Sarnath railway station is a crucial stop for those visiting the historical and spiritual town of Sarnath, situated near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India. It serves as a significant point for pilgrims and tourists alike, drawn to the well-known Buddhist sites and the rich history that envelops this serene area.

### Reaching Sarnath by Road Sarnath is well-connected by roadways, making it accessible from various nearby cities. Major national and state highways, including NH 19, connect to Varanasi. From Varanasi city, Sarnath is approximately 10 kilometers away, which can be covered by taxi,...
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auto-rickshaws, or local buses. The drive usually takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. For travelers coming from further out, the nearest major bus station is Varanasi Bus Station, known as Cantt Bus Station, which hosts a variety of interstate and intrastate buses. Buses regularly ply between Varanasi and Sarnath, facilitating convenient access to the railway station.

### Nearby Bus Stations - **Varanasi Bus Station (Cantt Bus Station)**: This station is the main bus terminal in Varanasi, approximately 10 km from Sarnath. It serves as a hub for state-run buses and several private operators. - **Ravi Kumar Singh Bus Stand**: Located slightly closer (around 8 km), this smaller bus stand may provide local routes towards Sarnath.

### Lodging Facilities Sarnath, while relatively small, offers several lodging options that cater to different budgets and preferences: - **Hotel Sarnath Gateway**: A mid-range hotel offering modern amenities and located close to the archaeological site. - **Taj GVK Hotels & Resorts**: Known for its luxurious accommodations and top-notch services, situated within a reasonable distance from Sarnath. - **Buddha Heritage**: A budget-friendly option that provides clean accommodations and is favored by backpackers. - **Hotel Lotus**: An affordable option for travelers, offering basic amenities and located within proximity to major sites.

### Prominent Vegetarian Food Facilities Sarnath and its surroundings have a significant number of vegetarian eateries that cater to the dietary preferences of visitors, especially given its spiritual significance: - **Bikanervala**: A well-known chain offering a variety of vegetarian North Indian delicacies and snacks, located in Varanasi but frequented by those heading to Sarnath. - **Madhurima Restaurant**: Located nearby, this restaurant is popular for its delicious vegetarian thalis and Indian dishes. - **The Gateway Hotel's restaurant**: Offers a range of vegetarian options in a serene dining environment, ideal for those staying at the hotel. - **Dilliwala Caf��**: A local eatery serving vegetarian snacks and meals with a casual ambiance.

### Relative Safety Sarnath is generally regarded as a safe destination for tourists and pilgrims. The presence of local authorities and the modest size of the town contribute to a relatively secure atmosphere. Travelers are advised to stay cautious, however, as they would in any travel location. It is advisable to avoid wandering alone at night and to keep personal belongings secure, particularly in crowded areas. Overall, Sarnath railway station serves not only as a transit point but also as a gateway to exploring significant Buddhist heritage sites, with ample lodging and dining options to enhance the visitor experience.