Siddhnath Ki Dari - A weekend getaway from Varanasi/Allahabad

Siddhnath ki Dari, a waterfall with a plunge of about 100 ft. is one among the scenic waterfalls on the Vindhya range. It is named after Siddhinath Baba who is supposed to have used this serene place for meditation. The waterfall is located in Mirzapur district of Uttar Pradesh, about 20 km from Chunar. The falls can be accessed easily by road from both Varanasi (30 km) and Allahabad (120 km). Alternatively, one can also take train upto Chunar Jn. or Mirzapur railway station, both of which lie on the Delhi-Howrah main line. Compared to Chunar Jn., Mirzapur railway station has more train stoppages. From Mirzapur to Chunar one can take auto or bus (33 km, ₹30/-) and then from Chunar continue by bus till the falls (20 km, ₹25/-).
The best time to visit the waterfall is during monsoon when there is high volume of water gushing down. However, it is advised to keep safe distance in order to prevent any untoward incidents. Being popular among local tourists, this place often remains crowded on weekends and holidays. There is ample parking (paid) space for vehicles near the waterfall. Small stalls have sprouted up in the otherwise deserted area selling food stuff. For adventure seeking tourist, the area near the waterfall has some small hiking trails. The rock where Siddhinath Baba meditated is now a small temple across the river. One can take a walk along the rocky stairs beside this to reach below the falls.


Apart from Siddhnath ki Dari there are several other waterfalls, forts and caves that are worth visiting if you are in this area. Chunar fort, just 3 km from Chunar Jn. can be a short pit stop on the way. It offers a wonderful view of the river Ganga taking a swift turn. Sunrise and sunset are best time to be here. The fort is currently under UP police and only a part is open for public. It remains open from morning 7 am till Sunset.
If you are using Mirzapur for transit and Maa Vidhyasini temple in Vindhyachal, 10 km from Mirzapur may be of your interest.
Raj Dari, Deo Dari, Wyndham falls, Salkhan Fossil park, Panchmukhi caves, Kauva Khoh, Vijaigarh fort and Shakteshgarh fort are all nearby. Details on these places will be published once I manage to visit them. Till then please check out the links below for more information.

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