On the eastern bank of the Ganga, opposite Tulsi Ghat, stands the majestic Ramnagar Fort, a symbol of Varanasi’s royal past. Built in the 18th century by Kashi Naresh Raja Balwant Singh, this sandstone fort is a fine example of Mughal-style architecture with carved balconies, courtyards, and pavilions.
The fort served as the royal residence of the Maharaja of Banaras and still houses a part of the royal family today. Inside the complex, you’ll find the Darbar Hall, ornate temples, and the Saraswati Bhawan Museum, which showcases a rare collection of vintage cars, royal costumes, medieval weapons, manuscripts, and antique clocks.
One of the highlights of the fort is the Ramlila celebrations organized every year during Dussehra, which attract devotees and tourists from across India. This age-old tradition, depicting the life of Lord Rama, is staged with grandeur and devotion.
Rameshwaram Cruise Boarding Point
Today, Ramnagar Fort has not only historical significance but also modern relevance. It serves as the boarding point for the Rameshwaram Cruise, the best way to experience Varanasi’s riverfront. From here, travelers can set sail across the Ganga and witness the ghats and temples of Varanasi from a serene and unique perspective.
✨ With the addition of Ramnagar Fort, the blog connects Varanasi’s royal history with its spiritual riverfront experience, making it even richer.
Ramnagar Fort – Where History Meets the Ganga
Standing tall on the eastern bank of the Ganga, Ramnagar Fort is not just a monument—it is a timeless storyteller of Varanasi’s royal and cultural heritage. Built in the 18th century by Maharaja Balwant Singh, the fort reflects the Mughal style of architecture with massive sandstone walls, delicate jharokhas (balconies), open courtyards, and intricately carved archways.
For centuries, Ramnagar Fort has been the residence of the Kashi Naresh (King of Banaras). Unlike many historical forts that have turned into ruins, this one is still alive with traditions. The royal family continues to live here, keeping alive the legacy of Banaras’s aristocracy.
Inside the Fort
The fort houses the Saraswati Bhawan Museum, a treasure trove for history lovers. Here, you’ll find:
- Vintage cars and royal carriages once used by the Maharajas.
- Old weaponry and armory that reflect the valor of the past.
- Manuscripts and rare books, some centuries old, preserving the city’s literary tradition.
- Antique clocks and astronomical instruments, showing the scientific curiosity of the royal household.
Walking inside, you get the feeling of stepping back in time, where every wall whispers stories of kings, traditions, and grand celebrations.
Ramnagar Ramlila – A Festival Like No Other
One of the fort’s most famous traditions is the Ramnagar Ramlila, celebrated with unmatched grandeur during Dussehra. Unlike regular stage plays, this Ramlila is spread across several locations and runs for almost a month. Thousands gather every evening to witness the episodes of Lord Rama’s life being enacted, making it one of the longest and most elaborate Ramlilas in the world. The Maharaja himself participates in the rituals, preserving the bond between royalty, religion, and the people.
Rameshwaram Cruise – Begin Your Journey from the Fort
Adding to its charm, Ramnagar Fort is now the boarding point for the Rameshwaram Cruise. This makes it a gateway not just to history but also to the spiritual journey along the Ganga.
Imagine this: you explore the fort, soaking in its royal past, and then step onto the cruise deck. As the boat sets sail, the mighty walls of Ramnagar fade into the distance, and the mesmerizing line of ghats comes alive in front of you. From Assi to Dashashwamedh, and from Manikarnika to Panchganga, you witness Varanasi as countless pilgrims have for thousands of years—but with the comfort of a modern-day luxury cruise.
✨ Why Visit Ramnagar Fort?
And of course, to begin a soulful cruise across the ghats of Varanasi.
To feel the royal heritage of Banaras.
To witness the epic Ramnagar Ramlila.
To explore rare artifacts in the museum.
