Dhamek Stupa

Dhamek Stupa is a very famous tourist spot situated in the state of Uttar Pradesh. The destination is about 13 kilometres away from Varanasi in Sarnath. It is ideally a Buddhist stupa and is believed to be the position where Buddha gives his first sermon to his first 5 Brahmins after attaining enlightenment. Hence this religious spot as great importance to a lot of people.

Dhamek Stupa is about 43.6 metres in height and is a cylindrical stupa made with bricks and stones. It is the largest monument in Sarnath. It portrays the works and tales of Ashoka and the Gupta empire extensively. It is believed that the Dhamek Stupa was made in the year 500 CE by the great king Ashoka and has been standing ever since.

Traveller tips

• As this Stupa is 13 kilometres away from the main city of Varanasi it is advisable to keep some time in hand and visit this place so that you can enjoy this place to the utmost.

• it is always advisable and recommended that you visit the Dhamek Stupa during the time of the sunrise or sunset to get the real feeling of being here.

• Mobile phones are strictly prohibited inside the area and therefore it will be a good decision to keep them at home

• You have to be extra cautious about the kind of attire you are wearing before entering the super. Though casual clothes are ok but wearing slippers is a major no in a place like Dhamek Stupa.

• all visitors are requested to maintain silence once they enter the main area of the Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath

• the place remains open from sunrise to sunset and hence you can visit at any time you feel like.

• The entry fees for an Indian citizen is rupees 5 but for a foreigner, it gets hundred rupees to enter the Dhamek Stupa.

• Children up to and below 15 years of age can enter without an entrance fee.

Things to do

Dhamek Stupa Sarnath is situated in a place which is covered with green and very less population. This gives the best aesthetics for those 

who are to enjoy some peaceful time without having to compromise the distance from the city. The area is on a garden which is filled with beautiful flowers and therefore quick walk around this place can help you to stay in peace.

There is also a museum at the very entrance of the stupa the dates back and tells the story of how important the Stupa is for those Buddhist. The area in front of the Stupa is where everyone is expected to maintain silence and meditate as it is believed to be a secret spot amongst the Buddhists. Outside food strictly prohibited in the area and therefore you have to rely on the food stall inside the Stupa for refreshments.

Availability

Earlier days people were more conscious about living and staying back and Varanasi and making a day trip to Sarnath and visit this place. Though people mostly still do that and opt for that option only the availability of accommodations in Sarnath has also increased does give you an option. hotels and places to stay are mostly available throughout the year if booked at least one month before the visit. the most peak season of visiting these places in winter when it's not too cold and yet has pleasant and chilly weather.

History

The history of Dhamek Stupa Sarnath this back to the time when king Ashoka The Great was ruling over the country. It is believed that after Lord Buddha passed away is mortal remains a scattered 28 different amounts where it was buried and the Stupa and Sanchi and Sarnath are two of such great places where is remains can be found. King Ashoka in the year 249 BCE gives the order to construct the Stupa in Sarnath which was later reconstructed in the year 500 BCE. Dhamek Stupa Sarnath is believed to be the destination where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon to the first 5 brahmins right after his enlightenment, and therefore it holds great significance amongst the people.

Architecture

Dhamek Stupa is a cylindrical shaped Stupa that is mostly covered with bricks and stones. The lower part if it is engraved greatly thus providing great work of architecture. It is believed with the carving that is situated on the base of the stupa that dates back to the Maurya empire when king Ashoka had ordered to build it in the first place. The height is about 40 3.6 metres and the in carvings depict the Gupta and Maurya empire with floral designs which were prevalent during those times.

Festivals

As the Dhamek Stupa Sarnath depicts as an important place to put this heads festival like the Buddha Purnima holds great importance in a place like this. A lot of disciples and followers of Buddhism make it a point to visit the stupa during the time of Buddha Purnima until when the super remains open for a longer period.

Popular Culture

There is a mixture of all kinds of religion and culture that exist in this area but Dhamek Stupa in Sarnath is mostly crowded by Buddhist who consider this as a major pilgrim spot

Best time to visit

In general, the best time to visit the Dhamek Stupa Sarnath during sunrise and sunset is a beautiful scene to watch and attracts several visitors during this time. As in whole, it is advisable to visit Sarnath or Varanasi during winter.

How to reach?

The most accessible way of coming to Dhamek Stupa Sarnath is by road from Varanasi. It is 13kms away from the main city.

Interesting Facts and Trivia

• The Stupa was initially built in 249BCE but was renovated and reconstructed in the year 500BCE

• It is amongst the 8 stupas that hold the mortal remains of Lord Buddha.

• This Stupa is a famous destination and has been featured in various books and travel journals.

Nearby Attractions

The Buddhist Monastery, Sarnath Temple Road and Sammo Mata Temple are few of the most popular attractions in this place.