Chaukhandi Stupa
चौखंडी स्तूप
The first Buddhist site before Sarnath, marking where the Buddha reunited with five former companion monks. A brick stupa is topped with a Mughal octagonal tower.
Chaukhandi Stupa lies about 800 m south of the Sarnath archaeological site. Tradition holds that on his way to Sarnath after his enlightenment, Shakyamuni reunited here with five of his former companion monks. The original was a stepped brick stupa from the Gupta period. In 1588, the Mughal emperor Akbar visited the site in memory of his father, Humayun, and added an octagonal brick tower on top, creating a distinctive hybrid form. The site is managed by the Archaeological Survey of India. Entry costs a small fee, and a visit takes about 20 minutes. It is on the way to Sarnath, so you can stop here on your way.
Opening hours
Sunrise to sunset
Nearby sights
- Sarnath Museum
- Sarnath
- Namo Ghat
- Kaal Bhairav Temple
- Panchganga Ghat & Alamgir Mosque
- Scindia Ghat
- Manikarnika Ghat
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple