Sarnaths

Sarnath is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site located just 10 kilometers northeast of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India. It is renowned as the place where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma after attaining enlightenment. According to Buddhist tradition, Buddha delivered his first sermon, known as the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, to his five former companions at the Deer Park in Sarnath.

The site contains several important monuments including the Dhamek Stupa, which marks the location of Buddha's first sermon, and the Chaukhandi Stupa, which is believed to commemorate the spot where Buddha met his first disciples. The Sarnath Archaeological Museum houses an impressive collection of Buddhist artifacts, including the famous Lion Capital of Ashoka, which has become India's national emblem.

Sarnath flourished as a major center of Buddhist learning from the 3rd century BCE to the 12th century CE. It was destroyed by Muslim invaders in the 12th century but was later restored. Today, Sarnath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts pilgrims and tourists from around the world who come to explore its rich Buddhist heritage and meditative atmosphere.