Vijaygarh Fort, Varanasi - Timings, History, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 24 km from Robertsganj and 105 km from Varanasi, Vijaygarh Fort is a ruined fort located in Sonbhadra district of Uttar Pradesh. Situated south east to Maunukalana village on Robertsganj-Churk road, it is one of the famous historical forts in Uttar Pradesh and also one of the popular places to visit near Varanasi.

This 5th-century Vijaygarh Fort was constructed by Kol kings. Over time, this fort came under the rule of Chandela kings of Agori Barhar. Later this fort was ruled by Sher Shah Suri and Balwant Singh. The fort was under Kashi King Chet Singh's rule until the arrival of British. The fort is said to be mesmeric and another fort is hidden under the fort called the fort of princess Chandrakanta. This elegant fort has also been pertinently described in the novel Chandrakanta by Babu Devkinandan Khatri along with Princess Chandrakanta.

Vijaygarh Fort has both historical and archaeological importance. Some of the unique features of the fort include cave paintings, statues, rock inscriptions and the four perennial ponds. The main gate is preceded by a tomb of Muslim saint, Sayyed Jain-ul-Abdin Meer Sahib popularly called Hazrat Meeran Shah Baba. An Urs or a fair dedicated to the great saint is held every year in April which draws large crowds of devotees of all faiths. Two other landmarks located near the fort are the tanks known as Mira Sagar and Ram Sagar. Wedged between them is the Rang Mahal Palace which houses beautiful rock carvings.

Timings: 9 AM to 4 PM