We had thought that the main thing to see at Varanasi was the riverside walk along the Ganges. Religion, Cleansing, Boats and Cremations. But there was another site not too far away that was worth a visit.
Sarnath, just outside Varanasi, is one of Buddhism’s holiest sites. It’s where the Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment, known as the Dhammachakra Pravartan. Key sights include the massive Dhamek Stupa, ruins of ancient monasteries, the Ashoka Pillar’s base, and an excellent archaeological museum with the Lion Capital of Ashoka. The site is peaceful, spiritual, and easy to combine with a visit to Varanasi.
