Location : Uttar Pradesh
Importance : Buddhist Pilgrimage
Local Tongue : Hindi
STD Code : (91) - 542
Best time to Visit : October to March
About Sarnath
Situated just 13 km from Varanasi in the state of Uttar Pradesh, Sarnath is
the place where Lord Buddha first preached his sermon after getting
enlightened and thus began spreading the message of Buddhism. The
magnificent stupas and other monuments seen here were built by Emperor
Ashoka during and after the 3rd century when he accepted Buddhism. According
to historical records, Lord Buddha came to Sarnath after being enlightened
in Bodh Gaya, to search for his friends and companions and grant them with
the fruit of the ultimate knowledge which he had just received from the
almighty. With the flourishment of Buddhism during and after the 3rd
century, Sarnath also gained in importance becoming an important religious
and cultural centre.
Climate & Best time to Visit
The climate in Varanasi is hot and humid where temperature can rise as high
as 45 degrees celcius during the peak summer months. Torrential rains lash
the city from late June to September while winter season lasts from November
to February. The ideal time to visit the place is between the months from
October to March.
Tourist Attractions in Sarnath
The Stupas
There are a number of stupas in and around Sarnath, most of which were
erected by Emperor Ashoka after he accepted Buddhism during the 3rd century.
Among the notable structures are the Dhamekh Stupa, a cylindrical structure
built of stone and brick and rising to a height of 44 mts, Choukhandi Stupa,
the place where Buddha is believed to have met his five old companions and
the Ashoka Pillar, which has today been adopted as India's national emblem.
Mulagandha Kuti Vihara
Constructed in 1930, the sacred Tibetan-Buddhist shrine houses a collection
of rare and precious antiques brought here from across the country. The most
famous artifact is a golden colored life like statue of Lord Buddha.
Archaeological Museum
The archaeological museum, though in a dilapidated state, houses a number
of rare objects, some dating back centuries. A collection of beautiful
statues including that of Lord Buddha moving the wheel of dharma can be seen
here.
Stay
At
Though accommodation is available at Sarnath, it is advisable to stay at
Varanasi which houses hotels for travellers of all budgets. Some of the best
hotels in Varanasi are Kanishka (3 star, situated on The Mall Cantt just 21
km from airport, 3 km from railway station & 4 km from bus stand),
Heritage Pallavi International Hotel (3 star, situated in Chetgunj just 22
km from airport, 1.5 km from railway station & 1 km from bus stand),
Hotel Preadeep (3 star, situated in Jagatganj just 24 km from airport, 1.5
km from railway station & 0.5 km from bus stand), Hotel Palace on Ganges
(3 star equivalent, situated near Assighat just 25 km from airport, 4 km
from railway station & 1.5 km from bus stand), Hotel Taj Ganges (5 star
deluxe, situated in Nadesar just 22 km from airport, 1.5 km from railway
station & 4 km from bus stand) and Hotel Varanasi Ashok (4 star,
situated on The Mall Cantt just 22 km from airport, 1.5 km from railway
station & 4 km from bus stand).
Getting There
By Air : Varanasi is the nearest airport which is well
connected to other Indian cities through a number of regular flights. Taxis
and buses are easily available to reach Sarnath from Varanasi.
By Rail : Varanasi railway station is connected to all
the other major Indian cities through a number of direct trains.
By Road : Well constructed roads connect Sarnath with
other cities in and around Uttar Pradesh. State transport buses connect
Varanasi with all the major neighbouring cities. Local buses further connect
Sarnath with Varanasi.
Distance from Major Cities
- Allahabad : 125 Km
- Gaya : 250 Km
- Lucknow : 300 Km
- Patna : 235 Km
