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Pakistan

Shah Allah Ditta caves

Ancient caves with Buddhist murals

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

About

The Shah Allah Ditta caves, nestled in the Margalla Hills of Islamabad, Pakistan, are a significant archaeological site with a history spanning over 2,400 years. These caves, initially used by Buddhist monks for meditation, feature intricate murals and carvings of Buddha that date back to the Middle Iron Age. Over time, they have served as a spiritual retreat for Hindu sadhus and later for Muslim ascetics during the Mughal period. The site's location on a historic route between Kabul and Taxila highlights its importance as a cultural and religious waypoint. Efforts to preserve this site reflect its ongoing historical and cultural significance, marking it as a pivotal location for understanding the region's rich past.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Shah Allah Ditta caves

FileShah_Allah_Ditta_caves_8.JPG

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Artistic and Decorative Features

MuralsCarvings

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Caves

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Pakistan
Source
Wikipedia