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Sarnath ruins & museum

Retrace India's Buddhist heritage at the 'tree of enlightenment'

Sarnath was a great center of learning where the Buddha preached his first sermon on the Dharmachakra, his code of conduct. Today, a Bodhi tree commemorates Buddha’s initial moment of enlightenment during which he conceived the Eightfold Path to Nirvana. You may also visit the Archaeological Museum which houses a well preserved and broad range of relics and artefacts significant to the Buddhist faith.
Sarnath Museum hosts the iconic Ashoka pillar, placed by the Maurya Emperor Ashoka circa 250 BCE – and India’s emblem of 3 lions atop a Dharma Chakra, with a horse on the left and a bull on the right has been adopted from this monument. Ashoka was known for his politically astute edicts and philanthropic administration, as also for introducing Buddhism for political unity across India.

Activities from the Destination

Places of interest to weave into your itinerary

Boating on the Ganges

Renew your wedding vows or listen to a flutist as you cruise down the Ganges
Dev Deepawali

A festival of lights for the gods illuminated by a thousand oil lamps
Mahashivratri

Celebrate the creation of the cosmos
Markets & Riverside Rituals

Feel the pulse of Varanasi
Private Kathak performance

Witness the dance tradition of royal courtesans
Ramnavami Ramlila

Experience Varanasi's Dussehra celebrations of dance-dramas
Secular Trail

Learn of Varanasi's secular faiths
Unwind with Yoga

Learn India's oldest wellness practice

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