Choukhandi Stupa - Essential Spiritual Experience in Kashi, Varanasi
Topics/Heritage & Sarnath/Choukhandi Stupa

Choukhandi Stupa

Heritage
“Choukhandi Stupa” was built in 1555 A.D. by Mughal Emperor Akbar and is believed to be the place where Lord Buddha met his five disciples. The magnificent and marvelous “Ashoka Pillar” states the visit of emperor Ashoka to Sarnath. Originally the stupa was adorned by a capital of four lions, now housed in the Sarnath museum. Then the capital became the state emblem of modern India.

Deep Dive: Choukhandi Stupa

The Choukhandi Stupa is one of the important Buddhist monuments in Sarnath. It is an ancient stupa that serves as a gateway to the main Buddhist complex. The stupa is believed to have been built originally as a terraced temple during the Gupta period (4th to 6th century CE).

It marks the spot where Lord Buddha is said to have met his first five disciples after coming from Bodhgaya. The octagonal tower atop the stupa was added later by the Mughal Emperor Akbar to commemorate the visit of his father, Humayun. It represents the multi-layered historical heritage of Kashi and its outskirts.

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 Choukhandi Stupa 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 Choukhandi Stupa is authentic and seamless.

1
Verified Historical Context
2
Reliable Transport Logistics
3
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 Choukhandi Stupa 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.