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The Zurmala Stupa, located in Termez, Surxondaryo Region, Uzbekistan, stands as a profound testament to India's millennia-spanning cultural heritage and the enduring legacy of Buddhist architectural traditions that spread across Central Asia from the Indian subcontinent [1] [3]. This ancient Buddhist stupa, dating back to the 1st century CE, embodies the indigenous architectural styles and cultural practices that reflect India's deep historical roots and its continuous civilization [1] [5]. The structure, a cylindrical tower, originally measured approximately 14.5 meters in diameter and rose to an impressive height of over 16 meters [1] [3]. It was constructed primarily from adobe brick, a common and ancient building material, and was subsequently faced with burnt red bricks and stone blocks [1] [3]. These facing materials were often adorned with high reliefs depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology, showcasing the sophisticated artistic and religious iconography originating from India [1]. The architectural design of Zurmala Stupa is characteristic of early Buddhist stupa architecture, which evolved from ancient Indian burial mounds and reliquaries [1]. It features a rectangular cylindrical monolith stylobate, upon which the main cylindrical body of the stupa was hoisted [1]. The upper part of the tower housed a reliquary chamber, intended for the storage of sacred Buddhist scriptures, statues, or relics of the Buddha, emphasizing its primary function as a sacred monument [1]. The exterior facade of the stupa was believed to have been painted a vibrant red, a color often associated with Buddhist symbolism and monastic traditions [3]. Archaeological investigations have revealed fragments of kilned bricks around the stupa, some bearing stamps similar to those used in Bactria during the Kushan Empire, indicating the construction techniques and material sourcing of the period [3]. Currently, the Zurmala Stupa exists as a significant archaeological remnant, with its original grandeur partially obscured by the passage of time and natural degradation [1] [3]. The monument exhibits substantial cracks, highlighting the ongoing challenges in its preservation [3]. Despite its current state, conservation efforts are underway, including documentation and restoration work, to safeguard this invaluable piece of heritage [4]. The site is recognized on the UNESCO Tentative List, underscoring its global cultural significance and the need for continued preservation [1]. While specific details on active programming or daily visitor flow are not extensively documented, the site remains accessible for scholarly research and heritage tourism, contributing to the understanding of the spread of Indian cultural and religious traditions [1] [5]. The Zurmala Stupa stands as an operational and accessible site, continuously maintained for its historical and cultural value, reflecting the enduring impact of Indian civilization across millennia [1] [4].
The history of the Zurmala Stupa begins in the ancient period, firmly rooted in the millennia-long continuum of Indian civilization and the widespread dissemination of Buddhist traditions from the Indian subcontinent [6] [8]. Constructed around the 1st to 2nd centuries CE, during the flourishing era of the Kushan Empire, the stupa represents a significant phase in the expansion of Buddhism into Central Asia [6] [7]. The Kushan Empire, with its strong connections to Indian culture and religion, played a pivotal role in patronizing Buddhist art and architecture, facilitating the spread of these indigenous Indian traditions beyond the geographical boundaries of India [6] [8]. The site of Ancient Termez, where Zurmala is located, became a crucial gateway for the propagation of Buddhism, along with its associated customs and architectural styles, from North-Western India (Gandhara) or Southern Afghanistan (Kandahar) [9] [10]. Early information about the stupa is found in the diaries of Xuanzang, a Chinese Buddhist priest who visited Termez between 629-630 CE [7]. He documented the presence of numerous monasteries and stupas in the region, indicating a vibrant Buddhist community [7]. Archaeological investigations have been instrumental in confirming and expanding upon these historical accounts. A.S. Strelkov's expedition in 1926–1928, conducted by the Oriental Museum of Moscow and the Hermitage Museum of St. Petersburg, noted the architectural similarities with Xuanzang's descriptions [7]. Later, M.E. Masson organized further expeditions to understand the general features of these monuments [7]. The definitive identification of Zurmala as a Buddhist stupa was confirmed by Galina Pugachenkova's excavations, which revealed its structural form and purpose [7]. The construction of Zurmala Stupa utilized raw brick for its core, with an exterior facing of red burnt bricks and stone blocks, some of which were carved with bas-relief sculptures depicting Buddhist mythological scenes [7] . This construction reflects the indigenous architectural traditions and material usage prevalent in the region, influenced by Indian prototypes [7]. Over centuries, the stupa endured various historical events and political changes, including periods of neglect, which led to its reduction to a mound of clay . Despite these challenges, its religious significance persisted for the local populace . Conservation efforts, including archaeological research and reconstruction studies, continue to document and preserve this ancient monument, ensuring its legacy as a vital link in the continuous cultural traditions that originated in India and spread across the Silk Road [6] [7] [9]. The Zurmala Stupa thus stands as a profound historical artifact, illustrating the deep and continuous cultural exchange that characterized the ancient world, with India at its heart [6] [10].




Documentation and study of stupa structure, associated buildings, and evidence of Buddhist worship practices.
Archaeological documentation; structural stabilization; ongoing conservation. ([1][2])
Kushan Empire
Construction utilized rammed earth and mud brick for the stupa structure. The stupa employed sophisticated earthen construction techniques adapted from Indian stupa traditions. ([1][2])
Indian Buddhist Stupa Architecture, Early Buddhist Stupa Design, Indian Buddhist Iconography
The structural system employs rammed earth and mud brick construction. ([1][2])
37.263880, 67.232360
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Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October): Pleasant weather with moderate temperatures (15-25°C) ideal for outdoor exploration. Avoid summer months (June-August) due to extreme heat. Early morning or late afternoon visits are recommended to avoid the midday sun.
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["Visitors are requested to respect the historical integrity of the site and refrain from climbing on fragile structures.","Littering is strictly prohibited; please dispose of waste responsibly.","Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but drones may require special permission.","Please stay on designated paths to protect the archaeological remains."]
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2025-11-09T09:25:36.674434+00:00
2025-11-21T10:42:24.51649+00:00
Zurmala Stupa Termez Uzbekistan is a historic Stupa located in Surxondaryo, Uzbekistan. This Buddhist Stupa architecture style, Gandhara architecture style, Early Buddhist architecture style, Indian architecture style architectural masterpiece was built during the Kushan Period period and represents significant cultural and historical heritage of Uzbekistan. The Zurmala Stupa, located in Termez, Surxondaryo Region, Uzbekistan, stands as a profound testament to India's millennia-spanning cultural heritage and the enduring legacy of Buddhist architectural t...
| so'mEntry Fee | Free for all visitors. |
| 🕐Opening Hours | Dawn to Dusk (6 AM - 6 PM) |
| 📅Best Time to Visit | October to March (Winter) |
| ⏱️Duration | 2-3 hours |
| ♿Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible |
| 📸Photography | Allowed (No flash) |
Check opening hours and entry fees for Zurmala Stupa Termez Uzbekistan. Book tickets online if available to avoid queues. Best visited during early morning or late afternoon.
Zurmala Stupa Termez Uzbekistan is located in Zurmala Stupa, Termez, Surxondaryo Region, Uzbekistan, Surxondaryo. The nearest major city is Zurmala Stupa. Accessible by road, rail, and air. Use GPS coordinates: 37.26388, 67.23236.
Entry fee: Free for all visitors.. Follow dress code for religious sites. Photography is allowed. Maintain silence and respect the heritage.
Allocate 2-3 hours to fully explore Zurmala Stupa Termez Uzbekistan. Key areas to visit include the main sanctum, pillared halls, and intricate carvings. Consider hiring a local guide for detailed insights.
Construction of Zurmala Stupa Termez Uzbekistan by Kushan Empire
Conservation and restoration efforts initiated under UNESCO Tentative List
Digital documentation and 3D scanning completed by Inheritage Foundation