Shahbaz Garhi Guide
Shahbaz Garhi: Witnessing the Edicts of Emperor Ashoka Guide
Shahbaz Garhi is a historical site located near Mardan, Pakistan, renowned for its rock edicts of Emperor Ashoka, dating back to the 3rd century BCE. These edicts, inscribed in the ancient Kharosthi script, offer invaluable insights into Ashoka's reign, his conversion to Buddhism, and his efforts to promote peace and social welfare. The site provides a unique opportunity to connect with the history of the Mauryan Empire and its influence on the region. Emperor Ashoka, a powerful ruler of the Mauryan dynasty, embraced Buddhism after witnessing the devastation of the Kalinga War. Deeply remorseful, he dedicated his reign to promoting Buddhist principles of non-violence, compassion, and ethical conduct. The rock edicts at Shahbaz Garhi are among the many inscriptions he commissioned throughout his empire, disseminating his message to the masses. These edicts cover a range of topics, including Ashoka's commitment to religious tolerance, his efforts to improve infrastructure, and his promotion of animal welfare. Visitors to Shahbaz Garhi can examine the rock edicts and decipher the ancient Kharosthi script (though translation assistance is usually needed). The site is relatively small, allowing for a focused and contemplative experience. The surrounding landscape offers a glimpse into the rural life of the region. While there are no specific culinary traditions directly linked to the site, exploring the local markets in Mardan will provide opportunities to sample regional Pakistani dishes.
Transportation
From Mardan city, you can hire a taxi or a rickshaw to reach Shahbaz Garhi. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Local buses and vans also travel in that direction, but you may need to inquire about the exact stop and walk a short distance to the site.