In the village of Manthal, Skardu, Pakistan, a large granite rock stands erect and reflects back history. Manthal Buddha Rock is an impressive stone etched with beautiful and unique carvings alluding to the Buddhist religion and culture. It is a relief sculpture of Buddha that dates back to the 8th century, making it a valuable religious relic.
Upon researching, the striking beauty and history of the Manthal Buddha Rock completely fascinated me. Its design reflects its heritage and the centuries in which it was crafted. On closer observation, it depicts an ancient Buddha, Maitreya (future Buddhas), with 20 small Bodhisattvas (disciples) around it.
This all propelled me to head to Pakistan, and I was so eager to see it with my bare eyes. I had been looking forward to visiting Manthal Buddha Rock for a long time. So, that’s when I decided to take the chance and fly to Skardu, Pakistan finally.
The journey towards The Manthal Buddha Rock:
Our arrival in Skardu marked the first day of our voyage. It was mostly occupied by meeting old friends and family, and resting before the fun began. The next morning, we set off for our excursion. We went towards the Sadpara road to see the Manthal Buddha Rock. Both my parents were very familiar with the artifact due to the spot’s local as well as international popularity.
The tour guide was quite insightful and informed us about how, according to some Historians, Buddhists in the Hindukush region entered Baltistan and Afghanistan. He further told us the rumors that they might have entered from there because of the mountains and their surface area to preserve their religion and preach Buddhism at the same time.
The locals there were extremely welcoming and kind. They were enthusiastic to see us visiting this glorious destination. It was overwhelming to see how they were eager to tell us stories revolving around this enchanting place. The Baltis there briefed us about the squared-shaped hole. They told us that pregnant women come to throw pebbles in this hole. If the pebble holds there, it means that they will have a son, and if it falls, they will have a girl. Though the story was amusing, people to this day believe that this method is accurate.
While reveling in the beauty of the astonishing Manthal Buddha Rock and capturing the overwhelming beauty of the extremely picturesque place, our tour guide gathered us around the breathtaking Rock. He showed us the carvings discovered by a historian named Jane Duncan in the 1900s. Then, a German scholar transcribed the old transcripts of Tibetan people, which were written on the rock. He also published that to let the world know about its inventions.
When we visited that rock, an awe of old and traditional flashbacks came to our mind where we could feel how the old people used to live. And believe me, Manthal Buddha rock is one of the places that remind you of that. The whole journey of this place was full of feelings of enlightenment and free spirit. I felt myself enjoying and recognizing myself in the middle of all the beautiful and bewitching experiences.
It is a sign of preserving the Budhha culture, and the Budhha were the seekers of wisdom. People who love to visit and want to explore different cultures, like me, must visit such places. So that they can get the full experience of fun and good knowledge along with a fresh breath of truth and wisdom of the old civilizations.
While going back, we also visited the Skardu Fort, located 5km from Manthal Buddha Rock. It took us almost 15 to 16 minutes to reach the mystical fort. Its architecture told us stories about the King of forts and even had an entrancing view overlooking the Skardu rocks. From the Skardu Fort, also known as the Kharpocho Fort, we drove to the Stunning Satpara Lake. It originates from the Satpara stream and feeds into the Skardu Valley. The crystal-clear lake is located on an elevation of 8,650 ft. creating a magical view.
Heading back home was a bittersweet journey as the time we spent during this unforgettable journey was ending. But I was thrilled for the new journey ahead of me.
Conclusion:
Visiting the Manthal Buddha Rock was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had! It is in itself a sign of ongoing cultural and historical gains and values, along with knowledge and wisdom. The legacy that the Manthal Buddha rock carries is indescribable.
So, if you are a history geek, then I would highly suggest you take a trip to this place and bask in the glory of the breathtaking Manthal Buddha Rock. Head away to our next blog Group Travel or Solo Travel: What’s Your Pick for Next Vacation? If you are curious to know your preferences for your next trip to Pakistan.