Ashoka Pillar

Heritage

This pillar was erected by the “Emperor Ashoka”. The pillar had his edict engraved on it. This stupa is about 15.24 m in height and had four lions as its capital which is now treasured in the archaeology museum. The lion symbolises both Ashoka's imperial rule and the kingship of the Buddha. The four-lion capital was adopted as the emblem of the modern Indian Republic.

Deep Dive: Ashoka Pillar

The Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath is a national treasure of India. Built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, it originally stood about 50 feet high and was topped by the famous Lion Capital (now in the Sarnath Museum).

The pillar bears an edict from Ashoka warning against schism in the Buddhist community. Its smooth, polished Chunar sandstone finish is a marvel of ancient engineering. It remains a symbol of peace, righteousness, and the powerful Buddhist legacy of Kashi.

Expert Insights for Your Visit

Varanasi is best explored with an open heart and a slow pace. The city reveals its secrets to those who stay long enough to observe the subtle shifts in the river's light and the rhythm of the daily rituals.

We recommend pairing your visit to Ashoka Pillar with a quiet walk through the nearby ancient ghats or a sampling of the city's legendary culinary heritage.

Curated by Hospes India

As Varanasi's leading destination management experts, we ensure that your visit to Ashoka Pillar is authentic and seamless.

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24/7 Traveler Assistance

At Hospes India, we believe that travel should be transformative. From arranging priority darshan at the temples to booking luxury river cruises on the Ganges, we handle the logistics so you can focus on the experience. Let us help you discover the timeless magic of Varanasi, where every corner holds a piece of eternity.

Experience Ashoka Pillar in Motion

Videos courtesy of YouTube. Explore more of Kashi through our curated visual guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the visiting hours?

Most historical sites and museums are open from sunrise to sunset, or 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Sarnath archaeological sites are open daily.

Is there a guided tour available?

Yes, government-approved guides are often available at the ticket counters of major monuments like Sarnath and the Ramnagar Fort.

Is this place wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility varies. Modern developments like the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor and Sarnath are generally accessible, but older forts and palace ghats may have steep steps.

Are food items allowed inside?

Food and plastics are usually not allowed inside museums and monuments to maintain cleanliness and preserve the heritage sites.

Do I need to carry ID?

It is always advisable for foreign tourists to carry a copy of their passport and visa, and for Indians to carry an Aadhar card/ID for entry tickets.