Buddhism in Afghanistan has a rich history that dates back to the 3rd century BCE, when it spread along trade routes. The region was home to significant Buddhist sites, including the famous Bamiyan Buddhas, which were monumental statues carved into cliffs and stood as symbols of the faith until their destruction in 2001. During its peak, Afghanistan was a center for Buddhist learning and culture, influenced by various dynasties. However, the rise of Islam in the 7th century led to a decline in Buddhism, and today, the religion has a minimal presence, with only a few practitioners remaining in the country.