Field guides / Khyber Pakhtunkhwa / Shina shah Stupa
Field guide · Heritage
Shina shah Stupa
This is an important Buddhist archaeological site, was excavated by the Federal Department of Archaeology and subsequently by the Department of Archaeology, University of Peshawar.
The main stupa at the site is square in plan, measuring 22m x 22m with a height of 17m, portraying three storeys including the plinth and the top third storey surmounted by a drum of the composite dome. A stair comprising twelve steps leads to the top of the square plinth of the main stupa. There are three votive stupas, square in plan around the main stupa.
Why go
- ✦A main stupa 22 metres square and 17 metres high
- ✦Three storeys, the top carrying a drum for a composite dome
- ✦Twelve steps climbing to the square plinth
- ✦Three square votive stupas set around it
- ✦Excavated by the Federal Department and then by Peshawar University
History
The stupa rises through three storeys including the plinth, with the topmost carrying the drum of a composite dome — the tiered form characteristic of later Gandharan building. A stair of twelve steps climbs to the top of the square plinth, and three square votive stupas stand around the main structure.
Historical Significance
A well-preserved example of the tiered square stupa, and a site whose excavation history spans both federal and university archaeology in Pakistan.
Why Visit
Take the twelve steps up to the plinth — the stupa was built to be climbed onto, not only looked at.
Interesting Facts
- The main stupa is 22 metres square and 17 metres high
- Twelve steps lead up to the top of the square plinth
- Three square votive stupas stand around it
Planning tip
Best Time to Visit, March to November. Spring and autumn are the pick; upper Swat holds snow through winter, though Mingora and the valley floor stay open.
Getting there, Swat valley, reached via the Swat Expressway from Mardan — around four hours from Islamabad. Butkara sits on the edge of Mingora; Nimogram and Shina Shah are further out on valley roads.
Allow, An hour to ninety minutes at each; a full day to link them with the Swat Museum.
What to Do
Make Shina shah Stupa Part of a Trip
GreenPak resorts within reach, and the journeys that travel this region.
Nearby
Straight-line distance from Shina shah Stupa, within 30 km.
