Sarnath is a small town located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is situated just 13 km away from the city of Varanasi and is one of the four holiest places for Buddhists. Sarnath is known for being the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, and it has since become an important destination for Buddhists and tourists from all over the world. In this article, we will provide a detailed overview of Sarnath, its history, attractions, and more.

History:

Sarnath is steeped in history, and its importance dates back to the time of Lord Buddha. According to Buddhist tradition, it was in Sarnath that Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The town was also the site of several Buddhist monasteries and temples, many of which were built during the reign of Emperor Ashoka. The town’s importance as a Buddhist center declined with the fall of the Mauryan Empire, and it was later abandoned and fell into ruin.

Attractions:

Sarnath is home to several important Buddhist sites that attract visitors from all over the world. The most important of these is the Dhamek Stupa, which is believed to be the spot where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. The stupa is a towering structure that is over 40 meters high and 28 meters in diameter. It is made of stone and brick and is adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions.

Another important attraction in Sarnath is the Chaukhandi Stupa, which was built during the Gupta period. The stupa is a circular structure that is believed to have been built to mark the spot where Lord Buddha met his five disciples. It is made of bricks and stones and is adorned with carvings and inscriptions.

Sarnath

Other important attractions in Sarnath include the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, which is a modern Buddhist temple built by the Mahabodhi Society, and the Sarnath Museum, which houses a collection of ancient Buddhist artifacts, including sculptures, inscriptions, and manuscripts.

Culture:

Sarnath is known for its rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its art, music, and architecture. The town is home to several traditional crafts, including weaving, pottery, and sculpture. Visitors to Sarnath can also experience the town’s vibrant music and dance scene, which includes traditional folk music and dance performances.

How to Reach:

Sarnath is located just 13 km from Varanasi, which is well-connected to other major cities in India by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is the Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi, which is located around 25 km from Sarnath. The town is also well-connected to other major cities in the region by road and rail, with regular bus and train services available from Varanasi.

Conclusion || Sarnath

Sarnath is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in Buddhism, history, and culture. The town’s importance as a Buddhist center and its rich cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination for travelers from all over the world. Whether you are a history buff, a culture vulture, or simply someone looking to explore the spiritual side of India, Sarnath is a destination that should not be missed.

Book Your Flights : Here 30% OFF on Booking

Book Your Hotels : Here 20% OFF on Booking