Bhamala Stupa – Pambala, Pakistan - Atlas Obscura
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Bhamala Stupa

Pambala, Pakistan

A 2nd-century stupa home to one of the world's oldest statues of the Buddha.  

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Bhamala Stupa and Monastery checks all the boxes when it comes to hidden archeological gems. Just over a 90-minute drive from the city center, this monastery complex is off the main tourist track. The stupa is situated next to the man-made Khanpur lake and dam. 

Know Before You Go

This place is not well served by public transport. Hire a Suzuki van in Taxila to take you there and back. It's around 45 minutes from Taxila's main bus stop. If using your own car, use a short wheelbase vehicle with high ground clearance.


The guards on site are helpful and will assist with information, though the large printed signboard contains most of the information you will need. 


While en route, be sure to stop to see the remnants of Afghan King, Sher Shah Suri's mid-16th-century cobblestoned sections of the Grand Trunk road. There's also a 40-foot tall stone obelisk erected by friends and admirers of Brigadier-General John Nicholson to view. 


The best time to visit is between October and April. Bring a hat, sunblock, water, and snacks.

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Published
June 19, 2019
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Nearby
Faisal Mosque
8.12 miles
Ancient City of Taxila
12.37 miles
Hindu Temples of Rawalpindi
15.83 miles
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