Contours of Buddhism in Ancient Jammu: Texts, Traditions, and Archaeology

Abstract

This paper explores the presence and development of Buddhism in the Jammu region, which forms the transitional cultural and geographical zone between the Punjab plains and the Kashmir Valley. Due to its strategic position along ancient trade and pilgrimage routes, Jammu emerged as a convergence point for diverse cultural and religious influences. The study traces archaeological and literary evidence revealing Buddhism’s penetration into the area from the early historic period, with discoveries of stupas, monasteries, and inscriptions, notably at site such as Ambaran near Akhnoor. Drawing upon primary textual sources like the Nilamata Purana, Kalhana’s Rajatarangini, and Milindapanho, alongside archaeological findings and secondary historical analyses, this research reconstructs the contours of Buddhist activity across the region. This study, grounded in both textual exegesis and material culture, provides new insights into Jammu’s vital role in the broader narrative of Buddhist expansion across northern India.