Sarnath is a small town located near the city of Varanasi in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists as it is where Gautama Buddha is believed to have given his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. This event is known as the "Turning of the Wheel of Dharma" and is considered a significant moment in Buddhist history.
Sarnath is home to several important Buddhist sites, including the Dhamek Stupa, which is believed to mark the spot where Buddha gave his sermon, and the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, a temple built by the famous Buddhist emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. Other important sites in Sarnath include the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, which houses a collection of Buddhist artifacts and sculptures, and the Deer Park, where Buddha is believed to have taught his first disciples.
Today, Sarnath remains an important center of Buddhist pilgrimage and attracts visitors from around the world who come to learn about Buddhism and its rich history in India.
It's open daily from 4 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The Sarnath Museum remains open on all days except Fridays from 9 AM to 5 PM.