Heritage & Sarnath

Varanasi's heritage spans over 3,000 years, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. While the city itself is a living museum, the surrounding areas host significant archaeological treasures that tell the story of India's multi-layered history.

Sarnath: The Cradle of Buddhism

Just 10 km from the ghats lies Sarnath, the peaceful park where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. It is one of the four most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world.

Historical Landmarks

• Dhamek Stupa: A massive 128-foot tall Buddhist stupa in Sarnath, marking the spot where the first sermon was preached.
• Ramnagar Fort: Located on the eastern bank of the Ganges, this 18th-century sandstone fort is the ancestral home of the Maharaja of Benares.
• Archaeological Museum Sarnath: Home to the iconic Lion Capital of Ashoka (India's National Emblem) and a vast collection of ancient Buddhist art.
• Chunar Fort: An massive ancient hilltop fort overlooking the Ganges, with history tied to figures like Sher Shah Suri and King Vikramaditya.

Exploring these sites often requires a full day. We recommend our day-trip cab services for a comfortable journey to Sarnath and Ramnagar.