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Places to Visit in Sarnath

Steeped in Buddhist history and serenity, Sarnath offers a profound journey for every seeker. Discover ancient stupas, sacred monasteries, and a renowned archaeological museum among the top places to visit in Sarnath.

Sarnath Archaeological Museum

Hailed as one of India’s most important site museums, it safeguards Sarnath’s priceless artifacts. Its crown jewel is the magnificent Ashokan Lion Capital, India’s national emblem. The museum showcases a stunning collection of ancient Buddhist sculptures and relics. Exquisitely carved figures like the Gupta-era Buddha in Dharmachakra posture are found here. It offers a breathtaking journey through the zenith of Indian art and history.

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Dhamek Stupa

A massive cylindrical stupa marking the spot of the Buddha’s first sermon.

Mulagandha Kuti Vihara

The ruins of the monastery where Buddha spent his first rainy season.

Chaukhandi Stupa

An ancient terraced stupa commemorating Buddha’s reunion with his disciples.

Ashoka Pillar

The remains of the polished sandstone pillar that became India’s national emblem.

Thai Temple & Monastery

A brilliant white marble structure that gleams under the Indian sun, representing classic Thai architecture. Its ornate, multi-tiered roofs and graceful curves create a serene and photogenic sanctuary.

The temple complex features a beautifully maintained garden with a statue of a walking Buddha. Inside, the peaceful atmosphere is perfect for quiet contemplation and meditation. It stands as a beautiful symbol of Thailand’s deep cultural and spiritual connection to Sarnath.

Tibetan Temple

A vibrant monastery known for its large Buddha statue and Tibetan artwork.

Japanese Temple

A serene temple built in the classic Daibutsu style of Japan.

Bodhi Tree

A sapling from the original Bodhi Tree in Bodh Gaya, grown in Sarnath.

Deer Park

A peaceful park symbolizing the ancient forest where Buddha delivered his teachings.

Sri Digambar Jain Temple

This temple marks the sacred birthplace of Shreyansanath, the eleventh Jain Tirthankara. It is a significant pilgrimage site for the Digambar sect of Jainism, attracting devotees year-round. The temple architecture is simple yet elegant, featuring intricate marble carvings that depict Jain teachings.

A peaceful and clean ambiance pervades the complex, encouraging introspection and devotion. It highlights the deep-rooted Jain heritage that is an integral part of Sarnath’s spiritual landscape.

Chinese Temple (Maitreya Project)

A tranquil and beautifully maintained temple established by the Maitreya Project, a Buddhist organization. The temple is dedicated to Maitreya, the future Buddha, who is revered for his loving-kindness.

Its main hall houses a graceful, golden statue of Maitreya Buddha, creating a focal point for devotion. The architecture is a harmonious blend of traditional Chinese design with modern elements. It serves as an active center for Buddhist studies and meditation, promoting peace and compassion.

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Founded by the saint Tulsidas, this is one of the most revered and ancient temples dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is uniquely known as a “Sankat Mochan” or “reliever of troubles” temple, attracting countless devotees. The temple maintains a strict tradition of offering besan ke laddoo as the primary prasad to the deity.

It is nestled within a serene garden setting, providing a peaceful respite from the city’s hustle. The atmosphere is charged with constant chanting and devotion, especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Varanasi

The spiritual capital of India and one of the world’s oldest living cities.

Chunar Fort

A historic fort on the banks of the Ganges with a rich Mughal and British history.

Jantar Mantar

An 18th-century astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh II.

Assi Ghat

A popular and serene ghat at the confluence of the Ganges and Asi rivers.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as ‘Vishwanath’ or ‘Lord of the Universe,’ it is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and Hinduism’s holiest shrines. The current temple was rebuilt in 1780 by Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, standing adjacent to the sacred Ganges.

Its main spire and domes are plated with over 800 kilograms of gold, donated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The temple complex is a labyrinth of smaller shrines, constantly bustling with immense spiritual energy and devotion. A visit here is considered the ultimate goal for many pilgrims, believed to lead to liberation (moksha).

Dashashwamedh Ghat

The main and most spectacular ghat for the daily Ganga Aarti ceremony.

Bharat Mata Temple

A unique temple dedicated to Mother India with a marble relief map.

Tulsi Manas Temple

A modern marble temple where the Ramcharitmanas is inscribed on its walls.

Banaras Hindu University

A premier central university and one of the largest residential universities in Asia, sprawling over a vast, green campus. It was established by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya in 1916 as a center for education blending modern science and Indian tradition.

The campus is an attraction itself, renowned for its grand architecture, wide roads, and the famous Bharat Kala Bhavan museum. Its heart features the magnificent New Vishwanath Temple, which is open to all visitors. BHU represents a unique fusion of ancient Varanasi’s heritage with the spirit of modern learning and research.

Ramnagar Fort

A crumbling 18th-century fort and museum on the eastern bank of the Ganges.

Durga Temple

An 18th-century North Indian-style temple dedicated to Goddess Durga.

Manikarnika Ghat

The primary cremation ghat in Varanasi, a profound site of final rites.

Explore Sarnath

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Places to visit in Sarnath
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