Sarnath
Followers of Lord Buddha hold Sarnath extremely in high regard. The Buddhist pilgrimage centre is positioned just at a distance of 10 km from Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. It has the privilege of being the site where Lord Buddha made his first sermon to his disciples. Looking at the site's high religious significance emperor Ashoka, during the 3rd century, got erected a group of wonderful moments in Sarnath. Even after being in state of desertion, Sarnath features a number of Buddhist relics. Chief Buddhist pilgrimage attractions in Sarnath include Ashoka's Pillar, Mulagandhakuti and Dharmek Stupa. The Sarnath Museum also attracts a good number of visitors. The sprawling gardens of Sarnath provide a tranquil atmosphere to all.
Best Time to Visit
It would be ideal to plan your pilgrimage tour to Sarnath between November and February. The anniversay of Lord Buddha's sermon, however, is celebrated during July-August.
Historical Background
The most ancient ruins at Sarnath point to the Mauryan Period. After Ashoka the Great paid a visit to the place, he set upon building a number of religious monuments. The National Emblem of India has been derived from the Lion Capital of the Ashoka Pillar. During his reign, emperor Ashoka also built the Dharmarajika Stupa. The monuments and stupas in Sarnath suffered damages many time due to repeated invasions. However, most of these structures were given a reconstruction after they were destroyed. Famous Chinese traveller Hsuen Tsang glorifies Sarnath and Buddhist structures located here in his travelogues.
Places to See
There are not too many Buddhist structures in Sarnath. But whatever remains of this one-time glorious site is enough to narrate the history and the era of Lord Buddha.
Dhamekha Stupa
It is most significant one in Sarnath. Initially, the stupa was erected emperor Ashoka. The monuments has words inscribed on it mentioning that this the place where Lord Buddha first preached to his disciples. At present, the structure measure 31.3 m in height and 28.3 m in diameter.
Choukhandi Stupa
Mughal emperor Ashoka got constructed the site in 1555 AD. The stupa marks the spot where Lord Buddha had a meeting with his disciples. The stupa is a must see for travellers coming to Sarnath.
Ashoka Pillar
One of the most prominent in Sarnath, the Ashoka Pillar was initially decorated with the 'Lion Capital', from which is taken India's national emblem. The 'four lions' are on display in the Sarnath Museum.
Mulagandhakuti Vihara
Though the Buddhist temple is a recent addition to the group of monuments in Sarnath, it features a number of important relics of the Buddha. A silver casket and exquisite wall paintings are major attractions at the temple, set up in 1931 by the Mahabodhi Society.
Reaching the Buddhist Pilgrimage Site
Closest airport from Sarnath is the Babat Airport of Varanasi, 24 km away. Varanasi also has its own well connected railway station. After your arrival at Varanasi, you either hire a taxi or an auto rickshaw to get to Sarnath.
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