The Monastery at Takht Bhai, located in present-day Mardan District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, is a remarkable relic of ancient Gandhara civilization and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This Buddhist monastic complex is celebrated for its excellent state of preservation and its significance as a center for Buddhist learning and culture.

Takht Bhai was established in the 1st century CE during the Kushan Empire and remained in use until the 7th century CE.

It is a trip that can be made in a day from Peshawar even Islamabad.
1. We started from Peshawar, but on the way, we stopped on the outskirts to see the Mughal era Chuha Churi Bridge in Chamkani. Next to this was an old Banyan Tree.

2. From here we drove to Takht Bhai. Apart from the Monastery, the town is famous for its Chapli Kebab.

3. The Monastery, as is the case with most of the ancient archeological sites in KPK is on top of a hill. When one climbs to the top, you may sense the quiet and calm that the monks that lived in the Monastery would be accustomed to.

3. The monastery is an extensive complex consisting of various structures, including:

1. Stupas: Several stupas, used for religious worship and housing relics, dominate the site. They reflect the architectural style of Gandhara art, blending Indian, Greek, and Persian influences.
2. Monastic Cells: Small chambers for monks to live and meditate, providing insight into the austere lifestyle of the monastic community.
3. Assembly Halls: Used for gatherings, teaching, and religious ceremonies.
4. Courtyards and Pathways: These connect the various sections, creating a cohesive and serene environment for spiritual practice.

The monastery declined after the 7th century CE, coinciding with the gradual decline of Buddhism in the region due to the spread of Hinduism under the Hindu Shahis and the arrival of Islam.

Today, Takht Bahi stands as a testament to the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of ancient Gandhara, attracting scholars, historians, and tourists from around the world.

After this was a short drive home.

Artist’s impression of what the monastery looked like.