Chenab Nagar Rock Art, Chiniot

The rock art sites of Chenab Nagar (Chiniot), Punjab reveal a blend of cultural influences, including Buddhist, Zoroastrian, Iranian, and Hunic traditions.

GPGreenPak Field GuidesSourced from GreenPak · 2 min read

The presence of tower- like stupas engraved on rocks clearly indicates a Buddhist historical presence in the area. Discovery of Kushan-period coins, a dynasty known for promoting Buddhism, further supports this connection. Petroglyphs depict horsemen standing on horses, floral motifs, giant human figures, shoe prints, and Zoroastrian symbols like Ahura Mazda rings. The decorative style of horses reflects Achaemenid and Sassanian artistic influences, showing interaction with Iranian cultures. Similar rock art motifs in Sindh and Gilgit-Baltistan link this site to broader Buddhist and Central Asian traditions. Historically, this area likely hosted a small Buddhist community or pilgrims, alongside other religious groups.

Why go

✦Rock art with tower-like stupas in the Chenab hills
✦Horsemen, giant figures, footprints and Zoroastrian symbols
✦Kushan-period coins found in the area

Planning tip

Best Time to Visit, November to February, when the rocky hills at Chenab Nagar are cool.

Getting there, In the rocky Chenab hills at Chenab Nagar, Chiniot district; unprotected and quarried.

What to Do

◆Look for the stupa engravings on the rocks

◆Go with a local guide; the hills are quarried

◆Combine with Chiniot's old town

Nearby

Straight-line distance from Chenab Nagar Rock Art, Chiniot, within 5 km.

Tomb of Shah Burhan

~5 km from Chenab Nagar Rock Art, Chiniot

Omar Hayat Mahal, Chiniot

~5 km from Chenab Nagar Rock Art, Chiniot