From 1907 onwards, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) continued excavations at Sarnath. The main excavation site in Sarnath is a vast expanse of low lying structures and monuments. One can view the various facets of Buddhist history, the origin, growth, evolution and its ruin, by moving around this place.
One can have a close look at the ancient relics of Buddhist art written through signs and symbols, which were designed to communicate the message and preaching of the Buddha. The earliest and most important relic is found in the Ashoka pillar that was erected in 250 BC.
As one explores the open complex of ruins, one can find monasteries dating back to different periods. The monasteries, ranging in date from the 4th to the 12th century, conform to the general plan of this class of buildings.
A remarkable structure of Sarnath is the Dhamekh Stupa which is probably of Gupta origin.