On a Sarnath tour, tourists experience one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment. Here’s what visitors can see and do:
Major Attractions :
- Dhamek Stupa – The massive cylindrical stupa marking the exact spot where Buddha preached his first sermon.
- Chaukhandi Stupa – Built to commemorate Buddha’s meeting with his first disciples.
- Mulagandha Kuti Vihara – A modern temple with murals depicting Buddha’s life, built by the Mahabodhi Society.
- Ashoka Pillar – Remains of Emperor Ashoka’s pillar with inscriptions (the Lion Capital from here is India’s National Emblem, now kept in the Sarnath Museum).
- Sarnath Archaeological Museum – Houses important Buddhist artefacts, sculptures, and the original Lion Capital of Ashoka.
- Ruins of ancient monasteries and stupas – Excavated remains where monks once lived and studied.
Spiritual & Cultural Experiences :
- Meditation & Prayer at the stupas and gardens.
- Listening to Buddhist chants at Mulagandha Kuti Vihara.
*International Monasteries & Temples built by different countries (Thai and Sri Lanka) showing unique architectural styles.
- Prayer/meditation sessions led by monks.
Things to Do :
- Take a walking tour around the archaeological ruins and gardens.
- Visit Bodhi tree at Mulagandha Kuti Vihara (a sapling from the original Bodh Gaya tree).
- Photography of stupas, ruins, and cultural architecture.
Shopping for Buddhist souvenirs (statues, prayer wheels, handicrafts) in local markets.
Taste local Banarasi food & sweets nearby.
✨ In short: A Sarnath tour is a blend of history, spirituality, archaeology, and culture, making it peaceful yet deeply meaningful.
Sarnath Tour starts at Thai Buddhist temple and ends at Mulagandha Kuti Vihar Temple.
