Not far from the ghats and ancient alleys of Varanasi lies a place with a completely different rhythm. Sarnath, just 10 km away, is quiet and reflective.
While many know it as the place where Buddha first taught after enlightenment, fewer people realise that its ruined monasteries carry stories that go back to the third century BCE. Over time, these structures became silent observers of royal patronage, foreign invasions, and the eventual fading of Buddhist influence in the region.
Today, they sit in dignified silence, offering curious travellers a different kind of experience — thoughtful, calm, and deeply human.
Table of Contents
- Sarnath: The Place Where Wisdom First Echoed
- Following the Footprints of the Monks
- Monasteries You Shouldn’t Miss
- Wrapping Up
Sarnath: The Place Where Wisdom First Echoed
Sarnath is one of the most important Buddhist sites in the world. It is the place where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment in Bodh Gaya. This moment, known as the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, set the Wheel of Dharma in motion.
Over the years, kings and scholars helped the site grow, and monasteries were built to support the community of monks who came from all over Asia. Many travellers use a cab service in Varanasi to reach Sarnath easily.
Following the Footprints of the Monks
When you arrive at the ruins, you’ll notice the area is wide and open. The Archaeological Survey of India has done a good job keeping the site clean and walkable.
As you walk, you’ll come across the remains of several monasteries, called viharas. These were once dormitories, classrooms, and spiritual centres for monks.
Built from red bricks and stone, some still show marks of earlier renovations done during the Gupta period. Using a reliable cab booking app can make it easier to get here without worrying about directions or local transport schedules.
The main areas to look out for include:
- Dhamek Stupa: A large cylindrical structure built of stone and brick. It is believed to mark the exact spot where Buddha gave his first sermon. The lower parts still show fine carvings of floral patterns.
- Mulagandha Kuti Vihara: A modern temple built by the Maha Bodhi Society, located close to the ruins. Inside, it houses beautiful frescoes by Japanese artist Kosetsu Nosu and gives visitors a quiet space to reflect.
- Ashokan Pillar Base: Though the pillar itself was broken and taken away during medieval times, the base still remains here. It reminds us of Emperor Ashoka’s deep commitment to Buddhism.
Monasteries You Shouldn’t Miss
Beyond the ruins and age-old stupas, Sarnath is home to some beautiful monasteries built by Buddhist communities from different parts of Asia. Here are some of the monasteries you can explore in Sarnath:
- Cambodian Buddhist Monastery
The Cambodian Buddhist Monastery in Sarnath offers a quiet space built in traditional Khmer style. The grounds are peaceful and open, with sculptures and stone carvings that reflect Buddhist teachings passed down through generations.
Monks are often seen meditating or walking slowly through the garden, and visitors are welcome to join guided sessions or simply observe. Booking a comfortable ride with a car rental in Varanasi makes it easier to visit without the pressure of managing schedules or directions.
- Lhaden Chenmo Tibetan Monastery
Commonly known as the Tibetan Buddhist Monastery, this site was established in 1955 with support from the Dalai Lama. It is known for its colourful murals, prayer wheels, and a soft rhythm of chants that fill the air.
There is a small stupa in the courtyard, and the space encourages quiet reflection, whether you stay for a short visit or overnight with prior permission. You can get here without much trouble by choosing a reliable cab service in Varanasi, which helps you avoid delays or confusing turns.
- Chinese Buddhist Temple
Built in the late 1930s, this temple follows traditional Chinese design and represents a connection between India and East Asia through Buddhist philosophy. The temple features bright red columns, curved roofs, and a large map of the Chinese monk Xuanzang’s travels across India.
Inside, the energy is calm and focused, and many people stop here to read, pray, or observe quietly. Hiring a car rental in Varanasi can help you move between spots in Sarnath without waiting for local transport or looking for directions in unfamiliar areas.
- Wat Thai Sarnath
The Thai Monastery, also called Wat Thai Sarnath, is known for its golden roof, clean pathways, and statues placed carefully around the property. The garden here is open and well cared for, and it offers a calm break before heading back to the city.
Use a reliable cab booking app to book a ride with just a few taps. This way, you can travel at your own pace and avoid the noise and stress that often come with public transport.
Wrapping Up
Sarnath is not a place that tries to impress you. It waits patiently and welcomes those who are willing to listen to its quiet stories.
The monasteries may be forgotten by time, but they are far from lifeless. They still speak in a language of peace, wisdom, and gentle reflection.
If you’re in or around Varanasi, make some time for this side trip. And for a relaxed and smooth experience, you can always trust Savaari Car Rentals to get you there and back safely.
