Mulagandha Kuti Vihar – Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh

Mulagandha Kuti Vihar in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most significant Buddhist monasteries in India. Known for its artistic beauty and spiritual importance, it attracts pilgrims and travelers from across the world. Surrounded by peace and history, this sacred place is a reminder of Lord Buddha’s teachings and legacy.

About the Temple

Mulagandha Kuti Vihar is a modern Buddhist temple located in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, India. Established in 1931 by the Maha Bodhi Society under the guidance of Anagarika Dharmapala, the temple commemorates the original Mulagandha Kuti, where Buddha is believed to have meditated during his first visit to Sarnath.The temple is renowned for its exquisite frescoes painted by Japanese artist Kosetsu Nosu, depicting significant events from Buddha's life. It also houses sacred relics of Buddha and features a golden statue in the preaching posture. Description

Constructed in 1931 by Anagarika Dharmapala, the founder of the Maha Bodhi Society, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar was established to revive and honor the ancient Buddhist heritage of India. The temple stands near the Dhamek Stupa, believed to mark the exact location of Buddha's first teachings. The structure is notable for its architectural blend, featuring spires that give it a church-like appearance. Inside, the temple houses a golden statue of Buddha on a marble platform, and the walls are adorned with exquisite frescoes by Japanese artist Kosetsu Nosu, depicting significant events from Buddha's life.

Speciality

Sacred Relics: The Vihara enshrines sacred relics of Sakyamuni Buddha, making it a revered pilgrimage site.

Cultural Significance: The temple is a hub for Buddhist cultural and religious activities, especially during Buddha Purnima, when it hosts special prayers, rituals, and illuminations. 

Bodhi Tree: A Bodhi tree, grown from a sapling of the original tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment, is planted near the temple, symbolizing spiritual continuity.

International Collaboration: The temple's construction was supported by donations from various countries, reflecting global Buddhist solidarity. Temple Details

Address: Singhpuri, Sarnath, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221007, India.

Coordinates: Latitude: 25.3818° N, Longitude: 83.0215° E. Timings:

Morning: 4:30 AM – 11:30 AM

Afternoon: 1:30 PM – 5:30 PM

Entry Fee:

Indian Citizens: ₹5

Foreign Nationals: ₹100

Temple Services (Sevas)

Though it does not have traditional Hindu-style sevas, the temple offers

Buddhist rituals and spiritual activities:

Daily Prayers & Chanting: Conducted by resident monks.

Meditation Sessions: Open for visitors.

Buddha Relic Viewing: Sacred relics housed in the temple.

Dhamma Talks: Teachings on Buddhist philosophy.

Special Ceremonies:

Buddha Purnima (Birth, Enlightenment, and Nirvana of Buddha).

Kathina Ceremony (monks receiving new robes).

Full Moon Day Puja. Transportation Facilities

Nearby Transportation Hubs

Railway Station: Sarnath Railway Station (1 km), Varanasi Junction (10 km).

Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi (24 km).

Bus Station: Varanasi Bus Stand (10 km). Bus, Train & Air Connectivity

Bus Routes: Regular UP government and private buses connect Sarnath with:

Varanasi (10 km)

Allahabad (130 km)

Lucknow (300 km) Train Routes:

Major trains arrive at Varanasi Junction, from where local trains, taxis, and autos reach Sarnath.

Important trains include Vande Bharat Express, Rajdhani Express, and Kashi Vishwanath Express. Airways:

Nearest Airport: Varanasi International Airport (24 km).

Major flight connections to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and international flights to Bangkok & Colombo. Travel, Food & Stay Facilities

Traveling Facilities

By Road: Well-connected to Varanasi with taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses.

By Rail: Sarnath Railway Station is 1 km away, but major trains arrive at Varanasi Junction.

By Air: Varanasi International Airport is the nearest air hub. Food Facilities

No official food stalls within the temple, but nearby restaurants include:

Buddha Café – Vegetarian & vegan options.

Brown Bread Bakery – Indian and continental dishes.

Govindas Restaurant – ISKCON-run eatery with sattvic food.

Shree Café – Famous for North Indian & Tibetan food. Stay Facilities

No direct accommodations inside the temple, but nearby hotels in Sarnath and Varanasi include:

Budget Hotels: Dharma Guest House, Gautam Buddha Paying Guest House.

Mid-range Hotels: Hotel Siddharth, Hotel Heritage Inn.

Luxury Hotels: Taj Ganges, Brijrama Palace. Nearby Cities

Varanasi (10 km) – Spiritual city, home to Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

Allahabad (Prayagraj) (130 km) – Known for Triveni Sangam.

Bodh Gaya (250 km) – Site of Buddha’s enlightenment.

Lucknow (300 km) – Capital city of Uttar Pradesh. Nearby Attractions

Dhamek Stupa – Sacred monument marking Buddha’s first sermon.

Chaukhandi Stupa – Marks where Buddha met his first disciples.

Ashoka Pillar – Historical monument featuring the Lion Capital of India.

Sarnath Archaeological Museum – Houses relics & artifacts.

Thai Temple – Thai-style Buddhist temple.

Tibetan Monastery – Showcases Tibetan Buddhist traditions. Best Time to Visit

October – March: Cool and pleasant weather, best for sightseeing.

Avoid April – June: Summer heat is extreme.

Festivals & Events: Buddha Purnima (April-May) is the most significant. Shopping – What to Buy?

Buddhist Souvenirs: Statues, prayer beads, Tibetan Thangka paintings.

Handicrafts: Wooden carvings, brass idols.

Banarasi Silk Sarees: Varanasi’s world-famous fabric.

Religious Items: Prayer flags, incense, spiritual books.

Mulagandha Kuti Vihar stands as a serene and revered pilgrimage site, attracting visitors from around the world who seek spiritual solace and historical insights into Buddhism. Its architectural beauty, rich heritage, and peaceful ambiance make it an essential destination for those exploring the roots of Buddha’s teachings in India.