Varanasi is one of the most renowned spiritual places in India. Millions of devotees flock to this premier spiritual destination for their spiritual and religious fulfillment. However, approximately ten kilometers from this holy town is another religious destination that is perhaps not as popular as Varanasi. We are, of course, talking about Sarnath, one of the four most sacred pilgrimage destinations for Buddhists. It is renowned for being the very place where Gautama Buddha gave a sermon, way back in 528 BCE. For over 2,500 years since then, Sarnath has served as a pilgrimage site for Buddhists. Coupled with Varanasi, it can be a part of the perfect religious travel circuit within a day without tiring you out.
Can You Visit Sarnath In Half A Day From Varanasi?
Yes, as a matter of fact, you can easily visit Sarnath from Varanasi for half a day. Sarnath is located around ten kilometers from Varanasi. You can easily reach this Buddhist religious and pilgrimage destination from Varanasi in around 30 to 45 minutes by road.
What is more, if all you want to do is visit the major tourist spots, historical sites, and sacred destinations, four to five hours are more than enough for Sarnath. This makes it the perfect excursion for your Varanasi itinerary.
From traveling to visiting important sites and even the return journey, you can effectively cover all of it in less than a day’s time.
How To Reach Sarnath From Varanasi
When thinking about visiting Sarnath from Varanasi, there are a few options you can consider depending on the level of comfort you want and your budget.
By Train Or Bus
You can avail the public transport options for traveling from Varanasi. As a matter of fact, this is one of the cheapest options available for traveling between the two places. The tickets for UPSRTC buses can range between INR 15 and INR 40. For trains, tickets can cost anywhere between INR 50 and INR 150. However, it is important to note that this is a less direct way of traveling. You will not reach the destinations directly and will have to employ last-mile transportation or walk to separate religious sites.
Estimated Bus Cost Per Person: INR 15 to INR 40
Estimated Train Cost Per Person: INR 50 to INR 150
By Auto Rickshaws
This is the most popular way to travel to Sarnath from Varanasi. It is not that expensive and affords more comfort than public transportation. What is more, you are also able to reach the religious sites directly without much hassle. In case you’re traveling alone, you can even take a shared auto-rickshaw, which is cheaper than regular auto-rickshaws and will help you save additional money.
Estimated Shared Auto Cost Per Seat: INR 20 to INR 50
Estimated Regular Auto Cost: INR 300 to INR 500
By Private Cabs
If comfort during travel is a non-negotiable for you, you can even book private cabs for complete round-trip transportation. This is, by far, the most convenient way to travel within and to and from Sarnath. You can comfortably reach all the destinations you want to visit directly, and if you book a private driver, you don’t have to worry about your return journey.
Estimated Cost: INR 500 to INR 2,500
Also Read: Top 10 Countries With The Most UNESCO World Heritage Sites In 2026
How To Plan A Half-Day Sarnath Trip?
Start With Chaukhandi Stupa
Begin your religious tour of Sarnath from the amazing Chaukhandi Stupa. This is an ancient tiered temple that is topped with a grand octagonal tower. You can roam around for 20 to 25 mins and soak in the old-world charm of this site.
Head To Dhamek Stupa And Ruins
Next, you should head to the Dhamek Stupa and its ruins, as well as the deer gardens. Explore the main excavation area and take in the giant cylindrical stupa. The stupa marks the exact spot where Buddha gave his first sermon.
See The Mulagandha Kuti Vihar
One of the more modern temples in Sarnath, the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar is where you should head to next. It was built in 1931 by Anagarika Dharmapala, who is the founder of the Mahabodhi Society. Inside, the temple walls are adorned with frescoes depicting the life of Buddha. It even has a massive bell that adds to the dramatic ambiance of the temple.
Saunter Through The Sarnath Archaeological Museum
The Sarnath Archaeological Museum is for history aficionados as well as devotees. You can see old sculptures, relics, and of course, the iconic pillar of Ashoka sporting the Lion Capital of Ashoka. Getting to behold the national emblem of India in person is certainly an experience to be had. However, keep in mind that the museum is closed on Fridays.
Visit The International Temples Nearby
Apart from these amazing destinations, you can end your Sarnath sojourn by visiting the International temples located close by. These include Thai, Japanese, Chinese, Tibetan, and other such international-style temples.
Why Should You Visit Sarnath
Sarnath is known for being the very first place where Buddha gave his first sermon. Combined with places like the Deer Park, Sarnath offers a more tranquil religious atmosphere for those who struggle with Varanasi’s hustle and bustle.
That’s also why visiting Sarnath when you’re in Varanasi is a great idea. You can experience the liveliness and joviality of Varanasi and then head to Sarnath for a quieter and more reflective religious experience.
Visiting the Deer Garden where Buddha was first inspired to give the sermon is an experience worth having. The area seems imbued with a kind of calmness that is rarely found.
Tips And Advice For Your Trip
- If you’re going to travel all of the major places in Sarnath, consider hiring a guide or taking a half-day Sarnath tour guide along for convenience.
- If you’re particular about covering the sites thoroughly, make sure you begin your journey from Varanasi at around 8:30 AM or 9 AM.
- Leaving early will help you beat the traffic as well as the midday heat.
- Remember that certain sites might have an entry fee, so remember to carry enough cash with you.
- You will spend a huge part of your day on your feet and walking around. Make sure you wear appropriate footwear.
Also Read: The Ultimate Itinerary: 48 Hours In Varanasi
Summing Up
Sarnath is one of the most revered destinations for Buddhists. It is also said that this religious site is mentioned in ancient texts like the Mahaparinibbana Sutta. In such ancient texts, it is mentioned by the names of Isipatana, meaning the place where holy men landed, and Mrigadava, meaning the deer park. Visiting such a spiritually charged place while you’re already in Varanasi is not only possible, but also recommended. Its quiet environment provides the perfect contrast to Varanasi’s lively ambience.
