Ladakh
The land of lamas, Ladakh sheer bliss is blessed by the presence of many
monasteries and their spiritual practice. The legacy of Buddhism in Ladakh
has been under Tibetan influence and most of the monasteries we see today
are from the same period. Over 36 monasteries dwell on the isolated
Hindukush range of Ladakh. And every gompa is unique in its own right. Known
among them are Stok, Alchi, Bardan, Hemis, Thiksey, Sumda Chun etc.
Zangla Monastery
Situated in the Zanskar’s ruined hilltop castle, Zangla monastery is a
dwelling complex for 150 lamas.
Ambran near Jammu
Alongside the banks of river Chenab in Akhnoor region, an ancient Buddhist
site of Ambran is located.
Dzongkhul
Dzongkhul Monastery or Zongkhul Gompa is located in the Stod Valley
of Zanskar in Jammu and Kashmir State. Like Sani Monastery, it belongs to
the Drukpa school of Tibetan Buddhism.
Parihaspora
Excavations in Baramulla have unveiled the ancient Buddhist heritage of
Parihaspora including remains of ancient Stupa, Chaityas and Monasteries.
Harwan
Excavations at Harwan in Kashmir have reinstated the fact that the site was
once the thriving Buddhist center. Evidences have revealed the traces of
Buddhist heritage including a triple base medium Buddhist Stupa, a set of
rooms served as chapels, or as monks’ residence. Dug out excavations
also include copper coins, and other stupa mounds. Also, Ambaran served as
the stopover point for Buddhist monks who travelled from Taxila to
Patliputra.
Kanispura
Another set of excavations in Baramula district Kanispura have revealed
treasure trove of Buddhist golden era in India. The traces of Buddhist
affiliation date back from 1st Century AD to 6th Century AD. The remains of
monastic complex have unveiled the embellished art of decorative terracotta
tiles and floral decorations on the walls.
Dhankar
Inscriptions in Brahmi and Kharosthi on tiles were also dug out tiles.
According to Buddhist literary scriptures, 4th Buddhist Council was held at
Kanishpura during the Kushan King Kanishka.
Ushkura
Anciently known as Haviskapura, Uskura in Baramulla district have also
unearthed monastic establishments and terracotta artifacts.
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