Shah Allah Ditta caves, Ancient Buddhist caves in Margalla Hills, Pakistan
Shah Allah Ditta caves are ancient Buddhist meditation chambers carved into the limestone cliffs of the Margalla Hills at 600 meters elevation. Multiple rooms are hollowed into the rock, showcasing the craftsmanship of early cave builders.
Buddhist monks established these meditation spaces in the 4th century BC, with Hindu ascetics later occupying them and subsequently Muslim saints during the Mughal era. The shift in inhabitants reflects how religious practices layered over centuries.
The cave walls display Buddhist murals spanning over two thousand years, reflecting the religious art traditions of the Gandhara civilization. Visitors can observe how different faiths used this place over time, leaving their marks on the stone.
The caves can be reached via a paved path from Shah Allah Ditta village with guided tours available during daylight hours. The paths are well maintained, making navigation straightforward in this natural setting.
This site sits along a section of an ancient trade route connecting Kabul to Taxila, used by Alexander the Great and Mughal emperors. This historical link shows how important this region was for exchange across continents.
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