Sarnath is a city located 13 kilometers northeast of Varanasi, near where the Ganges and Varuna rivers meet in Uttar Pradesh, India. It is famous for the Deer Park, where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon and where the Buddhist community, the Sangha, was formed. Nearby, in the village of Singhpur, is the birthplace of Shreyansanath, the Eleventh Tirthankara of Jainism, and there is a temple dedicated to him that is an important pilgrimage site. Sarnath, also known as Isipatana, is mentioned by Buddha as one of the four key pilgrimage places for his followers. It is also the location where Buddha delivered his first teaching, the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, in which he explained the Four Noble Truths and their teachings.
places to visit in Sarnath
Chaukhandi Stupa
Chaukhandi Stupa is an important Buddhist monument located in Sarnath, 13 kilometers from Varanasi. It was originally built as a burial mound and later transformed into a shrine containing Buddha’s relics.
Dhamek Stupa
Dhamek Stupa is a large Buddhist stupa located in Sarnath, near Varanasi. It was originally a pre-Buddhist burial site, later converted into a stupa to honor Buddha’s teachings.
Golden Temple
The Golden Temple is a peaceful Buddhist temple known for its beautiful painted interiors and serene atmosphere, offering a place of reflection and worship.
Ramnagar
Ramnagar is famous for its Fort Museum, which displays royal artifacts, including vintage cars, antique clocks, armor, and palanquins, showcasing the region’s royal history.
Thai Temple
The Thai Temple near Sarnath is a popular attraction, known for its traditional Thai architectural style and the surrounding lush gardens, creating a tranquil environment for visitors.
Mulagandha Kuti Vihar
Mulagandha Kuti Vihar is a modern temple in Sarnath built by the Mahabodhi Society, offering a peaceful space for prayer and reflection.
Tibetan Temple
The Tibetan Temple in Sarnath is a significant Buddhist site built in Tibetan architectural style. It houses a statue of Shakyamuni, the Buddha, and attracts many pilgrims.
Archaeological and Excavation Area
The Archaeological and Excavation Area in Sarnath contains relics from the Buddhist era, dating from 250 BC to the 12th century AD, providing a glimpse into the region’s ancient past.
Ashoka Pillar
The Ashoka Pillar, located in Sarnath, stands 50 meters high and is carved from stone. It was erected by Emperor Ashoka to mark his visit to the site and is the symbol of India’s national emblem.
Best Time To Visit Sarnath
The best time to visit Sarnath is from October to March, during the winter months, when the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing. Summers in Sarnath can be very hot, with temperatures reaching up to 46°C, and hot, dry winds called “loo” making it uncomfortable to explore. The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and increased humidity, with average rainfall of 1110 mm. Though the monsoon makes the area lush and green, it’s advised to carry an umbrella and light clothing. Winter in Sarnath can be chilly, with temperatures dropping as low as 5°C, and fog is common, so packing warm clothes is essential. Many tourists visit during the winter because the weather is much more comfortable for sightseeing.
