The Ramnagar Fort lies on the eastern bank of the Ganga River, opposite Tulsi Ghat in Varanasi. It was built in 1750 by Kashi Naresh Maharaja Balwant Singh, who established it as the royal seat of the rulers of Banaras. Constructed primarily from creamy Chunar sandstone, the fort combines Mughal and Indian architectural styles, featuring carved balconies, airy courtyards, and open pavilions that offer scenic views of the sacred river. The fort was originally built as a palace and a defensive outpost to protect the eastern approaches of Varanasi, situated on high ground above flood levels.
Today, it serves as the official residence of the titular Kashi Naresh, the ceremonial and religious head of Varanasi. Although royal titles and privileges were abolished in 1971, the Kashi Naresh remains highly revered by locals as a religious custodian, often regarded as a living representative of Lord Shiva. The current titular king is Anant Narayan Singh.
A view of the Ramnagar Fort as seen from the Ganga
One of the fort’s most vibrant traditions is the annual Ramnagar Ramlila, an elaborate month-long reenactment of the Ramayana that unfolds over 31 nights each autumn. The entire town becomes a stage, with scenes enacted in multiple locations, creating an immersive cultural experience. The Kashi Naresh presides ceremonially over the festival, historically opening key episodes riding on an elephant. UNESCO recognized the Ramnagar Ramlila in 2008 by inscribing it on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, highlighting its cultural significance.
What to See Inside
While much of the fort remains a private royal residence, several sections are open to visitors:
- Saraswati Bhawan Museum: The fort’s museum houses royal artifacts such as vintage cars, jewel-studded palanquins, ornate furniture, medieval arms, rare manuscripts, and a unique 19th-century astronomical clock that shows planetary positions and eclipses.
- Vyas Temple: Dedicated to sage Vyasa, said to have lived here while composing parts of the Mahabharata.
- Darbar Hall: A glimpse of royal court life, with thrones and ceremonial objects, though access may be limited.
The weathered condition of the fort adds to its charm, offering visitors a palpable sense of living history rather than a polished museum-like grandeur.
How to Reach
- Ramnagar Fort is situated about 14 km from Varanasi city center and approximately 2 km from Banaras Hindu University (BHU)/Assi Ghat area. The distance from Varanasi Junction railway station is around 10 km. The Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is about 30 km from the fort.
- By Road: Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and private vehicles are convenient options. Visitors typically cross the Ramnagar Bridge (Lal Bahadur Shastri Bridge) over the Ganga to reach the fort.
- By Boat: A scenic boat ride from Tulsi Ghat, Assi Ghat, or Dashashwamedh Ghat across the river offers the best views and an immersive approach to the fort.
Pic credits of Ramnagar Fort as seen from the Ganga: Wikimedia Commons
