Day Trip To Sarnath From Varanasi

Visiting the historic site of Sarnath from Varanasi offers travelers a captivating day trip that immerses them in the rich religious and cultural heritage of Buddhism. For just $70.14 per person, this guided tour provides an 8-hour experience that showcases the renowned Chaukhandi Stupa, the majestic Dhamek Stupa, and the impressive Sarnath Museum. With round-trip transportation and a knowledgeable local guide, visitors can explore the profound teachings of Buddha and uncover the spiritual significance that has drawn pilgrims to this sacred location for centuries. Whether you’re a Buddhist devotee or simply seeking to expand your cultural understanding, this Sarnath excursion promises a day of enlightenment and exploration.

Key Points

• The day trip to Sarnath from Varanasi costs $70.14 per person and includes round-trip transportation, a local guide, and essential logistics.
• Sarnath is a major Buddhist pilgrimage site, featuring key monuments like the Chaukhandi Stupa, Dhamek Stupa, and Ashoka Pillar.
• The guided tour covers the Chaukhandi Stupa, where Buddha first met his five ascetics, and the Dhamek Stupa, the site of his first sermon.
• The Sarnath Museum showcases an impressive collection of Buddhist heritage, including the iconic Four-Headed Lion from the Ashoka Pillar.
• The tour includes transportation with pick-up and drop-off from Varanasi, a professional local guide, and two 500ml bottles of mineral water per person.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

A day trip to the revered Buddhist site of Sarnath from the holy city of Varanasi typically costs from $70.14 per person.

The tour lasts around 8 hours, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can also opt for the reserve now and pay later option.

This comprehensive excursion covers the key historical and religious sites in Sarnath, providing visitors with an in-depth understanding of the significance of this sacred Buddhist destination.

The tour includes round-trip transportation, a professional local guide, and essential logistics, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience for participants.

Significance of Sarnath

Sarnath holds immense significance as a major Buddhist pilgrimage center in India. It’s known as the site where Buddha first preached after attaining nirvana.

The key monuments here include the Chaukhandi Stupa, Dhamek Stupa, Dharmarajika Stupa, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, Ashoka Pillar, Sarnath Museum, and Wat Thai Sarnath Temple.

The Chaukhandi Stupa marks the site of Buddha’s first meeting with his five ascetics, while the Dhamek Stupa commemorates the location of his first sermon on the Eightfold Path.

The Dharmarajika Stupa enshrines Buddha’s remains, and the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar is where he spent his first rainy season.

Exploring these historic sites provides profound insight into the origins and spread of Buddhism.

Key Monuments and Attractions

The day trip to Sarnath from Varanasi features a guided tour of the destination’s key monuments and attractions. Visitors will explore the Chaukhandi Stupa, the site of Buddha’s first meeting with his five ascetics, and the Dhamek Stupa, where he delivered his first sermon. The Dharmarajika Stupa, an important archaeological site, and the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, where Buddha spent his first rainy season, are also on the itinerary. The tour highlights the Ashoka Pillar, the national emblem of India, and the Sarnath Museum, which showcases Buddhist heritage. The excursion also includes a visit to the Wat Thai Sarnath Temple, featuring an impressive 80-foot-tall Buddha statue.

Monument	Significance
Chaukhandi Stupa	Site of Buddha’s first meeting with five ascetics
Dhamek Stupa	Location of Buddha’s first sermon on the Eightfold Path
Dharmarajika Stupa	Enshrined Buddha’s remains, significant archaeological site

Guided Tour Itinerary

After being picked up from their Varanasi hotel or a designated location in the morning, visitors embark on a guided tour of Sarnath’s key sites.

The tour includes stops at:

• Chaukhandi Stupa, where Buddha first met his five ascetics
• Dhamek Stupa, the site of Buddha’s first sermon on the Eightfold Path
• Dharmarajika Stupa, an important archaeological site that enshrines Buddha’s remains

The guide then leads the group to the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, where Buddha spent his first rainy season, and the Ashoka Pillar, a national emblem of India.

The tour concludes at the Sarnath Museum and the Wat Thai Sarnath Temple, known for its impressive 80-foot-tall Buddha statue.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Highlights of Chaukhandi Stupa

One of the first stops on the guided tour of Sarnath is the Chaukhandi Stupa, a significant monument that marks the site where Buddha first met his five ascetic followers after attaining enlightenment.

The stupa was originally commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE and later modified by the Gupta dynasty in the 4th century CE. Visitors can explore the intricately carved octagonal tower, which is believed to have been built to commemorate the historic meeting.

The Chaukhandi Stupa provides a glimpse into the early days of Buddhism and the pivotal moment when Buddha began sharing his teachings with his first disciples.

Highlights of Dhamek Stupa

Next on the guided tour is the Dhamek Stupa, the site where Buddha delivered his first sermon to his five original disciples.

This towering stone structure, measuring 143 feet in height, is a significant landmark in the history of Buddhism. The stupa’s intricate carvings and detailed inscriptions provide insight into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Key highlights of the Dhamek Stupa include:

• Its conical shape, representing the cosmic axis or "axis mundi" in Buddhist cosmology.
• Elaborate decorations featuring floral and geometric patterns, as well as figures of animals and mythological creatures.
• Its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, underscoring its immense historical and cultural importance.

Highlights of Sarnath Museum

The Sarnath Museum is a must-visit destination on the day trip, housing an impressive collection that showcases the region’s rich Buddhist heritage. The museum’s highlights include:

Artifact	Significance
Four-Headed Lion	Iconic symbol from the Ashoka Pillar, representing India’s national emblem
Buddha Statues	Diverse representations of the Buddha in various meditation poses
Archaeological Findings	Excavated relics and artifacts from the nearby Buddhist sites

The museum provides valuable insights into the historical and cultural importance of Sarnath, complementing the exploration of the other key monuments. Visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the region’s pivotal role in the spread of Buddhism and its enduring influence.

Tour Inclusions and Restrictions

As part of the day trip package, the tour includes transportation, with pick-up and drop-off from the traveler’s Varanasi hotel or designated location.

The tour also provides a professional local English-speaking guide, along with parking fees, tolls, fuel, and taxes.

Plus, the package includes two 500ml bottles of mineral water per person.

However, the tour excludes accommodation, entrance fees to monuments, tips, gratuities, and meals.

The day trip isn’t suitable for pregnant women, and the use of alcohol and drugs is prohibited.

The key inclusions are:

• Transportation (pick-up & drop)
• Professional local English-speaking guide
• Parking fees, tolls, fuel, and taxes
• 2 bottles of mineral water (500 ml) per person

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed at All the Sites in Sarnath?

Photography is generally allowed at most sites in Sarnath, though visitors should check with their guide or local authorities for any restrictions. Some sites may have specific rules or fees for photography.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Day Trip if Needed?

Yes, travelers can extend the duration of the day trip if needed. Most tour operators offer flexibility to accommodate requests for additional time at specific sites or to include a lunch stop, subject to availability.

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Sarnath Visit?

The tour does not have a strict dress code, but modest attire is recommended when visiting religious sites. Visitors should avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless shirts, or revealing clothing. Covering up is respectful and helps ensure a comfortable experience.

Can I Visit the Sites on My Own Instead of Joining a Guided Tour?

Yes, visitors can explore the Sarnath sites on their own without joining a guided tour. However, a guided tour provides deeper insights into the historical significance and cultural importance of the Buddhist monuments.

Are There Any Specific Health Conditions That May Affect the Tour?

The tour may not be suitable for pregnant women due to the length and physical demands of the itinerary. Travelers should consult their healthcare provider if they have any pre-existing medical conditions that could affect their participation.

Recap

Set out on a captivating day trip to Sarnath from Varanasi and explore one of Buddhism’s most significant pilgrimage sites. For just $70.14 per person, this 8-hour guided tour provides an immersive experience, visiting key monuments, the Sarnath Museum, and gaining insights from a local guide. With round-trip transportation and free cancellation, this tour offers a comprehensive and practical way to explore the rich heritage and spiritual essence of Buddha’s teachings.

You can check if your dates are available here: