The Mauri-Tim Stupa in Kashgar

The Mauri-Tim Stupa (also known as the Mauri Temple Ruins/喀什市莫尔佛塔（又称莫尔寺遗址）) in Kashgar is one of the most well-preserved early Buddhist sites in Western China. Its history and architectural features are of significant archaeological value. Below is a comprehensive overview of the site:

Basic Information

Location: The stupa is situated on the southeast terrace of the Gumata Mountain (古玛塔格山), approximately 20-33 kilometers northeast of Kashgar, specifically in Mori Village, Bershkranmu Township.

Historical Period: The stupa was initially constructed in the 3rd century (Han and Tang periods) and continued to be used until it was abandoned in the 10th century, making it about 1,800 years old.

Architectural Features: The site includes two existing stupas—one circular and one square. The circular stupa stands about 12 meters tall and is a relic-style relic stupa. It combines Gandhara art and Central Plains architectural styles, featuring diamond patterns and lotus motifs on its surface.

Archaeological Findings

The site spans approximately 40,000 square meters, and archaeological excavations have uncovered six Buddhist building foundations and the base platform of the square stupa, confirming its role as an important temple of the Shule Kingdom (疏勒国).

Excavated artifacts include a six-toed wooden foot, which correlates with the historical records describing the Shule King's "six fingers and toes" feature, suggesting this may have been the royal temple of the Shule royal family.

Radiocarbon dating has shown that the circular stupa was built in the mid-3rd century, making it one of the earliest Buddhist relics in Xinjiang.

Cultural Significance

As a key node in the spread of Buddhism along the Silk Road, the site substantiates the flourishing of Buddhism in Xinjiang and the multi-ethnic nature of Chinese civilization.

In 2023, the Mauri-Tim Stupa was shortlisted in the preliminary list for Top Ten Archaeological Discoveries in China. In 2025, Central University for Nationalities and the Xinjiang Archaeological Institute will collaborate on further excavations, expected to yield significant findings.

Visiting Information

Opening Hours: Open year-round, all day, with free entry.

Transportation Tips: While traveling by train through Kashgar, visitors can get a distant view of the stupa. If driving, use GPS to navigate to Mori Village, Bershkranmu Township.

Preservation Status

The site has suffered significant natural erosion, and the visitor center is still under construction. Some areas of the site remain closed to the public.

The archaeological team continues to study the construction techniques and historical changes at the site through the analysis of plant specimens and mortar samples.