Excursions
Sarnath
(Within municipal limits) (10kms.)
From Varanasi is the site where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon (in
Buddhist terminology, 'turned the wheel of the law' Maha -Dharm- chakra Pravartan")
after his enlightenment.
Sarnath is one of the richest in Buddhist antiquities ranging in date from
the times of Ashoka, down to the 12th century A.D. Ashoka built here the Dharmarajika
Stupa and near it erected a pillar surmounted by the magnificent capital of
four adorsed lions, which today form the national emblem of India. Among other
structures at Sarnath are the ruins of the brick temple representing the Mula-gandha
kuti, ruins of stupas and monasteries. Among the more imposing ones is the
Dhamekh Stupa, adorned with delicate floral carvings in the lowerpart, the
Chaukhandi Stupa and Mahabodhi society's Mulgandha Kuti Vihar Temple.
Sarnath has also yielded an extremely rich collection of Buddhist sculptures
comprising of numerous Buddha and Bodhisatva images, which can be seen at
Archaeological Museum Sarnath.
Open 1000- 1700 Hrs. Closed on Fridays.
Ramnagar (14 kms)
The fort at Ramnagar houses a museum displaying the Royal collection which
includes vintage cars, royal palkies, an armory of swords and old guns, ivory
work and antique clocks. The Durga Temple and Chhinnamastika Temple are also
located at Ramnagar.
Vindhyachal (90 Kms)
One of the Shaktipeeths, Vindhyavasini Devi Temple, Ashthbhuja and Kalikhoh
are the major attractions.
Allahabad (128 kms)
From Varanasi and located at the confluence (Sangam) of the rivers Ganga,
Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati, Allahabad - one of the oldest cities of
India and a pilgrimage centre of utmost importance is also famous for the
Kumbh and Ardh Kumbh Melas held every twelve and six years respectively. These
re attended by the largest congregation of saints, believers and followers
of Hindu religion in India and from across the world. Allahabad is also known
for its annual Magh Mela (mini Kumbh Mela) and colorful Dussehra festival.
Chunar Fort (40 kms.)
Bhartrihari took live Samadhi inside the fort. The historical fort at Chunar
is ascribed to one of the greatest warrior- rulers, Sher Shah Suri. Sonwa
Mandap, Sun clock and huge well are some of the attractions inside the fort.
The fort offers a splendid view of the river ganga.
Kaushambi (185 Kms)
This ancient city is ascribed to the Pandav brothers of Mahabharat. The ruins
of an old gigantic fort are testimony to the city's antiquity. Lord Buddha
visited Kaushambi in the 6th and 9th years after his enlightenment, giving
several sermons and discourse. Elevating it to a great centre of Buddhism.
Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary (70 kms.)
Forests of Chandraprabha nestle within them the Rajdari and Devdari water
falls. A beautiful secluded spot for a relaxed outing or a picnic.
Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary (130 kms)
Spread over an area of 500 sq. kms., the sanctuary has a variety of wildlife.
Other Tourist attractions include the Mukha waterfalls are a tourist attraction.
Jaunpur 58 Kms. Sheetla Chowkia Dham, Yamdagni Ashram, Atala Mosque and Char
Angul ki Masjid are the major attractions.
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