Chunar Fort, Sandstone fort on Ganges River bank in Mirzapur, India
Chunar Fort is a sandstone fortification on a rocky hill beside the Ganges in Mirzapur district, India. The complex includes multiple entrance gates, corner bastions, and a pavilion with fifty-two columns overlooking the river.
The fortress was founded more than two thousand years ago and changed hands many times between regional rulers over the centuries. Sher Shah Suri controlled it during the sixteenth century before it later passed to the Mughals and eventually to the British.
The fort contains the Bharathari Temple with its samadhi, Sonwa Mandap ceremonial hall, and a sundial that reflects architectural developments across multiple periods.
The fortress lies about forty kilometers from Varanasi and can be reached by road from Mirzapur town. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear as the terrain is uneven and steps connect different levels.
The river meets the walls of the fortress directly and changes direction northward at that point. This natural curve is visible from several vantage points within the compound.
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