Kumtura Thousand Buddha Caves

The site contains 112 cave temples carved into mountain cliffs along the east bank of the Weigan River, divided into north and south sections.

The caves originated between the fifth and eleventh centuries when Buddhism arrived from India to Qiuci, an ancient state in the Western Regions.

The frescoes combine elements from different regions of the Silk Road, depicting Buddhist mythology through local artistic techniques and traditional Qiuci attire.

The caves stand 25 kilometers west of Kucha in Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region, requiring special arrangements for visits through approved tour operators.

The 1970s construction of Dongfang Hong Hydroelectric Plant raised Muzat River water levels, accelerating the decay of cave paintings and architectural features.

Location: Kuqa

GPS coordinates: 41.71170,82.67840

Latest update: March 10, 2025 05:09