It is regarded as South Asia’s largest Buddhist seat of learning. The ruins of the most significant and largest known monastery south of the Himalayas have been excavated in this little settlement, which is located in the larger Rajshahi district five kilometers west of Jamalganj.
The archeological discoveries from the 7th century AD span over 11 hectares. The complete facility, which takes up a quadrangular court, is more than three hundred meters. and ranges in height from 3.5 to 4.5 meters.
There are 45 cells on the north side and 44 on each of the other three sides, for a total of 177 rooms, including an intricate gateway complex on the north. The architecture of South East Asian countries, particularly Myanmar and Java in Indonesia, has a strong effect on the design of the pyramidal cruciform temple. The name of the place came from a tall mound resembling a Pahar or hillock.
A recently constructed museum showcases a variety of artifacts retrieved from the region. The Varendra Research Museum in Rajshahi has also kept the discovered artifacts from the excavation. Terracotta plaques, pictures of various gods and goddesses, ceramics, coin inscriptions, decorative bricks, and other small clay pieces are among the treasures housed at the museum. Initially listed as a World Heritage Site in Bangladesh.
