical Clock Of The Fort
Additionally known as Saraswati Bhawan, the museum is located inside the Ramnagar Fort. In the past, this Bhawan served as a public audience hall. The museum currently houses a unique collection of ivory pieces, antique American cars, medieval clothing, gold and silver jewelry, sedan chairs, palanquins, antique firearms, elephant saddles, and more. Numerous books, manuscripts, tiny illustrated Mughal books, and other materials can be found here.
A unique clock in the fort displays the time, day, week, and month, as well as astronomical information about the sun, moon, and planet positions. An astronomer working in the royal court of Varanasi constructed this clock in the 19th century.
Where Is The Fort Ramnagar Located?
The Ramnagar fort is situated on the river’s eastern side. It is located 2 kilometers from Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and 14 km from the train station. It’s directly across from Tulsi Ghat.
When Is The Best Time To See Ramnagar Fort?
During the Holi festival, the fort is closed. It is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Public holidays and Sundays are also available for visits to the fort. October is the ideal month to visit the fort. A stage production based on the life of Lord Rama will be presented this month as part of the Dusshera festivities. The Ramnagar fort is bright and beautiful at this time. The royal family circles the fort on a decked elephant during this performance.
Ferries cross the river to reach the fort during the monsoon season, which runs from July to September. A ferry voyage to the fort is a significant event. Dashashwamedh Ghat is the starting point for boat rides, which take around one hour to get to the fort. There will be numerous celebrations held inside the fort during January and February. This month is the best option for those who would like to experience local culture. Another significant celebration that happens in February or March is Raj Mangal. Boat processions, dancing performances, and other events are available to enjoy during this festival.
Why Is This Fort So Famous Among Indian And International Tourists?
The Ramnagar Fort was constructed in the Mughal architectural style using cream-colored sandstone. The fort has a museum, a large astronomical clock, carved balconies, pavilions, open courtyards, a Durbar hall, and reception areas in addition to the Veda Vyasa temple and the Dakshin Mukhi Hanuman temple. Tourists are not permitted in the king’s private house area.
India is the home to many forts that represent different histories of different times. Other than Ramnagar Fort, there are tons of other tourist attractions in Varanasi and all over Uttar Pradesh, representing the deep and centuries-old fascinating history of India.
