Field guides / Khyber Pakhtunkhwa / Sikri Fasting Buddha Sculpture
Field guide · Heritage
Sikri Fasting Buddha Sculpture
Sikri, located in District Dir of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, is a historically significant Buddhist archaeological site.
It is most famous for the discovery of the “Fasting Buddha”, one of the finest examples of Gandhāran art, depicting Prince Siddhartha during his ascetic phase. The sculpture, carved in grey schist, showcases deep realism with emaciated features and is considered a global icon of Buddhist sculpture. Discovered during British-era excavations in the early 20th century, it is now the centerpiece of the Lahore Museum’s Gandhāra Gallery. Sikri is geographically close to other major Buddhist sites like Loriyan Tangai and Chakdara.
Why go
- ✦Buddhist heritage
- ✦Gandhara archaeology
- ✦history
Current Condition
Sikri's protected but inactive site offers no hint of its glorious past as home to the "Fasting Buddha" masterpiece. Minimal investments in signage and site presentation could transform it into a meaningful pilgrimage stop on Pakistan's Buddhist trail.
Planning tip
Best Time to Visit, Year-round; confirm local conditions and any festival dates before travel.
Getting there, In or near Dir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa; confirm current local access before visiting.
