• Sarnath - Sarnath is situated 10 kilometers northeast of Varanasi city, near the meeting point of the Ganges and Varuna rivers in Uttar Pradesh, India. The deer park in Sarnath is renowned as the site where Gautama Buddha first imparted the Dharma, leading to the formation of the Buddhist Sangha through Kondanna’s enlightenment. Join us on a journey to explore the ruins of Sarnath, the brickwork from the Mauryan period, and visit the surrounding temples from various countries linked to Buddhism.
• Dhamek Stupa - Also known as Dhamekh or Dhamekha, the Dhamek Stupa traces its origins to the Sanskrit term Dharmarajika Stupa, meaning the Stupa of the reign of Dharma. Stupas began as pre-Buddhist burial mounds, where ascetics were interred in a seated posture, known as chaitya. Following the Buddha’s parinirvana, his remains were cremated, and the ashes were divided and buried under eight mounds, with two additional mounds encasing the urn and embers. Little is known about these early stupas, particularly since it has not been
• Tibetan Temple Varanasi - This serene and traditional Tibetan Buddhist Monastery is a delightful, vibrant space located near the main market area in Sarnath. Built in 1955, it is maintained by the Lhadhan Chotrul Monlam Chenmo Trust and features glass display cases filled with miniature Buddhas. The sight of the Tibetan Monastery on the main road is captivating—two lions guard the colorful and beautifully designed entrance. Inside the spacious and open compound stands a light pink stupa, symbolizing gratitude by the Tibetans to the Indian government for granting asylum to the fleeing Dalai Lama. It also serves as a tribute to those who perished in Tibet’s freedom struggle and those who continue to endure oppression in Tibet.
• Archaeological Buddhist Remains of Sarnath - Wander through ancient Buddhist structures that transport you back in time. If fortunate, you may encounter some monks, take photographs, and gain a deeper understanding of Buddhism.

• Service of English speaking guide
• Tolls, Taxes, and Parking fees covered
• Private transfers provided

• Entry Fees - INR 350
• Personal expenses and Tips

Varanasi is often seen as the holy heart of India, drawing vast crowds daily. The metropolis is peppered with numerous shrines devoted to various gods that have significant standing in Hinduism. Yet, just as India is a diverse nation where multiple faiths coexist, so is Varanasi. For instance, one cannot overlook the strong Buddhist presence here, as Buddhism is one of the key faiths followed in the country.

Buddha traveled to Sarnath to spread his enlightenment message and teachings of attaining Nirvana through the middle path, after receiving enlightenment himself at Bodhgaya. His influential first sermon was shared at the deer park in Isipatana. A grandeur of stupas and monasteries were built by Emperor Ashoka here, who also erected a detailed pillar. During Xuan Zang’s visit, a Chinese traveler, Sarnath was home to a 100m-high stupa and large monasteries housing 1500 monks. Despite this, Buddhism faced a decline, and when the city was despoiled during the Muslim invasions, Sarnath was completely annihilated. It was only unearthed again by British archaeologists.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.