Mankiala Stupa, Buddhist stupa in Mankiala, Pakistan.
Mankiala Stupa is a circular stone structure on the Potohar Plateau, distinguished by its thoughtful Buddhist architectural patterns on the outer walls. The building displays traditional design elements that reflect ancient Buddhist craftsmanship.
The stupa was built during Kanishka's reign between 128 and 151 CE and was part of early Buddhist construction activity in the region. After its first documentation in 1808, it received major restoration work in 1891.
The site is tied to a legend about a prince who sacrificed himself to save starving tigers. This story shapes how people perceive and visit the place today.
The site is reachable via the G.T. Road, with directions at Sagri More junction, situated several kilometers from Islamabad. Visitors should prepare for a mix of paved and unpaved terrain when traveling to the location.
A joint Pakistani-South Korean research team regularly conducts excavations at this location and makes ongoing discoveries beneath the main structure. Advanced technologies like drones help uncover hidden structures surrounding the stupa.
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