ABOUT THE
Attraction
Near the Dhamek Stupa, stands the stump of the Ashoka Pillar, built in 3rd century and engraved with an edict. It was once 15 m tall and was topped by the famous four-lion capital, which is the National Emblem of India. Historians say the lion capital, symbolises both Ashoka's imperial rule and the kingship of Buddha. It is now housed in the Sarnath museum. All that remains at its original site are fragments of its base.
OTHER ATTRACTIONS
Chaukhandi Stupa
Originally been built by emperor Ashoka in the 5th century. It is said to mark the spot where Lord Buddha met his five followers.
Mulagandha Kuti Vihar
A beautiful turreted temple built in 1931 by the Mahabodhi Society. It has a rich repository of life-like frescoes by famous Japanese painter Kosetsu Nosu.
Sarnath Archaeological Museum
This regal museum set in a sprawling compound was completed in 1910. As it houses a wealth of Buddhist artifacts it is built to resemble a Buddhist monastery.