Lucknow boasts of majestic monuments, exquisite cuisines and the historic buildings makes this city unique in nature and certainly worth a visit. It is also among the fastest growing cities in India and is emerging as a manufacturing, commercial and retailing hub. The unique combination of its cultural grace and newly acquired pace is its most promising feature that augurs well for the future.

Places to visit in and around Lucknow

  Lucknow is a very beautiful city that still retains its age-old charm. A tour to Lucknow will be a really memorable one. Though Lucknow itself has many places to visit, some of the places around the city are also worth travelling to.

Bara Imambara:

Bara Imambara is an imambara complex in Lucknow, built by Asaf-ud-Daulah, Nawab of Lucknow in 1784. It is also called the Asaf Imambara. It is among the most popular attractions of Lucknow. The complex includes a large mosque, the bhulbulayah (the labyrinth) and a bowli, a step well with running water. It’s an excellent location to revisit memories of the 17^th and 18^th century rulers.

Chota Imambara:

Also known as Hussainabad Imambara, Chota Imambara is the brainchild of Mohammad Ali Shah and was built in 1837. It is an imposing monument located in the city of Lucknow. In the complex are many tombs. It is also known as the Palace of Lights because of its decorating during special festivals. There are some amazing facts of this unique monument. The chandeliers used to decorate the interior of this building were brought from Belgium. It has a gilded white dome and several other minarets. The tombs of Mohammad Ali Shah and other members of his family are inside the imambara. The walls are decorated with Arabic calligraphy. Outside the imambara is the watch tower called Satkhana, meaning tower of seven storeys, which in fact has only four storeys

Rumi Darwaza:

Located in the northwest of Bara Imambara, this important landmark was built in 1783. It is an example of Awadhi architecture. It is adjacent to the Asafi Imambara and has become a logo for the city of Lucknow. Being an entrance to the city, Russell, the reporter of The New York Times had called the stretch of road from Rumi Darwaza to Chattar Manzil the most beautiful and spectacular cityscape that he had ever seen, better than Rome, Paris and London. The Rumi Darwaza stands sixty feet tall, and is visited by a lot of travellers.

Sikandar Bagh:

Sikandar Bagh, built by the last Nawab of Oudh, Wajid Ali Shah is a villa and garden enclosed by a fortified wall, with loopholes, gateway and corner bastions. This place has a slice of history behind its construction. It is named as such because of the Nawab’s favourite wife Sikandar Mahal Begum. It was stormed in 1857 by the British during the Indian Mutiny and witnessed the slaughter of all 2200 sepoy mutineers during their siege of Lucknow. The site now houses the National Research Institute of India.

Clock Tower:

The clock tower is located very near to the Rumi Darwaza. Built in 1881 by the British, this 67-metre high tower on the river Gomti is said to be the tallest clock tower in India. The tower features European style artwork. The part of the clock is built of pure gunmetal and the pendulum hangs 14 feet. The dial of this clock is shaped like a 12-petalled flower and has bells around it. This is one of the most towering monuments in Lucknow and is quite a favourite with tourists who visit this city.

Lucknow Zoo:

Located in the heart of the capital city of Lucknow, the Zoo is large in size and a very popular attraction for visitors and residents of the city alike. The zoo receives around 10 lakh visitors annually. The Lucknow zoo is home to 400 mammals, 260 birds, 40 reptiles, including the Royal Bengal Tiger, White Tiger, Lion, Wolf, Indian Rhinoceros, Black Buck, Swamp Deer, Barking Deer, Asiatic Elephant, Otters, Giant Squirrels and many more. A toy train that covers almost every section of the zoo is a major attraction for children. All in all, the zoo is a must-visit place for animal lovers.

State Museum, Lucknow:

The Uttar Pradesh State Museum, or simply called the Lucknow State Museum is situated in a contemporary three storey building at Banarasigarh. It is a multipurpose museum. It houses an extensive array of collections comprising of sculptures, bronzes, paintings, natural history and anthropological specimens, coins, textiles and decorative arts. It is touted among the oldest museums of the state and richest in the country. It is a really good place to see the rich collection of artefacts and memorabilia of which the numismatic, handicrafts and natural history sections attract special attention.

Thus, Lucknow can be regarded as a relatively attractive place with a list of interesting spots to visit. Exploring north India without a trip to this splendid city is rather incomplete. It does ample justice to the name- The City of Nawabs. Go and have an ultimately refreshing experience.

Mysore is famous for celebrating Dasara festival when a huge amount of tourists visit here to watch this beautiful cultural festival.

St. Philomena Church

St. Philomena Church was built by Maharaja Krishnaraja in 1956 in the place of an old church which was more than 200 years old.  This is one of the biggest churches of Asia. This Neo Gothic style of architecture is the major attraction for tourists which was designed by Daly who was from France. It has two huge Cathedrals which are 175 feet high and attract people from miles away. This Church has facility to place more than 750 people inside it. The holy mass in St. Philomena Church is performed every day in multiple languages like English, Tamil, and Kannada.

Chamundi Hill Temple

Chamundi Hill Temple is one the famous temples in India. It’s located on the top of the Chamunda hill which is higher about 3,500 feet from the sea level and can be viewed amazingly from the lower area near the temple of about 9 to 10 kilometers. It also has a structure of Lord shiva’s Bull “Nandi” which is 16 feet tall and 25 feet in length. To reach the temple there are flat thousand steps which was built by Dodda Devaraja Wodeyar. This marvelous creation is the biggest attraction and landmark of Mysore for tourists.

Shravanabelagola

Shravanabelagola is the famous place to visit in mysore where large number of people come here for worship. Shravanabelagola Statue is regarded as the tallest monolith figure in the planet. This exceptional creation is situated on the top of the hill of Indragiri in Mysore. The festival called Mahamastakabhisheka is held once in twelve years in this place which is an attending place of thousands of people. This naked statue of Gometeshwara is 60 feet high and 25 feet wide which make this statue unique in the world.

Shivanasamudra Fall

This segment of waterfall is on the Kaveri River. This happens when the river is distributes itself into multiple channels and creates a beautiful structure of waterfall. The left side of the waterfall is known as Gaganchukki and the right sided waterfall is called Bharachukki. This is the famous tourist place in Mysore. July and August is the best time to visit Shivanasamudra Fall. People across the world come to enjoy this place. It has a width of about 850 meters and height of 95 meters which make this waterfall amazing photographical place. People watch this beautiful water fall from Shivanasamudra tower which is near to this place.

Mysore Palace

Mysore palace is one of the most beautiful and most visited palaces of India. This palace is a fusion of various architectures of Indo-saracenic style like Hindu, Gothic, Muslim and Rajpoot. This huge palace contains different rooms like Audience Chamber, Public Durbar, Royal Wedding Hall and Armory. It’s a triple storied architecture made with gray granite and has five storied tall domes of 150 feet. On the palace ground the famous Dasara festival is attend by thousands of people where popular artists perform the act on stage and for this festival the palace is decorated with more than 90,000 lights which make this palace more attractive.

Kesava Temple

On the bank of the Kaveri River a small village somnathpur is located where Kesava Temple is attracting hundreds of people every day. Kesava temple was built by the Hoysala general Somnatha in 1268.  It is also known as Somnathpur Temple and it’s dedicated to Lord Kesava (Krishna). This star shaped of architecture is built on a Board platform with beautiful curving on the outer side of the wall.  It is one of the most visited Hoyasala Temples in Karnataka and its 45 kilometers from Mysore. Kesava Temple is famous for its beautiful sculptures.

It’s a place where different types of festivals are celebrated of different religions like Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity by the people of Sikkim. Beautiful landscapes and unique culture of Sikkim attract tourists to know more about the interesting culture and people of Sikkim.

Phodong Monastery

Earlier we have discussed that Sikkim is a place which has ruined over by Buddhism. The place has great influence of the ethics of Buddhism. Local people there follow the culture and tradition of the religion. There are six major monasteries in Sikkim. Phodong monastery is one of the most famous monasteries in Sikkim. The Gompa is situated in the 38 kms from Gangtok main town. It is one of the most essential monasteries as it serves the religious purpose of the state. Recently, the monastery has been renovated in new architectural design.

Phensang Monastery

Phensang monastery is also another must visit place among tourists. The Gompa is situated on the very smooth slope which stretches from Kabi to Hodong and is known as the best viewpoint in entire Sikkim. According to history, the monastery was built in 1721. The place offers a pleasant feel to all the visitors and it is said that it looks more beautiful in the monsoon.  Reportedly, the Gompa was destroyed by foreign invaders but was rebuilt in 1948. All the lamas of that time took initiative to rebuild the monastery.

Chungthang

Chungthang is a very beautiful place for trekking. The place follows Lachen and Lachung Chu. The way meets the starting point of River Teesta. The nature has blessed the place with all sorts of natural amenities. The Rocky Mountains and the green dense forests have increased its beauty. The place is quite popular among the trekkers and also with the people who are interested in mountaineering courses. Here you can find some of the happening spots of rock climbing. Chungthang also follows in the North sub divisional zone of Sikkim. The place is considered as the junction for the two most famous passes of Sikkim. These passes are respectively; Lachen and Lachung Chu. The valley has also a historical importance as it is to be said that the place has been visited by Guru Rimpoche. Some find the foot and palm print in the rock of the famous guru. Chungthang is also very famous for different Orchids, Plants and Wildlife. The place is situated at the distance of 95 kms from Gangtok. It comes under the Lepcha region

Agra has many beautiful historic monuments which increases its beauty and create an aura which makes people visit again and again here.

Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal was built by Shah Jahan in the memory of his wife Mumtaz Begam at Agra. It is regarded as one of the eight wonders of the world.

The marvelous work of marbles and art on the wall and the huge architecture of the Tomb is the central attraction of the whole place.On the bank of the river Yamuna, Taj Mahal attracts people to visit this beautiful place which is called the symbol of love.

Agra Fort

On the right bank of the river Yamuna a strong architecture of Mugal emperors Red Fort is located near by The Taj Mahal. It was built in about 1565 by the great Mugal ruler Akbar.

Red Fort is bordered by a wall of 70 feet tall which was made by the red sandstone and in a radius of around 3 kilometers. It has two gates, Delhi gate and Amar singh gate and has many beautiful curves and shapes of the wall. Red Fort also has an inner portal called Hanthi pol or Elephant Gate.

Fatehpur sikri

Around 40 kilometers from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri was built by the Mugal emperor Akbar the great in between 1571 and 1584. He had decided to make this city as his imperial capital but because of the shortage of resources(mainly water) in Fatehpur Sikri the capital was shifted to Lahore. Fatehpur Sikri is a best example of the mixture of Hindu and Islamic architecture. The sunset view from this monument makes people to wish the time to stop and let them feel the amazing sunset view for the whole time.

Sikandara

Sikandara was built by the Mugal Emperor Akbar who is also known as Akbar the great. Akbar started construction of Sikandra in around 1600 after his death the rest construction is finished by Akbar’s son Jahangir in 1605-1613. This marvelous structure is made by deep red sandstone with white marbles showing the beautiful art of Mugal architecture. This five storey palace contains four storeys build by red stones and one storey by white stones which makes this more attractive.

Itmad ud dualah

In the Mugal city Agra, Itmad ud daulah is the most beautiful Mugal Tomb which stands across the river Yamuna and is located near about two kilometers from The Taj Mahal. Itmad ud dualah is also known as “Baby Taj” or “Jewell Box” and it was built in between 1622-1628 by Noor jehan in the memory of Mirza Ghiyas Beg. The work on the walls and Tomb shows the different structures of trees, animals, fruits etc. which establishes a different personality of its own and makes tourist attached to this Tomb for a while.

Soor sarover

17 kilometer far from Agra, 15 acre of green wildlife area Soor Sarover is the best place to visit and view different species of birds. Soor Sarover is also known as “Keetham Lake”. More than Hundred species of migratory and native birds are found in this heavenly place. It’s a favorite place of nature lovers and picnickers. Soor Sarover is also known for the home of different species of Reptiles and Mammals. In pentagonal of shape it covers around 7.13 kilometers. It’s a place to enjoy the nature and this is the place which inspired Soordas to compose the “Bhakti Kavya”.

It’s a city of flowers, Educations, traditions and different languages like Bhojpuri ,Hindi, Maghi ,Urdu, English & Maithali.

The culture of Patna attracts people to know more about the city.

Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib Temple

Patna Sahib is birth place of tenth Guru Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, who was born here in the year of 1666.The first Guru Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji and the ninth Guru Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji sacred this place with their visits. Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib is the second accepted and acknowledged Takht of the Sikhs. Patna Sahib is considered as the center for promoting Sikhism in East India. In Patna Sahib some relics are preserved of tenth Guru of Sikhs Guru Gobind Singh ji.

Golghar

In the year of 1786, a huge granary Golghar or Round House was built by Captain John Garstin , After the devastating famine of 1770 which occurred in Bihar and killed millions of people, then the Governor-General of India ordered to construct this architecture for the purpose of storing grains for the British army. For lifting the grain bags, twisted stairs were made for the potters to load the grain through the hole which is on the top of the Golghar.

Sher Shah Suri Masjid

Afghan style of architecture is evident in the creation of Sher Shah Suri Masjid which was built by the Pathan Emperor from Bihar – Sher Shah Suri in 1545.This mosque is beautifully covered by octagonal stone slabs and this Masjid reputed as one of the most beautiful mosques in India. This marvelous creation is a prominent landmark of Patna City and the main attraction of this mosque is its central dome which is in the center of the roof having four small domes at the corners.

Maner Sharif

Maner Sharif was the place where Mukhdam Daulat had his last breath in 1608. It is located twenty five kilometer ahead on the road of Danapur-Daltonganj.

The walls of Maner Sharif contain marvelous designs, there is a big dome on the top and the ceiling is full of inscriptions taken by the Quran. Beside the grave of Shaikh Maneri, a mosque is situated of 13^th century. Maner sharif used to be the principal site of learning about the religion and it’s also famous for its sweet delicious Ladoo made with pure ghee.

Patna Museum

Collections of stone sculptures dating to Mauryan and Guptas periods are available in Patna Museum. It is an old heritage building constructed in 1917

Items on display in the museum include archaeological objects, coins, art objects, paintings, instruments and it has some pre-historic object of great interest including of Palaeolithic , Microlith  and Neolithic specimens.

More than 195 million years old fossils of trees are also stored in Patna museum.

SHILLONG

TURA

NONGSTOIN

NONGPOH

CHERRAPUNJI

THE BOTANICAL GARDEN

GOLF COURSE

SHILLONG CATHEDRAL

NARTIANG

SHILLONG PEAK & SOHPETBNENG PEAK

WARD LAKE & UMIAM LAKE

HILLS

WATERFALLS

CAVES

NATIONAL PARKS

ALORNA FORT

The fort of Alorna is located in the taluk of Pernem, around 31 kms from Panaji. Built in 17th century by the Bhonsles of Sawantwadi, it was later captured by Marquis of Castello Novo. It was built with the intention of defending the Maratha attacks from the North. It is situated on the banks of Chapora River. Portuguese captured it in 1746, but was later annexed in 1781.

MAPUSA FRIDAY MARKET

Mapusa is situated in the Bardez taluka, 13 kms from Panaji. It has a beautiful market which comes on Fridays only. You can shop every kind of exotic souvenirs, fruits, vegetables and varieties of handicrafts from this local market. .Mapusa, the capital of Northern Bardez taluka is also considered to the third largest city of Goa. Anjum and Chapora are the two beaches located closer to this place. Buildings carved with modern architecture attract the attention of tourists.

ARVALEM WATERFALL

Situated about 9 kms from the South of Bicholim town, it is one of the marvelous spots in Goa. It forms a 24 feet high lake at its bottom which is the ideal place for swimming enthusiasts. A temple known as Rudreswar Temple is located here which is  mythological believed to be a  place of importance for Hindus  releasing soul on 12th day after death. Picturesque ancient caves surround the area making it the favorable place for filmmakers. Monsoonal periods are the best time to visit this place.

ARVALEM CAVES

The Arvalem Caves, also known as Pandavas caves were originated between 5th or 6th century AD. Built along the Buddhist Caves, it was the prime place for holding credence by travelling Buddhist Minks. It has a sanctuary at the Northern end and a vihara at the Southern end. There are five ‘lingas’ carved inside the caves out of which the shaft of four ‘lingas’ closely resemble the ‘lingas’ of Elephanta and Ellora caves. It is located 9 km from the south of Bicholim town.

CHORAO ISLAND

The name came from Portuguese, the founder of this Island. It is also called Chudamani whose Sanskrit meaning is ‘Stunning Precious Stone’. Considered to be the largest among the 17 Islands of Goa, it was earlier known to be an educational hub with a branch of a University affiliated to the Banaras University. Located 5 kms from Panaji, the people of this Island are called Chodankars. It has a beautiful church and old villas which are added attractions of the Island.

GOA STATE MUSEUM

On 29th September 1977, the Goa State Museum was inaugurated.  Later in the year 1996, a new complex of this museum was built in Patto. Sculpture Gallery, Numismatic Gallery, Christian Art Gallery, Furniture Gallery, Cultural Anthropology, Contemporary Art Gallery, Environment and Development Gallery, Gallery for other displays , Goa’s Freedom Struggle Gallery, Banerji Art Gallery, Menezes Braganza Gallery and Religious Expression Gallery are the twelve galleries of the state museum, which are the main attraction here.  Many inscriptions from the 4th century and sculptures made up of stone and bronze along with paintings from Mughal period make it a must visited place in Goa. Located in the south-west of Panaji, it is open from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm from Monday to Friday.

MADEI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

Located in Sattari in North Goa between the Bhagvan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary and the Sawantwadi reserve forests. Popularly known for its semi green and ever green forests, it is situated 70 km from Panaji and 106 km from Margao. Lot of wildlife can be watched here including various species of birds.

PANJIM BRIDGE

Also known as Mandovi Bridge, the bridge was constructed in 1980’. Across the Mandovi river people travel in ferry from Betim to Panjim and vice versa. In 16th century the Bijapur Sultan made the palace of Adilahah along the river. Panjim was named by Portuguese which means ‘the land that does not flood’.

AGONDA BEACH

It is a small beach situated 37 kms away from Margao. It is 3 km long and is surrounded by palm trees and casuarinas. Cabo de Rama is the main attraction of Agonda beach which is known to be the reign of Lord Rama during his exile. With white sand and the sea, it is the ideal place for holidays.

img credits : Absharaslam http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Absharaslam

THE MALL ROAD

Constructed by Britishers, it is the main tourist attraction place in Shimla. The Mall Road has the major hotels, restaurants, showrooms, shops and cafes located making it the busiest place of Shimla. Various handicraft products of Himachal Pradesh are easily available here. The wood shops of Shimla near Lakkar Baazar are quite popular too. One of the interesting facts of this pace is that no vehicles are allowed on the road since the British.

SHIMLA SUMMER HILL

Located at an altitude of 1283 meter from the sea level and five kms from the Ridge of Shimla , it is also known as Potter’s hill. Covered with snow capped mountains it is situated between green hilly pine trees and deodar trees. It has a temperate forest and an age old Georgian House of Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur. The mountain terrains, greenery of nature with a variety of flora and fauna makes it a beautiful tourist destination in Shimla.

SHIMLA STATE MUSEUM

The Dalhousie – Shimla State Museum is one of the major tourist destinations because of its splendid architectures. Located amidst the streets of Mall Road, you can find various coins, paintings, sculptures and art and crafts of ancient times. The unique attraction of the museum is the dolls of Himachali Brides created by the local craftsmen. There is a statue of Lord Vishnu made up of bronze. Open from 10 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Mondays and National holidays.

CHADWICK FALLS

It is situated 7 kms from Shimla and just 45 minutes walk away from the Shimla Summer Hills. Surrounded by dense woods, this beautiful spot is placed at a height of 1586 meters from the sea level. Visitors can have the best view of the refreshing waterfall just after the monsoon in September. There are also a number of ancient temples seen here. An annual festival is celebrated during the month of April by the local people. It is the ideal place

KALIBARI TEMPLE

Built in 1845, this temple is named after the Goddess Kali (Shyamala). The name Shimla was derived from Shyamala Goddess. Earlier located in Jakhu hill, it was brought to the current site by Britishers. It has gained importance for being a religious place and is situated near the Mall Road.

KHARAPATHHAR

It is situated near Jubbal, at a height of 8,770 feet from the sea level. This place is known for its scenic natural beauty and relaxing atmospheres. Lofty mountains provide the perfect site for trekking enthusiast. Deodar and Pine trees surround the area with apple orchards. There is a Giri Ganga Temple located along with the natural surroundings. The best season to visit this place is during the month of March-June and September-October.

TATTAPANI

The name Tattapani means ‘Hot Water’. It is located on the banks of Sutlej River at a height of 655 meters from the sea level. The Hot Springs of Tattapani with Sulphur content have curative power for various skin diseases. It lies on the Shimla-Mandi Highway in Mandi district. There is a Shiva Cave situated at Saraur, 3 kms from the mainland.

ANNANDALE

It is the highest hill point of Shimla. Lies at an altitude of 6117 feet, it is the largest flat ground in Shimla. This place is well known for sport lovers. It has a cricket ground with 9-hole golf courses. This place used to be the seat for British get-togethers and celebrations which later turned to be the Gymkhana Club. There is a Glen Forest nearby for trekking.

Varanasi is famous for spiritualism, mysticism, Indian philosophy and Hinduism. All these are reflected in numerous sects, temples, Ashrams and Ghats. Varanasi is associated not only with Hinduism but also with Buddhism and Jainism. Varanasi also boasts of Buddhist Stupas and Jain temples. Varanasi is mainly associated with Hinduism, temples form the main attraction. The Ganges Ghats (river fronts) are the main center of religious activities and rituals and also form one of the main attractions of Varanasi. The most important temples of Varanasi are Durga temple, Vishwanath temple, Sankat Mochan temple, Tulsi Manas temple and the Bharat Mata temple.

Temples of Varanasi:

Varanasi is a place can be considered as the place especially for different temples. The place has great spiritual importance with so many other attractions. Varanasi is home to about 2,000 temples, and also known as the city of temples. Many important and famous temples are located at the Ghats of Ganges. The holy river Ganges in the place is like icing on the cake. Varanasi is also called Kashi, “the City of Light”. The “Kashi Vishwanath temple”, located near the Ganga Ghats, is the most famous and important temple of Varanasi.
Here is a detailed coverage of the Temples of Varanasi.

Ghats:

Spiritual life in Varanasi revolves around the ghats, the long string of bathing steps leading down to the water on the western bank of the Ganges. Most are used for bathing but there are also several ‘burning ghats’ where bodies are cremated in public. The main burning ghat is ‘Manikarnika’. There, one can often experience watching funeral processions threading their way through the backstreets to this ghat. The best time to visit the ghats is at dawn when the river is bathed in a mellow light as pilgrims come to perform puja (literally ‘respect’; offering or prayers) to the rising sun, and at sunset when the main ‘ganga aarti’ ceremony takes place at Dasaswamedh Ghat. One can explore a trip from Dasaswamedh Ghat south to Harishchandra Ghat and can have a great knowledge about the place Varanasi.

Siberian birds are spotted on Ganga during winters. Delightful birds throw them some munchings and they go crazy.

Varanasi is mainly popular for these ghats and the spiritual environment over here. People here come to explore about the Hindu culture, tradition and religion. Thus this place is very famous and caters a good quantity of visitors every year.

Bharat Kala Bhavan:

Bharat Kala Bhavan, located inside the BHU campus, is an art and architecture museum and houses a vast collection of paintings, Hindu and Buddhist sculptures and other materials of archeological importance. Bharat Kala Bhavan was established in the year 1920 A.D. In the main hall of the Bharat Kala Bhawan, there is a figure of a man standing on one leg and one hand on his hip and lifting a mass of stone above his head, with one hand.

Bharat Kala Bhavan also has a great collection of miniature paintings from the courts of Mughals and other Kingdoms and principalities. Some of the important sections in the Bharat Kala Bhavan are Mahamana Malaviya gallery, Nicholas Roerich gallery, Chhavi (Painting Gallery), sculpture gallery, Nidhi (Treasures) gallery, sculpture gallery, archaeological gallery, decorative art gallery and Banaras through age’s gallery.

Banaras Hindu University:

The Banaras Hindu University or BHU is an internationally reputed University and is situated in Varanasi. The great nationalist leader, Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, founded the Banaras Hindu University in the year 1916. Dr Annie Besant also played an important role in the formation of the BHU. The Banaras Hindu University played an important role in the Indian independence movement. Over a period of time, it has developed into one of the greatest centers of learning in India. The BHU has produced many great freedom fighters and Nation builders. It has immensely contributed to the progress of the nation through a large number of renowned scholars, artists and scientists.

Jantar Mantar:

Jantar Mantar is an observatory, built by Jai Singh, the Maharaja of Jaipur  in the year 1737. Jai Singh was a great admirer of science and technology and he was particularly passionate about astronomy. Before the commencement of construction (of observatories) he sent scholars abroad to study the foreign observatories. The emissaries returned with many manuals on astronomy. The Jantar Mantar at Varanasi was built in line with Delhi, Mathura, Ujjain and Jaipur observatories. There are Jantar Mantar Clones in Delhi and Jaipur as well.

Ramnagar Fort:

The Ramnagar fort lies about 14 km. from Varanasi and is situated on the opposite bank of river Ganga. It is the ancestral home of the Maharaja of Banaras. Maharaja Balwant Singh built this fort-palace in the eighteenth century. The fort is built in red sandstone. The Ramnagar fort has a temple and a museum within the grounds and the temple is dedicated to Ved Vyasa, who wrote Mahabharata, the great Indian epic. Legends have it that Ved Vyasa stayed here for a brief period.

Ramnagar Fort Varanasi

The Ramnagar fort is 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. A temple of Dakshin Mukhi Hanuman is there. Inside the giant walls of the Ramnagar fort-palace, there is a big clock. This particular clock shows of the movement of the stars. An interesting array of ornate palanquins, gold-plated howdahs and weapons are some of the artifacts on display in the Ramnagar fort-palace museum.

Besides these places you can also look for places like; Sarnath Museum, Ashoka Lion Capital, Buddhist Temples, Chaukhandi Stupa, Dhamekh Stupa, Dharamrajika Stupa etc.

Night Life and Entertainment Elements:

Varanasi is a place which basically carries the tradition or the old Indian Culture. So, you can’t expect any rocking night life over here. But for amusement purpose you can roam in the city. There you are able to find many sorts of restaurants or multi cuisine foods and beverages. Along these you can also able to see different branded costume stores, stores of traditional Banarasi Saree Houses, Cinema Halls and many other things.

Are you thinking to come to Varanasi? Then, don’t think, just come and know the Mythology and all the Puranas related to Hinduism. This is one of the most sacred places which can make you feel revive surely, after coming.