Places to Visit Near Varanasi: A Journey into the Unexplored:
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Discover the enchanting wonders that lie in the vicinity of Varanasi, waiting to be explored beyond the well-trodden paths. Just 75 kilometers away, the serene Vindhyachal Temple, nestled on the banks of the Ganges, beckons pilgrims and seekers alike. Pay homage to Goddess Vindhyavasini and immerse yourself in the spiritual aura that surrounds this revered pilgrimage site.
Venture a bit further, and Windom Waterfall, around 90 kilometers from Varanasi, reveals itself as a hidden gem. Tucked away in Mirzapur, this mesmerizing cascade captivates with its hypnotic beauty. Embrace the allure of Windom Waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery, and let nature's grace unfold in every drop.
For those seeking a rendezvous with wildlife, the Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary awaits, approximately 70 kilometers from Varanasi. Set in the Kaimur hills range, it boasts dense forests, scenic waterfalls, and ancient cave paintings. Encounter a diverse range of wildlife, from tigers to blackbuck, in this expansive sanctuary.
Journey deeper into the unexplored with the Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary, the largest in the state, spanning across Mirzapur and Sonebhadra districts. A haven for biodiversity, this sanctuary is home to tigers, leopards, wild boars, and numerous avian species. Explore the ancient cave paintings and the oldest Fossil Park, unveiling a prehistoric tapestry.
Step into the tranquil oasis of Siddhnath Dari, just 14 kilometers from Chunar and 50 kilometers from Varanasi. Named after the meditating Siddhnath Baba, this serene waterfall invites you to escape the city life and recharge your senses amidst nature's embrace.
Uncover these hidden treasures near Varanasi, where spirituality, wildlife, and natural beauty converge to offer an unexplored tapestry of experiences. Embark on a journey off the beaten path and let the undiscovered gems near Varanasi weave stories of their own.
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Here is the list of top 10 places to visit near Varanasi !
1. Chunar Fort: A Citadel of Legends
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Chunar, an ancient town 40 km from Varanasi on the Ganges, boasts the formidable Chunar Fort, established by Maharaja Vikramaditya for his brother. The 34,000 sq ft fort, built on a steep slope, offers impregnable views of the Ganges. Attractions include Bhartihari's samadhi, Warren Hastings' bungalow, prisons, the Hanging Place, Sonwa Mandap, and the Well of Love with secret dungeons. Legends link Chunar to Lord Vishnu's first step in Vaman incarnation. The fort's underground tunnel supposedly connects to Vijaygarh and Raigarh. Popularized by Babur and the British, Chunar stands as a timeless testament to history.
2. Vindhyachal:Divine Abode of Goddess Vindhyavasini
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The Vindhyachal Temple, also known as Maa Vindhyavasini Temple, is a revered Hindu temple situated on the banks of the Ganges in Mirzapur district, Uttar Pradesh, around 75 km from Varanasi. Dedicated to Goddess Vindhyavasini, it is a Shakti Pitha temple and believed to be the abode of Goddess Durga. The city hosts various temples like Ashtabhuji Devi Temple and Kali Khoh Temple. During Navaratri, the city comes alive with thousands of devotees, adorned with lamps and flowers. The goddess, named after the Vindhya Range, attracts pilgrims seeking blessings and spiritual solace in this divine abode.
3. Rajdari and Devdari Waterfalls
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Situated approximately 70 km from Varanasi, the Chakiya region unveils the hidden gems of Rajdari and Devdari Waterfalls. Nestled within the Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary, these scenic waterfalls are cherished by locals for serene family picnics. Rajdari Fall, cascading from a height of 65 meters, enchants with lush green surroundings and the soothing melody of rushing waters. Embraced by nature, these falls come alive during the monsoons, offering a captivating spectacle. The serene beauty, coupled with their concealed charm within the wildlife sanctuary, makes Rajdari and Devdari Waterfalls a tranquil escape and a well-known local delight.
4. Lakhaniya Dari Falls
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Lakhaniya Dari Falls, an exquisite water marvel, lies approximately 30 km from the historic town of Chunar in Mirzapur district, Uttar Pradesh, and around 55 km from Varanasi. Best experienced during the monsoons, the falls cascade from a majestic height of 150 meters, creating a captivating spectacle. The landscape is adorned with colossal boulders, rocks, and meandering rivulets. Exploring Chunar, renowned for its pottery tradition and handicrafts, complements the waterfall visit. Immerse yourself in the natural allure of Lakhaniya Dari Falls during the rainy season, ensuring a breathtaking display of nature's grandeur in this picturesque corner of Uttar Pradesh.
5. Siddhanth ki Dari (Waterfall)
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Nestled in the Mirzapur district of Uttar Pradesh, Siddhnath Dari, located 14 km from Chunar and 50 km from Varanasi, is a tranquil waterfall associated with the meditation site of Siddhnath Baba. The "samadhi sthal" of the revered Baba enhances the spiritual ambiance. A favored retreat for tourists and locals due to its proximity to Varanasi and Mirzapur, Siddhnath Dari captivates visitors with its serene beauty. The best time to witness its enchantment is from July to March. Apart from the waterfall, the site boasts rock paintings and carvings, attracting enthusiasts eager to explore the natural and cultural wonders it holds.
6. Windom Fall
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If you haven't explored Mirzapur yet, let Windom Waterfall be your compelling reason to visit. Tucked away in the heart of Mirzapur, this enchanting waterfall, located around 90 km from Varanasi, remains a hidden gem for many travelers. When in Mirzapur, make sure to visit this mesmerizing cascade, captivating visitors with its hypnotic beauty. The best time to experience its allure is from October to March, ensuring a delightful encounter with nature's grace. Discover the charm of Windom Waterfall and let its hidden splendor become a highlight of your Mirzapur journey.
7. Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary
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Nestled about 70 km from Varanasi, the Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary, named after the Chandraprabha River, unfolds in the Chandauli district. A haven of dense forests, scenic waterfalls, and picnic spots, it was once home to Asiatic Lions. Monsoon showers enhance the sanctuary's charm. Ideal for adventure seekers, it shelters leopards, blackbuck, cheetal, sambhar, wild boar, wild cats, and wild fox. The Chandraprabha River, a Karamnasha River tributary, meanders through, nurturing diverse flora and fauna. Renowned for rare vegetation, the sanctuary has been a source of Ayurvedic Medicine since the era of Kashi Raj Divodas Dhanvantari.
8. Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary
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Situated 100 km from Varanasi, the expansive Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary in the renowned Kaimur hills range is the largest in Uttar Pradesh, covering around 1342 km². Adorned with valleys hosting captivating waterfalls like Karkat and Telhar, the sanctuary boasts ancient cave paintings and the state's oldest Fossil Park. Its diverse habitat includes Tigers, Leopards, Wild Boars, Sloth Bears, and a variety of deer species. With over 70 resident bird species and an influx of migratory birds during winters, the sanctuary offers a rich avian diversity. Spanning Mirzapur and Sonebhadra districts, it is easily accessible by road and rail.
9. Prayagraj: Confluence of Rivers and Faiths
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Explore the sacred city of Allahabad, now named Prayagraj, just 125 km from Varanasi. Witness the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers at Triveni Sangam. Immerse yourself in the historical richness of Allahabad Fort and the iconic Anand Bhavan, symbols of faith and heritage. This city, steeped in spiritual significance, beckons with the harmonious meeting of rivers and the cultural tapestry woven by its landmarks, inviting visitors on a journey of reverence and exploration
10. Bodh Gaya: Pilgrimage and Enlightenment
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Embark on a spiritual journey to Bodh Gaya, situated approximately 260 km from Varanasi. Immerse yourself in the sacred ambiance of this revered pilgrimage site. Discover the Mahabodhi Temple, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment, and find solace under the ancient Bodhi Tree. Explore the serene Vishnupad Temple, resonating with spiritual energy. Bodh Gaya, a sanctuary of pilgrimage and enlightenment, invites you to witness the profound moments of Lord Buddha's awakening and connect with the tranquil surroundings that echo with centuries of spiritual resonance.