UNESCO Inscribes Ancient Buddhist Site Sarnath on World Heritage List

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) inscribed the ancient Buddhist site of Sarnath in Uttar Pradesh, India, on its World Heritage List on July 25, 2026. The decision was announced during the 48th session of the World Heritage Committee held in Busan, South Korea. Sarnath is the 45th property in India to receive this designation.

Located in Varanasi, Sarnath is historically recognized as the site where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon in the sixth century BCE. The area also serves as the origin of the Lion Capital of Ashoka, which is the National Emblem of India. Tim Curtis, UNESCO regional office director for South Asia, noted that the site has been a place of pilgrimage and inspiration for over 2,500 years.

Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India, hailed the inscription as a moment of national pride that celebrates India's spiritual and civilizational heritage. He suggested the recognition would inspire more global visitors to connect with the ideals of Lord Buddha and boost international heritage tourism. Vice President CP Radhakrishnan and Ambassador Vishal V Sharma also praised the decision, describing Sarnath as an enduring symbol of peace and non-violence.