A distinguished international delegation led by World Bank Vice President Mamta Murthi toured prominent archaeological and cultural heritage sites in Taxila and nearby Khanpur on Monday. The group showed strong interest in the ancient Gandhara civilization and the ongoing initiatives to safeguard Pakistan’s historical treasures.
The delegation’s itinerary included visits to the Taxila Museum, the ancient city of Sirkap, the Dharmarajika Stupa, and the Julian Stupa Buddhist monastery. At the Taxila Museum, officials from the Department of Archaeology welcomed the visitors and provided detailed briefings on the museum’s extensive collection of Gandhara-era artefacts and rare antiquities, emphasizing its vital role in preserving the region’s cultural heritage.
Members of the delegation explored various galleries, observing artefacts linked to Buddhist civilization and Gandhara art. They then proceeded to Sirkap and the Dharmarajika Stupa, both integral parts of the UNESCO-listed Taxila archaeological complex. During these visits, officials highlighted the historical importance of these sites and discussed ongoing conservation efforts designed to protect them.
The group also visited the Julian Buddhist monastery near Khanpur, recognized as one of the most significant archaeological sites connected to the Gandhara civilization. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Director General of Archaeology, Abdul Samad, provided insights into the site’s archaeological, religious, and cultural significance, along with updates on preservation projects and its potential to boost tourism.
Abdul Samad emphasized that landmarks like Taxila and Julian are crucial elements of Pakistan’s civilizational heritage. He noted that visits by international organizations and dignitaries play a key role in raising global awareness of the country’s archaeological wealth and support efforts to promote cultural tourism.
Officials remarked that the delegation’s visit underscored the increasing international interest in Pakistan’s Buddhist heritage and highlighted the importance of conserving historical sites that attract researchers, pilgrims, and tourists worldwide. This visit marks a significant step toward enhancing global recognition of Taxila’s world-renowned heritage sites and fostering a broader appreciation of Pakistan’s rich cultural and historical legacy.
