Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath Archaeological Museum & More: Sarnath Timings & Fees

Entry fees, opening hours, and best times for Trip Planning. Avoid crowds and plan ahead.

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Quick Reference

Attraction Hours Entry Best Time Duration
Dhamek Stupa 08:00-18:00 daily β‚Ή40 (Indians), β‚Ή600 (foreigners) Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds. 1.5 hours
Sarnath Archaeological Museum 09:00-17:00 daily β‚Ή5 (Indians), β‚Ή100 (foreigners) Anytime during the day, but avoid lunchtime as it can get crowded. 2 hours
Mulagandha Kuti Vihara 06:00-18:00 daily Free Morning for peaceful prayers and meditation. 1 hour
Deer Park 08:00-17:00 daily Free Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. 1-2 hours
Ashoka Pillar 08:00-18:00 daily β‚Ή40 (Indians), β‚Ή600 (foreigners) Anytime during the day. 30 minutes
Thai Temple 08:00-18:00 daily Free Morning or late afternoon. 1 hour
Tibetan Temple 09:00-17:00 daily Free Anytime during the day. 1 hour

Best Times by Attraction

Dhamek Stupa

Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.

Sarnath Archaeological Museum

Anytime during the day, but avoid lunchtime as it can get crowded.

Mulagandha Kuti Vihara

Morning for peaceful prayers and meditation.

Deer Park

Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.

Ashoka Pillar

Anytime during the day.

Thai Temple

Morning or late afternoon.

Tibetan Temple

Anytime during the day.

Crowd Notes

Dhamek Stupa

A must-see in Sarnath due to its historical importance and architectural grandeur.

Sarnath Archaeological Museum

Essential for understanding the history and significance of Sarnath. Don't miss the Lion Capital.

Mulagandha Kuti Vihara

A peaceful temple offering a glimpse into modern Buddhist art and architecture.

Deer Park

A peaceful retreat offering a connection to the historical significance of Sarnath.

Ashoka Pillar

Worth a quick visit to see the remnants of this historical monument.

Thai Temple

A beautiful temple showcasing Thai Buddhist architecture.

Tibetan Temple

A culturally rich experience offering a glimpse into Tibetan Buddhism.

Practical Tips

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What To Wear

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Cover your shoulders and knees. Wear comfortable shoes for walking.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: β‚Ή1000, Mid: β‚Ή2500, Luxury: β‚Ή5000+

ATMs: Available in Varanasi, limited in Sarnath

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for small transactions, cards accepted at larger hotels and restaurants

Bargaining: Expected at local markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers

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Health

Water: Drink bottled water only. Avoid tap water and ice.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic vendors.

Common Issues: Carry basic medications for stomach upsets and headaches. Protect yourself from mosquitoes.

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Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good coverage. Sim cards require ID and address proof.

WiFi: Available at most hotels and some restaurants

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Language & Tipping

Language: Hindi is the local language. English is spoken by many in the tourism industry. Learn basic Hindi phrases for better communication.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: β‚Ή50-100

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