If Pakistan can ever develop its potential for religious tourism and attract global pilgrims to its archaeological holy sites, the district of Rawalpindi will certainly lead the initiative. Dating back to the Stone, Bronze and Iron Ages, it was once the learning capital of Buddhism. A series of Buddhist sacred sites (monastic, stupas and universities) are scattered across the district. From Alexander the Great to the Mughals to Baba Guru Nanak, everyone has contributed to the revered heritage of the area.
The area, falling on the invading route to the subcontinent, has given birth to new cities through the millennia. If Bhir mound, dating back to the 6th century BC, is considered the earliest urban dwelling in the…
