Discover the Sacred Heart of Buddhism at Sarnath
Experience the profound spirituality and rich history of Sarnath, the sacred site where Buddha preached his first sermon.
Sarnath is one of the four main pilgrimage sites for Buddhists, marking the spot where Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha, delivered his first sermon after achieving enlightenment. This sacred city is steeped in history and spirituality, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the early days of Buddhism. The main attraction here is the Dhamek Stupa, a massive structure built in the 5th century, which is said to contain the relics of the Buddha. Nearby, the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar is adorned with exquisite frescoes and houses a beautiful statue of the Buddha. In addition to the stupas and temples, Sarnath boasts a tranquil atmosphere, with well-maintained gardens and pathways that invite leisurely strolls. The Sarnath Archaeological Museum is also a must-visit, showcasing a rich collection of artifacts from the Mauryan and Gupta periods, including the famous Lion Capital of Ashoka, which is a national emblem of India. Visitors can immerse themselves in the serene ambiance, often enhanced by monks chanting and the sight of prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. For those looking to deepen their understanding of Buddhism, there are often meditation sessions and workshops available at various monasteries in the area. Overall, Sarnath is not only a place of historical significance but also a spiritual haven, making it an essential stop for tourists exploring India’s cultural and religious heritage.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and avoid crowds.
- Don't miss the Sarnath Archaeological Museum for a deeper insight into Buddhist history.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking around various archaeological sites and gardens.
- Consider participating in a guided meditation session at one of the local monasteries.
A brief summary to Sarnath Varanasi Uttar Pradesh
- 92JG+7MR, Varanasi, Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, IN
Getting There
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Walking
If you are already in Sarnath, you can easily reach the destination by walking. Start from the main entrance of the Sarnath archaeological site, which is well-marked. Head towards the Dhamek Stupa, which is the central monument here. From the Dhamek Stupa, walk towards the Sarnath Museum, which is approximately a 10-minute walk to the east. The museum is directly adjacent to the main site, and you will see the signboards directing you towards the location at 92JG+7MR.
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Bicycle
For a more scenic route, you can rent a bicycle from one of the local shops in Sarnath. Cycle towards the Sarnath archaeological site, which is about 2 km from the main Sarnath area. Follow the roads that are marked with local signage to ensure you are on the right path. A bicycle rental typically costs about ₹100-₹200 for a few hours. Once you reach the site, you can park your bicycle at the designated areas.
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Auto Rickshaw
If you prefer not to walk or cycle, you can take an auto rickshaw to the destination. Find an auto rickshaw from the local stands in Sarnath. Inform the driver to take you to 'Sarnath archaeological site' or 'Dhamek Stupa.' The fare should be around ₹30-₹50 depending on your starting point. The ride will take approximately 5-10 minutes.
Attractions Nearby to Sarnath Varanasi Uttar Pradesh
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Mulagandha Kuti Vihar
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Sarnath Buddhist Temple Varanasi
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Sarnath Buddhist Temple
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Sarnath Park
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Sarnath Deer Park
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Anagarika Dharampala Museum Sarnath
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Sarnath archaeological garden
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Chinese Buddhist Temple
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Dhamekh Stupa, Sarnath
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Bhgwan ShreyansNath Birth Place ( Jain temple )
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SinhPuri Shri Digamber Jain Temple ( Shreyanshnath birthplace)
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Sarnath archeology
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Sarnath Museum
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Dhammarajika Stupa
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Mulagandha Kuti
