Sarnath- the most revered religious destination for Buddhist saints today established in the state of Uttar Pradesh is indeed very popular. For anyone who seeks to experience the religious journey or just desires to be situated in the middle of the manifest cultural history of the site, the idea of having a dwelling in a Dharamshala – rest house or monastery – is an interesting and ennobling opportunity. Read on here to know the 5 best Dharamshalas in Sarnath that strike a balance between luxury and backpacker vibe.
Table of Contents
Top Dharamshala in Sarnath For a Free Stay
1. Maha Bodhi Birla Dharamshala
Maha Bodhi Birla Dharamshala is a shelter for monks experienced in Buddhist teachings and literature along with providing basic necessities that are required to lead the day to day life for the monks who are available their to preach Buddhism religions.
Located at Sarnath, the Maha Bodhi Birla Dharamshala is religious sanctuary to admire allied to serving as a comfortable accommodation. This Dharamshala is managed by the Birla Foundation and it has a very good reputation for cleanliness and very kind staff members. It has basic amenities as the house is not extremely luxurious and there is a meditation hall and a library in the premise for those looking for inner peace.
2. Buddha Dharamshala
The origin of the name of the Buddha Dharamshala is quite self explanatory for it is a house that seeks to provide sanctuary to those people who want to explore the teachings of the Buddha. This lodge is simple with nice kind of rooms and more preferable by the Buddhists’ faith seekers and scholars. This beautiful place is perfect for those, who would like to spend time in silence, as well as it is the place, where you will be met with extraordinary friendliness.
3. Biharilal Digambar Jain Dharmashala
If you are inclined towards understanding the Jain premise of Sarnath, Biharilal Digambar Jain Dharmashala must be the best choice for you. I have also come across a Jain Dharamsala, primarily for the Jain faith and provides a peek into the monogamy of Jains. The food mainly consists of vegetarian meal which is one of the specialties of this place since it is located here for meditation and spiritual purposes.
4. Calcutta Bishram Bhawan
The Calcutta Bishram Bhawan – Calcutta is an ancient Dharamshala that services the needs of travelers and pilgrims since early 1900’s. This Dharamshala has a very rustic feel to it and is famous for its basic facilities and wellBEINGness. Being an ancient place of worship, the temple within the premises, coupled with the beautiful landscaped garden add a serene beauty that provides a retreat from the outside world.
5. Sarvodaya Jain Dharmashala
Another best religious site of Sarvodaya Jain Dharmashala for those who want to know more about Jainism in Sarnath. This Dharamshala is precisely terrific in offering pure vegetarian food and being environment friendly. The rooms themselves are again a bit old fashioned, however they are clean and the staff remain extremely welcoming and accommodating to all guests.
Tips for Finding a Dharamshala in Sarnath:
By considering these factors, you are more likely to find your ideal Dharamshala in Sarnath of your choice, the ideal one that not only suits your pocket and amenities needs, but also adds cultural tour and spiritual vibration to your experience at Sarnath.
1. Budget
Staying in a Dharamshala is relatively cheap and is therefore one of the many benefits that is likely to be enjoyed by most clients. These are institutional facilities intended to accommodate low income earners, travelers, and pilgrims on the barest minimum of what it takes to get an accommodation without compromising on the comfort of the client. But, it has to bear in mind that the price for Dharamshala may fluctuate over location, services provided, and season.
2. Amenities
There are the traditional bare-boned structures, or more elaborate accommodations available. Some are bare-boned facilities like providing beds and lockers while others goes an extra mile to offer meal, laundry and hot water services. Also, there is nothing wrong with researching the various enticements that the numerous Dharamshala provides and determining which one best suits someone’s wants and needs.
3. Location
Sarnath is a small Scale town, however, the selection of the place for your Dharamshala will influence much of your experience. If you are visiting Sarnath mainly for the ancient Buddhist structures like Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandhakuti Stupa, there are certain specific Dhamas available which can be within walking distance or near the places of interest. However, if you are in a search of quite and calm places then you can look for a Dharamshala which is at little bit away from the hot-spotting places.
4. Reviews
Sometimes to choose a Dharamshala in the digital age, which is a very important type of facility, people turn to reviews. Spend time reading over previous guests’ reviews and look at the most recent comments and concerns on how clean the rooms were, the facilities offered, the friendliness of the staff, and the ambiance. A positive feedback can be convincing in stating that the product is what the buyer needed, a negative feedback can also be of use in highlighting various concerns that would make the buyer change their mind.
If you’re in search of either divine tranquility or aware of the astounding history of Sarnath, then these Dharamshalas promise to give a timely and aesthetic experience. You are welcome to plan and make your booking with us early and experience the best cultural trip in the holiest of holy lands.
