Standing tall and proud in Sarnath, Varanasi, India, the Chaukhandi Stupa is a magical place filled with history and peace. It has watched over this sacred land for centuries, holding the stories of Buddha’s arrival in Sarnath after he found enlightenment.
Every brick of this ancient monument whispers secrets of devotion and wisdom. Its presence is powerful yet calm, calling out to travelers, pilgrims, and history lovers.
If you love discovering old places or feel drawn to the past, step into the world of the Chaukhandi Stupa—a place where time stands still, and history speaks in silent echoes.
The Story of Chaukhandi Stupa
A long, long time ago, in the 5th century AD, the great rulers of the Gupta dynasty built a special monument called the Chaukhandi Stupa. Though these kings followed Hinduism, they loved and respected Buddhism, allowing it to grow and spread wisdom.
This stupa marks a magical moment in history—it is where Lord Buddha met his five disciples, the Panchvargiya Bhikshus, after attaining enlightenment. who later followed him to the site of his first sermon at Sarnath, which lighting the path of truth and peace for the world.
In the 16th century, a nobleman named Govardhan, son of Raja Todar Mal, added something new to the stupa—a tall octagonal tower. He built it to honor the visit of Mughal Emperor Humayun to this sacred land. This mix of Buddhist and Mughal styles makes the Chaukhandi Stupa truly unique.
In June 2019, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) declared this stupa a monument of national importance, showing how valuable and special it is to history and culture.
A Marvel of Architecture
What makes Chaukhandi Stupa stand out? Unlike other round stupas, this one stands on a rectangular base and has a tall octagonal tower. This tower was added by the Mughals and gives the stupa a grand, mysterious look. It is built of ancient bricks, and all around it, you’ll find lush green gardens, making it a peaceful and beautiful place to visit.
A Journey to Remember
The Chaukhandi Stupa is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India, which means it is well taken care of. Visitors can walk around, take photos, and enjoy the calm atmosphere.
The best time to visit is winter (October to March), when the weather is cool and pleasant. But if you love the magic of rain, the monsoon season (July to September) brings out the deep red color of the ancient bricks, making the stupa look even more breathtaking.
It is open every day from 6 AM to 6 PM, and you only need to pay a small fee to enter.
Nearby, you can also explore other famous Buddhist sites in Sarnath, such as:
Dhamek Stupa – Where Buddha gave his first sermon.
Mulagandha Kuti Vihara – A beautiful Buddhist temple.
Sarnath Archaeological Museum – Full of ancient treasures.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Chaukhandi Stupa feels like stepping into a magical past—a place where the wisdom of Buddha, the brilliance of Gupta kings, and the grandeur of Mughal emperors all come together.
Every ancient monument has a story to tell, waiting for curious hearts to listen. If you love history, adventure, and timeless beauty, this is a place you must visit!
If you’re interested in exploring more historical sites in India or learning about other significant Buddhist landmarks, check out our related articles and plan your next cultural adventure today. Happy exploring!