Chunar Fort
चुनार किला
An ancient fort on a sandstone cliff at a bend of the Ganges. It has been held by Sher Shah, the Mughals and the British, and its walls offer views over the river.
Chunar Fort lies about 35 km southwest of Varanasi. It is built on a projecting sandstone cliff at a bend of the Ganges, commanding the river. Over the centuries it was held by Sher Shah Suri, the Mughal emperors Humayun and Akbar, the Maharajas of Banaras and the British East India Company. Inside are an ancient well, a sundial, the Sonwa Tower and buildings from the British period. Sandstone from Chunar was once used for Ashokan pillars. From the ramparts you can see the wide sweep of the Ganges. It suits a half-day round trip by hired car. Entry prices vary, so check on site. Some areas may be closed for military or maintenance reasons.
Opening hours
About 09:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Banaras Hindu University
- Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
- Tulsi Manas Mandir
- Durga Temple (Durga Kund)
- Ramnagar Fort
- Assi Ghat
- Tulsi Ghat
- Chet Singh Ghat