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Takht-e Rostam: Ancient Buddhist Monastery

Explore Takht-e Rostam, an ancient Buddhist monastery carved into the Afghan bedrock, offering a unique glimpse into the region's Silk Road past.

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Takht-e Rostam, also known as the Stupa of Takht-e Rostam, is an ancient Buddhist monastery complex located near Aybak in Afghanistan [7]. Carved directly into the bedrock, the complex dates back to the 3rd-4th century AD, offering a glimpse into the region's rich Buddhist history [5, 7].

A brief summary to Takht e Rostam

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as the site involves climbing and exploring uneven terrain.
  • Bring water and sun protection, as the site offers little shade and temperatures can be extreme.
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting the site.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Aybak city center, hire a taxi to Takht-e Rostam, approximately 2 km south [7]. Negotiate the fare beforehand, as prices may vary. A typical one-way taxi ride should cost around 100-150 Afghanis [8, 20, 21].

  • Walking

    If you're near Aybak, consider walking to Takht-e Rostam. Head south from the city center; the site is about a 2-kilometer walk [7]. Be prepared for a slight uphill climb. There are no entrance fees, but consider tipping the local caretaker [5, 20].

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Discover more about Takht e Rostam

Takht-e Rostam, meaning the Throne of Rostam, is a historical site in Afghanistan's Samangan Province, 2 kilometers south of Haibak [7]. This unique Buddhist monastery complex is carved entirely from the bedrock and dates back to the 3rd-4th century AD, a period when the area was part of the Kushano-Sasanian Kingdom [5, 7]. The complex features five chambers, including two sanctuaries [5, 7]. One sanctuary boasts a domed ceiling adorned with intricate lotus leaf carvings, showcasing remarkable craftsmanship [5, 7]. Nearby, a stupa, topped with a harmika, is also carved into the rock, surrounded by caves [5, 7, 12]. Historians have proposed that the underground design served as camouflage or protection from the harsh climate [5, 12]. Following the Muslim conquests, the site's original purpose was forgotten, and it became associated with the Persian legend of Rostam and Sohrab from Ferdowsi's Shahnameh [5, 7]. According to the tale, Rostam visited the Kingdom of Samangan and stayed at Takht-e Rostam [5, 7]. Today, Takht-e Rostam stands as a testament to Afghanistan's diverse religious past and is open to visitors [5]. In 2021, the Afghan government renovated the site, adding a hall for tourists [7].

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