Where did the Buddha traditionally deliver his first sermon?

The Buddha traditionally delivered his first sermon at Sarnath.

Sarnath, in present-day Uttar Pradesh, India, is identified with the Deer Park near ancient Varanasi. After attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, the Buddha traveled there to teach five former companions. His first discourse is known as the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, often translated as “Setting the Dharma Wheel in Motion.”

This sermon introduced the Middle Way, the Four Noble Truths, and the Noble Eightfold Path. The five listeners are traditionally described as becoming the first members of the Buddha’s community of disciples. For this reason, Sarnath is regarded as the place where the Buddhist teaching was first publicly proclaimed.

Sarnath’s monuments include the Dhamek Stupa and the remains of ancient monasteries. The famous Lion Capital of Ashoka was found there; its design became the state emblem of modern India. Sarnath is distinct from Bodh Gaya, the site of awakening, and Kushinagar, the site of the Buddha’s final passing.