Pillars of Ashoka

Overview

The Pillars of Ashoka in Sarnath are ancient pillars erected by Emperor Ashoka to commemorate the sites of Buddha's teachings. These pillars are significant examples of Mauryan architecture and have inscriptions that provide historical insights.

These pillars are historically significant as they mark important Buddhist sites and are a testament to Emperor Ashoka's reign and his promotion of Buddhism.

Historical Site Archaeological Site

Location

Address

Dharmapala Road, Sarnath, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Neighborhood: Sarnath

Coordinates

25.443000, 82.856100

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

300 INR

Children

150 INR

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

October-March

Best Time of Day

Early morning

cooler temperatures and fewer crowds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• pleasant weather
• flowering trees

summer

hot and humid

• extended hours

autumn

cool and pleasant

• cool weather
• festive atmosphere

winter

cool to cold

• winter festivals
• cool weather

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Bring valid ID
Check weather forecast

What to Bring

essential

ID water bottle tickets

seasonal

jacket umbrella

not allowed

large bags drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• stair climbing
• hot weather

Medical facilities: first aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Typical Costs

entry 300 INR

parking 100 INR

food 200 INR

souvenirs 500 INR

Dress Code

modest and respectful clothing, comfortable shoes, comfortable walking shoes, revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• at least 1 week
• official website
• 48 hours
• available

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Sarnath Explorer

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport

Distance: 25 km

Travel Time: 30 minutes

taxi

400 INR 30 min

public_transport

150 INR 45 min

From City Center

Distance: 5 km

metro

20 INR 15 min

bus

15 INR 20 min

taxi

200 INR 10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Historical and cultural significance

Historical Significance: Marks important Buddhist sites

Insider Tips

Free entry early morning
Best food at local stalls

Local Recommendations

• Try local street food
• Visit nearby temples

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Namaste

thank_you Dhanyavaad

where_is Kahan hai

how_much Kitna hai

beautiful Sundar

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Hindi

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main Pillar

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Low angle shots

Result: Great historical shots

#history #travel #Sarnath

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, designated spots

prohibited areas inside structures

flash photography not allowed in certain areas

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited without permission

tripod policy restricted

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Sarnath Museum

Distance: 500m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Museum

Dhamek Stupa

Distance: 1km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Historical Site

Chaukhandi Stupa

Distance: 800m

Walking: 10 min