Sarnath
Sarnath is a sacred city in the northeastern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is situated about 10 kilometres from the city of Varanasi, which is also known as Kashi or Banaras. Sarnath is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists, as it is believed to be where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment.
The history of Sarnath dates back to the 6th century BCE when it was a thriving centre of learning and spiritual practice. Lord Buddha met his first five disciples here, who later became ardent followers. The ancient city was known as Rishipattana and was a major centre of the Mauryan empire. The famous Mauryan emperor Ashoka visited Sarnath in the 3rd century BCE and built several stupas, monasteries, and other Buddhist structures. These ancient structures are still visible today and are popular tourist attractions.
The most famous attraction in Sarnath is the Dhamek Stupa, a massive cylindrical tower about 43 meters tall. This stupa is believed to have been built by Emperor Ashoka to commemorate the spot where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. The stupa is adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions, and it is a popular spot for meditation and contemplation.
Another important attraction in Sarnath is the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, a monastery built in the 20th century. This monastery is an important centre of Buddhist learning and is home to a beautiful statue of Lord Buddha in a seated posture.
Sarnath is also home to several other important Buddhist sites, including the Chaukhandi Stupa, the Sarnath Museum, and the Ashoka Pillar. The Chaukhandi Stupa is a small tower built in the 5th century CE to commemorate where Lord Buddha met his first five disciples. The Sarnath Museum houses a collection of ancient Buddhist artefacts, including sculptures, inscriptions, and manuscripts. The Ashoka Pillar is a massive column that stands about 15 meters tall and is believed to have been built by Emperor Ashoka to mark the spot where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon.
Sarnath is an important destination for domestic and international tourists interested in Buddhism and Indian history. The city has a peaceful and serene atmosphere, and visitors can spend hours exploring the ancient Buddhist structures and meditating in the tranquil surroundings. The best time to visit Sarnath is between October and March when the weather is cool and pleasant.
Places to visit nearby Sarnath in Uttar Pradesh In Uttar Pradesh:
Varanasi:
Also known as Kashi or Benaras, Varanasi is a popular pilgrimage destination and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Located about 10 kilometres from Sarnath, it is known for its ancient temples, ghats (riverfront steps), and narrow winding lanes. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, and the Assi Ghat are some of the must-visit attractions in Varanasi.
Allahabad:
Located about 120 kilometres from Sarnath, Allahabad is another important pilgrimage destination in Uttar Pradesh. The city is known for the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, which is considered a holy site in Hinduism. Other popular attractions in Allahabad include the Allahabad Fort, the Anand Bhawan Museum, and the Khusro Bagh.
Ayodhya:
Ayodhya is a historic city located about 170 kilometres from Sarnath. It is believed to be Lord Rama's birthplace and an important Hindu pilgrimage site. The Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, the Hanuman Garhi Temple, and the Kanak Bhawan Temple are some of the top attractions in Ayodhya.
Chunar Fort:
The Chunar Fort is ancient, about 40 kilometres from Sarnath. It was built by the local king Vikramaditya and later captured by the Mughal emperor Akbar. The defence is known for its beautiful architecture, stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and its association with several historical figures.
Jaunpur:
Jaunpur is a historic city located about 100 kilometres from Sarnath. It was an important centre of learning and culture during the medieval period and is known for its impressive Islamic architecture. The Atala Masjid, the Jami Masjid, and the Shahi Bridge are some of the top attractions in Jaunpur.
