visit to taxila museum essay

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The Treasures of Taxila Museum: Exploring the Rich Cultural Heritage of South Asia

The Taxila Museum is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in the history and culture of ancient Sub-Continent. Its impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits provide a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past, and its importance as a center of learning and culture. The museum is a testament to the enduring legacy of Taxila and its role in shaping the history and culture of the region.

The museum is home to an important and comprehensive collection of  Gandhara  art from the 1st to 7th centuries AD. Most of the objects in the collection were excavated from the ruins of ancient  Taxila . There are many historical monuments near the museum. There are ancient stupas and other ruins nearby.

Taxila Museum Location

The Taxila Museum is located in the city of  Taxila , Pakistan, and is home to an impressive collection of artifacts related to the history and culture of the ancient city. The museum was founded in 1928 and has since become one of the most important archaeological  museums in Pakistan .

The museum’s collection includes artifacts dating back to the 6th century BCE, including sculptures, pottery, coins, and other objects from the  Achaemenid , Greek,  Buddhist , and Hindu periods. The exhibits are arranged chronologically, allowing visitors to see the evolution of Taxila’s culture and society over time.

One of the museum’s most famous exhibits is the  Gandhara Gallery , which showcases Buddhist art from the region. The gallery features an impressive collection of sculptures, including the famous “ Buddha of Swat ,” a large statue of the Buddha dating back to the 2nd century CE.

Another highlight of the museum is the  Jain Gallery , which features artifacts related to Jainism, an ancient religion that once flourished in the region. The gallery includes several stone sculptures and inscriptions related to Jainism, as well as a reconstructed  Jain temple .

The museum also houses exhibits related to the Greek and Hindu periods of Taxila’s history, including coins, pottery, and other artifacts from these periods. Visitors can learn about the city’s role as a center of trade and commerce, as well as its importance as a center of learning and culture.

In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Taxila Museum also hosts temporary exhibitions related to various aspects of ancient Indian civilization. The museum is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world who are interested in learning more about the rich history and culture of the region.

Pictures Gallery

History of Taxila Museum

Construction of the Taxila Museum began in 1918, with the foundation stone laid by Lord Chelmsford, the Viceroy of India in 1918. The construction was completed in 1928 and the museum was opened to the public by Sir Muhammad Habibullah, the then Minister of Education. Sir John Marshall, who was due to be removed as Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India in 1928, was unable to complete his original plan. The  Government of Pakistan  built the North Gallery in 1998.

The Taxila Museum has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the early 20th century. The museum was established in 1928 by Sir John Marshall, the Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India, who recognized the importance of Taxila’s rich archaeological heritage.

Under Marshall’s direction, the museum was built to showcase the artifacts and treasures that had been discovered at the nearby archaeological sites. Marshall also oversaw the excavation and preservation of many of the ancient structures and ruins in the area, which provided a wealth of information about the city’s history and culture.

The museum’s initial collection was relatively small, but it grew rapidly over the years as more artifacts were discovered and added to the collection. In 1963, the museum was transferred to the Pakistani government and became part of the  Department of Archaeology .

Since then, the museum has undergone several renovations and expansions, including the construction of new galleries and the installation of modern display cases and lighting systems. Today, the museum is home to over 5,000 artifacts, including sculptures, pottery, coins, and other objects from the Achaemenid, Greek, Buddhist, and Hindu periods.

The museum also houses a research center that is dedicated to the study of ancient Indian civilization. The center conducts archaeological surveys and excavations in various parts of the region and works to promote the study of ancient Indian culture and history.

Over the years, the Taxila Museum has become one of the most important cultural institutions in Pakistan, attracting visitors from all over the world who are interested in learning more about the rich history and culture of the region. The museum’s collection of artifacts and exhibits provides a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past, and its research center works to ensure that the legacy of Taxila is preserved for future generations.

Taxila Research Center

The museum also has a research center, which is dedicated to the study of ancient Indian civilization. The research center conducts archaeological excavations and surveys in various parts of the region and works to promote the study of ancient Indian civilization.

Taxila Artifacts

Currently, around 7,000 artifacts are on display in the Taxila Museum and around 30,000 are preserved in the reserve collection. The collection includes sacred relics of the Buddha, stone and stucco statues, stupas, relic caskets, inscriptions, beads, jewelry, coins, tools, ceramics, utensils, and a variety of other architectural and domestic objects.

The display mainly consists of objects from the period 600 BC to 500 AD. Buddhist, Hindu and Jain religions are well represented through these objects discovered from three ancient cities and more than two dozen Buddhist stupas and monasteries and Greek temples in the region.

The Taxila Museum has one of the most important and comprehensive collections of Buddhist stone sculpture from the first to the seventh century in Pakistan (known as Gandhara art. The core of the collection comes from excavated sites in the Taxila Valley, particularly Sir John Marshall’s excavations. Other items come from excavated sites elsewhere in Gandhanra, from donations such as the Ram Das collection, or from material seized by police and customs.The entire collection contains over 1,400 items and 409 have been published.

Taxila Museum is the local museum and is the repository of most of the numismatic material found during the archaeological work in Taxila. Excavation began in 1917 under the direction of John Marshall, the then Director of the Archaeological Survey of India, and continued until 1934. From these excavations, the work continues till the present day. The museum contains a large collection of coins from the Indo-Greek period to the late Kushans. Some of these are published in Marshall’s original excavation reports, and there is an ongoing project to publish the entire collection.

The museum’s core collection was unearthed from excavated sites in the Taxila Valley, such as the  Bhir Mound , Sirkap and  Sirsukh  settlements (capitals), as well as Buddhist stupas and monasteries at Dharmarajika ;  Mohra Moradu ,  Jaulian ,  Kalawan ,  Bhamala , Tofkian, Bajran and  Giri  to name a few.

Timings of Taxila Museum

Timings of Taxila Museum are from 9 am to 12:30 noon. 

Then there is a break from 12:30 to 02:30

Re-opens from 02:30 pm to 04 pm daily.

Taxila Museum Ticket Prices

Ticket price for Locals is Rs. 20 and for Foreigner is Rs. 500 per person.

Note: Please check the current prices as these are old prices of 2022.

Guides are also available in the museum for the guidance.

Access to Taxila Museum

The museum is located in the heart of the city of Taxila and is easily accessible by road. The museum is open to visitors from 9 am to 5 pm every day except for Fridays when it is closed.

Visitors to the museum can also explore the nearby ruins of Taxila, which are some of the most important archaeological sites in the region. The ruins include the remains of ancient temples, stupas, and other structures, which provide a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture.

In conclusion, the Taxila Museum is an important cultural institution that serves as a repository of the region’s rich heritage. Its collection of artifacts and exhibits provides a fascinating insight into the history and culture of ancient India, and its research center works to promote the study of ancient Indian civilization. A visit to the museum and the nearby ruins of Taxila is a must for anyone interested in the history and culture of South Asia.

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A visit to taxila – pakistan’s heritage.

As you, the space-age visitor, step into Taxila you feel suddenly 2,500 years younger. For that is when one of the world’s least known but most interesting civilizations took root and flourished in Taxila --- that ancient city south of the River Indus. Once a province of the powerful Achaemenian Empire, Taxila was conquered by Alexander in 327 B. C. It later came under the Mauryan dynasty and reached a remarkably mature level of development under the great Asoka.Then appeared the Indo-Greek descendants of Alexander’s warrior and finally came the most creative period of Gandhara. The great Kushan dynasty was established about 50 A.D. During the next 200 year. Taxila became a renowned centre of learning, from as far away as China and Greece. The end came in the fifth century A.D. when the White Huns snuffed out the last of the successive civilizations that had held unbroken sway in this region for several centuries.

Exploring Taxila is a multi-dimensional experience. You are attracted by the richness and variety of the famed Gandhara sculpture. There are endless images of Buddha, in stone and stucco, and numerous panels depicting all the important stages of the great sage’s life. Exquisitely sculpted friezes and statues of all sizes evoke the life and times of one of the worlds’ most impressive men of peace: Gautama Buddha.

Each carved bit of sculpture, from the colossal to the miniature ---- and there are literally thousands of them – is a collector’s item. Even if you aren’t exactly a devotee of the sculpture of the first century A.D., you will find it a challenge to trace similarities between the Gandhara masterpieces and their Graeco-Roman counterparts. Incidentally, it is these stone men and women of Gandhara who greet you so graciously in Taxila, or rather their craftsmen, who first gave visual expression to Buddha and his era. And then there are the excavated ruins. Three distinct cities stretch before you in a surprisingly good state of preservation. With your imagination aided by the carved people who inhabit these cities, you will have little difficulty in picturing crowds on the well laid out streets, families in the spacious houses, priests in the towering stupas and royalty in the great palaces.

The earliest city, Bhir Mound, dates back to the sixth century B.C. Its irregular streets, cramped houses and mediocre public building indicate its primitive origins. Sirkap, on the opposite side of the Tamara Stream, is much newer, having been built in the second century B.C. You will find Sirkap a well-planned city. And as you stroll down its wide streets, you can call at the houses of the affluent and go slumming, as it were, in the more crowded sections where dwelt the common man of the dim and misty past. Note the fortification wall, the long, straight and impressive main street, the Royal Palace, and Apsidal Temple and the Shrine of the Double-Headed Eagle. The third city, Sirsukh, is modern by comparison. It was apparently built by the Kushan kings in the first century A.D. It has not been fully excavated as yet but it is clearly a well fortified, well laid out city, patterned after Central Asian cities and is complete with a suburb.

In addition to these three major cities, many important monasteries, stupas and palaces have been excavated all along the Taxila valley. Many more, surely, still lies buried awaiting discovery. If you can’t manage all, you must at least explore the remarkable Dharmarajika Stupa, three kilometers east of the Taxila Museum. It comprises a main building, a monastery area where the monks lived and a series of small chapels. Sacred relics of Buddha and a silver scroll commemorating the relics were found in one of the chapels. A wealth of gold and silver coins, gems, jewellery and other antiques were discovered at Dharmarajika. They are all housed in the Taxila Museum.

There is also Jaulian, another impressive complex of chapels, stupas, quadrangles, and a monastery with assembly hall, storerooms, refectory, kitchen and bathrooms. At five small stupas you will see beautiful stucco relief of Buddha and Bodhisatvas supported by rows of stone elephants and lions. Two miles from Jaulian is another well-preserved monastery --- at Mohra Moradu. In one of the monk’ cells here was found a small stupa with almost all the details intact. At Jandial, two kilometers from Sirsukh, is an imageless temple in the classic Greek style, with columns and cornices.

Museum Timings Winter (1st Oct.  --- 31st Mar. ) 09.00 hours---16.00 hours Summer (1st April --- 30th Sept.) 09.00 hours---12:00 hours and 4.00 hours---18.00 hours The museum is closed on the first Monday of every month.

Accessibility Only 35 km away from Rawalpindi/Islamabad, it is easily accessible from all entry points. From Karachi, Taxila is just a shot hop away. Board a PIA jet at Karachi and in less than 2 hours you are in Islamabad - the heart of a really colourful and varied tourist region. Then travel by taxi to Taxila to keep your date with Buddha.

By Rail Comfortable, air-conditioned train services link Karachi and Rawalpindi/Islamabad. The train journey takes about 27 hours. Taxila lies on the main railway route from Lahore to Peshawar.

By Road By car from Karachi to Islamabad can be tedious. But it's very rewarding between Lahore and Islamabad --- which are linked by frequent bus and air-conditioned coach services. Regular buses also ply between Rawalpindi/Islamabad and Taxila and Peshawar.

Distances Karachi – Taxila:     1,478 km Lahore  -- Taxila:     280 km via N-5 (G.T. Road) and 380 km via M-2 (Motorway) Islamabad –Taxila:  35   km Peshawar --  Taxila 136 km

Accommodation Visitors to Taxila generally stay at nearby Rawalpindi and Islamabad, which have good hotels in every category. Top hotels are; Islamabad Marriott, Islamabad Serena, Best Western and Holiday Inn Islamabad Hotel are located in Islamabad whereas Pearl Continental, Shalimar and Flashman's Hotel are located in Rawalpindi. Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation has a Tourist Information Office Centre, Motel and Restaurant just opposite the Taxila Museum for the convenience of tourists. Food can be had from the Snack Bar 'a la carte'. For booking, please contact Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), Flashman’s Hotel, The Mall, Rawalpindi (Tel: +92-51-9272017-18 Fax: +92-51-9272020). The rest-house near the Museum and the dak bungalow near Nikra, five kilometers away, provide simple, comfortable accommodation. Lodging charges are nominal. Caretakers arranges for meals on payments. Advance booking is done through the Curator of Taxila Museum. There is a Youth Hostel quite close to the Museum with accommodation for 24 persons. It can be used by members Association affiliated with the International Youth Hostels Federation. It costs only a few rupees.

General Information The ruins of the ancient cities are spread over an area of about 20 sq. kms.The summers are very hot with temperatures soaring to a maximum of over 40 C, but the winters are delightfully cool and pleasant with maximum and minimum temperatures hovering around 5 – 15 C, respectively.The best season for a visit is between September and March. The summer season is from April to September. Although Punjabi and Urdu are the main languages, English is widely spoken and understood. Taxila is situated at an altitude of 512 m. above sea level.

Places of Interest Around Taxila

Islamabad: Pakistan's new capital has, like Brasilia, been built to order by some of the world's top architects and planners. It is a picturesque place with wide tree-linked streets and impressive buildings. Rawalpindi:An old town with a crowded colourful bazaar, and souvenir shops packed with wonderful handicrafts, parks, gardens and a golf course. Murree:Sixty three km from Rawalpindi is the country's leading hill station. Built by the British in the old colonial days, Murree perches precariously at a height of  2,275 m. It is famous for its pine-fresh air, its green slopes and glens and spectacular views. Nathiagali:Thirty five km from Murree, Nathiagali is even higher and more bracing than Murree. Ayubia:A hill station in the making, famous for its chair-lift, Ayubia is very picturesque. Abbottabad: One hundred twenty two km from Rawalpindi is the beautiful town of Abbottabad, located over a series of refreshing green low hills.

Sight-Seeing & Excursion Tours Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) can arrange sightseeing tours and excursions for Taxila, Rawalpindi/Islamabad and other tourist attractions around Islamabad. For reservation, please contact Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), Flashman’s Hotel, The Mall, Rawalpindi (Tel: +92-51-9272017-18 Fax: +92-51-9272020, Email: [email protected] , [email protected] , [email protected] Web: www.tourism.gov.pk Facebook: www.facebook.com/PAKISTAN.TOURISM.DEVELOPMENT.CORPORATION

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A visit to Taxila – Pakistan’s Heritage

At Taxila you come face to face with the great Buddha. He looms over you larger than life. His serene eyes gaze at you till you find yourself gripped by a feeling of awe. You meet others also at Taxila. Alexander of Macedonia, for one. And Asoka, the famous Buddhist king. And the Emperor Kanishka, perhaps the greatest of them all. Their imprints are everywhere.

As you, the space-age visitor, step into Taxila you feel suddenly 2,500 years younger. For that is when one of the world’s least known but most interesting civilizations took root and flourished in Taxila — that ancient city south of the River Indus. Once a province of the powerful Achaemenian Empire, Taxila was conquered by Alexander in 327 B. C. It later came under the Mauryan dynasty and reached a remarkably mature level of development under the great Asoka.Then appeared the Indo-Greek descendants of Alexander’s warrior and finally came the most creative period of Gandhara. The great Kushan dynasty was established about 50 A.D. During the next 200 year. Taxila became a renowned centre of  learning, from as far away as China and Greece. The end came in the fifth century A.D. when the White Huns snuffed out the last of the successive civilizations that had held unbroken sway in this region for several centuries. Exploring Taxila is a multi-dimensional experience. You are attracted by the richness and variety of the famed Gandhara sculpture. There are endless images of Buddha, in stone and stucco, and numerous panels depicting all the important stages of the great sage’s life. Exquisitely sculpted friezes and statues of all sizes evoke the life and times of one of the worlds’ most impressive men of peace: Gautama Buddha.

Each carved bit of sculpture, from the colossal to the miniature —- and there are literally thousands of them – is a collector’s item. Even if you aren’t exactly a devotee of the sculpture of the first century  A.D., you will find it a challenge to trace similarities between the Gandhara masterpieces and their Graeco-Roman counterparts. Incidentally, it is these stone men and women of Gandhara who greet you so graciously in Taxila, or rather their craftsmen, who first gave visual expression to Buddha and his era. And then there are the excavated ruins. Three distinct cities stretch before you in a surprisingly good state of preservation. With your imagination aided by the carved people who inhabit these cities, you will have little difficulty in picturing crowds on the well laid out streets, families in the spacious houses, priests in the towering stupas and royalty in the great palaces.

The earliest city, Bhir Mound, dates back to the sixth century B.C. Its irregular streets, cramped houses and mediocre public building indicate its primitive origins.

Sirkap, the 2nd ancient City of Taxila was built by the Greco-Bactrian king Demetrius after he invaded South Asia around 180 BC. Demetrius founded in the northern and northwestern Indian subcontinent (modern day Pakistan) an Indo-Greek kingdom that was to last until around 10 BC. Sirkap is also said to have been rebuilt by king Menander I. The excavation of the old city was carried out under the supervision of Sir John Marshall by Hergrew from 1912-1930. In 1944 and 1945 further parts were excavated by Mortimer Wheeler and his colleagues.

Sirkap, on the opposite side of the Tamara Stream, is much newer, having been built in the second century B.C. You will find Sirkap a well-planned city. And as you stroll down its wide streets, you can call at the houses of the affluent and go slumming, as it were, in the more crowded sections where dwelt the common man of the dim and misty past. Note the fortification wall, the long, straight and impressive main street, the Royal Palace, and Apsidal Temple and the Shrine of the Double-Headed Eagle. The third city, Sirsukh, is modern by comparison. It was apparently built by the Kushan kings in the first century A.D. It has not been fully excavated as yet but it is clearly a well fortified, well laid out city, patterned after Central Asian cities and is complete with a suburb.

In addition to these three major cities, many important monasteries, stupas and palaces have been excavated all along the Taxila valley. Many more, surely, still lies buried awaiting discovery. If you can’t manage all, you must at least explore the remarkable Dharmarajika Stupa, three kilometers east of the Taxila Museum. It comprises a main building, a monastery area where the monks lived and a series of small chapels. Sacred relics of Buddha and a silver scroll commemorating the relics were found in one of the chapels. A wealth of gold and silver coins, gems, jewellery and other antiques were discovered at Dharmarajika. They are all housed in the Taxila Museum.

There is also Jaulian, another impressive complex of chapels, stupas, quadrangles, and a monastery with assembly hall, storerooms, refectory, kitchen and bathrooms. At five small stupas you will see beautiful stucco relief of Buddha and Bodhisatvas supported by rows of stone elephants and lions. Two miles from Jaulian is another well-preserved monastery — at Mohra Moradu. In one of the monk’ cells here was found a small stupa with almost all the details intact. At Jandial, two kilometers from Sirsukh, is an imageless temple in the classic Greek style, with columns and cornices.

For hikers, there is the Glen of Giri, about five kilometers from Dharmarajika Stupa. Atop the highest peak of a range of hills are two stupas and a fortress built in a cleft near a spring of pure, sweet water. The stucco decoration of the stupas are well worth the climb. No amount of description can do justice to Taxila. To feel and understand its full importance, you simply have to go there. Even today, Taxila is a place of peace. Its pastoral landscape is almost as inviting as its living past. Early man knew what he was doing when 3,000 years ago he chose to site his cities in this delightful, hill-edged valley.

The Museum The archaeological museum a Taxila is a real treasure-house. Its collection of coins, jewellery, relics, and gold and silver caskets alone are worth a king’s ransom. But its real glory comes from stone and stucco – that exquisite Gandhara sculpture crafted at a time when the world was young. Its impressive collection will help you get to know Gautama, the Lord Buddha, better.

The ivy-covered, Gothic-style museum is in a picturesque garden. There is in the central hall a plaster cast of the Stupa topped with seven umbrellas found in Mohra Moradu. A relief map of the valley pinpoints the location of the different excavated sites. There are rows of cases filled with the famed sculpture, stucco relief, stone, plaster and terra-cotta figures, glass tiles and other objects, toilet articles seals, beads bark manuscripts, silver utensils, carpentry tools, surgical instruments and much else. Museum Timings Winter (1st Oct. — 31st Mar. ) 09.00 hours—16.00 hours Summer (1st April — 30th Sept.) 09.00 hours—12:00 hours and 4.00 hours—18.00 hours The museum is closed on the first Monday of every month.

Accessibility

Only 35 km away from Rawalpindi/Islamabad, it is easily accessible from all entry points. From Karachi, Taxila is just a shot hop away. Board a PIA jet at Karachi and in less than 2 hours you are in Islamabad – the heart of a really colourful and varied tourist region. Then travel by taxi to Taxila to keep your date with Buddha.

Comfortable, air-conditioned train services link Karachi and Rawalpindi/Islamabad. The train journey takes about 27 hours. Taxila lies on the main railway route from Lahore to Peshawar.

By car from Karachi to Islamabad can be tedious. But it’s very rewarding between Lahore and Islamabad — which are linked by frequent bus and air-conditioned coach services. Regular buses also ply between Rawalpindi/Islamabad and Taxila and Peshawar.

Distances Karachi – Taxila: 1,478 km Lahore — Taxila: 280 km via N-5 (G.T. Road) and 380 km via M-2 (Motorway) Islamabad –Taxila: 35 km Peshawar — Taxila 136 km

Accommodation

Visitors to Taxila generally stay at nearby Rawalpindi and Islamabad, which have good hotels in every category. Top hotels are; Islamabad Marriott, Islamabad Serena, Best Western and Holiday Inn Islamabad Hotel are located in Islamabad whereas Pearl Continental, Shalimar and Flashman’s Hotel are located in Rawalpindi. Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation has a Tourist Information Office Centre, Motel and Restaurant just opposite the Taxila Museum for the convenience of tourists. Food can be had from the Snack Bar ‘a la carte’. The rest-house near the Museum and the dak bungalow near Nikra, five kilometers away, provide simple, comfortable accommodation. Lodging charges are nominal. Caretakers arranges for meals on payments. Advance booking is done through the Curator of Taxila Museum. There is a Youth Hostel quite close to the Museum with accommodation for 24 persons. It can be used by members Association affiliated with the International Youth Hostels Federation. It costs only a few rupees.

General Information

The ruins of the ancient cities are spread over an area of about 20 sq. kms.The summers are very hot with temperatures soaring to a maximum of over 40 C, but the winters are delightfully cool and pleasant with maximum and minimum temperatures hovering around 5 – 15 C, respectively.The best season for a visit is between September and March. The summer season is from April to September. Although Punjabi and Urdu are the main languages, English is widely spoken and understood. Taxila is situated at an altitude of 512 m. above sea level.

Places of Interest Around Taxila

Islamabad:  Pakistan’s new capital has, like Brasilia, been built to order by some of the world’s top architects and planners. It is a picturesque place with wide tree-linked streets and impressive buildings.

Rawalpindi: An old town with a crowded colourful bazaar, and souvenir shops packed with wonderful handicrafts, parks, gardens and a golf course.

Murree: Sixty three km from Rawalpindi is the country’s leading hill station. Built by the British in the old colonial days, Murree perches precariously at a height of 2,275 m. It is famous for its pine-fresh air, its green slopes and glens and spectacular views.

Nathiagali: Thirty five km from Murree, Nathiagali is even higher and more bracing than Murree.

Ayubia: A hill station in the making, famous for its chair-lift, Ayubia is very picturesque.

Abbottabad: One hundred twenty two km from Rawalpindi is the beautiful town of Abbottabad, located over a series of refreshing green low hills.

Sight-Seeing & Excursion Tours

Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) can arrange sightseeing tours and excursions for Taxila, Rawalpindi/Islamabad and other tourist attractions around Islamabad. For reservation, please contact Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), Flashman’s Hotel, The Mall, Rawalpindi (Tel: +92-51-9272017-18 Fax: +92-51-9272020, Email: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Website: www.tourism.gov.pk Facebook:www.facebook.com/PAKISTAN.TOURISM.DEVELOPMENT.CORPORATION

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How To Visit Taxila Independently As A Tourist

The ancient city of Taxila in Pakistan has its name cemented in history textbooks like few other places in the region have. Taxila has experienced the reigns of numerous empires and hosted inhabitants of various ethnic and religious backgrounds, leaving behind impressive remains from different eras. For this reason, the archeological sites of Taxila are a must-visit tourist attraction if you spend more than a day in Islamabad .

However, traveling to Taxila independently (meaning without locals to guide you around) can be a little challenging especially for travelers who are new to Pakistan. From the transportation to Taxila to getting around the sites themselves, things can be a bit more difficult than expected.

Fortunately, I’m here to help. I recently visited Taxila independently from Islamabad and I’m here to share my experience with you. I’ll share exactly what tourists should expect when visiting Taxila and what things to be aware of so that you can enjoy a worry-free excursion to the ancient remains without a tour guide!

Traveling to Pakistan anytime soon? Here’s everything you need to know about traveling to Pakistan in 2022!

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Where Is Taxila?

• Taxila Museum

The ancient remains of Taxila are located in the modern city of Taxila about 30 kilometers outside of Islamabad. Depending on your location and traffic, the drive to Taxila from Islamabad may take between 40 minutes to one hour, making it an easy day trip from Islamabad.

Check out this complete itinerary for a perfect day in Islamabad!

What Is Taxila Famous For?

Taxila is famous for its various ancient remains from a multitude of different eras. Throughout its lifetime, Taxila was ruled by many different empires including the Persian Achaemid Empire, the Hellenistic (Greek) Empire, the Indian Mauryan Empire, the Indo-Greek Bactrian, Scythian, and Parthian Kingdoms, the Kushan, and the Gupta. The oldest remains date back to the neolithic era more than 5,000 years ago, while more recent ones are less than 2,000 years old.

This leaves Taxila with a variety of ancient ruins. The major archeological sites include:

Sirkap: The second city site of ancient Taxila founded by Bactrian King Menander consisting of the remains of four super-imposed periods: Pre-Greek, Greek, Scythian, and Parthian. The city was well fortified and populated over millennia and has accumulated a variety of cultural and religious elements, including Christian churches, Buddhist stupas, and Jain temples.

Dharmarajika: A large Buddhist stupa built by Mauryan King Ashoka in the second century BC. It houses a Buddha tooth relic and an ancient monastery, making it a pilgrimage destination for Buddhists from around the world.

Mohra Moradu: Another Buddhist complex consisting of a stupa and a monastery, established by Kushan King Kanishka in the first century AD. Its location outside of the city provided a quiet environment for meditation.

Taxila also used to have one of the world’s oldest university. However, this ancient Taxila University no longer exists.

Why Is Taxila Important?

According to UNESCO, Taxila showcases the patterns of urban evolution in a way no other city in the Indian subcontinent does due to the continuous settlement through more than five centuries 1 . This unique history helped the site gain UNESCO World Heritage Status in 1980.

How To Get To Taxila From Islamabad

Going by van is the cheaper but less convenient way of getting to Taxila from Islamabad for not much more than 50 rs (~ $0.30 USD), per person! Vans leave from Rawalpindi Railway Station and take about an hour to reach Rawalpindi. Keep in mind that local vans are not recommended for solo female travelers .

Read more:  Is Pakistan Safe For Women Travelers? Here’s What It’s REALLY Like

The easiest and most convenient way to get to Taxila from Islamabad is by car. Simply call a Careem from your location to Taxila Museum. Depending on your location and the time of the day, the ride should cost somewhere between 600 to 1000 rs (very roughly $5 USD) oneway. However, because Careem doesn’t operate in Taxila, it’s strongly advised to have your driver wait for you . Negotiate a fare in advance (it should be no more than 2x the fare that Careem for your ride to Taxila + ~700 rs) and make sure to exchange phone numbers with the driver.

How To Get Around Taxila

Taxila consists of four major sites, including the Taxila Museum, Dharmarajika, Sirkap, and Mohra Moradu. These sites are quite spread out across the city and there are no shuttle services, leaving visitors with two options to get around Taxila: by car or by foot.

Exploring Taxila by foot may save you a few hundred rupees but will certainly cost you a lot of time. Only attempt it if you have all day to spend in Taxila and beware of the heat in summer.

Preparing for a trip to Pakistan? Make sure to pack these things so neither the summer heat nor the nasty bacteria can harm you!

The best option if you don’t have your own car is to request your Careem driver (who should be waiting for you in Taxila anyway) to drive you to each site . Drivers often charge around 700 rs for all sites but you can negotiate lower prices if you don’t intend to visit all sites. The caretakers at the entrance by the museum speak good English and can assist you with these things.

Things To Keep In Mind While Visiting

Opening Hours And Entry Fees

On most days, the archeological complex of Taxila is open from 9 am – 4 pm and there are separate entry fees for the museum and the three archeological sites combined.

The entry fees are the following:

Locals: 20 rs

Foreigners: 500 rs for museum and 500 rs for archeological sites (1000 rs for museum and archeological sites combined)

Children under 12: 10 rs

All tickets can be purchased at the entrance to the museum, one of the first places you’ll pass when you get to Taxila.

Find out more on the museum’s official website .

When I visited Taxila, the caretakers of each site welcomed me and gave me a personal tour of the site with lots of explanations and historical background. At the end of the tour, they would ask me for a small guide fee.

Technically, you aren’t obliged to pay for a service you never requested, however, it’s the nice thing to do. An appropriate amount to pay to a caretake would be whatever spare change you have in your wallet up to 100 rs .

It’s useful to keep in mind that this happened to me as a foreign solo female traveler at a time when all the sites were completely empty, so there’s no warranty that all visitors will experience these unsolicited private tours.

Another recurring theme I experienced during my visit at Taxila is the caretakers’ alleged love for ancient coins. At the end of every tour, the caretakers of all sites told me the same story about how they often find ancient coins across Taxila. They showcased their collections to me which all contained the same coins from different periods while mentioning on the side that they are also for sale. When I inquired about the price of a coin at one site, the caretaker wanted to charge 10,000 rs (~$60 USD). After I declined, he gave me a coin as a gift.

The same thing happened at the other sites as well. I refused to purchase any of the coins and the caretakers proceeded to gift me coins.

This strange pattern convinced me that the coins are not authentic and only used to trick unsuspecting tourists. Therefore, I advise you not to buy from the caretakers and shop for souvenirs at the museum’s entrance instead.

Where To Go Next

Done with Taxila? Then head to Khanpur !

Khanpur is located only half an hour by road from Taxila. The city is home to the famous Khanpur Lake, a water reservoir where visitors can engage in fun activities such as jet skiing, paragliding, and more . It’s the perfect place to relax after a history lesson at Taxila.

Getting to Khanpur by car is pretty straight-forward but to save costs, it’s advised to negotiate prices with your driver again and consider hiring him for the entire day . Alternatively, there are also cheap public vans going from Taxila Bypass to Khanpur.

Got a few extra days on your hand? Drive a little further and check out the beautiful Naran Valley!

Explore Pakistan With Me

Loved Taxila? Make sure to also check out these places during your Pakistan tour:

• 10 Awesom e Things To Do In Islamabad In A Day
• Top 12 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Karachi
• Full Itinerary For An Incredible Balochistan Day Trip From Karachi
• Hunza Valley: A Full Guide To Pakistan’s Jewel Of The North
• Fairy Meadows And Nanga Parbat Base Camp Trek: Everything You Need To Know
• A Complete Travel Guide To Skardu
• The Ultimate Guide To Naran, Pakistan

The world-famous UNESCO World Heritage site of Taxila is an unmissable place for anyone visiting Islamabad and due to its proximity, it’s the perfect destination for a day trip from the city. However, exploring Taxila independently can be a bit challenging for foreigners but it isn’t an impossible feat.

I hope this guide will help you visit Taxila if you don’t have a tour guide or local friends to show you around. And if you’ve ever visited Taxila independently, what was your experience like?

Let me know in the comments!

1 : https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/139/

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11 comments.

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I would love to explore this area purely for the incredible history behind it. Thanks for the travel tips!

The historic heritage of Taxila is a treasure of humanity.

I haven’t heard of Taxila before – now I’m SO interested to read up on all it’s history! Thanks for sharing!

Frankly I know very little of Pakistan and have never heard of Taxila before. I guess it’s because I like to travel solo & independently without a guide or a driver, and I assumed that would be near impossible in Pakistan. This article has given me a better insight into the matter. And thanks for the heads-up about the coin souvenirs!

I had never heard of Taxila but I agree it definitely seems unmissable. I love to visit places independently and you have made it so simple. I also love exploring ancient remains and UNESCO sites. This sounds like a perfect trip!

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Places to Visit in Taxila

Pakistan has its fair share of historical treasures, including the  ancient city-state of Taxila , located in the district of Rawalpindi in Punjab province. It is a Gandharan city, sometimes referred to as one of its capitals, whose history dates back to the early microlithic communities at the Khanpur caves until almost  1000 CE . Taxila served as a center for Buddhism, a place of learning, an urban metropolis, and a meeting place for several cultures, including the Greeks, Achaemenids, Mauryans, Parthians, Scythians, Huns, Kushans, and later Muslims. The town has long been a significant hub for education and is still a popular destination for travelers today, now housing about 50 archeological remains. The ruins of Taxila were rediscovered in the middle of the 19th century by renowned archaeologist Sir Alexander Cunningham. UNESCO designated Taxila as a  World Heritage Site  in 1980. In 2006,  The Guardian  newspaper ranked Taxila as the top tourist destination in Pakistan. 

But with so many places to see, it can be challenging to know which ones are worth your time. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to the  best places to visit in Taxila . 

18 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN TAXILA, PAKISTAN 2022

Taxila has gone through numerous changes over the past 2,000 years. A famous tourist destination even today, it’s home to various landmarks, ranging from historic sites and monuments to architectural masterpieces and natural wonders. Taxila Famous Places includes ancient Buddhist ruins, medieval Hindu temples, and monasteries. If you are looking for Beautiful places to visit in Taxila, Pakistan, here is a guide to some of the fantastic attractions that await you. 

Taxila Museum 

One of the best places in Taxila is the archaeological Taxila Museum. Located in the famous historical City of Taxila in the heart of Rawalpindi district, Punjab province of Pakistan, this museum is a sight to behold with its extensive collection of Gandhara Art. Lord Chelmsford, the former Viceroy and Governor-General of British India laid the Taxila Museum’s foundation in 1918. Sir Muhammad Habibullah, Member for Education, performed the inauguration ceremony on April 5, 1928. Taxila Museum is the Hub of Gandhara Art and a major crowd puller, featuring up to 7000 well-preserved artifacts and relics of the Gandhara Civilization. This historical heritage landmark is famous for housing a rich collection of stone, stucco, and terracotta sculptures from Buddhist art, sacred relics, ancient coins, pottery, jewelry, weapons, utensils, and numerous other ethnographical and historical artifacts.

All the artifacts discovered through the excavations of various archaeological sites are on display in the Taxila museum. This prestigious Site of great historical significance is open to visitors every day except on the first Monday of each month and on all Islamic holidays. A visit to this spectacular location is never dull for history buffs. Visiting hours during Summers are from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM and during winters are from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The ticket prices vary from Rs.10 for Children, Rs. 20 for adults, and Rs.500 for foreign tourists. 

Dharmarajika Stupa 

The Dharmarajika Stupa, popularly known as The Great Stupa of Taxila, is 32 kilometers northwest of Islamabad and is reachable from Rawalpindi through Grand Trunk Road. This 200 BC-old site is a famous tourist attraction. John Marshall, widely renowned for his extensive excavations of Harappa and Mohenjo Daro, began work on this stupa in 1913. The Dharmarajika stupa, sometimes called Chir Tope, is a spherical building with an elevated terrace. A ring of small churches surrounds the enormous stupa. The three different forms of masonry used in the structures surrounding the main stupa indicate the contributions made by several eras to the building activities. The significant artifacts discovered in one of the chapels include silver scrolls with a Kharoshti inscription and a small gold case with some Buddha bone remnants. Due to the several historical eras, it has witnessed, this Site is exceptional in terms of its historical and archaeological significance. This Site is an ideal location for meditation with beautiful views for monks and nature enthusiasts. It is open for its visitors on all days of the week from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM.  

Jandial Temple Taxila

Taxila is embracing the ancient Buddhist civilization with numerous archaeological sites. One of the beautiful sites in Taxila is a Zoroastrian temple known as the Jandial Temple . Situated some 40km away from the capital city of Islamabad, the Jandial Temple dates back to the 1st century B.C. John Marshall excavated this Site in 1912-1913 under the archaeological survey of Taxila. The Jandial Temple’s design closely resembles the classical temples of ancient Greece.

The temple’s structure is of limestone and kanjur, with stucco on the façade that is still intact in certain places. Kanjur, a sedimentary stone, is a common building material in Gandhara. Enormous columns and pillars feature the usage of massive sandstone blocks. According to historians, people of old times celebrated religious ceremonies in this temple. Reflecting the glorious Gandhara Civilization, this place is a must-visit if you are in Taxila.  

Mohra Muradu 

Another prominent tourist attraction in Taxila is Mohra Muradu, an ancient Buddhist stupa, and monastery. The famous archaeologist Sir John Marshal discovered this historical Site during the excavations of the Taxila region. The location of this monastery allows monks to perform their religious rites in peace and serenity. This monastery offers visitors a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains. According to legend, people of old times used to insert their fingers in the naval of healing Buddha to get a cure for various ailments. Mohra Muradu is one of the most peaceful and tranquil sites in Taxila. The ticket prices vary from Rs. 20 for locals and Rs.500 for foreign tourists. It is open for its visitors on all days of the week from  8:00 AM to 6:00 PM .  

Bhir Mound Taxila

Another fascinating place in Taxila is Bhir Mound, the earliest settlement of Taxila. Excavations reveal that the ancient City of Bhir Mound existed between the sixth and second centuries BCE. The Site has unearthed numerous artifacts, including terracotta toys, household pottery, old coins, metal objects, stamp steals, big storage jars, etc. In the sixth century BCE, the Achaemenian Emperor Darius-I overcame Gandhara and established Bhir Mound as the provincial capital. Bhir Mound offers a beautiful landscape to its visitors. It is open 24 hours for its visitors.  

Sirkap 

Located inside Taxila, Sirkap is one of the ancient cities of Buddhist civilization, which was once a bustling historical metropolis with residences, streets, stores, and places of worship. Sirkap thrived under several rulers, including the Parthians, Kashanas, Greeks, and Scythians. As part of his conquest of the area in the 180s BCE, the Bactrian King Demetrius founded Sirkap as Taxila’s Second City. According to some historical facts, a demon known as Sirkap—which means severed head—was claimed to have resided at the location and feasted on human flesh. Sirkap features the ruins of several Buddhist temples and a royal palace. The most impressive feature of this City is the double-eagled-headed temple, and Apsidal Temple symbolizes power. The oldest stupa in the subcontinent is a circular structure in the City of Sirkap. This place is a hidden gem and a significant attraction for many history-loving tourists. The entrance fee varies from Rs.30 for locals and Rs.500 for foreign travelers. 

Jaulian Buddhist Taxila

Located near the Mohra Muradu monastery in the Taxila region is the Jaulian Buddhist monastery . The Jaulian monastery, which dates from the early days of the Buddhist movement in the second to fourth centuries, is where you can find the ruins of the historic Gandhara civilization. The Jaulian complex comprises the main stupa, 27 minor stupas, two nearby courtyards, and the central stupa. A collection of 59 chapels depicting scenes from the Buddha’s life is a sight to behold. With its enormous collection of ancient relics, this place of great historical significance is a fantastic tourist destination. It remains open for visitors from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM except for Friday. 

Nicholson Monument Tower Taxila 

Located on the Rawalpindi Peshawar side of G.T. road, not far from Margalla pass, some 40 km from Islamabad, this memorial honors a British commander. John Nicholson, a brigadier general (1822–57), was regarded as one of the best generals of the Victorian age. Nicholson’s Obelisk, a 40-foot tower built in 1868 and perched atop a hill, is visible from a distance. It is one of the most significant colonial-era landmarks in the area. Nicholson acquired the title of hero of Delhi because of his involvement in the Indian mutiny of 1857. A staircase leads toward the top of the monument. This 40 feet tall monument offers a spectacular view to its visitors. 

Kunala Stupa 

The Kunala Stupa, which dates back to the second century B.C. and is another fascinating stupa in Taxila, is significant to Buddhist history and the Gandhara culture. On a hill, about 200 meters south of Sirkap, Punjab, Pakistan, Kunala Stupa is a Buddhist stupa and monastery complex built during the Kushan era. It is in the southeast of Taxila, named after kunala, the son of king Ashoka, heir to the Mauryan Empire. It is atop a hill with a view of Sirkap, an old Indo-Greek metropolis. According to historians, Kunala Stupa is standing at the spot where the stepmother of Kunala blinded him. Tishyaksha, the stepmother of Kunala, was envious of his beautiful eyes. According to legend, Buddhist travelers used to visit the Kunala stupa in the hopes of receiving treatment. It is now a location for Gandhara researchers and students and a tourist attraction. 

Sirsukh 

Sirsukh, the ancient City of Gandhara civilization in the region of Taxila, is famous for its unique archeological value. The Kushan invaders chose to abandon Sirkap city when it was struck by a deadly epidemic and erected Sirsukh. Located about 1.5km northeast of Sirkap, the Kushan rulers laid the foundation of the Sirsukh site in a lush green valley. Its exterior is very smooth. Small-scale circular bastions are present in the wall for defense. These bastions have openings for archers to fire arrows at the external foe. Included in UNESCO world heritage sites, Sirsukh provides a memorable experience to its visitors. 

Lake (Jheel) Park Taxila

Have you ever been to the Breathtaking Lake (Jheel) Park in the region of Taxila Cantt? It’s a scenic tourist attraction that offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding hills. Locals and visitors alike come to enjoy a relaxing day out in nature. Plenty of activities keep you busy, including boating and hiking. The park is also a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The lake’s expansive foliage is breathtaking. And finally, it’s a great place to take photos. If you’re looking for a fun day trip or a weekend getaway, add the beautiful Lake (Jheel) Park to your list. 

S-6 Park H.I.T 

S-6 Park H.I.T, located in Taxila, a city known for its rich history and cultural heritage, is mesmerizing. It is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country; you can spend hours exploring the different gardens, lakes, and pavilions. The architecture is gorgeous and will take your breath away. The food is delicious and will satisfy any cravings you might have. The best time to visit S-6 Park H.I.T is during the spring or autumn when the weather is mild. It is the time when the trees are in bloom, and the leaves are changing color, making for a beautiful landscape. However, if you’re looking for a more exciting experience, you should visit during the summer when all the activities are in full swing.  

Municipal Park Taxila

Located on Railway Road in Taxila, Rawalpindi, Municipal Park offers breathtaking views and a peaceful environment perfect for hanging out with friends and family. The never-ending greenery brings you joy and fills your mind with a sense of serenity. It is a beautiful location to relax and unwind. Thick carpets of grass cover the park. There is a facility of playground for your kids to have a wonderful time. Don’t miss out on this fantastic attraction in the area.  

Barki Park Taxila Cantt 

Another beautiful place located in Taxila is Barki Park. The park has enough vegetation to brighten your day. There are playgrounds with swings, slides, and trampolines for children. It is an excellent location to escape everyday life’s stress. So, why are you waiting? Plan a trip to Taxila and make sure Barki Park is on your itinerary! 

Khanpur Cave Taxila

The Taxila archaeological site comprises a variety of Buddhist monasteries and stupas from various eras, as well as the Khanpur cave. In 1964, University of Minnesota student Eldon Johnson found the Khanpur Cave. Microlithic hunters inhabited this cave before 3500 BC. Archeologists discovered many objects of the Stone age from Khanpur cave.

Khader Mohra 

Another significant stupa situated in Taxila southeast of Dharmarajika Stupa and east of Bhir Mound is Khader Mohra. This ancient site is believed to date back to the 1st century B.C. Despite being in ruins, the Site still offers a wealth of information about the Buddhist religion and culture. A group of archeologists from the University of Taxila found the Site in 2014. And have since been hard at work learning its secrets. Built in the 5th century A.D., archaeologists discovered that monks of the Mahayana sect of Buddhism used this monastery for worshipping purposes. They’ve also found evidence of murals and other artwork that suggest the monastery was a place of learning and meditation. 

Badalpur Buddhist Stupa and Monastery 

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site close to Taxila is the Badalpur Buddhist Stupa and Monastery. The Site lies around 12 kilometers from Taxila in the direction of Khanpur. The location is along with other Buddhist heritage sites in the Taxila and Khanpur areas. The monastery and stupa are two to five centuries old. In 2005, the Department of Archeology excavated the Site. During the excavations, archeologists found hundreds of Buddhist artifacts, including gold and silver coins, jars, ceramics, and sculptures. These artifacts are now on display in the Taxila Museum. 

Giri Fort 

In Islamabad, a Buddhist temple and fort known as Giri Fort is located just across from Ban Faqiran Stupa on the backside of the Margalla hills. Buddhist zealots from Asoka’s successors built the Giri fort and Buddhist temple during the Late Kushan period of the Gandhara civilization, which lasted from the first to the fifth centuries. The featuring elements of Giri Fort include:

• Two stupa and monastery complex sites
• Fruit farms.
• Two Muslim shrines.
• Crystal clear sacred ponds.
• A beautiful view of Margalla Hills

A picnic and some time to unwind on a balmy winter day while enjoying a solemn mood can be enjoyed at the Giri fort. You can enjoy fresh loquat from the trees if you’re fortunate enough.  

What is the historical importance of Taxila?

If you’re a history buff, you’re going to love Taxila. This City has steeped in history and is one of Pakistan’s most important archeological sites. The historical importance of the ancient kingdom of Gandhara in introducing Buddhism to the area, incredibly close to Taxila, cannot be overstated. Buddhists who have the opportunity to visit the location regard themselves as the luckiest people in the world because it is where Buddha was born and where Buddhism first appeared. The Hathial area of Taxila is home to the City’s earliest settlements. There are pottery shards from as early as the late  2nd millennium BCE to the 6th century BCE . Numerous civilizations, such as the Persians, Greeks, and Hindus, evolved there. Additionally, it played a significant role in the growth of Gandharan art. Its strategic location at a crossroads between Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent made it a desirable place to control and something of a melting pot of cultures.

Which is the most beautiful area in Taxila?

There are many beautiful areas in Taxila, but if we had to pick just one, we would have to say it’s the  Dharmarajika Stupa and Monastery . This area is home to some of the most well-preserved ruins in Taxila, including the stupa, which dates back to the  3rd century B.C . The monastery is also a great spot to explore, as it’s one of the largest in the area and has several unique features. This peaceful location is about five to ten minutes from the Taxila Museum. Lush fields encircle it. There aren’t many tourists, which makes it the ideal place for peace. Restoration work is also in progress.

Which civilization was in Taxila?

Taxila is a historic place inhabited by many different civilizations where wealthy human civilizations have flourished and collapsed over the past five millennia. But once, Taxila was the center of the Kingdom of Gandhara and had numerous Hindu, Buddhist, and Greek cultural relics. Taxila was an important Buddhist learning center from the fifth century B.C. to the second century A.D. Alexander subdued Taxila in 327 B.C. Later, King Ashoka ruled Taxila, and the Huns destroyed this lovely City in the fifth century.

What is the best thing to do in Taxila?

Take a trip to Taxila, one of Pakistan’s most fascinating cities. Explore the best places to visit in Taxila and experience the wonders it has to offer. Once you have been to Taxila, you will never forget its beauty and history. The Buddhist Stupas are one of the main draws in Taxila, and for a good reason. These awe-inspiring structures are some of the most well-preserved in the world and worth visiting. Finally, don’t forget to check out the bazaar! This vibrant market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, and you’ll find plenty of exciting things to buy here.

Is Taxila worth visiting?

The answer is a resounding yes! Taxila was one of the most influential cities of ancient times. It is also an important archeological site containing the ruins of several ancient civilizations. There are numerous historical and Beautiful places to visit in Taxila. One day is not enough if you are a true history buff. Bring an umbrella when it’s hot. There are five main places, including the Taxila Museum, the Buddhist Stupa of Dharmarajika, Mohra Moradu, Sirkap, and the Hindu temples of Jandial, that you should check out while you’re there. Each of these attractions offers unique insight into the history and culture of Taxila.

Why is Taxila city famous?

There are a few reasons that make Taxila famous. For starters, it’s one of the oldest cities in the world. It’s been around for over  5,000 years  and was once an important cultural and religious center. It’s also home to some of Asia’s most impressive archeological sites. 

Now that you know all about the 18 best places to visit in Taxila in 2022, it’s time to put it all into practice! So if you’re interested in history or just exploring a new and exotic location, Taxila is worth visiting! 

Why not make a weekend of it to explore the Best places to visit in Taxila and everything this historical City has to offer? We guarantee you won’t be disappointed – there’s something for everyone in Taxila. Happy travels!

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Jandial Temple

Lake Park Taxila

Taxila Museum

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TAXILA MUSEUM: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

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A Guide to Taxila Museum

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IN THIS POST: – About Taxila Museum – How to Reach the Museum? – Artefacts on Display – When to Visit?

Lovers of historical artefacts and archaeology will truly enjoy a visit to Taxila. The famous archaeological site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Pakistan in 1980, the credit for which goes to Sir Alexander Cunningham for discovering the remains of Taxila in the mid-19th century. The city once occupied a prominent seat in the Gandhara Kingdom between 1000 BC and 1000 AD. If you are exploring Taxila and its history , no trip to Taxila is complete without visiting the Taxila Museum. Here is a detailed guide on what awaits you inside the Taxila Museum and how to get there, along with the history of Taxila Museum and Taxila Museum’s timings.

About Taxila Museum

After the discovery of the ruins of Taxila somewhere in the 1800s, the foundation stone for the Taxila Museum was laid in 1918 by the then Viceroy and Governor-General of British India, Lord Chelmsford. The museum’s opening ceremony was held on the 5 th of April 1928, nearly ten years later, with the structure comprising a central hall and one gallery containing artefacts on either side.

The Archaeological Museum of Taxila is primarily home to all of the relics, artefacts, and statues found during the excavation in and around the area. Roughly 7,000 artefacts and antiques are on display inside the halls of the museum, reflecting the culture, history, and achievements of people from long-forgotten millennia.

How to Reach the Taxila Museum?

The Archaeological Museum of Taxila is located on the Kalabagh-Nathia Gali Road (N-125) at just a 5 minutes’ walking distance from Bhir Mound, one of the three major cities in the area during ancient times. The road is a commercially populated route, with shops, hotels, petrol pumps, and banks lining the sides opposite the ancient city. This means that if you live in Punjab, you can easily travel to Taxila by road. If that isn’t an option, you can reach the ruins of Bhir Mound, and the Archaeological Museum of Taxila via train as Taxila’s railway station is just 5-minutes’ drive away.

Artefacts on Display at Taxila Museum

Once you’re inside Taxila Museum, you’ll find a range of relics belonging to different eras as Taxila was ruled by different kingdoms throughout its history after its ancient establishment as a city of Gandhara. Here are some of the things you’ll see on display at Taxila Museum:

Stone Statues and Sculptures

• Terracotta Sculptures

Inscriptions and Ancient Writings

Silver and gold jewellery, ancient coins, grooming items, metallic cookware, decorative pieces.

Let’s discuss each of these displays in detail below.

Most of the stone sculptures date back to the 1 st to 3 rd century AD, and these are displayed in the main hall of the museum. The largest collection of statues is of Gautama Buddha—the founder of Buddhism. However, you can also find statues of Greek and Hindu deities among the relics excavated in the area.

Excavations at Taxila revealed writings and inscriptions going as far back as the 3 rd to 5 th century AD. Aramaic, Brahmi, and Kharoshthi are the three major ancient scripts on display, with Kharoshthi being the official script of Gandhara. Archaeologists also found inkpots made of stones, clay, and copper during their excavations, along with writing tablets, all of which are proudly on display at the museum.

Coinage in ancient times was often made from metals like gold, copper, and silver, along with symbolic references to the ruling kings. The Taxila Museum is home to a large coin collection, with ancient coins going as far back as the Moriyan period in the 4 th to 6 th century BC. There are also Indo-Greek coins from the 1 st to 2 nd century BC, along with preserved coinage of the Scythian, Parthian, Kushan, Sasanian, Kidara Kushan, and Hephthalites or White Huns dynasties, dating from 90 BC up to the 5 th century AD. 

The museum’s jewellery room is home to a range of necklaces, chains, belts, pendants, bracelets, bangles, anklets, and rings, made from both gold and silver. Many of the pieces reflect a Greco-Roman influence on the civilisation that once lived in Taxila.

Cooking pots, goblets, jugs, dishes, cups, pans, spoons, ladles, and a range of other dishware and cookware was made from metal in ancient times to keep it resistant to the open fires on which meals were cooked. Silver, bronze, and copper were the three main metals being used, and many of the recovered artefacts reflect fine workmanship.

Combs made from ivory, mirrors made from copper, along with an array of hairpins and other grooming items, were found among the ruins of Taxila, dating back several millennia.

Small decorative items that serve no real purpose were found within the remains of the old cities, including crystal carved figurines, glass bottles, and children’s toys, as well as delicate items crafted from shells, bones, and ivory.

The excavation of Taxila also brought ancient tools and instruments to light. Tools used by farmers, surgeons, potters, and goldsmiths of bygone times are the most interesting among this collection.

Pottery forms a large part of the museum’s collection, featuring storage jars, flasks, jugs, bowls, cooking pots, goblets, and water containers. Most of these are well preserved considering their age, showing how durable earthen vessels can be.

Taxila changed hands countless times over the centuries, as new rulers conquered it with their armies. With the constant transition, several wars were fought here, and all the invaders left their marks behind on the land. Archaeologists were not only able to find artefacts from every era, but also weapons, including swords, arrowheads, daggers, spearheads, javelins, and armours, which have all been displayed in the museum and reflect Taxila’s turbulent past.

When to Visit the Taxila Museum?

The timings of the Taxila Museum are from 9 am to 12:30 pm and from 2:30 pm to 4 pm daily. Taxila Museum’s ticket prices can be as low as PKR 20 for locals and as high as PKR 500 for foreigners. Guides are also available to make your trip to Taxila Museum more informative.

This concludes our guide on visiting the Taxila Museum. Want to visit other UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Pakistan? Travel to Mohenjo-Daro or the Lahore Fort for a historical trip.

Stay tuned to Zameen Blog for more travel and tourism posts about Pakistan. Send us your comments on [email protected] .

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• A Visit to a Museum - Long and Short Essay

Essay on A Visit to a Museum

We get to see a number of museums all over the world. India itself has several museums. A Visit to a Museum Essay in English is provided below for kids studying in class 5 and above. It is written in an easy to understand language for the convenience of kids. After reading the paragraph on A Visit to a Museum the kids will be able to write a 200 word essay on A Visit to a Museum or A Visit to a Museum 150 words paragraph on their own.

Long Essay on A Visit to a Museum

A building in which the objects of historical, cultural, artistic, and scientific interest are kept for the public display is known as a museum. It is a house of knowledge that makes us aware of the history, civilization, culture, religious practices, lifestyle, architecture, and art of the country. It lets us peep into the ancient socio-political, economic, cultural, and religious life of the people of a country.

A museum is a house of treasures filled with antiques. It holds the archaeological collectibles and artifacts that define a country’s culture and civilization. The historical panorama, the art and architecture, and the religions and relics of a country are curated and displayed in a museum. It can be said that any museum is a miniature reflection of a country’s past and ancient times. A vivid picture of the traditions, customs, and conventions of the country is showcased by a museum. 

I got a golden opportunity to visit the famous historic National Museum in New Delhi. The museum building is robust and majestic. The museum has various departments that have collectibles and artifacts on different subjects and historical periods on display. I saw numerous images, articles, sculptures, and scriptures– palm leaf and rock engravings and many other articles of great value and interest as we entered the ground floor of the museum. The entire museum is divided into different departments like the archaeological division, anthropological division, display section, etc.

On going to the first floor we saw paintings, murals, charts amongst the various other things. There were manuscripts in different languages on display. We saw various ancient weapons, robes, and dresses on display. One of the corners is dedicated to the numismatics section. This section has coins from different periods put on display.

There are the realistic paintings of Ellora caves alongside beautiful replicas of the Ajanta frescoes in one hall. In addition to these, the paintings depicting the lives of Lord Krishna, Lord Rama, and Lord Buddha through scriptures and charts are also put on display. One could truly discover the glorious history of India after having a look at this section.

We saw the remains of the Indus Valley Civilization on the second floor. There are the excavations from Harappa, Mohenjodaro, Lothal, Kalibanga, and Ropar put on display. The broken pitchers, toys, stones, beads, skulls, etc. reflect a lot about the civilization of those times. We were really surprised to find out how advanced that civilization was.

The third floor belongs to the military equipment section. The weapons from the ancient times, such as the spears and pruning hooks, swords and sheaths, shields and helmets, different types of dresses of the commanders and generals from the past ages are showcased. It was a thrilling experience. Seeing all the equipment and attires of the past heroes of our nation was too inspiring for us.

The whole museum is a treasure trove of the history of India. You learn about the history of great men of India and their morals. The laurels, legends, and historical facts are connected with an entire gamut of literature and the life of India. Whether they were poets or prose writers, scientists or galaxy-gazers, dancers or dramatists, musicians or doctors, songsters or sculptors, lawgivers, or lexicographers, you get to experience their lives from the past through the remains curated and put on display.

Short Essay on A Visit to a Museum

A place where old relics are kept on display for the public is known as a museum. A visit to a museum expands our knowledge of the past. I had a chance to visit the National Museum in New Delhi. A friend accompanied me to the museum. It is a huge building divided into different sections. There are various exhibits in each section.

We saw the stars in our galaxy first. The stars are painted on the ceiling of the dome. We felt like we were in the galaxy of stars for real. We then moved on to another section that had weapons of ancient times. They were arranged in a manner to depict the battle scenes. The household goods from ancient times were kept in the adjacent room to display the domestic life of the ancient people. There were a lot of things made by Indian scientists that were on display. Models of dams and hydroelectric projects, solar cookers, solar light systems, etc. that help us understand how far Indians have come after Independence are put on display in this museum. 

We kept moving on to one section from the other and learned a lot about our country’s rich past. We did have a great time at the museum and we are looking forward to our next visit.

Importance of Visiting a Museum

The students should know that visiting a museum now and then is good for many reasons and has many advantages. For instance, a child learns about different things visually and this helps him to remember things vividly. You can go to a museum and it is a source of entertainment for many students who like to learn about things differently. A museum educates a student about different things simply and helps you become smarter. 

Museums also help in inspiring young minds and help them dream of many possibilities. The Importance of Museums: conserving native Culture. Museums play a vital role in conserving native culture. With proper measures for physical object preservation, a culture will be recorded and remembered in spite of its future. It is also supposed to be shared by the people from different groups and thus in a way ends up being understood by those from completely different cultural backgrounds. Museums guarantee understanding and appreciation for varied groups and cultures. They're the establishments charged with preserving, protecting and displaying artefacts from our past and so conserving our wealthy heritage which could well be lost to personal collectors or to time itself. 

Quite evidently, if not for museums, we'd most actually lose the tangible links to our past. Museums are the storehouse of antique items. They are much underrated when in fact, they make great historical, anthropological, and archaeological monuments that impart knowledge about how the world used to be and how it developed over the centuries.

The visit to the museum was thrilling as well as an enriching experience for me. It was one of the richest experiences of my life to have seen and experienced all of that in the museum. It was deeply moving to see the vast storehouse of our country’s ancient glory. This visit to the National Museum has left a lingering impression on my mind.

FAQs on A Visit to a Museum - Long and Short Essay

1. What is a Museum?

A museum is a place that gives us knowledge about the civilizations of the past. Art, antique artifacts, and relics from ancient times are preserved and put on display for the public to see.

2. Why are Museums important?

Museums are a vast repository of information and knowledge from our past. It preserves and showcases all aspects of the ancient civilizations. You get to know how civilizations have evolved over the past years. Without museums, it would be close to impossible to keep a track of our history. The remains from the past would be scattered and not be found under one roof collectively. The public might not have access to all the places holding on to the remains.

3. Where can I get long and short essays on topics like 'A Visit to a Museum’?

The students can find essays on a variety of topics at Vedantu.com. Here, you will find long and short essays on topics most students are unable to find anywhere else. At Vedantu.com , every essay is free to read and the students can understand each word easily because of the simple and uncomplicated tone. These essays are easy to remember for exams and competitions. Also, the Vedantu app brings every topper the luxury of these essays in both long and short formats so you don't have to worry about adjusting any word. Writing a good essay has its own benefits like students getting better at critical thinking, their knowledge in a variety of different topics enhanced, as they grow older this helps in different career sectors or competitive exams due to better reading and writing skills, helps them express their ideas and overall improves their communication skills. This is why Vedantu is here with so many essays to choose from so that you can excel in the art of essay writing as every topper does. For this, regular practice is needed which helps the students to connect their ideas and write them without any hurdles arising. So for essays and study materials, choose Vedantu!

4. How many words should I write for a long or short essay about the topic ‘A visit to a museum’?

The students can write an average short essay about the topic ‘A visit to a museum’ which can vary from 150-200 words. An essay that is supposed to belong to the same topic must be at least 500-600 words. Writing an essay whether long or short helps a student to enhance their creativity and better their writing skills. These essays at Vedantu.com help a student in their exams, competitions or even competitive exams where good writing skills or good English proficiency is required. Reading and writing long-short essays for the students or even a 10 line essay for younger students helps them to enhance their creativity. The students learn about different things and gain more knowledge this way. As they have to search about the topic they are writing an essay on, it helps them to go through different ideas of different people which later on helps them in life too as in the form of skills. The students should make sure to choose a topic that has a lot to offer and write an essay about it if possible. This helps them to interlink one topic with another without any problem and thus, helps them to remember things more vividly. 

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THE 5 BEST Santa Clara Museums

Museums in santa clara.

• Specialty Museums
• Art Galleries
• Art Museums
• History Museums
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Intel Museum

2. 49ers Museum

3. Triton Museum of Art

4. Edward Peterman Museum of Railroad History

5. Harris-Lass Historic Museum

6. Vino Artist

7. De Saisset Museum

8. South Bay Historical Railroad Society

9. Silicon Valley Asian Art Center

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• Visitor Information
• Mission Santa Clara de Asís

All are invited to come visit SCU's student chapel.

The Mission is open from 7am to 7pm, 7 days a week.  Be aware that we are an active church and numerous events take place within the Mission.  Enter quietly and respectfully so as not to disturb others inside.  Periodicly, rare closures to the public may occur for maintenance or special events, however, these notices will be posted in our Mass Schedule  when applicable.

You may also want to contact us ahead of your visit to see if ther are any conflicting events that may inhibit your ability to freely tour the interior of the Mission.

Mission Santa Clara is located at the heart of the Santa Clara University campus.  Stop by the guard's kiosk when you enter the University to obtain a FREE Visitor's Parking Permit (required only Monday through Friday).  

Parking Permits are NOT required on the weekends.

Enforceable hours: Monday through Friday from 6am to 8pm.

Unfortunately, Mission Santa Clara does not operate a dedicated gift shop.  

However, the University's Campus Bookstore does sell a number of items of interest.  The Bookstore is located in Benson Center, a 5 minute walk from the Mission Church.

Mission Santa Clara does not offer guided tours.   Self-Guided Walking Tour pamphlets can be downloaded from our website for your convenience.  You can also pick one up from our Visitor's Corner when you visit.  

As ornate as the interior of the church is, don't overlook the outside of the Mission for its shared historical significance.  The Mission's exterior and surrounding grounds still feature many artifacts, plants, and remnants of the Mission era.  Your  Self-Guided Walking Tour  will share more about these special features.

Before ending your visit, make sure to stop by the de Saisset Museum  located just adjacent to the church to view their California History Exhibit.  Their collection houses and displays numerous Mission era artifacts.

* Schools and class groups can arrange guided tours through the de Saisset Museum  by calling 408-554-4528

Visiting the Mission is FREE!

The walled-off Rose Garden adjacent to the Mission Church is not accessible to the public, and commemorates the thousands of Ohlone, Californios and Rancheros who are still buried here.  You can view the Rose Garden Cemetery from the old porch steps.  Please do NOT climb over the cemetery walls.

The Mission is a very active place, particularly on the weekends.  Should you happen to visit while an event is taking place, feel free to peruse the outside first, and then explore the inside once the event has concluded.   Always enter quietly and respecfully so as not to disturb a mass, wedding, concert or other event.