Sarnath is a small town located near the city of Varanasi in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists, as it is believed to be the place where Lord Buddha first taught the Dharma after attaining enlightenment.
The town is home to several Buddhist monuments and structures, including the Dhamek Stupa, a massive cylindrical tower that stands 128 feet tall and is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. The stupa is believed to mark the spot where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon and is a popular destination for Buddhist pilgrims from around the world.
Another notable attraction in Sarnath is the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, a Buddhist temple built in the 1930s that houses a collection of Buddhist relics and artifacts. The temple features beautiful frescoes and murals that depict scenes from the life of Lord Buddha.
According to some local legends, there is a secret underground chamber beneath the main stupa at Sarnath. It is believed to have been built by the ancient Mauryan kings, who were great patrons of Buddhism, as a place to store sacred Buddhist relics. The chamber is said to be accessible only through a hidden entrance, which has been concealed for centuries.
While the existence of the underground chamber has never been officially confirmed, there have been many stories and rumors about it over the years. Some locals claim to have seen the entrance to the chamber, while others believe that it has been sealed off for many years.
Sarnath is also home to several other important Buddhist sites, including the Chaukhandi Stupa, the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, and the Ashoka Pillar, a towering monument that dates back to the 3rd century BC and is inscribed with edicts promoting nonviolence and religious tolerance.Overall, Sarnath is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Buddhism, history, and culture.
