Situated near the Dhamek Stupa, the garden features sculptures representing Buddhist principles such as the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. Pathways lead to areas designated for meditation, and displays include information on Indian philosophy and Ayurveda. An Ayurvedic garden showcases herbs used in traditional healing practices.

The Garden of Spiritual Wisdom, situated behind the historic Chaukhandi Stupa, has been designed with a deliberate layout to guide visitors through a journey of contemplation and learning. Spanning a carefully planned area, the garden is divided into distinct sections, each serving a specific purpose in conveying Buddhist and Indian spiritual teachings.


Layout and Key Features

Entrance Pathway

Visitors enter through a gate near the Chaukhandi Stupa, leading to a central walkway lined with stone markers. Initial panels introduce the garden’s purpose and its connection to Sarnath’s Buddhist heritage. Philosophy Galleries Gallery of Indian Philosophy: Displays key concepts from Vedanta, Yoga, and other traditions through concise text and symbolic imagery.

Buddhist Philosophy Section: Explores foundational teachings, including the life of the Buddha and the significance of Sarnath in Buddhist history.

The Four Noble Truths & Eightfold Path Walk

A circular path features eight stations, each representing one step of the Eightfold Path.

Sculptures and inscriptions explain the Four Noble Truths at designated points along the route.

Meditation Zones

Secluded seating areas under Bodhi trees and near lotus ponds provide spaces for quiet reflection.

Benches face the Dhamek Stupa, allowing visitors to meditate with a view of the ancient monument.

Ayurvedic Garden

A dedicated section houses medicinal plants used in Ayurveda, labeled with their healing properties.

Herbs such as tulsi, ashwagandha, and brahmi are arranged in clusters, accompanied by explanations of their traditional uses.

Central Courtyard

An open space with a large Dharma Wheel sculpture serves as a gathering point for group discussions.

Information boards summarize key lessons from the garden’s exhibits.


Visitor Experience

The garden’s design ensures a logical flow, allowing visitors to progress from introductory teachings to deeper contemplation. Stone pathways connect each section, while shaded rest areas encourage pauses for reflection.

Umesh Mathur, Chief Functionary of the Foundation For Learning Technologies, stated that the garden was designed to provide an accessible introduction to spiritual teachings. "The space allows visitors to engage with these concepts in a structured way," he said.

The Garden of Spiritual Wisdom remains free to enter and is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Its proximity to major Buddhist sites in Sarnath makes it a natural extension for pilgrims and scholars visiting the region. It operates without an entry fee and is maintained by the Foundation For Learning Technologies, an NGO focused on spiritual education initiatives.