Simsim Caves
森木塞姆千佛洞
A Kucha grotto complex northeast of Kuqa with more than 50 surviving caves, dating from the Wei-Jin to Song periods. It is an important remnant of Kucha Buddhist art.
The Simsim Thousand Buddha Caves lie in the Chilletag mountain pass about 40 km northeast of Kuqa city. The caves are carved into the cliffs along both sides of the valley. More than 50 numbered caves survive, dating roughly from the Wei-Jin period to the Song dynasty. The murals show both local Kucha styles and the influence of the Uyghur period. This is a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit. Far fewer visitors come here than to the Kizil Caves, and the setting remains wild and unspoiled. Opening arrangements and visiting procedures follow the announcements of the local heritage authorities, so check with them in advance. Visits require a chartered vehicle. Photography inside the caves is prohibited. The photo in this entry shows a mural from Cave 48.
Opening hours
Subject to heritage authority notices