Sarnath Tour

Sarnath is one of the four most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. It is the place where Buddha gave his first sermon after his enlightment. This city is situated at a distance of about 13 km north-east from the Varanasi. Sarnath is one of the four most sacred places of the Buddhist. According to the ‘Mahaparinirbbana Sutto’ Buddha himself told his disciples to visit four places-Lumbini, Bodhgaya, Sarnath and Kushinagar which were associated with his birth, enlightenment, first preaching and decease respectively.

The modern name Sarnath seems to be a contraction of Sarangnath still born by the lord Shiva enshrined in a temple nearby. Sarnath is also sacred to the Jainas for being the value of austerities and death of Sreyamsnath, the eleventh Tirthankara. After attaining enlightenment Buddha, delivered his first sermon at Sarnath to five monks (i.e. Kaundinya, Vappa, Bhadriya, Mahanama and Asvajit) for redeeming humanity. This place is also significant for the foundation of new order of monks (Sangha) and a new religion.

Latter on excavations were conducted at Sarnath by Alexander Cunningham Excavation have revealed seven number of monasteries, Dhamekh Stupa, Dharmarajika Stupa, Apsidal Chapel, Ashokan pillar, Chankama Panchayatan temple, monolithic railings, cluster of Votive Stupas and number of sculptures, inscription, architectural members and other antiquities ranging in date from 3rd Century B.C.E. to 12th Century C.E.

However, you don’t have to be Buddhist to enjoy visiting it. Sarnath also makes a peaceful and refreshing side trip from Varanasi. Many people are surprised to discover Sarnath.