Why to visit Dhamek Stupa
The deer park is symbolised by the Dhamek Stupa (Rishipattana). This park is very significant since it was where Buddha delivered his first lecture to his followers after achieving enlightenment and revealed his "Eightfold Path."
Architecture:
- The cylindrical Dhamek Stupa building is made of red bricks and stones. The entire lower portion is beautifully decorated with sculpted stones.
- With a base circumference of 28 metres and an impressive height of 43.6 metres, this stupa's entire construction stands proudly.
- There are a total of 8 niches in the structure, each facing a different direction.
- The inscriptions in the Brahmi Script are another noteworthy aspect of this ancient construction. At the Dhamek Stupa, there are also magnificently carved images of people and birds.
Things to do:
- At the stupa's entrance, there is a historical museum that details the significance of the structure for Buddhists.
- Everyone is expected to keep quiet and meditate in the area in front of the stupa because it is thought to be a special place among Buddhists.
- You must rely on the food stall inside the Stupa for refreshments because outside food is absolutely forbidden in the area.
- A simple walk around the area, which is in a garden full of lovely flowers, can help you maintain your peace of mind.
Fact:
- The Stupa was originally established in the year 249 BCE, however it was refurbished and rebuilt in the year 500 BCE.
- The mortal remains of Lord Buddha are kept in one of the 8 stupas.
- The Dhamek Stupa was mentioned in the mystery/thriller debut book "The Emperor's Riddles" by Indian author Satyarth Nayak, which was originally shown at the New Delhi World Book Fair in February 2014.
Nearby Places:
- Ashoka Pillar (2 mins away)
- Chaukhandi Stupa (3 mins away)
- Sarnath Buddhist Temple (3 mins away)
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple (32 mins away)
Entry Fees:
- INR 5: For Indian citizens and visitors of SAARC and BIMSTEC nations.
- INR 100: For Others
- Entry is free for children up to 15 years of age.
Light and Sound Show Tickets: INR 200
Timings:
- Sightseeing: 6:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Light and Sound Show: 6 pm
Distance from Varanasi: 13 km
Architecture Style: Buddhist Art and Architecture