Sarnath: Sacred Site of Lord Buddha's First Sermon
Sarnath is highly revered as one of the earliest places where Lord Buddha taught the principles of Dharma after attaining enlightenment. Located 12 km from Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, Sarnath is one of the major Buddhist pilgrimage destinations. The others include Lumbini (where Lord Buddha was born), Bodh Gaya (where he attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree), and Kushinagar (where he attained Mahaparinirvana).
In earlier times, Sarnath was known by several names such as Rishipattana, Isipatana (the place where holy men descended on earth), and Mrigadava (deer park). In the 3rd century BC, Emperor Ashoka built engraved pillars and magnificent stupas here. However, the site was later damaged during medieval invasions. It was only in 1835 that Sarnath regained prominence due to the dedicated efforts of British archaeologists. Over the years, it has also become an important site for the followers of Jainism.
Main Attractions of Sarnath:
Chaukhandi Stupa: Presumably built between the 4th–6th century AD during the Gupta period, this monument was originally a terraced temple. An octagonal tower crowns the brick structure of the stupa. Hiuen-Tsang, the Chinese traveller, described it as the tallest stupa of his time. It is also believed that Lord Buddha met his first disciples here while travelling from Bodh Gaya to Sarnath. 
Dhamek Stupa: Built around 500 CE, this stupa marks the spot in the deer park where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon and revealed the Eightfold Path to his first five disciples. The Dhamek Stupa has been enlarged six times and is one of Sarnath’s most striking structures, measuring 28 m in diameter and 43.6 m in height.
Dharmarajika Stupa: Located near the Dhamek Stupa, the remains of the Dharmarajika Stupa are of great significance. It is believed to have once contained sacred relics of Lord Buddha. In 1794, the stupa was damaged by Jagat Singh, who removed bricks from its structure. The casket recovered from the site is now displayed in the Indian Museum, Kolkata.
Ashoka Pillar: Although it survived several invasions, the Ashoka Pillar gradually deteriorated due to excavation activities. Built in the 3rd century BC, the pillar originally stood at a height of 17 m. Its capital, featuring four lions standing back to back, has been adopted as the National Emblem of Modern India.
National Temples: Alongside its ancient monuments, Sarnath is home to six national temples built by various Asian countries. It also houses a Sri Lankan temple and a Tibetan temple.
Archaeological Museum at Sarnath: Considered one of the oldest museums under the Archaeological Survey of India, it houses approximately 6,832 artefacts and sculptures.
Excursions from Sarnath: Tourists can visit destinations such as Varanasi (12 km), Ghazipur (73 km), and Allahabad (131 km) from Sarnath.
Shopping in Sarnath: Beautifully crafted metal, marble, and wooden sculptures of Lord Buddha are available in local shops. Visitors can also purchase books on meditation and Buddhism.
When to Reach: The best time to visit Sarnath is from October to March. Tourists may also plan their visit around festivals such as Makar Sankranti, Dussehra, Buddha Purnima, and Holi.
How to Reach
Air: The nearest airport is in Varanasi, located 24 km from Sarnath.
Rail: The small railway station at Sarnath receives limited traffic. The Varanasi Cantt railway station, 6 km away, is a more convenient option.
Road: Local buses, rickshaws, and taxis are easily available from Varanasi to Sarnath.
