Field guides / Sindh / Mirpur Khas / Kahu-jo-Daro, Mirpur Khas
Field guide · Heritage
Mirpur Khas
Mirpur Khas District · Sindh, Pakistan
Kahu-jo-Daro, Mirpur Khas
The brick Buddhist stupa of Mirpur Khas, excavated before 1910, whose terracotta reliefs are now in museums worldwide.
Excavations before 1910 revealed a large brick stupa and numerous terracotta reliefs, some of which are displayed in world museums. Initially dated to the 4th to 5th centuries, the stupa is now believed to date from the 5th to early 6th century, based on its complex artwork resembling that found in Ajanta and Bhitargaon. The site also yielded Hindu and Buddhist artworks, including Buddha images and a 7th-century painted figure of Avalokitesvara. Terracotta clay tablets with Buddhist inscriptions were also discovered. The stupa's unique art style blends Greco-Buddhist and Gupta traditions. The site has suffered significant damage over time due to brick theft and previous construction activities.
Why go
- ✦The brick stupa of Mirpur Khas, excavated before 1910
- ✦Terracotta reliefs now in museums around the world
- ✦Dated to the 5th or early 6th century, with art like Ajanta's
Current Condition
Kahu-Jo-Daro remains unprotected and in a deteriorating state, with much of the structure damaged due to brick theft, salinity, and encroachment. Despite its significance, no proper preservation work is currently underway. The site falls under the Sindh Directorate of Antiquities, but practical conservation efforts are lacking.
Planning tip
Best Time to Visit, November to February. The great brick stupa near Mirpur Khas, whose terracotta reliefs are now in museums abroad, has been badly damaged by brick theft and salinity; avoid mid-April to late June, lower Sindh's hottest weeks.
Getting there, Near Mirpur Khas, Sindh; badly damaged and without conservation.
What to Do
Nearby
Straight-line distance from Kahu-jo-Daro, Mirpur Khas, within 5 km.
