Shamama Buddha Statue Site
Explore the remnants of the Shamama Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and discover the rich Buddhist history of Afghanistan's Bamyan Valley.
The Shamama Buddha, once a towering 38-meter statue, was one of the two famed Buddhas of Bamiyan, carved into the cliffs of the Bamyan Valley in the 6th century [4, 9, 17]. Though destroyed in 2001, the site remains a poignant reminder of the region's rich Buddhist past and its role as a crossroads of cultures along the Silk Road [4].
A brief summary to Shamama Buddha Statue
- RRJG+JJ4, Bamyan, AF
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the caves and climbing around the site [4].
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities for tourists [4].
- Respect local customs and dress modestly [4].
- Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the site [4].
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Bamyan city, the Shamama Buddha site is reachable on foot [4]. Head north from the main bazaar, following the road that leads towards the cliff face [4]. The site is well-known, so asking locals for directions can be helpful [4]. The walk takes approximately 30-45 minutes [4]. The path is relatively flat but can be dusty [4].
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Bamyan city center [4, 5]. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey [4]. A typical one-way taxi ride from the city center to the Shamama Buddha site should cost approximately 200-400 Afghanis [4]. The ride is short, about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic [4]. The taxi will drop you off near the base of the cliffs, from where you can walk to the statue remains [4].
Discover more about Shamama Buddha Statue
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