This dates from around 200 BC and is the spot where the Buddha is said to
have preached his first sermon. Only the foundations remain of the
Dharmarajika Stupa, but it is notable as a rare pre-Ashokan stupa. The
decaying ruins of the Mulagandhakuti Vihara mark the place where the
Buddha spent his first rainy season in meditation. In the 7th century, a writer
described it as 200 feet high and containing 100 niches containing a Buddha
carving along each wall. A life-sized statue shows the Buddha turning the
wheel of the law. To the east is the modern Mulagandhakuti Vihara with its
beautiful wall paintings; behind it is the Deer Park, which is maintained as an
open animal park and still attracts deer. The Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath
survived the Turkish invasion but was broken during excavations. The base
still stands in its original spot and has some interesting carvings. The
splendid lion capital that topped the pillar, which thankfully survived its 45 foot
drop to the ground is on display at the Sarnath Archeological Museum. The
museum also houses some of the greatest treasures of Indian Buddhist art,
including almost 300 images. There is also a Bodhi tree planted by Anagarika
Dharmapala which was grown from a cutting of the Bodhi tree at Bodh Gaya.
It is located next to a Sri Lankan monastery. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 8:
-
In time transfer to Airport for connect flight for Delhi. Arrive at
Delhi and Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 9:
Day at leisure.Evening transfer to the international airport for
further destination.
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