Floral Diversity of Sarnath Campus: Proposal for an Urban Sacred Grove in the Varanasi Division, Uttar Pradesh, India

A comprehensive survey of the Sarnath campus in Uttar Pradesh, India, reveals a rich floral diversity comprising 102 tree species, 4 small trees, 43 shrubs, 11 palms, and 3 bamboo species. This includes indigenous, invasive, and vulnerable plants, many with mythological, ethical, and aesthetic significance. Given its spiritual importance as the site of Gautama Buddha's first sermon and its ecological value, the study proposes that Sarnath be recognized as an Urban Sacred Grove to preserve its botanical wealth and cultural legacy.

Sahu, R., Singh, R., & Dubey, S. (2024). Floral Diversity of Sarnath Campus: Proposal for an Urban Sacred Grove in the Varanasi Division, Uttar Pradesh, India. Journal of Non-Timber Forest Products, 31(3), 250–265. https://doi.org/10.54207/bsmps2000-2024-2ypqdh