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

Sarnath, a revered Buddhist site in Varanasi where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon, is rich in floral diversity. A detailed survey of the Sarnath campus identified 102 trees, 04 small trees, 43 shrubs, 11 palms and 3 bamboos species, including indigenous, invasive, and vulnerable types, many of which hold mythological, ethical, and aesthetic significance. As a well-maintained heritage site under government protection, Sarnath offers both spiritual and ecological value. Given its rich plant diversity, it is recommended that the campus be recognized as an Urban Sacred Grove, honoring its botanical wealth and spiritual legacy.