“Ancient Buddhist Site of Sarnath” Inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List

The Ministry of Culture announced that the "Ancient Buddhist Site of Sarnath" was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List during the 48th Session of the World Heritage Committee in Busan, South Korea. This marks India’s 45th World Heritage property. The site includes the Chaukhandi Stupa and archaeological remains such as the Dhamekh Stupa, Ashokan Pillar, and Mulagandgakuti Vihara in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. It was nominated under criteria (iii) and (vi) for its spiritual significance and direct association with Buddha’s first sermon. The inscription follows a rigorous 18‑month evaluation involving ICOMOS and other advisory bodies, and underscores the Archaeological Survey of India’s conservation work.