7 Essential Insights into Sarnath Temple

In this blog, we will embark on a spiritual voyage to Sarnath Temple, exploring its historical roots, architectural splendor, religious practices, and the serene atmosphere that continues to attract devotees and seekers of enlightenment from around the world.

1.History

Sarnath Temple traces its history back to over 2,500 years ago when Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon to his five disciples, known as the “Dharmachakra Pravartana.” This sacred event marked the beginning of the Buddhist community and became the birthplace of the Sangha, the community of Buddhist monks and nuns.

The sacredness of Sarnath Temple lies in its association with Lord Buddha’s teachings on the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. These foundational principles of Buddhism revolve around understanding suffering, its origin, and the path leading to its cessation, ultimately leading to enlightenment (Nirvana).

The architecture of Sarnath Temple showcases a harmonious blend of ancient and modern influences. The Dhamekh Stupa, a cylindrical tower rising to great heights, stands as a testimony to the glory of the Mauryan period. The Gupta period contributed to the construction of the Mulagandha Kuti Vihara, a beautifully carved monastery.

2.How to Reach

Reaching Sarnath Temple from Airport, Railway Station, and Bus Stand:

Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi:

Sarnath Temple is approximately 25 kilometers away from Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi. To reach the temple from the airport, you have the following options:

Taxis and cab services are readily available at the airport. The journey from Varanasi Airport to Sarnath takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.
Auto-rickshaws are also available at the airport and are a more economical option for reaching Sarnath.

Varanasi Junction Railway Station

Varanasi Junction Railway Station, also known as Varanasi Cantt, is the major railway station serving Varanasi. To reach Sarnath Temple from Varanasi Junction, you have the following options:

Taxis and cabs are available outside the railway station. The journey from Varanasi Junction to Sarnath takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
Auto-rickshaws are a convenient and affordable mode of transportation to Sarnath from the railway station.

Varanasi Bus Stand

Varanasi has several bus stands, including Varanasi Cantt Bus Stand and Varanasi City Bus Stand. To reach Sarnath Temple from the bus stand, you have the following options:

Auto-rickshaws are readily available at the bus stand. The distance from Varanasi bus stand to Sarnath is approximately 10 to 12 kilometers, and the journey takes around 20 to 30 minutes.
Varanasi also has local bus services that operate between the city and Sarnath. You can inquire about the bus routes and timings at the bus stand.

3. Sarnath Temple Timings

Sarnath Temple is generally open to visitors throughout the day. The temple doesn’t have fixed temple timings, but it is recommended to visit during daylight hours to fully experience the spiritual ambiance and explore the historical monuments in the area. However, please note that specific structures and monuments within the Sarnath complex may have different timings.

4.Nearby Attractions

Dhamekh Stupa: As the most prominent structure in Sarnath, the Dhamekh Stupa is a must-visit attraction. Its intricate carvings and historical significance make it a focal point of interest for visitors.
Chaukhandi Stupa: Located close to the Dhamekh Stupa, the Chaukhandi Stupa offers a glimpse of ancient architectural marvels and is a significant historical landmark in Sarnath.
Mulagandha Kuti Vihara: This beautiful monastery within the temple complex showcases modern Buddhist architecture and is a place of meditation and spiritual activities.
Ashoka Pillar: The ancient Ashoka Pillar is adorned with four back-to-back lions and represents an important historical artifact.
Sarnath Archaeological Museum: The museum houses an extensive collection of Buddhist artifacts, sculptures, and antiquities, including the famous Lion Capital of Ashoka.
Thai Temple: The Thai Temple, also known as Wat Thai Sarnath, is a magnificent temple with Thai architectural influences. It offers a unique cultural experience for visitors.
Tibetan Temple: The Tibetan Temple, also known as the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, showcases Tibetan art and culture, making it an intriguing site for exploration.
Varanasi Excursions: Sarnath is located near the holy city of Varanasi (Benares). A short distance away from Sarnath, Varanasi offers a plethora of attractions, including the famous Ghats along the Ganges River, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and the evening Ganga Aarti.

5. Eat around

After absorbing the spiritual tranquility of Sarnath in Varanasi, indulge your taste buds with a culinary journey that reflects the city’s rich heritage. Here’s a taste of the dining options you can explore:

1. Sarnath Café: Right at the heart of Sarnath, this café offers a blend of Indian and international dishes. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy a meal after exploring the sights.

2. Ganga Fuji Home Restaurant: Sample a variety of cuisines, from Indian to Chinese, at this cozy restaurant. The rooftop seating offers a serene view that complements your dining experience.

3. Japanese Temple Café: If you’re looking for something unique, this café near the Japanese Temple serves Japanese cuisine. It’s a peaceful setting to relish Japanese flavors.

4. Sharma Tea Corner: Enjoy traditional Indian tea (chai) and snacks at this local tea stall. It’s a great way to savor authentic flavors.

5. Dolphin Rooftop Restaurant: Experience the joy of dining with a view. This restaurant offers a rooftop seating where you can enjoy a meal while soaking in the surroundings.

6. New Bajrang Restaurant: Known for its North Indian fare, this restaurant offers a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes to cater to different preferences.

7. Shree Restaurant: Indulge in a variety of Indian dishes at Shree Restaurant. From curries to biryanis, their menu has a wide range to choose from.

8. 5 Elements Café: A haven for vegetarians, this café specializes in vegetarian and vegan dishes. The menu features a fusion of global and Indian flavors.

9. Pintoo’s Kitchen: Delight in North Indian and Chinese cuisine at this family-friendly eatery. Their extensive menu ensures there’s something for everyone.

10. Madhur Milan Café: This café offers a mix of Indian and Chinese dishes, making it a versatile choice for those seeking diverse flavors.

Additional Information

The history of Sarnath Temple is deeply rooted in ancient times and holds immense significance in the evolution of Buddhism. Let’s delve deeper into the historical journey of this sacred pilgrimage site:

Before its association with Buddhism, Sarnath was a flourishing center of trade and commerce during the time of the Mauryan Empire. Located strategically on the banks of the river Ganges, Sarnath served as an important river port for merchants and traders.

The turning point in the history of Sarnath Temple occurred around 528 BCE when Prince Siddhartha Gautama, who later became Lord Buddha, attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya. After his enlightenment, he traveled to Sarnath, delivering his first sermon to his five former companions who had previously practiced austerities with him.

This first sermon, known as the “Dharmachakra Pravartana,” or “Turning the Wheel of Dharma,” marked the foundation of the Buddhist faith. In this sermon, Lord Buddha expounded the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, laying the philosophical and ethical principles that form the core of Buddhism.

Emperor Ashoka, the great Mauryan ruler and a devout Buddhist, played a crucial role in the promotion and spread of Buddhism. He visited Sarnath around 249 BCE and erected the magnificent Ashoka Pillar near the Dhamekh Stupa to commemorate Lord Buddha’s teachings.

The Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath, with its inscriptions about the emperor’s dedication to the Dhamma (Buddhist teachings), is a significant historical artifact and a symbol of Ashoka’s commitment to Buddhism.

During the Gupta period (4th to 6th centuries CE), Sarnath experienced a period of prosperity and witnessed the construction of several magnificent structures, including the grand Dhamekh Stupa and the Mulagandha Kuti Vihara.

With the decline of Buddhism in India during the medieval period, Sarnath fell into obscurity and faced invasions by foreign rulers. However, the site was later rediscovered in the 19th century by British archaeologists, leading to its restoration and preservation

Today, Sarnath Temple stands as a prominent pilgrimage site, drawing Buddhists and travelers from all over the world. The temple complex, comprising several stupas, monasteries, and museums, offers visitors a glimpse into the ancient Buddhist heritage and the spiritual legacy of Lord Buddha.

Dhamekh Stupa:

The Dhamekh Stupa, the most prominent structure in Sarnath, is a significant relic of Lord Buddha’s presence. It stands approximately 34 meters tall and is adorned with delicate carvings depicting scenes from Buddha’s life.

Chaukhandi Stupa

The Chaukhandi Stupa, constructed during the Gupta period, commemorates the spot where Lord Buddha met his first five disciples. It represents a square tower adorned with an octagonal tower, offering visitors a glimpse into ancient architectural brilliance.

Ashoka Pillar

Sarnath is also home to an Ashoka Pillar, constructed by Emperor Ashoka, which stands tall with a capital representing four back-to-back lions, now the national emblem of India. The pillar bears inscriptions of Ashoka’s edicts and serves as a significant historical artifact.

Sarnath Museum

The Sarnath Archaeological Museum houses an extensive collection of Buddhist artifacts, sculptures, and antiquities, including the famous Lion Capital of Ashoka, the state emblem of India.

7 Essential Insights into Sarnath Temple

1.History

2.How to Reach