It is one of the Four Holy sites of Buddhist Pilgrimage. It is located just 12 km away from the holy city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. It is said that after achieving the full enlightenment, Buddha, went to sanchi in the hope of finding five more companions. Sarnath was previously knows as “Mrigadava now known as "deer park," and Isipatana, meaning the place where holy men fell to earth. Buddha has preached Dharma, an event which has been referred as “the turning wheel of the Dharma. Thus, legend of Deer Park is associated to the time he has been here at sarnath. It was only because of the support of kings and wealthy merchants who were based in Varanasi that the Buddhism flourished at sarnath as a religion.
It became a major centre of the Sammatiya school of Buddhism, which is a part of one of the Nikaya or Hinayana schools. At 7th century Huien Tsang visited from china, and discovered at least 30 monasteries. Slowly, monks from all over the world started coming to this and finally settled here.
Mulagandhakuti Vihar, which was built by Emperor Ashoka, was architected up to the height of 110 feet high with a sandstone sculptured statue of Buddha.
The ruins of Dharmekh Stupa are impressive which stands at 128 feet high, and 93 in diameters. Dated back to 200 BC, this is the place where Buddha has preached his first sermon.
The remains of the Dharmarajika Stupa, is notable due to its rare style which depicts the insight of Pre-Ashokan Stupa.
Ashoka Pillar Sarnath
It is pertinent to note that the Ashokan Pillar at Sarnath stands in its original shape as it is said that it was fortunate that it survived the invasion of the Turkish King.It was very unfortunate that during the 12th century, the Turkish invasions ruined everything leaving behind the ruins found till date. Soon after, the Britishers came down to excavate and rediscovered the remains of the Buddhist Art and culture. It is fascinating that sculptures from the Mauryan and Gupta period were found and preserved. This symbolized different phases of Buddha’s Life.
As it is very near by to Varanasi, one could Tour with us to this holy place as well. So, come with us to explore the Buddhist Art and culture to this amazing place.
