Ali Usman Baig : Panr Monastery and Stupa in Swat (2019)

All photos and Text is owned

Jambil River, a tributary of the Swat River, meanders through a picturesque valley rich in natural landscapes. This valley is not only a treat for the eyes but also holds significant historical importance, with numerous Buddhist remains and carvings discovered in the past. On the eastern side of the Jambil River, an excavation at Panr has unveiled a stupa and monastery dating back to the 1st to 5th century AD.

Brief Description of the Structure:

The site at Panr spans three distinct terraces, each offering a unique glimpse into the past.

On the lower terrace, the remnants of a monastery have been found. This area was divided into a dining hall and living quarters, though only the foundations of the base platforms remain visible today.

The middle terrace, often referred to as the "Sacred Area," is home to the remains of the main stupa. This stupa, with its square base and a mound that once topped the drum, stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of its time. On all four sides of the main stupa, one can observe the foundations of standalone columns. Additionally, scattered throughout this terrace, one can find the foundations of small votive stupas.

Unfortunately, the main stupa has suffered significant damage due to the illegal excavations carried out by treasure hunters. Despite the damage, the site still exudes a sense of grandeur and provides valuable insights into ancient Buddhist architecture.

Moving to the upper terrace, one encounters the remains of the monks' cells. These cells, constructed with walls made of small diaper masonry, offer a glimpse into the early Kushan period, dating back to the 1st to 2nd century AD.

List of Architectural Spatial Components:

The monastery and stupa at Panr showcase various architectural spatial components that highlight the ingenuity of the builders:

Square Base: The main stupa sits atop a square base, providing a stable foundation for the structure.

Mound: The stupa features a mound on top of the drum, adding height and prominence to the monument.

Drum: The drum of the stupa serves as a transition between the base and the mound, often adorned with intricate carvings or designs.

Stairway: A stairway, leading to the top of the podium or the base of the stupa, allows access for religious rituals and circumambulation.

Free-standing Columns: Standalone columns, positioned around the main stupa, serve as decorative elements and symbolize architectural elegance.

Bastion: A bastion, strategically placed within the structure, offers additional support and stability to the stupa.

Square Pillar: Square pillars can be seen within the monastery and stupa complex, providing architectural variety.

Octagonal Plan: Some elements of the structure, such as the base or the drum, may follow an octagonal plan, adding geometric beauty to the design.

Corridor and Double Corridor: Corridors, both single and double, create pathways within the monastery complex, facilitating movement and providing a tranquil ambiance.

Overall, the stupa and monastery at Panr offer a captivating glimpse into the architectural brilliance and spiritual heritage of the region, inviting visitors and scholars to delve deeper into its history and cultural significance.