Ramnagar Fort Guide
Ramnagar Fort: A Glimpse into Varanasi's Royal Past Guide
Ramnagar Fort, situated on the eastern bank of the Ganges River opposite Varanasi, is a majestic yet somewhat dilapidated fort that offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's royal history. Built in the 18th century by Kashi Naresh Raja Balwant Singh, the fort is still the residence of the Maharaja of Varanasi, although only a portion of it is open to the public. Its crumbling walls and faded grandeur add to its unique charm. The fort's history is intertwined with the history of the Kashi Naresh dynasty, who ruled the region for centuries. Raja Balwant Singh, a powerful ruler, established Ramnagar as his capital and built the fort as a symbol of his authority. The fort has witnessed numerous historical events and has served as a center of cultural and religious activity. While the fort has seen better days, it remains an important historical landmark and a testament to the region's rich heritage. Visitors can explore the fort's museum, which houses a collection of vintage cars, palanquins, costumes, and weaponry belonging to the royal family. The fort also features a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman and a Durbar Hall, where the Maharaja traditionally held court. The annual Ramlila, a dramatic enactment of the Ramayana, is held on the grounds of the fort during the Dussehra festival, attracting thousands of devotees. Varanasi is renowned for its street food, including *kachori sabzi*, *aloo tikki*, and *lassi*. While not directly within the fort, these culinary delights are easily accessible in Varanasi.
Transportation
The most common way to reach Ramnagar Fort is by auto-rickshaw or taxi from Varanasi. You can also take a boat across the Ganges River from the ghats in Varanasi to Ramnagar. The boat ride offers a scenic view of the fort and the river.