Manthal Buddha Rock – The Ancient Buddhist Carving of Skardu

Introduction

Deep in the heart of Skardu lies one of Pakistan’s most remarkable historical landmarks — the Manthal Buddha Rock. This massive granite boulder, located in Manthal Village of Skardu Town, bears an ancient engraving of the Buddha believed to date back to the 8th century. Surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery, this site represents not only the artistic brilliance of the past but also the religious and cultural diversity that once flourished in Baltistan.

The Manthal Buddha Rock stands as a symbol of peace and spirituality, attracting both historians and travelers who wish to explore the forgotten Buddhist heritage of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Historical Background of Manthal Buddha Rock

The Manthal Buddha Rock is a huge stone carved with an image of Lord Buddha seated in meditation. Around the central figure are twenty small Bodhisattvas (disciples) and two standing Maitreya Buddhas — future Buddhas according to Buddhist belief. This intricate artwork makes the rock one of the most treasured archaeological sites in northern Pakistan.

It is believed that Buddhist monks living in the region during the 8th century sculpted this masterpiece. These monks used the rock to portray their faith, aspirations, and life experiences. They inscribed Tibetan text around the carving, expressing devotion and reverence toward Buddha. Before the arrival of Islam in the 14th century A.D., the local Buddhist population used the Manthal Buddha Rock as a place of worship.

Religious Significance and Revival of Buddhist Tourism

For centuries, this sacred site remained hidden from the world due to the region’s remoteness. It wasn’t until the early 1900s that the Manthal Buddha Rock gained global recognition. In 1906, a Scottish traveler named Ella Christie wrote about her journey to Western Tibet and mentioned the rock in her book, bringing international attention to it.

Today, the Government of Pakistan is taking steps to preserve and promote this important religious site as part of its initiative to encourage religious tourism. The aim is to highlight Pakistan’s Buddhist heritage to the global Buddhist community and attract international visitors.

According to a local Balti elder, an inscription near the rock reads:
“Lonchay Skesa la sperbi ott,” meaning “Light blazing on the birthplace of Lonchay.”
Lonchay was believed to be a local prince, and his palace once stood in front of the rock before being destroyed by a flood from the Hargisa River.

Historians believe that the carving dates back to Lonchay’s reign, during a time when Buddhism was the dominant religion in the region. The Manthal Buddha Rock remained a center of devotion until the 13th century, when the Tibetan rulers established Skardu as their capital.

Other Buddhist Sites Near Skardu

The Manthal Buddha Rock is not the only Buddhist relic in the region. Gilgit-Baltistan is home to numerous ancient carvings and stupas that tell the story of a long-lost civilization. Other important Buddhist sites include:

Karga Buddha and Hanzal Stupa in Gilgit
Buddhist reliefs in Shigar and Khaplu (Baltistan)
Rock carvings inside the grounds of Karakoram International University (KIU) in Gilgit
Stone carvings near Hunza (Haldikish) along the Karakoram Highway

Thousands of petroglyphs (rock carvings) across the region still preserve the art, language, and symbols of Buddhism that once dominated the northern valleys of Pakistan. Even though Buddhism vanished from the area after the arrival of Islam in the 14th century, its artistic and archaeological legacy continues to live through these stones.

The Fall of Buddhism in Baltistan

The 14th century marked a turning point in the region’s history. When Syed Ali Hamadani, a Sufi saint from Iran, arrived in Baltistan with his followers, the people gradually embraced Islam. The shift in faith led to the decline of Buddhism, and the temples and carvings slowly fell into neglect. By the 15th century, Baltistan had become a fully Muslim region, but the traces of its Buddhist past remain preserved in monuments like the Manthal Buddha Rock.

Visiting Manthal Buddha Rock

Location and Access

The Manthal Buddha Rock is located in Manthal village, about 3 kilometers from Skardu city center on Sadpara Road, near the way leading to Sadpara Lake and Deosai National Park. It lies just across the Hargisa Nala (stream) originating from Sadpara Lake.

Visitors can reach the site in approximately 30 minutes by car from Skardu city. The route is smooth and scenic, offering views of the surrounding valleys and rivers.

Best Route

To visit the Manthal Buddha Rock, travelers can follow the Deosai or Sadpara Lake road. The site is located on the right-hand side of the route, easily accessible before reaching the higher mountain zones.

What to Do at the Site

Although small in size, the Manthal Buddha Rock holds immense historical and spiritual value. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone interested in Buddhist art, archaeology, and history. The site is elevated slightly, offering panoramic views of Skardu’s beautiful surroundings — making it a peaceful stop for photography, reflection, or quiet exploration.

Visitors are advised to respect the cultural heritage and avoid touching or climbing on the carvings.

Entry Rules and Tickets

There is a unique rule at the site:

Only two visitors are allowed at a time,
And they must return within two minutes to allow others access.

This regulation is meant to protect the ancient carvings from damage and overcrowding.

Entry ticket price:

Rs. 50 for Pakistani visitors
Rs. 200 for foreign tourists

Geography and Surroundings

Manthal is a lush, green area surrounded by natural beauty. The presence of streams, trees, and mountain backdrops adds to the tranquil atmosphere of the Manthal Buddha Rock. It’s an ideal short stopover for travelers on their way to explore other attractions in Skardu and beyond.

Nearby Attractions

While visiting Manthal Buddha Rock, travelers can also explore several nearby sites:

Skardu Fort (Kharpocho Fort) – Offering panoramic views of the entire valley.
Sadpara Lake – A sparkling turquoise lake that leads the way to Deosai Plains.
Kagha Buddha – Another ancient Buddhist carving located near Skardu.

Together, these sites make Skardu a fascinating blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty.

The Manthal Buddha Rock in Skardu is more than just an archaeological site — it’s a window into Pakistan’s forgotten Buddhist era. Its centuries-old carvings tell stories of devotion, art, and cultural exchange between Tibet and Baltistan. Though Buddhism disappeared from the region long ago, the legacy carved into this granite boulder continues to shine as a symbol of peace and heritage.

For history lovers, photographers, and travelers seeking spiritual depth, a visit to Manthal Buddha Rock is an experience that connects the past with the present, reminding us of the timeless beauty of human expression.