Sarnath, India
Top things to do in Sarnath
15 attractions, landmarks and museums worth your time, ranked by traveler reviews.
Dhamek Stupa
A massive 5th-century stupa marking the spot where Buddha preached his first sermon, adorned with intricate stone carvings.
Sarnath Museum
Home to the original Ashoka Lion Capital and a rich collection of Buddhist artifacts excavated from Sarnath.
Sarnath Deer Park
A peaceful park where deer roam freely, believed to be the site of Buddha's first sermon after enlightenment.
Chaukhandi Stupa
A 5th-century terraced stupa marking the spot where Buddha met his first five disciples after enlightenment.
Sarnath Jain Tirth
A Jain temple complex dedicated to Shreyansanath, the 11th Tirthankara, with ornate architecture and spiritual ambiance.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
One of the most revered Hindu temples in Varanasi, dedicated to Lord Shiva and a key pilgrimage site.
Manikarnika Ghat
The main cremation ghat on the Ganges, where Hindus believe liberation from rebirth is attained.
Dashashwamedh Ghat
The most vibrant ghat on the Ganges, famous for its spectacular evening Ganga Aarti ceremony.
Jantar Mantar, Varanasi
An 18th-century astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh II, featuring massive stone instruments for measuring time and tracking celestial bodies.
Alamgir Mosque
A 17th-century Mughal mosque built by Emperor Aurangzeb, perched on a high bank overlooking the Ganges River.
Gyanvapi Mosque
A historic mosque built by Aurangzeb adjacent to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, with a controversial past and striking Mughal architecture.
Bharat Mata Mandir
Unique temple with a large marble relief map of India, dedicated to Mother India.
Vishalakshi Temple
Hindu temple dedicated to goddess Vishalakshi, one of the 51 Shakti Peethas.
Kaal Bhairav Mandir, Varanasi
Ancient temple dedicated to Kaal Bhairav, the fierce guardian deity of Varanasi.
Sarnath
A serene Buddhist pilgrimage site where Buddha delivered his first sermon, featuring ancient stupas and monasteries.
Tickets & tours
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