PILGRIMAGES
Sarnath Dharmachakra Program
Turning the Wheel of Dharma at the Site of the Buddha’s First Teaching
The Sarnath Dharmachakra Program is an annual gathering of monastics from across Buddhist traditions held each October at the Sarnath International Nyingma Institute in India. The program focuses on the recitation of the Dhammachakka Sutta, the Buddha’s first teaching, at the Deer Park in Sarnath where the Wheel of Dharma was first turned. Through shared practice, teachings, and pilgrimage, the program supports cross-traditional dialogue in one of the most sacred sites of the Buddhist world.
At A Glance
When: October, annually
Where: Sarnath International Nyingma Institute (SINI), Sarnath, India
Open to: Monastics of all traditions
Provided: Accommodation and meals for all participating monastics
Partner: Light of Buddhadharma Foundation International (lbdfi.org)
Contact: info@sinibridge.org
Origins of the Program
The Sarnath Dharmachakra Program was established in 2016 through a partnership between the Sarnath International Nyingma Institute (SINI) and the Light of Buddhadharma Foundation International (LBDFI), an organization dedicated to restoring the Buddha Sasana in India. The program was created to revitalize the recitation of the Dhammachakka Sutta, the Buddha’s first teaching, at the Deer Park in Sarnath where it was originally given over 2,500 years ago.
An Annual Gathering at Sarnath
Held each October, the program brings together monastics from Theravada and Tibetan traditions, along with representatives from Buddhist institutions across Asia. Participants gather near the Dhamekh Stupa to chant the Dhammachakka Sutra in Pali and Tibetan, followed by Dharma talks, discussion, and a pilgrimage walk from SINI to the sacred site. A visit to Varanasi and the Ganges is also included as part of the pilgrimage experience.
Cross-Traditional Exchange
The program offers rare opportunities for monastics from different traditions to live, practice, and study together. Dialogue between Theravada and Mahayana practitioners, especially through shared reflection on the Dhammachakka Sutra, has become one of the most valued aspects of the gathering.
A Continuing Partnership
The connection between SINI and LBDFI extends beyond the annual program. In 2013, LBDFI gifted a sapling from the Sri Mahabodhi Tree in Sri Lanka and an eight-foot stupa, both now located on the SINI grounds, symbolizing their shared commitment to revitalizing the Dharma in India.