All you need to know about visiting Sarnath

Sarnath is a destination that is closely related to Gautam Buddha, and is located about 13 km northeast of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. Due to its proximity to Varanasi, tourists also make it a point to visit Sarnath for a day trip.

There are different modes of reaching Sarnath depending on your budget. Some tourists prefer taking an auto-rickshaw or a cab to reach here. An auto-rickshaw may charge INR 200-300 rupees for one way and INR 500-800 for a taxi ride. Buses also ply on the route from Varanasi Junction railway station. Alternatively, tourists can also book a ticket for Mahaparinirvan Express Buddhist Circuit Train via IRCTC, which also covers Sarnath.

Interestingly, if you are averse to public transport to reach Sarnath, you can also hire a bicycle to explore the town. Guides are easily available at Sarnath, and charge around INR 100-200 to give you a tour of the historical monuments.

Sarnath should not be visited on Fridays as the local museum stays closed. Tickets to some of the monuments can be purchased online from the Archeological Survey of India or at the ticket booth at the entry gate.

Dhamekh stupa complex is the place where Buddha delivered his first sermon. It is the main attraction in Sarnath. Therein is also located the Ashoka Pillar. Entry to this monument requires a ticket. Sarnath also hosts a spectacular sound and light show every evening in the park at Dhamekh stupa. It tells the story of Buddha’s life and teachings in the voice of Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan. The Thai temple and monastery, Chaukhandi Stupa, the Garden of Spiritual Wisdom and Mulagandha Kuti Vihar are other must-visit sites in Sarnath.