Sarnath, about 10 km from Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, is one of the four most sacred places in Buddhism, along with Lumbini, Bodh Gaya and Kushinagar. It is where the Buddha is believed to have given his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.
This article is based on religious beliefs and traditions. Democratic Bharat Live does not claim to verify them.
The first sermon
According to Buddhist tradition, after attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, the Buddha came to the Deer Park at Sarnath, then called Rishipatana or Isipatana. Here he gave his first teaching to five companions. This sermon is known as the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, or Setting in Motion the Wheel of Dharma. It set out the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. The first Buddhist monastic community, the Sangha, was also formed here.
What to see
- **Dhamek Stupa:** a large cylindrical stupa, believed to mark the place of the first sermon. The present structure dates largely to the Gupta period.
- **Dharmarajika Stupa remains:** associated with Emperor Ashoka.
- **Ashokan Pillar:** the remains of a pillar erected by Ashoka, with an edict.
- **Mulagandha Kuti Vihar:** a modern temple built by the Maha Bodhi Society in 1931, with murals of the Buddha’s life by a Japanese artist.
- **Chaukhandi Stupa:** marks the place where the Buddha is believed to have met his five companions.
- **Temples of different countries:** such as Thai, Japanese, Tibetan and Chinese temples.
The Lion Capital
The famous Lion Capital of Ashoka, found at Sarnath, has four lions standing back to back on a base with a wheel. It was adopted as the National Emblem of India in 1950, and the wheel, the Ashoka Chakra, appears on the national flag. The original capital is displayed at the Sarnath Museum of the Archaeological Survey of India, the oldest site museum of the ASI.
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Jain connection
Sarnath is also sacred to Jains, who believe Shreyansanath, the eleventh Tirthankara, was born nearby. A Jain temple stands near the Dhamek Stupa.
Visiting tips
- The ASI site and museum charge entry fees and are closed on certain days. Check timings before going.
- Buddha Purnima is celebrated with special events.
- Dress modestly and maintain silence near prayer areas.
How to reach
Sarnath is a short drive from Varanasi city. Varanasi Junction is the main railway station, and Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is about 30 km away.
Bottom line
Sarnath is where Buddhism began as a teaching. A half day visit can cover the Dhamek Stupa, temples and the museum with the Lion Capital.
Source / स्रोत: Archaeological Survey of India, Uttar Pradesh Tourism
