Anwak is a place of archeological importance situated near
Sarai Rani, in
Azamgarh District. Archeological excavations conducted at this place have unearthed a number of historical factors. Numerous coins and mohars (stamps) of the 10th and 11th centuries, and bricks of the
Gupta Empire have been excavated from here.
According to traditions, Anwak or Avantikapuri is believed to be the original site of the ‘Sarp Yagya'- for a mass sacrifice of snakes organized by Maharaj Janamajeya, who was the son of Parikshit and great-grandson of Arjuna. Existence of an ancient tank of 84 bighas and a 1m tall wall around it lends support to this oral tradition. The temple and ponds of this place are also famous. Numerous devotees visit here to take a holy dip in the pond.
Anwak is now a center of attraction and has become one of the oldest and important parts of Indian history. Sarai Rani is the nearest town, which is around 11 km from Azamgarh, the district headquarters, and 75 km from Varanasi. Sarai Rani Railway Station and Varanasi Airport are the nearest access points.
