Chaukhandi Stupa and the temples of Asia
Chaukhandi Stupa, about a kilometre before the main site on the Varanasi road, marks the place where the Buddha is said to have met the five ascetics who became his first disciples. It is a large brick mound on a terraced base from the Gupta period, topped by an octagonal brick tower added in 1588 by Akbar's officials to record that his father Humayun once rested here.
Modern Sarnath has temples built by Buddhist communities from across Asia. The Thai temple sits in a garden with a large standing Buddha, the Tibetan temple has prayer wheels and a fine painted interior, and the Japanese and Chinese temples each have their own style. Each one shows a different face of Buddhist practice.
Your guide picks two or three based on your interests and the day's opening hours. This is a gentle afternoon, good for families, ending at the Dhamek Stupa and Mulagandha Kuti Vihara before dusk.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
What is the Chaukhandi Stupa?
Chaukhandi Stupa is a brick stupa about a kilometre from the main Sarnath site, marking where the Buddha met his five former companions after his enlightenment. The terraced stupa dates from the Gupta period, and the octagonal tower on top was added in 1588 to commemorate a visit by the Mughal emperor Humayun.
Which temples should I visit in Sarnath?
Beyond the Dhamek Stupa and Mulagandha Kuti Vihara, the Tibetan temple with its prayer wheels, the Thai temple and its large standing Buddha, and the Japanese temple are the most rewarding. Two or three are enough in an afternoon. Opening hours vary, and most close for lunch.
Is Sarnath good to visit with children?
Yes. Sarnath is open, green and calm, with space to walk, a deer enclosure and colourful temples, which children often enjoy more than the crowded ghats of Varanasi. The museum is short. Bring water and hats, as there is limited shade around the ruins.
Also in Sarnath
More hours to plan around
