Chaukhandi Stupa is an ancient Buddhist stupa located in Sarnath, near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India. It was originally built as a terraced temple during the Gupta period (4th to 6th century) to mark the spot where Lord Buddha met his first disciples as he traveled from Bodh Gaya to Sarnath.
Chaukhandi Stupa holds significant historical importance as it commemorates the spot of Buddha's first sermon to his five former companions after attaining enlightenment. The stupa is a revered pilgrimage site for Buddhists and is also of interest for archaeologists and historians studying the spread of Buddhism in India.
Chaukhandi Stupa is easily accessible from the city of Varanasi, which is well-connected by air, rail, and road. Visitors can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or bus from Varanasi to Sarnath. The Stupa is only about 10 km away from the city.
The best time to visit Chaukhandi Stupa is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and conducive for sightseeing. The summers can be extremely hot, and the monsoon season might cause inconvenience due to heavy rains.
Yes, there is a nominal entry fee for Chaukhandi Stupa. It may vary for Indian nationals and foreign tourists, and is subject to change by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
The Chaukhandi Stupa usually opens at sunrise and closes at sunset. The exact timings can vary, so it's advisable to check with the local authorities or travel guides for current information prior to planning your visit.
Yes, photography is generally allowed at Chaukhandi Stupa for personal use. However, professional shoots or commercial photography might require special permission from the ASI.
Near Chaukhandi Stupa, you can visit other important Buddhist sites in Sarnath such as the Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath Museum, and Mulagandha Kuti Vihar. The Deer Park, where Buddha gave his first sermon, is also a peaceful spot to visit.
While Chaukhandi Stupa is primarily a historical site, Sarnath itself is an active religious area with several monasteries and temples where religious activities take place. Visitors are welcome to observe and respect the practices, but active participation may be limited to practitioners of Buddhism.
Yes, licensed guides are available at Chaukhandi Stupa who can provide detailed historical information and insights into the significance of the site. It is best to hire a guide registered with the ASI or Tourism Department for authentic information.
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