




Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Sarnath is a small town located near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India. It holds immense significance for Buddhists as it is the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.
Visiting Sarnath allows you to step back in time and experience the profound impact of Lord Buddha's teachings. The atmosphere is filled with a sense of tranquility and spirituality, making it an ideal place for meditation and introspection. The ancient ruins and monuments in Sarnath are a testament to its rich history and the influence of Buddhism in the region.
Overall, a visit to Sarnath is a transformative experience that allows you to connect with the teachings of Lord Buddha and gain a deeper understanding of Buddhism. The positive vibes and serene atmosphere make it a perfect destination for spiritual seekers and those interested in exploring the rich history of this ancient religion.
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Dhamekh Stupa, Sarnath
Sarnath is situated at a distance of 10 km from Varanasi easily accessible by any conveyance. This is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in the world, Sarnath famous as the place where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon. Sarnath was a renowned school of learning from the 6th century BC to the 12th century AD. Visit the ruins, the stupa, the Buddhist temple & the museum. At the museum is the Ashok Pillar with its four guardian lions, used as independent India’s national emblem. The Mulagandhakuti Vihara Buddhist temple at Sarnath is one of the temples built by the Sri Lankan Mahabodhi Society in 1931. It is the place where Lord Buddha had spent his first rainy season. The walls of this temple have beautiful frescoes depicting the life of the Buddha. It is the most holy place for the people of Buddhist religion as Lord Buddha had attained his enlightenment here beneath the tree. Dhamekh Stupa is the place where Lord Buddha had given his first conversation of Dharma.
Guided Tour Duration: 3 hours Drive by Tuktuk Auto Rickshaw Pickup included
Pickup included
All Fees and Taxes
Guide
Transport-Tuktuk
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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
198 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Curiosity29424042705,May 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Best guide , wonderful walk:) 10/10
U7201JBgracev,Apr 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Amazing experience! Guide was incredibly knowledgeable and knew how to structure the tour well! Had a great time, highly recommend.
AllisonNeugie,Apr 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Such an amazing tour! The tour guide was informative, funny, and considerate (always choosing shade when it was 43 degrees outside). He was so easy to understand and told everything in a clear and memorable way. For me, it was really special to hear the story of Buddhism in the country it was founded - despite it being less observed in the country today.
Happiness31073234020,Apr 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Excellent very good guide and information
Natalie L,Apr 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great guide, very informative, would highly recommend, experience wouldn’t have been the same without his knowledge, thankyou 🙏🏻
Fearless36939494924,Apr 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great tour! Very knowledgeable:)
Judith G,Apr 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Brilliant guided walk around Sarnath. Our guide was able to explain the complexity of Buddism, very clearly and succinctly, he was relaxed and humorous and made the walk seem like 5 minutes. He was very knowledgeable about the subject and happy to discuss any subject relating to Indian culture and beliefs. I would highly recommend the company.






Camper28296427205,Apr 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
This is one of the best tours we have done.. the introductory talk about Buddhism was expert given in clear detail that I was left wanting more… 100% recommend!

779joeyt,Apr 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Really great afternoon with Shyam learning about the history of Sarnath. He was very friendly and knowledgable, and a great storyteller.
ingobenjaminj,Apr 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Reliable, friendly, informative. Very experienced guide. Thank you!
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