Sarnath Tour

Dhamekh Stupa & Monastery Ruins

A colossal edifice rising above all, Dhamekh Stupa is believed to have been built on the spot where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Built in around 500 AD, the stupa and its surrounding complex is a daunting work of art.
Set amidst manicure gardens, this stupa & monastery complex holds immense historical significance and is a major Buddhist pilgrimage.

Chaukhandi Stupa

It is believed that the Chaukhandi Stupa was originally built as a terraced temple during the Gupta period, somewhere around the 4th and 6th century AD. It marks the spot where Buddhha met his first five disciples to whom he revealed the path to Nirvana. In 1585, an octagonal tower was added structure to commemorate Emperor Humayun’s visit to the place.

Archeological Museum

Established in 1910, this museum showcases various artifacts dating from 3rd century BC to 12th Century AD. Beautiful sculptures of Buddha, the Ashoka Pillar, and a massive stone umbrella inscribed with Buddhist symbols are the main attractions of the museum.

Mulagandha Kuti Vihara

The exotic murals and tall spires of this magnificent monastery attract thousands of visitors. A huge bell graces its entrance foyer while its walls & ceilings are adorned with frescos & murals created by Kosetsu Nosu, a famous Japanese painter. The temple enshrines the sacred relics of Sakyamuni Buddha and is home to a Bodhi tree.

Archeological Museum

This century old and fully air conditioned sandstone museum house sand displays antiques & artifacts ranging from 3rd century BC to 12th century BC. The lion capital from the Ashoka Pillar that has been adopted as India’s national emblem, and a huge 2000-year-old stone umbrella, ornately carved with Buddhist symbols are some of the highlights of the museum.

Other Attractions of Sarnath

• Tibetan Buddhist Monastery
• Japanese Temple
• Chinese Buddhist Temple
• Garden of Spiritual Wisdom
• Thai Temple and Monastery

Fairs & Festivals of Sarnath

• Budh Poornima- Budh Purnima celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and nirvana of Lord Buddha.

Shopping in Sarnath

Sarnath is a perfect place to pick images of Lord Buddha sculpted in stone and other Buddhist paraphernalia.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Sarntah is in winters from October to march when the weather is pleasant and one can explore the glorious ruins and temples of the holy city.

How to Reach

By Air- Varanasi Airport, around 30kms from Sarnath, is connected to most of the major cities in India.
By Rail- Sarnath is well-connected with major Indian cities by a network of direct & express trains.
By Road- A good network of well-maintained roads & highways connects Sarnath to the cities in the region