Some 27 odd kms away from Kanpur, Bithoor is a quiet town which defines the words rustic and serene. Situated on the banks of River Ganga, this town is acclaimed for being a significant hub of pilgrimage for Hindus. This town is the perfect getaway option for anyone residing in Kanpur and even Lucknow because it provides the visitors a much-needed distancing from the urban rush of the cities. Here’s why Bithoor should be on your must-visit list when around this part of the state and oh, do keep your camera handy for this road trip!
What to Visit?
Bithoor dates back to the ancient times and it is also mentioned in several manuscripts. Legends note that after Lord Vishnu destroyed and then reconstructed the universe, Lord Brahma decided to stay in Bithoor and made this his home. So due to its close terms with Lord Brahma, the place came to be known as ‘Brahmavatra’ out of which the name Bithoor was derived. This town was also said to be the residence of Luv and Kush, who are prominent figures in the Hindu mythology of Ramayana.
This old-world town, houses a wagon of attractions to be explored on a leisurely day and to begin your delving, you can start with the Brahmavart Ghat. The ghat is a primary pilgrimage centre for Hindus and is set against the backdrop of the mighty Ganges and is wrapped in ample history to keep you occupied. Just a kilometre away from here, you’d find the Valmiki Ashram which is a complex that stations several small chambers marked for their religious and historic significance. It is a memorial of sorts, established by the Peshwa ruler Nana Rao Peshwa II.
When here, you definitely cannot afford to miss the Bithoor Fort, whose walls silently speak of the Revolt of 1857. This fort was the venue where Nana Saheb along with Rani Laxmi Bai and Tatya Tope had fabricated plans to attack and lay siege to the British regiment and in return, the British had bombed the Bithoor fort.
Amidst other attractions, you could also check out the ISCKON temple, Deepa Malika Stambh and the Siddhi Dham Ashram.
Knock Knock
So when in Kanpur or around the nearby areas, you could give Bithoor a thought if you’ve been thinking of a catching a break, after this lockdown settles. It will surely help you to learn about the culture of Uttar Pradesh in greater depths and the calmness Bithoor is engulfed in, will provide you with an overall rejuvenation.
