Mulagandha Kuti Vihara

Mulagandha Kuti Vihara is a modern Buddhist temple located in Sarnath, Varanasi district, Uttar Pradesh, about 10 km northeast of Varanasi city. Built in 1931 by Anagarika Dharmapala and the Mahabodhi Society, it marks the site where the Buddha gave his first sermon. The temple is noted for its frescoes by Japanese artist Kosetsu Nosu depicting the life of the Buddha, its relic chamber, surrounding gardens and its role as a major Buddhist pilgrimage centre.

Visitors can expect a red-brick modern Buddhist temple set within landscaped gardens and a deer park area in Sarnath. Inside, the main hall displays extensive wall frescoes illustrating the life of the Buddha, a gilded Buddha image and a relic chamber. Outside are Bodhi trees, meditation areas, bells and pathways. The complex is calm and used for prayer, meditation and sightseeing, with an adjacent library and Mahabodhi Society buildings.

Built in 1931 by Sri Lankan Buddhist revivalist Anagarika Dharmapala through the Mahabodhi Society of India to revive Buddhism at Sarnath, where the Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment. The temple was constructed with donations from various countries and decorated between 1932-1935 with frescoes by Japanese artist Kosetsu Nosu. It enshrines relics of the Buddha gifted during its consecration.

A major Buddhist pilgrimage site in the sacred complex of Sarnath, revered as the place of the Buddha's first teaching (Dhammacakkappavattana). It serves as a centre for Buddhist worship, meditation and festivals, especially Buddha Purnima and the annual relic exposition, and symbolizes modern Buddhist revival in India with contributions from international Buddhist communities.