Sarnath, located just 10 km from the heart of Varanasi, is one of the four holiest Buddhist sites in the world. It is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment, turning the Wheel of Dharma. Whether you are a pilgrim, history buff, or cultural explorer, Sarnath is a tranquil and enriching destination, perfect for a half- or full-day trip from Varanasi.
How to Reach Sarnath from Varanasi
- By Auto/Taxi: Easily accessible by auto-rickshaw, Ola, or local taxi from any part of Varanasi (30-40 min).
- By Train: Sarnath has a small railway station with limited services.
- By Bus: Frequent buses from Varanasi Junction.
Best Time to Visit
- Morning to Early Afternoon (8 AM – 2 PM) is ideal. This allows you to visit the open-air stupas and ruins before the sun gets harsh.
- October to March is the most pleasant season.
- Light & Sound Show happens in the evening, perfect to wind up your visit.
Must-Visit Places in Sarnath
1. Dhamek Stupa
- Significance: Marks the spot of Buddha’s first sermon.
- Highlights: 43-metre tall cylindrical stupa with beautiful Gupta-era carvings.
- Best Time: Morning for a peaceful walk and photography.
2. Chaukhandi Stupa
- Significance: Commemorates the place where Buddha met his first disciples.
- Highlights: Octagonal brick tower; sunset views.
- Best Time: Late afternoon (ideal for sunset).
3. Ashoka Pillar & Lion Capital
- Significance: National emblem of India.
- Highlights: Remains of Ashoka’s pillar; Lion Capital preserved in museum.
- Best Time: Mid-morning.
4. Sarnath Archaeological Museum
- Highlights: Lion Capital, ancient bronze Buddha images, stone inscriptions.
- Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM (Closed on Fridays).
- Entry: INR 25 (Indians), INR 300 (Foreigners).
5. Mulagandha Kuti Vihara & Deer Park
- Significance: Modern temple with Japanese frescoes.
- Highlights: Bodhi tree sapling, golden Buddha statue, and nearby Deer Park.
- Best Time: Noon to early afternoon (tree shade offers comfort).
International Buddhist Temples (Grouped Nearby)
These are located near Mulagandha Kuti and can be explored on foot:
- Thai Temple & Monastery: Elegant gardens and calm vibes.
- Tibetan Temple: Colourful murals and butter lamp offerings.
- Japanese Temple (Horinji / Nichigai Suzan): Minimalist Kyoto-style design.
- Cambodian Temple: Khmer-style Buddha statue.
- Chinese Temple: Hidden down a narrow lane; built in 1939.
- Korean Temple (Nokyawon): Unique Indo-Korean design and scriptures.
- Vietnamese Pink Temple (Sivali Temple): Devotion-built, Instagram-worthy architecture.
Tip: You can walk through this international temple trail in about 60–90 minutes.
Other Offbeat & Spiritual Sites
6. Digambar Jain Temple (Shreyanshnath Tirth)
- Significance: Associated with Jain Tirthankara Shreyanshnath.
- Highlights: Peaceful frescoed hall and old shrine.
- Location: Near the main road to Chaukhandi.
7. Sarnath International Nyingma Institute
- Significance: Tibetan teaching centre.
- Hidden Gem: Few tourists know of this spiritual learning space tucked near Chaukhandi Stupa.
8. Ganga Darpan Centre
- Theme: River biodiversity and conservation education.
- Family Spot: Good for kids; features 3D models and audio visuals.
9. Light & Sound Show at Dhamek Stupa
- Timing: After sunset (45-minute duration).
- Languages: Hindi, English (Pali coming soon).
- Experience: 4K visuals and 8D surround sound on the life of Buddha.
Suggested Half-Day Walking Itinerary
| Time | Place |
|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Start at Dhamek Stupa |
| 8:45 AM | Visit Ashoka Pillar & Archaeological Site |
| 9:30 AM | Explore Sarnath Museum |
| 10:15 AM | Walk to Mulagandha Kuti Vihara & Deer Park |
| 11:00 AM | Begin International Temples Walk |
| 12:30 PM | End at Sivali Vietnamese Temple |
Optional Afternoon:
- Visit Chaukhandi Stupa and Jain Temple.
- Return in evening for Light & Sound Show.
Final Tips for Visitors
- Footwear: Easy-to-remove footwear for temples.
- Clothing: Modest dress recommended.
- Water & Hat: Essential in warmer months.
- Local Guides: Available outside main sites.
- Photography: Allowed at most places (except some parts of the museum).
Whether you seek peace, spiritual depth, or hidden architectural gems, Sarnath offers it all in a compact yet powerful journey just a few kilometres from Varanasi. Perfect for families, solo travelers, and culture lovers alike, it’s a must-include in your Explore Banaras itinerary.
Let Sarnath slow you down, and in the stillness, discover echoes of a 2500-year-old awakening.
Ready to explore Sarnath with us? Book a guided tour or stay at our curated homestays just 30 minutes away from this ancient marvel.
