Viharin.com- Sarnath Temple at Varanasi

Sarnath Temple at Varanasi

I had read about Sarnath Temple during my school days as part of history subject. So had always silently wished if ever I would be able to visit Sarnath. My wish was granted by IRCTC’s heritage Circuit Special trainI felt very happy upon hearing the news about my visit to Sarnath Temple.

Viharin.com- Positive notes by Buddha

Positive notes by Buddha

How to reach Sarnath Temple

Sarnath is 13 kms from Varanasi. We reached Varanasi by train. On the station, our buses were already parked and waiting for us. It took about half an hour to reach the temple. One can even hire cabs outside the station.

Viharin.com- Preachings of Buddha

Preachings of Buddha

My experience at Sarnath Temple

As I entered, I could feel a lot of positive vibes.There was a walk way to reach the temple. Many boards were containing Buddhist preachings. We took off our shoes and headed inside. There was a hollow dome like structure. The temple was very neat and clean. Floors were shining. One could easily meditate there.

Viharin.com - At Sarnath Temple

At Sarnath Temple

Viharin.com- Historic scenes

Historic scenes

Viharin.com- Scene deption

There were paintings all over walls depicting various scenes during Buddha era.

Right in front was Buddha’s statue.It was a very calm, composed and radiating idol.

Viharin.com- Sarnath Temple

Sarnath Temple

To the right of this place was a big massive bell which is rung during prayer hours.

Viharin.com- Holy bell

Holy bell

 

There were auspicious cylindrical prayer instruments installed all over. There were also Buddha’s little statues displayed across.

Viharin.com- Prayer wheels

Viharin.com- Buddha statues

Adjacent to the bell was a the original tree where a scene was depicted through idols. This was the place where Buddha delivered his first Sermon to his five disciples after enlightenment.

Viharin.com- Buddha delivering first Sermon

Buddha delivering first Sermon

There is also a Deer Park in the complex. It is said that Buddha delivered Sermon to five monks and 5 deers. Hence the name.

Viharin.com- Information board

Information board

I also stopped to know about Anagrika Dharampala, the propagator of Buddhism.Viharin.com- Information about Anagrika Dharmpala

Viharin.com- Statue of Anagrika Dharampala

Statue of Anagrika Dharampala

Overall, it was a beautiful experience to actually see the place and tree where first sermon of Buddhism was delivered.

Tips

  1. Be sure to hire cabs from authorized taxi stand
  2. Take care of tour valuables.

Highly recommended.

Nidhi KM

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