Manthal Buddha Rock

Manthal Buddha Rock (Urdu: منٹھل چٹان) is a large granite rock on which picture of Buddha has engraved which probably dates back to 8 century. This rock is located in Manthal village[1] of Skardu Town, in Pakistan. Buddha Rock is one of the most important relics of Buddhism in Skardu.[2] It is about 3 kilometers from Sadpara Road. Sadpara road will lead to Satpara Lake.

History

Before arrival of Islam in the region of Gilgit-Baltistan, the majority of the people were Buddhist and they had engraved the Buddha on many rock pieces. This Buddha carving was not known to the world until the beginning of the 20th century due to its remote location. In 1906 the Scottish traveller Ella Christie wrote a book on her journey to Western Tibet and featured the carving in her book which gave it international attention. Since then the government has taken many steps to preserve this monument and it is visited by tourists who visit the Skardu city.

Information board

The Pakistani government has recently been attempting to promote religious travel. In order to inform the global Buddhist community, these sacred sites are being recognised in national forums.

See also

References
  1. "In Skardu, Siddhartha sings on". Express Tribune. July 26, 2015.
  2. Baltistani, Farman Ali (January 22, 2017). "National heritage status sought for famous Buddha rock in Baltistan". DAWN.COM.
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