Dhamek stupa

Carvings on the Dhamek Stupa, South Western side.

The national emblem of India and a mark of Emperor Ashoka's visit to Sarnath, the Ashoka Pillar crafted out of stone is an impressive structure with four lions at the top. This 50 m long pillar along with the Dhamek Stupa, are Ashoka's gift to Buddhism and the entire complex has a calm aura to it. A number of monks are spotted meditating around the compound. The entire complex is filled with lush green lawns, and along with the Stupa, they resemble a colony with the Ashoka Pillar.

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Sarnath Sarnath, near Varanasi, is a key Buddhist site where Buddha gave his first sermon. Highlights include: Dhamek Stupa: Marks Buddha’s sermon. Sarnath Museum: Exhibits Buddhist artifacts. Ashoka Pillar: Features lion carvings. It’s a major destination for Buddhist history and spirituality.

Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath, India, circa 1860′s.

Dhamek Stupa is one of the most important sights in Sarnath and its mostly due to its antiquity and significance of being the exact spot of Buddha’s first sermon. It was here that he revealed the eightfold path leading to nirvana. The stupa is composed of a cylindrical tower that rises around 43m and the diameter of the monument is a formidable 28m. The arched niches halfway on the monument may have once held statues of the Buddha.

Archeological site next to Dhamek stupa.

Dhamek Stupa at Sarnath Uttar Pradesh - 1880's