Buddhism in Kazakhstan

[3][4] During the period of the Western Turkic Khaganate (approximately 600–700 CE), which spanned across areas that are now part of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and other Central Asian regions, Buddhism was a widely supported and influential religion.

[6] As early as the 6th century, Buddhism began influencing Turkic tribes in Central Asia.

Notable evidence includes ancient Buddhist rock carvings found along the Ili River and in the Tarbagatai Mountains.

This influence can be seen in the Tamgaly-Tas Petroglyphs in Kazakhstan, which show Tibetan symbols and writings, reflecting the presence of Buddhism at that time.

The rise of Islam in the 10th century, particularly after it was declared the state religion by the Karakhanid dynasty, led to a gradual decline in Buddhism's prominence in Kazakhstan.

The Tamgaly-Tas Petroglyphs (Ili Kapshagai) are 17th-century rock carvings featuring Buddhist deities and Tibetan inscriptions, created by Oirat and Tibetan artists.