About Sarnath Excavated Buddhist Remains
The Sarnath Excavated Buddhist Remains is the main archaeological complex at Sarnath, about 10 km northeast of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. It marks the Deer Park where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment. The protected site contains stupas, monastery ruins, votive stupas, and the famed Ashoka Pillar, spanning Mauryan to Gupta periods, and is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore an extensive open-air archaeological park with exposed brick foundations of ancient monasteries, votive stupas, the Dhamek Stupa, Dharmarajika Stupa remains, and the Ashoka Pillar with its Lion Capital site. The area is landscaped with lawns and pathways, with information boards explaining structures. The adjacent Sarnath Archaeological Museum houses finds from the excavations. Expect walking on paved and uneven surfaces among ruins in a quiet, park-like setting.
Key highlights
- 01
Dhamek Stupa - 128 ft high solid stupa marking the spot of Buddha's first sermon
- 02
Ashoka Pillar and Lion Capital site - 3rd century BCE Mauryan remains, original Lion Capital in nearby museum
- 03
Dharmarajika Stupa remains - one of the earliest stupas built by Emperor Ashoka
- 04
Ruins of ancient monasteries and temples from 3rd century BCE to 12th century CE