Kargah Buddha – Gilgit’s 7th Century Rock Carving of Peace!
Just 10 km west of Gilgit City, carved into a cliff overlooking the Kargah Nala (stream), stands a massive 7th-century Buddha figure, known as the Kargah Buddha. This ancient rock relief is one of the most important archaeological and religious landmarks in Pakistan’s north, reflecting the time when Buddhism thrived along the Silk Road trade routes.
More than just a relic, Kargah Buddha offers a peaceful escape just outside the bustling city and an important lesson in the region’s multicultural past.
History & Significance
Date: 7th or 8th century AD
Height: ~15 feet (4.5 meters)
Style: Gandhara School of Art
Religion: Mahayana Buddhism
Material: Directly carved into solid rock cliff face
Purpose: Likely a pilgrimage stop or guardian figure for monks and traders on the Silk Road
The site once had Buddhist monasteries and caves, though most were destroyed by time and later religious shifts.
Why Visit Kargah Buddha?
Kargah Buddha isn’t just about religion or art — it’s about understanding how cultures met and evolved in this vital part of the world. As Buddhism moved from India to China, sites like Gilgit became spiritual and trade centers. Visiting this site gives travelers a rare chance to witness Pakistan’s Buddhist roots, preserved in rock for over 1,300 years.
Routes to Kargah Buddha
Location & Accessibility
Region: Kargah Nullah, near Gilgit City, Gilgit-Baltistan
Distance from Gilgit City: ~10 km (~25 minutes by car or jeep)
Altitude: ~1,500 meters (4,921 ft)
How to Get There
Gilgit City → KIU Road → Kargah Nala → Kargah Buddha
Easy access via paved road
Taxis, motorbikes, or private jeeps are available
The site is marked and has a short walking path
Top Attractions in Kargah Buddha
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Main Buddha Figure | Standing Buddha in meditative posture, with robe details visible |
| Surrounding Cliffs | Natural beauty of Kargah stream and hills |
| Old Buddhist Cave Ruins | Unmarked caves used by monks in ancient times |
| Streamside Viewpoint | Peaceful area for photography and contemplation |
Photography Tips
Visit during early morning or late afternoon for best light
Bring a telephoto lens or zoom for detailed shots of the carving
Use wide-angle for dramatic shots with landscape backdrop
Respect the site — avoid climbing or touching the relief
Local Food
Try local dishes like:
Chapshuro (meat-filled bread)
Sharbat (dried apricot juice)
Trout Fish (fresh from local rivers)
Butter tea & organic yogurt
Must-know things!
- Sleeping Mask & Ear Plugs: Warm Shawl/Lightweight Jacket.
- Gadgets & ChargersBook & Notepad.
- Mints, Sanitizer, Wet Wipes & Tissue paper.
- Toiletries.
- Snacks.
- Hiking boots/Sturdy Joggers.
- Cargo Pants/Hiking Trouser.
- Hat, Sunglasses, Sunblock.
- Refillable Water Bottle.
- Snacking Bars/Dry Fruits.
Traveler Tips
Fuel Up in Gupis or Gilgit – no petrol stations in Golaghmuli
Mobile Network: Limited; only SCOM works in some areas
Permits: No NOC needed for Pakistani tourists. Foreigners might need NOC from Gilgit.
Weather Gear: Even in summer, nights are cold – bring layers
Altitude Sickness: Stay hydrated, ascend gradually