Zehanpora Stupas
Context:
In Zehanpora village (Baramulla, North Kashmir), large earthen mounds spread over 10 acres, previously thought to be natural formations, have been identified as ancient man-made structures.
The site recently gained attention after being mentioned by the Prime Minister in his Mann ki Baat address
Discovery:
Researchers from the Centre of Central Asian Studies (University of Kashmir) and the J&K Department of Archives, Archaeology and Museums conducted excavations in October of last year(2025)
The site resembles images of three Buddha stupas found in French museum archives.
Excavations revealed that the structures date back to the Kushan era.
Historical Significance:
The Zehanpora site, spread across nearly 10 acres in Baramulla district.
The site adds to the evidence of Kashmir’s deep Buddhist heritage.
The region was a hub for the Mahayana sect, which later spread to China and Central Asia.
The evolution of Buddhism in Kashmir is linked to rulers like King Surendra (mentioned in Rajatarangini), the Indo-Greek king Menander, and the Kushan kings.
The discovery at Zehanpora complements other Buddhist sites in Kashmir such as Ushkur, Kanispora, Parihaspora, and Harwan.
The mounds have eroded over centuries and a canal (dug in the 1970s) divides the site, but they remain a distinct archaeological feature requiring further conservation.
About Buddhist Archaeological Landscape of Kashmir:
North Kashmir hosts several Buddhist-linked sites such as Kanishpora, Ushkur, Zehanpora, and Parihaspora
Central Kashmir features the Harwan Buddhist complex in Srinagar, known for terracotta tile pavements
South Kashmir includes important sites like Semthan, Hutmur, Hoinar, and Kutbal, reflecting widespread Buddhist influence.
Zehanpora excavation adds a crucial missing link to understanding the religious, cultural, and trade history of the Himalayan region.