Field guides / Gilgit-Baltistan / Haldeikish Rock Carving
Field guide · Heritage
Haldeikish Rock Carving
The Haldikish Sacred Rocks are an archaeological site located in Hunza, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, along the Karakoram Highway between Ganish village and Attabad Lake.
This site, which dates back to the Proto Historic period (1st millennium BCE), is renowned for its extensive rock engravings and carvings, spread over two portions. The rocks measure 180 meters in length and 9 meters in height, and feature images of Ibexes, some of which show the animals being hunted. The carvings also depict Horned-Human deities interacting with the Ibexes, highlighting the cultural importance of these animals to Buddhists in the region. Additionally, there are carvings of a Tibetan-style Stupa and an ancient Chinese King, as well as inscriptions in Gupta script mentioning Chandragupta II (419 CE), suggesting the influence of the Gupta Empire in the area. The site, easily accessible from the Karakoram Highway, remains privately owned and unprotected.
Why go
- ✦Buddhist heritage
- ✦Gandhara archaeology
- ✦history
Current Condition
The Haldeikish Rock Carvings in Gilgit-Baltistan are a well-preserved cultural treasure, openly accessible to visitors and managed by the Gilgit-Baltistan Archaeology Department. These ancient petroglyphs remain a key tourist attraction, showcasing the region's Buddhist and Silk Road heritage. Current conservation efforts maintain their condition with no reported immediate threats to their preservation.
Planning tip
Best Time to Visit, Year-round; confirm local conditions and any festival dates before travel.
Getting there, In or near Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan; confirm current local access before visiting.
