Overview
Sarnath, a peaceful and spiritual town located just 10 kilometers from Varanasi in the state of Uttar Pradesh, is a place of immense historical and cultural significance. This ancient city is adorned with numerous Buddhist stupas, museums, and beautiful temples, creating a mystical and serene setting that never fails to captivate tourists. As the site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, Sarnath holds deep spiritual importance for Buddhists, Jains, and Hindus alike, making it a popular pilgrimage destination. Visitors can explore architectural marvels such as Ashoka's Pillar and the Dharma Stupa, both of which contribute to the spiritual allure of Sarnath.
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How to Reach Sarnath
By Air
- Travelers can book flights to the nearest airport, located approximately 30 miles from the city center.
- The airport is serviced by major airlines offering domestic and international flights.
By Train
- Visitors can take advantage of the extensive rail network connecting the city to major cities and neighboring countries.
- The city is served by a central train station providing easy access to various parts of the city and beyond.
By Road
- To reach the city by road, travelers can take the main highway connecting the city to the surrounding region.
- The highway offers a scenic drive with rest stops and amenities along the way.
Places to Visit in Sarnath
Archaeological Buddhist Remains of Sarnath
4.5 (21,577)
Nestled near the confluence of the Ganga and Varuna Rivers in the vibrant city of Varanasi lies the serene and historically rich Sarnath Archaeological Site. This sacred location holds immense significance as the place where Buddha delivered his inaugural sermons, marking the beginning of his teachi...
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Dhamekh Stupa
4.6 (6,321)
Located in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, Dhamek Stupa is a place of immense historical and spiritual importance. This cylindrical stupa, originally constructed on the orders of King Ashoka in the 3rd century BC, marks the exact spot where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Standing tall with a diamet...
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Chaukhandi Stupa
4.4 (3,364)
Welcome to the Chaukhandi Stupa in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, a revered monument deeply intertwined with the history of Buddhism. This ancient site marks the exact location where Lord Buddha first met his five ascetics and imparted his initial teachings, a pivotal moment that shaped the foundation of B...
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Maha Bodhi Society
4.7 (1,533)
The Mahabodhi Society Temple in Sarnath is a serene and historically significant Buddhist temple located in the heart of the city. Constructed during the Gupta period using bricks, this ancient temple holds great importance as the sacred site where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. The temple's re...
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Ashoka Pillar
4.6 (868)
Sarnath is a serene complex in Uttar Pradesh, known for its impressive Ashoka Pillar, crafted out of stone and adorned with four lions at the top. Along with the Dhamek Stupa, the pillar is a gift to Buddhism from Emperor Ashoka. Monks are often seen meditating in the lush green lawns, creating a tr...
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Things to do in Sarnath
Visit Dhamek Stupa
Experience the historic significance of Dhamek Stupa, the main stupa of Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh. This revered site marks the exact spot where Lord Buddha delivered his first eightfold path sermon to disciples. Renovated on the orders of King Ashoka in the 3rd century BC, the cylindrical stupa, made e...
Read MoreVisit Chaukhandi Stupa in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh
Experience the divine and historical significance of Chaukhandi Stupa, a monumental shrine marking the spot where Lord Buddha first met his five ascetics. Built as a tribute to this pivotal event in the rise of Buddhism, the stupa is a sacred pilgrimage site drawing visitors from around the world. I...
Read MoreExplore Sarnath's Ashoka Pillar and Dhamek Stupa
Discover the impressive Ashoka Pillar, adorned with four lions and standing at 50 meters tall, a symbol of Emperor Ashoka's visit to Sarnath and his gift to Buddhism. This serene complex, surrounded by lush green lawns, also features the historic Dhamek Stupa, where Lord Buddha preached his teaching...
Read MoreExplore Sarnath Archaeological Site
Discover the historic Sarnath archaeological site, located near the confluences of Ganga and Varuna Rivers in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. This is where Buddha delivered his first sermons, and the site is centered around the impressive Dhamek Stupa and its lush gardens. You can also find the iconic lion...
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Visit the Thai Temple in Sarnath
Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Thai Temple, a prominent attraction in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh. The temple showcases the elegant That style of architecture and is nestled within enchanting gardens, creating a tranquil atmosphere. Managed by Thai Buddhist Monks, the temple offers a peacef...
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Best Time to Visit Sarnath
The best time to visit Sarnath is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and conducive to sightseeing. It's advisable to avoid visiting from April to October due to the scorching heat. Visitors may also want to time their trip to coincide with the various festivals celebrated in Sarnath, such as Buddha Poornima in May and Maha Shivaratri in February and March, which infuse the area wi... Read
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FAQs on Sarnath
What is the best time to visit Sarnath?
The best time to visit Sarnath is from October to March. It is advisable to avoid visiting from April to October due to scorching heat.
What are the places near Sarnath?
The top places near Sarnath include Varanasi (8 km), Vindhyachal (57 km), Allahabad (118 km), Agra (538 km), and Khajuraho (318 km).
What are the things to do in Sarnath?
Top things to do in Sarnath include visiting Chaukhandi Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, Thai Temple, Tibetan Temple, Archaeological Museum, and experiencing Buddha Purnima festival.
What are the top hotels in Sarnath?
Sarnath offers a variety of accommodation options, including RK Homestays, Nawab Ki Deohri, The Pathwalkers' Habitat, Paradise Residency, and Hotel Radiance Courtyard.
What is the best way to reach Sarnath?
The nearest airport to Sarnath is Varanasi airport (24 km), while the main railway station is in Varanasi. Government and private buses are also available for transportation.
What is the local food in Sarnath?
Sarnath offers delicious North-Indian cuisine and popular Chinese dishes. Tibetan cuisine such as Momos is also available, along with traditional snacks.
Who should visit Sarnath?
Sarnath is a major Buddhist pilgrim center attracting pilgrims, historians, architects, and linguists.
What is not so good about Sarnath?
Sarnath experiences scorching heat in summers and may have limited exploration opportunities.
What is famous about Sarnath?
Sarnath is renowned for its peaceful environment and surroundings.
What are the festivals celebrated in Sarnath?
Sarnath hosts various festivals including Buddha Poornima in May and Maha Shivaratri in February-March, filling the area with spirituality and vibrant celebrations.
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