Chunar

Chunar is a town in Purvanchal region of Uttar Pradesh in India. Located on the Banks of the Ganges it houses a mighty fort with over 2000 years of history. The town also has several temples, tombs and darghas. The famous chunar stone (a form of sandstone) is found in this region. Chunar is best explored by a day trip from Varanasi.

Understand
Chunar is located on the right (east) bank of the Ganges. A Chunar the Ganges takes a northern bend and heads towards Varanasi. The history of Chunnar dates back over 2000 years and has been mentioned in different mythological texts. Chunar also has a significant role in medieval history and its fort served as a citadel for Suris and Mughals. Later the British also had a large presence in the city and the fort still houses a British-era cemetery. The town is home to the famous Chunar stone, a type of sandstone extensively used in architecture and handicrafts.

Get in
Chunar can be reached easily from both Varanasi and Allahabad. While Varanasi is just 30 km, Allahabad is about 120 km. There are regular bus services from both places.

Get around

 * 1) Auto-rickshaw: Auto-rickshaws are available to visit places within and around Chunar. There are no fixed rates, so fix up the price before the tour begins. Do bargain.
 * 2) Car: Most tourists prefer to explore Chunar on a day trip from Varanasi. Varanasi hotels can arrange for cars and the trip may be extended to Mirzapur.

Buy

 * 1) Chunar stone artifacts
 * 2) Local specialties include chini mitti toys and cups.

Eat
Local foods include samosa and lavanglata.

Go next

 * Allahabad (120 km):
 * Mirzapur (36 km):
 * Varanasi (30 km):