Dharmarajika Stupa

Dharmarajika Stupa is a ruined ancient Buddhist stupa located within the Sarnath Archaeological Complex near Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Originally built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE to enshrine relics of the Buddha, it was one of the earliest stupas at Sarnath. Largely dismantled in 1794, only its foundations and lower remains survive today. It is a key part of the Sarnath heritage site associated with Buddha's first sermon.

Visitors can expect to see the brick foundations and lower ruins of a large ancient stupa within the open, park-like Sarnath Archaeological Complex. The site consists of exposed circular foundations, surrounding monastic ruins, and landscaped grounds with pathways. It is viewed as part of a walking tour of the excavated area that also includes the Dhamek Stupa, Ashokan pillar remains, and monastery ruins. Information boards explain the layout and history.

Dharmarajika Stupa was originally constructed by Mauryan Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE to enshrine relics of the Buddha and was enlarged in subsequent periods. It was a major stupa at Sarnath where the Buddha gave his first sermon. In 1794, the stupa was largely dismantled by Jagat Singh, a minister of the King of Benares, to obtain building materials, during which a stone relic casket was discovered. Only the foundations remain today within the excavated complex.

The stupa is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage and heritage site, representing early Buddhist architecture and the tradition of relic worship. As part of Sarnath, where the Buddha delivered his first sermon and set the Wheel of Dharma in motion, it holds religious importance for Buddhists and is valued for its archaeological and cultural heritage.