Secrets of the Stones: The Ancient Rock Carvings of Padum Zanskar Valley

Team Eka

Amidst the rugged, isolated landscapes of Zanskar Valley, the echoes of ancient prayers still seem to linger in the wind. Hidden within this remote terrain lies one of the region’s most overlooked treasures – the mystical rock carvings of Padum that have stood for over a millennium. The main town of the Zanskar region in Ladakh, Padum is not just known for its stunning topography but also for its rich historical and cultural heritage. Among its unique attractions, are a set of ancient rock carvings that date back to the 8th and 9th centuries CE. These intricate carvings, etched into a massive solitary monolith, located below the Padum town on the left bank of the Tsarap River, offer a fascinating glimpse into the early Buddhist art of the region. They tell a silent yet powerful story of devotion, artistic brilliance, and cultural fusion.

One of the most remarkable carvings is the depiction of the Five Dhyani Buddhas. The Pancha Buddhas are also known as Five Wisdom Tathagatas and are widely respected in Vajrayana Buddhism. Locally, this sacred site is referred to as Gyalwa Ringna. The massive relief, carved onto a monolithic rock, showcases the five Buddhas along with their attendants, reflecting the deep spiritual significance of Vajrayana Buddhism. Additionally, an engraving of Maitreya, the future Buddha, can be seen on the left side of the relief.

Each of the Five Wisdom Buddhas represents unique attributes:

Ratnasambhava (South): Symbolizing generosity, his right hand is in Varada Mudra (gesture of giving). He is seated on a lotus pedestal supported by two horses.
Akshobhya (East): Depicted in Bhumisparsha Mudra (earth-touching gesture), representing steadfastness and overcoming obstacles. His seat is supported by two elephants.
Vairocana (Center): Representing wisdom and enlightenment, he is depicted in Dharmachakra Mudra (teaching gesture) and seated on a lotus pedestal supported by lions.
Amitabha (West): Symbolizing compassion and meditation, he is shown in Dhyana Mudra (meditative pose) and seated on a pedestal supported by peacocks.
Amoghasiddhi (North): Representing fearlessness and accomplishment, he is depicted in Abhaya Mudra (gesture of reassurance) and seated on a lotus supported by Garuḍa, a mythical bird.

The monolith also features a striking image of Maitreya, the future Buddha, holding a vase in his left hand while his right hand is raised in a gesture of reassurance. Surrounding the Buddhas, a grand assembly of 24 attendants and approximately 30 large stupas are carved on the boulder, with around 300 smaller stupas adding to the spiritual aura of the site. An inscription, “Om mani padme hum”, can also be found on the rock. “Om Mani Padme Hum” is a sacred mantra in Tibetan Buddhism, symbolizing compassion, wisdom, and enlightenment. Originating from ancient Sanskrit, this sacred mantra has etched its place in the hearts and minds of countless practitioners, embodying the core tenets of compassion, wisdom, and enlightenment. Each word has a special meaning: “Om” represents the universe, “Mani” means jewel, “Padme” means lotus, and “Hum” stands for unity. Linked to Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, this mantra is widely used in meditation, prayer, and rituals.

The stylistic elements of these carvings suggest a strong influence of Kashmiri art, particularly evident in the trefoil niches surrounding each figure. This distinctive architectural feature is commonly seen in early medieval Kashmiri temples and highlights the artistic influences that reached Zanskar. Other rock carvings in the region also reflect elements of Kashmiri craftsmanship, reinforcing the idea that Buddhist artistic traditions flowed from Kashmir into Ladakh and Zanskar. These shared artistic motifs illustrate the deep cultural and religious connections between these regions. These ancient carvings of offbeat Zanskar in Padum are not just artistic masterpieces but also hold immense religious significance. The Five Wisdom Buddhas symbolize different aspects of enlightenment, and meditating upon them is considered a path to spiritual awakening in Vajrayāna Buddhism. Each of the five Buddhas represents specific attributes that practitioners aspire to cultivate.

Standing nearly twenty feet high, this colossal rock relief is a testament to the rich Buddhist heritage of Zanskar Valley. It serves as a vital link to the past, offering insights into the artistic, religious, and cultural influences that shaped the entire region. Today, these carvings remain an important site for both historians, culture buffs and spiritual seekers, preserving the legacy of Buddhism in these remote frontiers of Ladakh.

Visiting these mystical carvings is an offbeat attraction of a Zanskar valley tour, falling out of the standard touristy route. Interestingly, not many people are aware of their existence, let alone their significance. On our offbeat Zanskar odyssey, we ensure our travellers don’t miss out on this amazing place. Check our Zanskar Valley tour details for a curated itinerary. To personalize your trip further and tailor as per your family’s/group’s interests and preferences, connect with us.