Sarnath, located near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India, is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. It is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, marking the beginning of the Dharma and the establishment of the Sangha. The main temple, known as the Dhamek Stupa, is an impressive structure built in 500 CE to replace an earlier structure commissioned by the Mauryan emperor, Ashoka. The stupa stands 43.6 meters high and is adorned with intricate carvings, symbolizing the Wheel of Dharma. Nearby, the ruins of other stupas, monasteries, and the Ashokan Pillar bear witness to Sarnath’s historical and spiritual importance. The temple complex also houses a museum containing ancient relics, including the famous Lion Capital, which is now India's national emblem. Today, Sarnath remains a serene and sacred place, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike to reflect on the teachings of the Buddha.