Saturday, 19 August 2023

171. Shah Allah Ditta Caves & a Baoli - Islamabad!

Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan, is a relatively new city, but the area itself has a history stretching back thousands of years. The earliest known civilization of this region was the Gandhara civilization, whose main city, Taxila, lies not far from Islamabad—today almost on the outskirts of this rapidly expanding city. Taxila is famous for its great stupas, monasteries, and numerous other archaeological sites, many of which I have covered in my previous posts.

One of the sites associated with the Buddhist religious and cultural tradition is the Shah Allah Ditta Caves. This site is located within the boundaries of the Islamabad Capital Territory, close to the modern residential areas of D-13. The caves are situated at 33°43'18.09"N, 72°54'54.45"E.

According to general information available on different sources, the site was originally used by Buddhist monks for many centuries, beginning around 400 BC. This seems quite likely, as the area lies in the heart of the Gandhara civilization, and the nearest stupa is located only 2 km to the west, on top of the hills. A trail leads to the stupa, though I did not visit it myself, so I cannot confirm the current condition of the path. The ascent, however, is nearly 200 meters, which is considerable.

The caves of Shah Allah Ditta. (31.07.2022.)

The place is simply wonderful. (31.07.2022.)


The caves are set in a very beautiful place, covered with verdant trees and foliage. The scene captivates your senses and soothes your nerves. The whole setting is very serene and peaceful. Lush green hills surround the place as if protecting it from the tumults of the outside world. 

A gorge in the west of the caves. The Ban Faqiran Stupa is located in the same direction. 

After the influence of Buddhism faded in the region, Hinduism became popular. This place too came under the use of Hindu Sadhus and reportedly they lived here up to 1947. The garden at the caves is still known as Sadhu Ka Bagh i.e. Garden of the Sadhu. 


A pond filled with spring water. 

Iftikhar and Obaid are closely inspecting the waterworks at Shah Allah Ditta. (31.07.2022.)

Ruins of old dwellings of sadhus and monks. 

The caves. (31.07.2022.)


Another cave. (31.07.2022.)

A spring flows out of the hills and irrigates the adjoining fields. (31.07.2022.)

Sadhu Ka Bagh.  (31.07.2022.)


On the way to Shah Allah Ditta.  

Obaid ur Rehman. (31.07.2022.)

Tariq Amir, the writer. (31.07.2022.)

Passing through D-12, on the way to Shah Allah Ditta. (31.07.2022.)

The caves are not the only attraction in the area. Up in the hills, about 3.5 km away, stands another historic structure, a baoli (stepwell). No authentic information is available about when or by whom it was constructed.

The road leading to the baoli is very scenic, offering a wonderful view of Islamabad City below. Needless to say, the surroundings are beautiful. A few resorts are also located nearby, providing places for rest and dining. The baoli is located at 33°43'48.05"N, 72°55'35.59"E.

Obaid taking shelter under a tree in warm and humid weather. (31.07.2022.)


It is a small Baoli, actually the smallest one I have ever seen. Its location suggests that once it was a busy trail used by people to cross the Margalla Hills. It is made of carved stones and still supplies water to the local people. It is in good condition and brimming with water, which suggests that people pay good attention to its maintenance. 
 

It is a very small baoli. 


A view of Islamabad. (31.07.2022.)

From the left: Tariq, Obaid and Iftikhar. (31.07.2022.)

It is a very nice picnic spot for a day out to relax and enjoy in a serene atmosphere, amidst the lush green Margalla Hills. Hikers can also enjoy the walking tracks in the area. Some restaurants and resorts are open to serve the visitors. You can enjoy your dinner in this peaceful atmosphere while enjoying the beautiful scenery all around. 


Tariq Amir

August 19, 2023.
Islamabad

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