Atul and Rina Shrivastava of Delhi, accompanied an important Japanese client to the sacred city of Sarnath. The ancient site of learning and Buddhist philosophy created a great impression on them all
Just 10 km from Varanasi
is this ancient centre of Buddhist learning which is considered to be
one of the holiest spots by Buddhist. It was visited and written about
by the Chinese scholar-traveller Hiuen Tsang. Gautama Buddha preached
his first sermon after gaining enlightenment at a deer park here.
Highlights:
Chukhandi
Stupa - This is a huge square stupa with an octagonal tower built by
King Ashok. You see it when you first arrive at Sarnath.
Dhamek Stupa - the spot where Buddha delivered his sermon to his disciples.
Dharmarajika Stupa - built by the Emperor Ashok - contains Buddha's relics.
Ruins of monasteries and temples.
ArchaeologicalMuseum - has a wonderful collection of Buddhist art, including India's emblem - Ashok's lion headed pillar.
KAUSAMBHI
An hour's drive away from Allahabad is the ruined city of Kausambhi,
excavated from the bowels of the earth in recent times. A vibrant
Buddhist centre existed here from BC 600 to AD 600 and you can see the
remains of a bricked village, a palace and a stupa.
Know Uttar Pradesh - The history of the State of Uttar Pradesh is very ancient and interesting. It is recognised in the later Vedic Age as Brahmarshi Desha or Madhya Desha.
Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh - Travel Blog about Sarnath & its Buddhist monasteries, Culture, Traditions, Links, News, Articles, Tourism, Places etc.,
Official Websites
Government of Uttar Pradesh - Uttar Pradesh Government portal covering diverse topics including health, tourism, culture, climate, Tenders and e-Governance.
Uttar Pradesh Tourism - Uttar Pradesh Tourism Government portal - Official website of Dept. of Tourism, covers Places of Interest in Uttar Pradesh, Lists of Hotels in Uttar Pradesh and Historic places in Uttar Pradesh.
Other Useful Links
Uttar Pradesh at a Glance - In this Web site, you will find information on all aspects of Uttar Pradesh: History of Uttar Pradesh, Geography of Uttar Pradesh, Economy of Uttar Pradesh etc.,
World Heritage Sites - Agra - Taj Mahal - Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his queen, Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is the mausoleum of both Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan.
