Backpacking Northern India 41/45: Isipmarukthayawan Forest Sarnath Varanasi

Backpacking Northern India 41/45: Isipmarukthayawan Forest Sarnath Varanasi

Hello, I am mr.hotsia, back again with stories from backpacking Northern India. This time I arrived at “Isipmarukthayawan Forest” in the pilgrimage city of Sarnath near the sacred city of Varanasi, a powerful center of Buddhism and a grand historical site in Northern India.

I must say that traveling here is not easy, but it is filled with charm that makes every step of my backpacking journey worthwhile. This is not just an ordinary forest; it is the place where the Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment. It is sacred and peaceful, a rare tranquility in the big cities of India. I traveled from Kolkata to Bagdogra Airport, then took a jeep to Siriguri, a transit town before heading to Sarnath. Traveling on Northern Indian roads is quite challenging and relies heavily on local experts familiar with the routes.

Upon arrival, the blend of natural forest atmosphere and the ancient historical site is perfectly harmonious. Isipmarukthayawan Forest is where the Buddha once practiced meditation and taught the Dharma. I walked among the large trees and the quiet forest filled with shade and birdsong. There are also ancient stupas and temples where the living Buddhist tradition continues to this day.

For those interested in religion and history, I recommend visiting in the morning when the weather is cool and the sunlight is gentle, making the forest walk refreshing. This moment reminded me of my experience visiting the Chhattisgarh River,Chhattisgarh Riverwhich is another important Buddhist site in India that I wrote about in a previous article. It truly feels like traveling through time.

After exploring Isipmarukthayawan Forest, I also visited Varanasi nearby. The city is vibrant with a mix of sacredness and the hustle of a big city. I strolled along the Ganges River, watching people bathe, chant, and perform rituals—another side of India that deeply impressed me. For those interested in the full atmosphere, you can watch myBackpacking Northern India 41/45: Isipmarukthayawan Forest Sarnath Varanasi videoclip.

Life and Food in Varanasi

In Varanasi, I found a small local market full of colors and lively voices. I tried street food like “Tikka,” marinated with strong spices and grilled over fragrant charcoal, and Indian sweets called “Jalebi,” crispy outside and soft inside, a perfect energy boost after exploring the city and Isipmarukthayawan Forest.

There were also noodle shops and Indian chicken biryani places that I enjoyed from my travels in Bengaluru.Read about backpacking in Bengaluruhere. The atmosphere is different but has unique flavors and aromas that interestingly connect Northern and Southern India.

The Importance of Sarnath in History and Religion

Isipmarukthayawan Forest is not just an ordinary forest but a place deeply significant to Buddhist history. Here, the Buddha delivered his first sermon, the “Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta,” to the five ascetics, marking the beginning of spreading Buddhist teachings widely.

I walked among ancient ruins and old stupas that tell stories over 2,500 years old through art and structures still standing proudly. Despite the strong sun and hot weather, the surrounding atmosphere was filled with peace and genuine respect for this place.

Trip Summary and Thoughts for Travelers

Visiting Isipmarukthayawan Forest and Sarnath made me, mr.hotsia, feel the depth of Northern Indian culture, which is not just the noise and chaos as commonly imagined, but also a peaceful and authentic side of religion and nature waiting to be discovered.

If you are someone who enjoys deep travel experiences and wants to truly connect with Northern Indian life, try backpacking here. You will realize that traveling to less touristy places teaches you more about local life than you might expect.

Don’t forget, if you like my Northern India travel stories, you can revisit other trips likeJourney to DarjeelingorIndians Bathing in the Ganges River, Varanasiwhich offer deep perspectives on India in the style of mr.hotsia.