Archeological Museum, Sarnath

Tranquil Sarnath where ihe Buddha delivered his first sermon more than 2500 years ago has a site museum whose prize exhibit is the enormous lion capital (2.31 in). Now the emblem of independent India, this capital once surmounted an Ashokan pillar erected to mark the spot where the Buddha preached. Carved in pale yellowish-grey sandstone with black flecks, the sculpture has the characteristic highly polished surface.

At the entrance hall are two figures of Buddha, one of which portrays the historic events at Sarnath. There are many other Buddha and bodhisattvaifigures on view. Among these the most outstanding is the Gupta period Buddha with hand raised in Abhaya or protection.


Archeological Museum
Sarnath

Timing: 10.00 am to 4.30 pm
Closed on Government Holidays