Sarnath is the place where Buddhism’s first foundation was laid. Lord Buddha gave his first speech to the people. This place is unique in its own way, with so much history to explore, to get a glimpse from early Buddhism
Sarnath from Varanasi
While exploring Varanasi, if you have some time in your hands, you can definitely visit Sarnath. It is such a beautiful city to explore. You’ll get to learn so much about Buddhism, so much ancient history to learn and understand. Sarnath is such a quick and easy ride from Varanasi. It is just 10 km away from the city. It takes 30-40 minutes from Varanasi to Sarnath depending on the vehicle. You can either take a tuk tuk or a cab, the journey is quite easy and the roads are smooth. You can also take the local bus.
Sarnath Half-Day Itinerary from Varanasi
Now that we have cleared how to reach Sarnath, let’s tell you what all you can explore there. The city is a marvelous wonder filled with so much history. The best time to start your trip is early in the morning to avoid all the traffic and reach Sarnath around 8/9 am.
Start your trip by visiting the Dhameka Stupa. It is one of the most popular spots in Sarnath. This structure is around 43.6 meters high, and was built in the 5th century. This is believed to be the first place where Buddha taught. The carvings on its surface tells us the whole story about Buddhist teachings and the life of Buddha.
You can then visit the marvelous Ashoka Pillar. This pillar was made by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. This pillar features a lion capital which has not become India’s national emblem of India.
You can then visit the interesting Sarnath Museum. This museum has an impressive collection. If you’re into history or a little curious about Buddhism during that time, you’ll love this place. There are very interesting artifacts that date back to the time of Buddha. You’ll get to explore the beautiful sculptures, inscriptions, and relics. Here, the artifacts will give you interesting insights about the history of that time, Lord Buddha and his teachings.
Mulagandha Kuti Vihar
You can then visit the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar. This is a beautiful modern temple with interesting murals about Buddha’s life. The temple is beautiful with modern colours. You’ll definitely enjoy this temple, it’ll be different from whatever you have witnessed before due to its modern themes.
Wat Thai Sarnath Temple
There is a beautiful Thai Sarnath Temple. It is based on Thai architecture. It is such a Gorhohees temple so different from what we see in India. You’ll definitely enjoy visiting this.
What is the best time to visit Sarnath?
The best time to visit Sarnath is from October to March. The weather during this month is on the cooler side. You can easily explore the city without feeling intense heat.
Summers can be a bit harsh and visiting during this time can definitely take a toll on you. Monsoons make everything greener and cooler, also less crowded but don’t fight the humidity and rain at random times which can disrupt your plans.
What are the top things to do in Sarnath?
The top things you can do in Sarnath are-
- Visit the Dhamek Stupa Ashoka Pillar, Archaeological Museum,Mulagandha Kuti Vihar and Chaukhandi Stupa
- Dhamek Stupa is where Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment
- Ashoka Pillar was erected by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, now in broken remains at the site which has now become the national emblem of India.
- The Archaeological Museum has interesting artifacts excavated from Sarnath, with the original Ashoka Lion Capital and more for you to explore and understand the history.
- Mulagandha Kuti Vihar temple was built around the 1930s. It was built by Maha Bodhi Society. It is also known for Bodhi tree sapling brought from Sri Lanka.
- Chaukhandi Stupa the place Buddha met his first five disciples. The interesting part about this stupa ist that mughals built a tower on top of it. That is why it is different from other stupas.
Sarnath Entry Fees, Timings & Travel Tips?
Fees & Timings
The archaeological site and Sarnath Museum are priced at ₹20 per person under a combo. This price is different for other nationals. The archaeological site is open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM, but the Archaeological Museum opens from 9 AM to 5 PM. Also remember it stays closed every Friday. So plan your visit day accordingly.
Travel Tips
Before you enter the museum, you have to submit your cameras and phones.
Make sure you remember that no food or drink is allowed inside.
Make sure you dress appropriately depending on the place you are visiting. Don’t forgive to carry water and wear comfortable shoes so that you can easily explore the city.
One Day Sarnath Itinerary
Unlike the half-day itinerary this “one-day itinerary” is for travelers who don’t have to go back to Varanasi. You can start your day around 10 AM with some breakfast and start exploring the sites. Then have lunch comfortably near the site instead of rushing through. Take your time in the museum rather than spend the afternoon in the deer park or simply sitting near the stupa grounds.
Is Sarnath Worth Visiting?
Yes, it is definitely worth visiting Sarnath. It is such an interesting place to explore and it is nearby Varanasi. If you’re in Varanasi and you have some extra time, you should definitely visit this place. There is so much history you’ll get to learn by visiting this place.
How Much Time Do You Need to Explore Sarnath?
Sarnath is a small place so in order for you to explore this place 3-4 hours seem sufficient for you. There are really good places you need to explore such as “Mulagandha Kuti Vihar” or Dhamek Stupa in other for to understand the Buddhist culture and its history
Sarnath Travel Budget: Complete Cost Breakdown
- Transport: A taxi from Varanasi runs ₹300-500 for a roughly 30-minute ride each way or you can take an auto depending on your budget.
- The Entry fees will cost around ₹20 for Indian nationals
- The Food budget will cost around 500-700 for two meals including breakfast, lunch and some other refreshments.
- You can also opt for a guide which will cost you around ₹300-500.
- All in, a day trip works out to roughly ₹800-1,500 per person for Indian travelers. “Varanasi to Sarnath travel” is easy and light on the wallet.
Conclusion
Sarnath may be a small city compared to Varanasi but it offers calm and peace which Varanasi can never provide. A few hours here, away from the ghats’ intensity, rounds out a Varanasi trip with a different kind of depth.
Is the museum open on Fridays?
No, on Fridays the museum is closed.
How far is Sarnath from Varanasi?
Sarnath is approximately 10 km away from Varanasi. It is a 30-40 minute ride.
Do I need a guide?
Not, but it is helpful for historical context and it helps with the local economy.
