Sarnath is where the journey of Buddhism truly began—a place of immense historical and spiritual significance where the Buddha set the Dhamma rolling. Nestled just 10 kilometers from the bustling ancient city of Varanasi, this serene destination is one of the four most important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists across the world.
The First Turning of the Wheel of Dharma
After attaining enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, the Buddha initially hesitated to teach the Dhamma. However, inspired by Brahma, he decided to share his profound realizations with the five ascetics who had earlier accompanied him in his ascetic practices. On a full-moon night in the month of Asadha, the Buddha arrived at Sarnath’s Deer Park (Isipatana) and delivered his first sermon, known as the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta.
In this monumental discourse, the Buddha revealed the foundational teachings of the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path, paving the way for countless beings to attain liberation. This momentous event marks the birth of Buddhism as a spiritual and religious tradition.
The Legacy of Emperor Ashoka in Sarnath
In 249 BCE, Emperor Ashoka, a devoted follower of Buddhism, visited Sarnath and erected numerous monuments to honor this sacred site. Among these were the Dhamek Stupa, the Dharmarajika Stupa, and the iconic Ashokan Pillar crowned with the Lion Capital—now India’s national emblem. Ashoka’s contributions immortalized Sarnath as a center of Buddhist learning and heritage.
Sarnath’s Modern Revival
After centuries of decline following the Turkish invasions of the 12th century, Sarnath was rediscovered in 1836 by British archaeologists. Today, it has regained its status as one of the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage destinations in the world.
Exploring the Landmarks of Sarnath
Sarnath is home to a wealth of monuments and archaeological treasures, each with deep ties to the Buddha’s teachings and the Buddhist heritage of India.
1. Dhamek Stupa
The most iconic structure in Sarnath, the Dhamek Stupa, is a towering cylindrical monument standing 42 meters tall with a diameter of 28.5 meters at its base. Originally named Dhammacakka Stupa, it commemorates the Buddha’s second sermon, the Anattalakkhana Sutta, in which he expounded the doctrine of non-self (anatta).
2. Dharmarajika Stupa
Built by Emperor Ashoka, this stupa once housed relics of the Buddha. Tragically, it was destroyed in 1794 by Jagat Singh, a minister of the Banaras kingdom, who looted its bricks to construct houses. Though lost, its legacy as a relic stupa remains central to Sarnath’s history.
3. Mulagandhakuti
This sacred site is where the Buddha spent his first rainy retreat after delivering his teachings. Gifted by a wealthy merchant named Nandiya, the Mulagandhakuti was a grand structure, believed to be about 61 meters tall during its prime. The space between this vihara and the Dharmarajika Stupa is thought to have been the Buddha’s meditation walkway (cankama).
4. Ashokan Pillar
Standing 2.03 meters tall today, the Ashokan Pillar once reached 5.25 meters and was adorned with a magnificent Lion Capital. This pillar symbolizes the unity and strength of the Buddha’s teachings and serves as a testament to Ashoka’s devotion.
5. Chaukhandi Stupa
Located 600 meters from the Dhamek Stupa, the Chaukhandi Stupa marks the spot where the Buddha first met the five ascetics upon his arrival in Sarnath. The brick structure is crowned with an octagonal tower, built by Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1589 AD to commemorate Humayun’s visit to the site.
6. Pancayatna:
The sunken shrine of Pancayatna, near the Dharmarajika stupa is believed to be the place where Buddha preached the rich man Yash and his followers
7. Sarnath Archaeological Museum
No visit to Sarnath is complete without exploring the Sarnath Archaeological Museum. This treasure trove houses priceless artifacts, including the original Lion Capital, panels depicting the Buddha’s life, and the renowned Dharmachakra preaching statue of the Buddha.
8. International Buddhist Temples and Monasteries
Sarnath is home to temples and meditation centers built by Buddhist communities from around the globe. Notable among them are the Burmese, Chinese, Tibetan, Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese temples. The Mulgandha Kuti Vihara, built in 1931 by Anagarika Dharmapala, features stunning frescoes and remains a hub of spiritual activity.
Why Visit Sarnath with Bodhisattva Travels?
At Bodhisattva Travels, we provide curated experiences that bring Sarnath’s rich history and spiritual significance to life. Whether you wish to meditate in the serene Deer Park, explore the ancient stupas, or immerse yourself in the teachings of the Buddha, we ensure a journey that is both enlightening and unforgettable.
Plan your pilgrimage to Sarnath with us and walk in the footsteps of the Buddha. Let the Dhamma guide you on your path to peace and liberation.
Book Your Pilgrimage Today
Rediscover the roots of Buddhism at Sarnath—a place where the Buddha’s compassion and wisdom changed the world. Visit Bodhisattva Travels to book your personalized pilgrimage and embark on a transformative journey.
