Dharmarajika Stupa And Monastery
Dharmarajika Stupa And Monastery is located in Rawalpindi District, Punjab, Pakistan. It is a Buddhist complex that dates back to the 3rd century BCE, during the reign of the Mauryan Empire. The complex includes a large stupa or a dome-shaped structure that serves as a Buddhist shrine, as well as monastic buildings that housed monks and other members of the Buddhist community. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Dharmarajika Stupa is one of the oldest surviving stupas in the region and is considered a significant example of Buddhist architecture. The stupa is believed to have been built to commemorate the enlightenment of the Buddha and is surrounded by smaller stupas and votive shrines. The monastery buildings were used for living quarters, teaching spaces, and other activities related to Buddhist practice and study.