Field guides / Punjab / Sirsukh City
Field guide · Heritage
Sirsukh City
The city of Sirsukh is said to have been founded during the Kushan era after 80 CE, and is the last of the great ancient cities of Taxila.
The invaders decided to abandon the older city of Sirkap and build a newer city on the other side of the Lundi-nala. The wall of the city is about 5 kilometers long and about 5.4 meters thick. The city wall covers an area of around 2300 x 1000 meters seen along the east-west direction, and is laid out in a typical Central Asian style, complete with suburbs. Sirsukh was left uninhabited when the White Huns invaded the Punjab at the end of the fifth century CE. To the north-east of the city flows the Harro river whereas to the south the Lundi-ravine is present.
Why go
- ✦Buddhist heritage
- ✦Gandhara archaeology
- ✦history
Current Condition
Sirsukh City near Taxila is a protected archaeological site managed by the Department of Archaeology and Museums, Pakistan. It remains open to visitors, though challenges like encroachment and limited excavation persist. Ongoing conservation and research efforts aim to preserve its historical significance.
Planning tip
Best Time to Visit, Year-round; confirm local conditions and any festival dates before travel.
Getting there, In or near Taxila, Punjab; confirm current local access before visiting.
