The Bhamala Stupa is an ancient Buddhist archaeological site located near Khanpur in the Haripur District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Dating back to the 4th century CE, it is one of the most significant remnants of the Gandhara civilization—a region once renowned for its unique fusion of Greco-Roman and Buddhist art and architecture. The site is particularly notable for housing one of the oldest cruciform-shaped stupas in the region, which provides invaluable insights into early Buddhist architectural development.
Morning, NPA guide will pick you up from a designated pick up point. to the bus and drive towards Bhamala Stupa.
Approximate drive: 2.5 hours
Bhamala Stupa: one of the fanscinating stupas in the taxila region famous for its 18 meter reclined Buddha statue and the oldest Crucified architecture of a massive stupa.
After the visit we will have lunch break Lunch at MaBali.
On our way back we can stay at khanpur enjoy the dam views or go straight to Islamabad.
Approximate drive: 40 mins from Mabali
Drive Back to Islamabad drop everyone off.
Approximate Drive: 6-7 round trip
The discovery of the 1,700-year-old Parinirvana (Sleeping Buddha) statue, which measures about 14 meters (48 feet), is the main draw. Tourists often ask if it is indeed the oldest such statue discovered to date. Yes it is!
Unlike the typical hemispherical (dome-shaped) stupas found elsewhere in Taxila, Bhamala has a distinctive cruciform (cross-shaped) plan. Foreigners often inquire why this site looks more like a stepped pyramid, which is a rare evolution of Gandharan architecture.
Since the site is located on the banks of the Haro River near the Khanpur Dam, tourists frequently ask if they can arrive by boat from the dam for a more scenic experience.
The Gandhara heritage thrived in what is now northern-western Pakistan and eastern Afghanistan, roughly between the 1st millennium BCE and the 1st millennium CE. This region served as a crossroads for trade and cultural exchange, bringing together influences from India, Central Asia, and the Middle East.
One Day Trip to Murree: A Hill Station Escape: Murree, a picturesque hill station nestled in the Pir Panjal Range, is a popular getaway for those seeking respite from the bustling city life. With its cool climate, lush greenery, and colonial charm, it’s the perfect destination for a one-day escape.
Chakwal Canyons: A Hidden Gem of Punjab. Nestled in the heart of Punjab, Pakistan, the Chakwal Canyons are a breathtaking natural wonder waiting to be explored. Carved by centuries of wind and water erosion, these rugged canyons feature dramatic rock formations, narrow gorges, and scenic trails that attract nature lovers, hikers, and photographers alike.
