Sarnath, India: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Sarnath, India? If you're planning to go to Sarnath, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Sarnath, India

Based on the climate and weather in Sarnath, India, the best time to go is November. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Sarnath, India

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Sarnath, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Sarnath, India by month

January

If you are traveling to Sarnath in January, you will notice that it is warm. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sarnath. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Check that you choose the right type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

If you see a temple, such as Sri Digamber Jain Temple, wear:

If you go to the Sarnath Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you visit Sarnath during February, you might notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sarnath. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to get the right kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you see a temple, such as Sri Digamber Jain Temple, wear:

If you go to the Sarnath Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

Traveling to Sarnath in March, you will notice that it is really hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sarnath. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to find the right type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see a temple, such as Sri Digamber Jain Temple, wear:

If you go to the Sarnath Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April for Sarnath can be blisteringly hot. Temperatures average in the low 100s F (high 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sarnath. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to choose the right kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

If you see a temple, such as Sri Digamber Jain Temple, wear:

If you go to the Sarnath Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

If you vacation in Sarnath during May, you will probably see that it is unbearably hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 100s F (low 40s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sarnath. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Take care to choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see a temple, such as Sri Digamber Jain Temple, wear:

If you go to the Sarnath Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June for Sarnath is sizzling. Temperatures average in the low 100s F (high 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sarnath. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you get the right kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you see a temple, such as Sri Digamber Jain Temple, wear:

If you go to the Sarnath Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you are traveling to Sarnath in July, you will notice that it is blindingly hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sarnath. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. It's important that you choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see a temple, such as Sri Digamber Jain Temple, wear:

If you go to the Sarnath Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August in Sarnath is really hot. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sarnath. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. It's important that you get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see a temple, such as Sri Digamber Jain Temple, wear:

If you go to the Sarnath Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

If you visit Sarnath during September, you may notice that it can be sweltering. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sarnath. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

If you see a temple, such as Sri Digamber Jain Temple, wear:

If you go to the Sarnath Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you go to Sarnath in October, you will notice that it is constantly hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sarnath. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. It's important that you choose the right type. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you see a temple, such as Sri Digamber Jain Temple, wear:

If you go to the Sarnath Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you visit Sarnath during November, you might find that it is hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sarnath. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see a temple, such as Sri Digamber Jain Temple, wear:

If you go to the Sarnath Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in this region is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sarnath. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you see a temple, such as Sri Digamber Jain Temple, wear:

If you go to the Sarnath Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Sarnath, India

Sarnath, located in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, is a small town that holds a significant place in the life of the Buddha. It is believed to be the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Sarnath is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists and a must-visit for anyone interested in spirituality and history. Here are the top tourist attractions in Sarnath, India:

1. Dhamekh Stupa - This impressive cylindrical structure is believed to be the spot where Buddha gave his first sermon. The stupa is made of bricks and stone and stands 43 meters tall. It is decorated with carvings and inscriptions dating back to the Gupta period.

2. Chaukhandi Stupa - This stupa is another important monument in Sarnath. It is a tall brick structure with an octagonal base and dates back to the 5th century CE. The Chaukhandi Stupa is said to be the spot where Buddha met his first disciples.

3. Archaeological Museum - The Archaeological Museum in Sarnath is home to a vast collection of Buddhist artifacts and sculptures, including the famous Ashoka Pillar. The museum has many galleries that showcase the evolution of Buddhism and the art and culture of ancient India.

4. Thai Temple - The Thai Temple is a stunning golden structure that is a symbol of the cultural ties between Thailand and India. The temple is situated amidst serene surroundings and has a beautiful Buddha statue inside.

5. Mulagandha Kuti Vihar - Mulagandha Kuti Vihar is a monastery that houses Buddhist monks. It is a peaceful place with beautiful gardens and a tranquil atmosphere. The monastery is famous for its beautiful frescoes depicting the life of Buddha.

6. Japanese Temple - The Japanese Temple is a serene and peaceful place dedicated to Lord Buddha. The architecture of the temple is Japanese and it features beautiful gardens and a meditation hall.

7. Tibetan Temple - The Tibetan Temple is a beautiful structure that represents the Tibetan culture and Buddhism. It is characterized by intricate carvings and designs and has an impressive statue of Buddha inside.

Sarnath is a place of spiritual significance, and these top attractions have been preserved and maintained to showcase the rich cultural heritage and history of the town. A visit to Sarnath is a perfect way to explore ancient history and delve into the spirituality of Buddhism.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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