It was the last day of my 3 days trip to Varanasi, I had my train back home in the evening. Though it was quite a sunny day still I decided to visit Sarnath to soak into the peaceful and serene aura of Buddhism. Sarnath is located just 12 kms from the holy city of Varanasi. The deer park in Sarnath is where Buddha first taught dharma after attaining enlightenment in Bodh Gaya. Sarnath is also one of the four most sacred sites for Buddhists which Buddha himself sanctioned for pilgrimage.
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| The Dhamek stupa. |
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| The Dhamek Stupa. |
Sarnath has previously been known as Mrigadawa "deer park" or Ishipatna means the place where holy men fell to earth. The currrent name Sarnath means "Lord of the deers".
Dhamek Stupa which is the main point of attraction at Sarnath was constructed by the great Mauryan King Ashoka. The stupa is cylindrical in shape and 34 meter in height and 28.3 meter in diameter.
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Dhamek stupa.
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The lower portion of the Stupa is covered completely with beautifully carved stones. The borders of Dhamekh Stupa have delicately carved geometrical and floral designs and figures of humans and birds. The base of the Stupa is made of stone with the upper areas of brickwork which probably once had a carved stone fencing. It is believed that Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon at the Dhamekh Stupa.
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Carvings on the Dhamek stupa.
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| Excavated Structures around the stupa. |
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| Dhamek stupa and the excavated area. |
How to reach Sarnath ?
Sarnath is located just 12 kms from the main city of Varanasi. Autorickshaws and other public transport are easily available from Cant station. So the place is easily accessible from any part of the city.
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