2,000-Year-Old Buddhist Site discovered in J&K | 03 Jan 2026

Why in News?

A 2,000 year old Buddhist archaeological site from the Kushan period has been discovered in Zehanpora village, Baramulla district of Jammu & Kashmir.

Key Points

• Findings: Excavations revealed Buddhist stupas, monastic structures, and other artifacts, indicating the presence of an important ancient Buddhist settlement.
• Historical Significance: The discovery highlights Kashmir’s role as a center of ancient cultural, trade, and spiritual exchange, particularly in Buddhism.
• Government Reaction: Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the discovery as a “proud moment” for India’s heritage.
• Tourism & Research: The site has the potential to boost archaeological research and cultural tourism in the region.
• Archaeological Oversight: Excavations are being conducted under the guidance of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).