About Sarnath

About Sarnath – The Sacred Land of the Buddha’s First Sermon

Sarnath, located just 10 kilometers from the spiritual heart of Varanasi, is one of the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage destinations in the world. This serene and sacred site marks the place where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, thus setting the Dharmachakra (Wheel of Dharma) into motion. Surrounded by peaceful ruins, stupas, and lush gardens, Sarnath offers a stark yet soothing contrast to the vibrant chaos of Varanasi, making it a must-visit destination for spiritual seekers, history lovers, and curious travelers.

Historical Significance of Sarnath

The history of Sarnath dates back to the 6th century BCE. It was here that the enlightened Gautama Buddha first taught the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path to his five disciples, thus laying the foundation of Buddhism. The area later flourished under the patronage of emperors like Ashoka the Great, who erected magnificent stupas, monasteries, and the iconic Ashokan Pillar topped with the Lion Capital – India's national emblem today.

Over the centuries, Sarnath became a hub of learning and Buddhist scholarship, attracting monks and pilgrims from as far as China, Japan, and Southeast Asia. However, it eventually declined following the Islamic invasions and was buried under layers of time until its rediscovery by British archaeologists in the 19th century.

Mythological Connections and Local Legends

Though best known for its Buddhist heritage, Sarnath also finds mention in Hindu texts. The name "Sarnath" is derived from Saranganath, another name of Lord Shiva. According to local mythology, the place was once known as Mrigadava or the Deer Park, a forest where Buddha preached his first teachings to deer and monks alike. A popular legend says that Buddha, in a previous life, was a compassionate deer who saved a king’s life – highlighting the values of compassion and non-violence central to Buddhism.

Must-See Attractions in Sarnath

Visitors to Sarnath are greeted by a spiritual calmness and an array of ancient structures and modern centers of learning. The key attractions include:

• Dhamek Stupa – The massive cylindrical stupa believed to mark the spot of Buddha’s first sermon.
• Chaukhandi Stupa – A towering structure that commemorates the site where Buddha met his first disciples.
• Ashoka Pillar – The fragment of the original pillar with the famous Lion Capital, symbolizing peace and unity.
• Sarnath Archaeological Museum – Home to sculptures, relics, and the original Lion Capital.
• Mulagandha Kuti Vihar – A modern Buddhist temple with beautiful frescoes and relics.
• Deer Park – A peaceful sanctuary that recreates the original setting of Buddha’s first discourse.

Sarnath Today – A Living Center of Global Buddhism

Today, Sarnath is not just a historical site, but a living symbol of peace, wisdom, and cross-cultural unity. Buddhist temples and monasteries built by followers from Thailand, Japan, Myanmar, Tibet, and Sri Lanka add an international flavor to the area. The annual Buddha Purnima celebrations draw devotees from across the world.

Managed by the Archaeological Survey of India and supported by various Buddhist missions, Sarnath continues to inspire generations of pilgrims and tourists alike. Its proximity to Varanasi makes it a perfect spiritual extension of any visit to the city of light.

How to Reach Sarnath from Varanasi

Reaching Sarnath from Varanasi is simple and convenient:

• By Road: Easily accessible by auto-rickshaw, taxi, or bus from any part of Varanasi.
• By Train: Sarnath has a small railway station, or you can take a local train from Varanasi Junction.
• By Air: The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, about 30 km away.

Plan Your Visit to Sarnath with VBK

Make your Varanasi experience complete by exploring Sarnath with VBK (VaranasiBanarasKashi.com). From guided tours to spiritual walks, we bring the ancient heritage of Sarnath to life in ways that are immersive, informative, and unforgettable. Let VBK be your companion in discovering this sacred land where history, mythology, and peace converge.