KARGAH BUDDHA

Kargah Buddha is an important rock-carved statue of the Buddha located just a few kilometers from Gilgit. The site is a major archaeological landmark, representing the region’s Buddhist past. It’s believed to date from the 8th century CE and is carved into a large rock face. Visitors can see the remains of the statue as well as inscriptions and symbols related to Buddhism

Buddhism in Gilgit-Baltistan dates back to the 1st century CE, when the region was part of the Gandhara Kingdom, a major Buddhist center. The Gandhara Civilization was influential in the spread of Buddhism, with the region becoming an important cultural and religious hub. Buddhism flourished until the arrival of Islam in the region around the 10th century CE.