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The Gandhara Civilization O Pakistan

Introduction

Nestled in the crossroads of South and Central Asia, the Gandhara Civilization stands as a testament to the rich cultural and historical heritage of Pakistan. Flourishing from the 1st century BCE to the 7th century CE, Gandhara was a vibrant center of trade, art, and religious development, playing a pivotal role in shaping the cultural landscape of ancient South Asia.

Historical Background

The Gandhara region primarily comprises present-day northern Pakistan, including parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab. Historically, it was a critical hub along the ancient Silk Road, facilitating trade between the Indian subcontinent, Central Asia, and beyond.

The civilization emerged through the confluence of various cultural influences, including Greek, Persian, Indian, and Central Asian traditions, especially after the conquests of Alexander the Great and subsequent Hellenistic influences. Gandhara reached its zenith during the Kushan Empire (1st to 3rd centuries CE), which promoted Buddhism and fostered artistic and architectural advancements.

Art and Architecture

Gandhara Art

Gandhara is renowned worldwide for its distinctive school of Buddhist art, which melded Hellenistic Greek artistic techniques with Indian religious themes. This unique style is evident in the exquisite sculptures of Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and other deities, characterized by realistic features, detailed drapery, and expressive facial expressions.

Architectural Marvels

The region is dotted with impressive archaeological sites such as:

  • Takht-i-Bahi: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient monastic complex features well-preserved stupas, monasteries, and assembly halls built into the hillside.
  • Jaulian Monastery: Known for its intricate stucco sculptures and stupas, reflecting the high craftsmanship of Gandhara artisans.
  • Sahr-i-Bahlol: An ancient city with fortifications, residential areas, and religious structures.

Religious Significance

Gandhara played a crucial role in the spread of Buddhism across Asia. The region was a major center for Buddhist learning and monastic activity, attracting pilgrims and scholars from various parts of Asia. The flourishing of Buddhist art in Gandhara significantly influenced the development of Buddhist iconography seen in later Asian cultures.

Archaeological Discoveries

Excavations in Gandhara have unearthed a treasure trove of artifacts, including:

  • Stone sculptures and reliefs depicting Buddha’s life
  • Monastic relics and inscriptions
  • Stupas and prayer halls
  • Coins and pottery

These discoveries have provided invaluable insights into the social, religious, and artistic life of ancient Gandhara.

Cultural Legacy

Today, Gandhara’s legacy continues to inspire artists, historians, and archaeologists. Its contributions to Buddhist art and architecture are recognized worldwide, and efforts are ongoing to preserve and promote its archaeological sites.

Conclusion

The Gandhara Civilization of Pakistan is a shining chapter in the story of human cultural development. Its artistic innovations, religious contributions, and strategic location made it a vital bridge between East and West. Exploring Gandhara offers a glimpse into a world where cultures converged, creating a legacy that endures to this day.

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Itinerary

DAY-01-LahoreArrival Lahore, after short rest, city tour

DAY-02-LahoreFull day city tour of Lahore, afternoon visit Wagah border to see the flag ceremony 

DAY-03 Lahore – Khewra Salt Mines – Islamabad Drive to Islamabad en-route visit to Khewra salt mine.

DAY-04 Islamabad Full day sightseeing of Rawalpindi/Islamabad

DAY-05 Islamabad – Taxila – PeshawarDrive to Peshawar en-route visit Taxila archaeological sites and museum

DAY-06 Peshawar – Takht-e-Bhai – SWATHalf-day city tour of Peshawar, after lunch drive to Swat visiting Takht-e-Bhai on the way

DAY-07 SwatFull day tour of historical sites of Swat including Museum

DAY-08 Swat – Islamabad Drive back to Islamabad

DAY-09 Departure Transfer to airport for homebound flight

          

    Included

    S#

    DETAILS

    01

    Airport pick and drop

    02

    Accommodation bed & B.fast, twin bedroom in Islamabad and other cities standard air-condition rooms.

    03

    Flight Ticket or transportation from Islamabad/ Skardu/ Gilgit/chitral or from these cities to Islamabad

    04

    Skardu/Gilgit/Hunza Hotel (bed & breakfast)

    05

    Two nights in Chilas/ Besham hotel (bed & breakfast) incase of flight cancellation.

    06

    Jeeps Skardu/Askoli/ Hushe/ Skardu/shimshal/Chitral/Kalash or vice virsa.

    07

    Wages, insurance, food equipment of cook

    08

    Wages, insurance, food equipment of Assistant cook,

    09

    Wages, insurance, food of Porter Sirdar

    10

    Porter Payment, Low altitude porters.

    11

    Baggage,75 kg (going time) and 50 kgs  (on return) for expedition 45 days or more and 25 kg for trekking group & trekking peak    

    12

    Full board camp food during trek & at base camp.

    13

    Mess tent, Kitchen tent, store tent, table , chairs and kitchen equipment

    14

    Reconfirmation of international flight tickets.

    15

    Camping fees, road taxes & bridge crossing of expedition members & Porters.

    16

    Porters Equipments.

    17

    Assistance in obtaining climbing permit and other documentations

    18

    Briefing and debriefing in the Ministry of tourism

    19

    CKNP fee: US $ 150/per member

    20

    1000 US$ guarantee pollution fee.

    21

    200 US$ environmental protection fund.

    22

    Fuel, Tarpaulin, and Stove for porters.

    23

    Kerosene Oil for porter and Members

    24

    Toilet tent and shower tent

    25

    Members will have individual D-4  in Base camp tents, and mattress for expeditions more than one month

    26

    LO insurance or guide transport and hotel/ equipment and TA/DA.

    27

    Royalty fee and additional member fee

    Excluded

    S.#

    DETAILS

    01

    Sleeping bags, rucksacks and personal clothing.

    02

    Medication, ground evacuation and helicopter rescue (US$15,000) of any kind.

    03

    Room services, laundry charges, beverages and items of personal nature. Phone /communication

    04

    Climbing food beyond base camp, equipment, high altitude Porters wages bills.

    05

    Insurance or liability of any members.

    06

    Tip to staff

    07

    Custom clearing and forwarding agent’s charge.

    08

    Food & drinks during stay in hotel (City)

    09

    Transport to other cities or places out of itinerary

    10

    Custom clearing and forwarding agent’s charge.

    11

    Extra baggage charges during international or domestic flight

    12

    Insurance or liability of any members.

    TERMS & CONDITION:

    Chogholingsa Trek &Tours promulgates its terms and conditions for any kind of trip, trekking, mountaineering, hiking, rafting, wild safaris and other services being operated so far by the company. The terms and conditions set forth will bring forward its limitations before any interested visitor advances for the programs alluded.

    What should our clients do for reservation of any kind of services provided by the company?

    40% of payment in advance should be made up 1 month earlier or as soon as the trip is confirmed, since it is a proof that you are sure to attempt the trip. It should be done as alluded so that the company can manage all the necessary documents, permissions and required field staffs.

    The full settlement of the payment should be cleared before the client proceeds for the trip or any kind of service at the arrival in Pakistan.

    The advance payment is not refundable in case of overturning the trip in any condition on behalf of the client.

    The advance payment is only refundable if the holding company shows any technical impediments regarding the trip.

    No refund is made for 40% deposit amount in case of delay arrival, no show or cancellation of trip for any other else reason.

    For any consideration regarding the terms alluded, a bilateral negotiation can be attempted between the hosting company and the client
    The advance payment can be directly deposited to our bank account through any bank in the world.
     

    1: REFUND:

    No refund will be made for 50% deposit amount in case of cancellation of trip for any other else reason. Having paid full amount of any trip, you’re entitled to incur refund in case if you want to cancel your trip. Still, cancellation charge is invoiced to you. Written notification of your cancellation should be made to cancel any trip. Nevertheless, you’re imposed cancellation charge as advised below: –

    2: SUPPLEMENT CHARGE:

    On our holidays tour / trek packages, rooms or tents are provided in twin sharing basis. Thus, single room supplement charge will be imposed to client who does not have another tour participant to share room / tent with.

    3: INCOMPLETE TOUR:

    No refund will be made to clients who drop out from the journey regardless of whatever portions remain unused in the itinerary.

    4: CLIENTS’ RESPONSIBLE:

    A tour / trek guide who represents Chogholingsa trek & Tours deserves all authority during your tours. If you commit any unlawful act, you are compelled to leave the tour. No refund will be made in such case.

    5: IMPACT ON YOUR JOURNEY:

    We put our every effort to ensure comfortable traveling of yours,but it is must to understand that what you might be accustomed to in the western affluent countries, the Asian countries can’t afford such facilities. Weather is another factor that directly impact on your journey. Hence, patience in mind, enthusiasm and proper preparation before head is must to venture into journey.

    6:  TRAVEL INSURANCE:

    You must purchase comprehensive travel insurance package against medical, natural calamity, helicopter evacuation, personal accident, trip cancellation etc. This is  suggested to all our esteemed clients.

    7: TOUR AMENDMENT:
    To make alterations of any trek / tour itinerary, prior notice is requested. You’re advised to stay in touch with us thus. But occasionally, you may be obliged to do so en route under certain circumstance for instance bad weather etc.

    8: PAPERS AND DOCUMENTS:

    All necessary documents should be presented in sequence for example to issue visa, necessary permits etc. We’re not accountable in case of any trip formality not completed in time before the trip departs on the absent of essential papers and documents.

    9:  RISK AND RESPONSIBILITY:

    Your safety and enjoyment is our prime concern. We therefore carry out our responsibility honestly & sincerely to ensure your holiday trouble–free as well as you have desired. Nevertheless, unless stated otherwise, trip may be change under uncertain and inherent circumstances such as land-slides, road blockage, flood, snow political unrest, cancellation of flight, delay arrival, sickness or accidents etc. Any extra cost incurring there is your personal responsibility and should be borne on the spot.

    10: FLIGHT DELAY / CANCELLATION:

    There is virtually possibility of flight delay or postponement for notorious weather in Karakoram & Himalayan Mountain regions of Pakistan which could be happened,  especially during off season, you’re highly advised to reserve extra days to prepare with some delays and avoid frustrating consequence. In case of flight cancellation pre-tour/post-tour, you need to meet your accommodation and food costs yourself.

    Chogholingsa trek & Tours puts every effort to ensure your comfortable traveling, but it is must to understand that what you might be accustomed to in the other affluent countries, the Asian countries can’t afford such facilities. Weather is another factor that directly impacts your journey. Hence, patience in mind, enthusiasm and proper preparation before beginning is must to venture into journey.

    →01  RESERVATIONS / PAYMENTS:

    A non-refundable deposit of $300 or 15% of the tour is required in order to make a reservation with the company. Total balance is due 3 weeks prior to departure. When price once fixed then any extra expenses will not be charged to the client
    →02  MODE OF PAYMENT:   Bank Transfer:

    Account Details

    Bank Name:

    Habib Bank Pvt.LTD.

    Account Title:

    Chogholingsa

    IBAN NO:

    PK73 HABB 0004767901352403

    swift code

    HABBPKKA Or HABBPKKA476

    Branch Code

    0476

    Branch name:

    Main Bazar Branch Skardu

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