Sarnath, also known as Deer Park, is located just 10 kms from the bustling ghats of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India. It is one of the four major pilgrimage sites for Buddhists worldwide, along with Lumbini, Bodh Gaya, and Kushinagar. It is believed that here Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya.
Today, Sarnath is much more than a religious destination. Ancient ruins, beautifully preserved stupas, peaceful monasteries, museums, landscaped gardens, and an atmosphere of calm make it an ideal place for history lovers, spiritual seekers, photographers, and travellers looking for a quieter experience near Varanasi.
History of Sarnath
More than 2,500 years ago, Prince Siddhartha gained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodhi Gaya and became Gautam buddha. He gave his first teaching, the Dhammacakkappavattana sutta (turning of the wheel of Dharma), to his five disciples in Sarnath after coming from Bodhi Gaya. This teaching introduced the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path. That marked the beginning of the Buddhist sangha and the foundation of Buddhist philosophy.
Emperor Ashoka visited Sarnath and also commissioned the construction of
The stupas and monasteries to honour Buddha’s teachings.
The lion capital of Ashoka, which we see on the rupee notes.
Sarnath is the centre for many things like:
Buddhist learning and art
Producing beautiful sculptures, including the famous Sarnath Buddha statue
Carvings of Jataka tales that depicted Buddha’s previous lives.
How to reach Sarnath?
You can reach Sarnath by train, flight, or road. Below are the ways to reach the pilgrimage site in Uttar Pradesh.
By Flight
Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi is the closest airport to Sarnath. It is located about 24km away from Sarnath. You can book a taxi or use a bus to reach there.
By Train
If you are thinking of travelling to Sarnath by train, you can board a train to Varanasi, which is the closest railway station. Use shared or private taxi services or take a bus to Sarnath, which is approx. 10km away.
By Road
Sarnath is easily connected via road, as it is a popular tourist and spiritual destination. NH19 and NH31 pass close by the site. Many state-run and private buses also connect Sarnath with various cities in Uttar Pradesh.
Top 6 things to do in Sarnath
From visiting the museum to enjoying the Sarnath Light and Sound show, here are the top six things you can do in Sarnath.
1. Explore the Dhamek Stupa
It is one of the most significant Buddhist structures in Sarnath. The stupa is a testament to the longevity of Buddhist architecture and a must-see for visitors interested in history, spirituality, and ancient craftsmanship.
2. Visit the Sarnath Archaeological Museum
The Sarnath Archaeological Museum is home to an impressive collection of artefacts from around Sarnath. The museum provides a comprehensive insight into the ancient history of Sarnath and Buddhism, making it a valuable experience for history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers.
3. Visit the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar temple
The Mulagandha Kuti Vihar is a modern Buddhist temple in Sarnath, standing in the middle of the ruins of ancient monasteries and stupas. The atmosphere and the chanting of prayers make it peaceful. Surrounding the temple is a well-maintained garden where visitors can also observe deer.
4. Take a walk in the deer park
The Deer Park in Sarnath is where Buddha is said to have delivered his first sermon after achieving enlightenment. Today, the park remains a peaceful expanse, ideal for quiet contemplation or a leisurely walk. However, the deer population is not as prominent as in ancient times. The park is also surrounded by many monuments.
5. Take a guided tour in Sarnath
A guided tour of Sarnath can be an enlightening way to explore the historical and religious landmarks in this sacred city. Knowledgeable guides explain the significance of each monument, stupa, and museum, enabling visitors to fully appreciate the context and stories behind them. For first-time travellers, a guide would be a good option.
6. Enjoy the Sarnath light and sound show
The Light and Sound Show in Sarnath is a fascinating spectacle that brings the history of this ancient site to life. Using state-of-the-art lighting and audio technology, the show narrates the story of Siddhartha Gautama, the founding of Buddhism, and the rise of Sarnath as a major centre of the faith. The show is set within the park.
Where to stay in Sarnath?
1. The Fern Residency Sarnath (4.0 ratings)
It is a 7.3km drive to Kashi Vishwanath temple. Great food and services and a calm atmosphere. Price per night is ₹5000+
2. Hotel the Pinnacle Inn (4.0 rating)
It is a 7.5km drive to Kashi Vishwanath temple. Delicious food enhances your stay, and spacious and cosy rooms. Price per night is ₹5000+
3. The Mudra Hotel (4.5 rating)
It is a 7.5km drive to Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Spacious rooms with great food and helpful staff. Price per night is between ₹3500-₹5000
4. HHW Buddha Lineage (4.0 rating)
It is a 7.8 km drive to Kashi Vishwanath temple. Spacious and clean rooms, great hospitality and services. Price per night is ₹5000+
5. Treebo Saumendra Residency (4.3 ratings)
It is a 9.2 km drive to Kashi Vishwanath temple. Clean, spacious rooms with attentive staff suited for budget stays. Price per night is between ₹1000-₹1500
What to eat in Sarnath?
Must-try food in Sarnath is mentioned below.
1. Kachori sabzi
2.Baati Choka
3.Litti Choka
4. Samosa
5. Aloo tikki
6.Thali
7. Rabri
8. Jalebi
Must-visit cafes and restaurants
1. Open Hand Café
Known for its quiet and peaceful ambience and quality vegetarian meals. Good for resting after visiting temples and museums.
2. Lotus café Sarnath
Offers healthy vegetarian meals and beverages, conveniently located near main attractions.
3. Vaishali Restaurant
Famous restaurant in Sarnath, serves North Indian cuisine.
4. Green Hut
Known for local snacks and casual dining.
Local Art and Handicrafts
Although Sarnath itself is primarily a heritage town, visitors can explore several traditional crafts associated with the Varanasi region:
1. Stone Carving
Artisans create Buddha statues, decorative sculptures, and religious figurines using sandstone and marble.
2. Brass And Metal Craft
Handmade brass lamps, statues, ritual items, and home décor are widely available.
3. Banarasi Silk Weaving
One of India's most celebrated textile traditions, Banarasi silk sarees feature intricate Zari work and are woven by skilled craftspeople in nearby Varanasi.
4. Wooden Crafts
Hand-painted wooden toys, decorative boxes, and souvenirs remain popular among visitors.
5. Gulabi Meenakari
A GI-tagged craft unique to Varanasi, Gulabi Meenakari involves delicate pink enamel work on metal jewellery and decorative items.
Unlike many crowded tourist destinations, Sarnath offers a peaceful blend of spirituality, archaeology, history, and culture. Every monument tells a story of Buddhism's earliest days, while the surrounding monasteries reflect how these teachings travelled across the world.
Whether you are interested in ancient history, architecture, meditation, photography, or simply experiencing a quieter side of Uttar Pradesh, Sarnath promises a meaningful journey that stays with you long after your visit.
Image credits: Freepik
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