Sarnath Heritage Tour : Explore the Birthplace of Buddhism
Varanasi, Indiaby Varanasi Heritage Walks
- 2 hours
- Free cancellation
- Instant confirmation
- Skip the line
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Guide: Japanese, English, Spanish
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Overview
Discover the profound history of Sarnath, the birthplace of Buddhism, where Buddha delivered his first sermon. This sightseeing tour takes you through magnificent Buddhist temples, ancient stupas, and the ruins of monasteries, offering insight into the rich heritage of this sacred site. Visit the Archaeological Museum to learn more about Sarnath's past, which was unearthed by British archaeologists in the 19th century. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Deer Park, a pivotal location mentioned in Buddhist texts. - Visit key Buddhist sites including temples and stupas - Guided exploration of the Archaeological Museum - Learn about the historical significance of Sarnath - Suitable for history and culture enthusiasts
What's included
- Bottled water is included.
- Entrance tickets of Archaeological ruins and museum are included.
- Free lockers are available to keep backpacks.
- Government licensed guided for explanation.
- Food is not included.
- pick and drop service from hotel is not included.
Itinerary
- 1
Sarnath
20 min
On a Sarnath tour, tourists experience one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment. Here’s what visitors can see and do: 1. Dhamek Stupa – The massive cylindrical stupa marking the exact spot where Buddha preached his first sermon. 2. Mulagandha Kuti Vihara – A modern temple with murals depicting Buddha’s life. 3. Ashoka Pillar – Remains of Emperor Ashoka’s pillar with inscriptions. 4. Sarnath Archaeological Museum – Houses important Buddhist artifacts, sculptures, and the original Lion Capital of Ashoka. 5. Ruins of ancient monasteries and stupas – Excavated remains where monks once lived and studied. Spiritual & Cultural Experiences Meditation & Prayer at the stupas and gardens. Things to Do Take a walking tour around the archaeological ruins and gardens.Visit Bodhi tree at Mulagandha Kuti Vihara. Photography of stupas, ruins, and cultural architecture.
- 2
Dhamekh Stupa, Sarnath
10 min
This is the place where Buddha gave the first sermon, the birthplace of Buddhism. Near the stupa there are ruins of Buddhist monasteries, temples and Stupas.
- 3
Stop 3
5 min
This pillar was built by emperor Ashoka, who ruled in 3rd century C.E. On the the top of this pillar,there was lion capital, the national emblem of India.
- 4
Stop 4
10 min
This is a beautiful Buddhist temple in Thai architecture. There are a huge statue of 80 feet Buddha and Buddhist monastery in the temple campus.
- 5
Sarnath Museum
15 min
Sarnath Museum is home to remarkable Buddhist and ancient Indian sculptures discovered at Sarnath. Its highlight is the famous Lion Capital of Ashoka, India’s national emblem, along with beautiful images of Buddha, Bodhisattvas and other archaeological treasures.
- 6
Mulagandha Kuti Vihar
10 min
Mulagandha Kuti Vihar (Sri Lankan Temple), Sarnath is a beautiful Buddhist temple established by the Maha Bodhi Society. It features impressive murals depicting the life and teachings of Buddha and stands near the ancient site where Buddha delivered his first sermon.
Meeting and pickup
Meeting point is Sarnath Museum ticket window. Ticket window is just in front of museum. Guide will have the name and mobile number of leading traveller. It is very easy to reach here by tuk tuk, taxi, Ola and Uber.
Good to know
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
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- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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