Pakistan’s history is marked by the rise and fall of numerous ancient civilisations, many of which remain hidden beneath the surface, awaiting rediscovery...
heritage
Pakistan’s history is marked by the rise and fall of numerous ancient civilisations, many of which remain hidden beneath the surface, awaiting rediscovery. Over the centuries, these cities have been buried by time, natural disasters, and the shifting sands of history. Yet, the unearthing of these long-forgotten urban centres provides valuable insights into the cultures and societies that once thrived in the region. The rediscovery of these sites not only offers an opportunity for historical research but also opens the door to the growth of cultural tourism, allowing the world to witness Pakistan’s ancient heritage.
The Indus Valley Civilisation, also known as the Harappan Civilisation, flourished between 3300 BCE and 1300 BCE in what is now modern-day Pakistan and northwest India. This ancient society was known for its advanced urban planning, sophisticated drainage systems, and remarkable craftsmanship in pottery and jewellery. However, many of the cities of this civilisation were abandoned and forgotten for centuries.
The cities of Harappa and Mohenjo Daro are the most famous and have been extensively studied. Harappa, located in Punjab, is a key archaeological site that has yielded a wealth of information about the Indus Valley people. Similarly, Mohenjo Daro, located in Sindh, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its well-planned streets, advanced drainage systems, and large granaries, which indicate the city’s role as a major trade and economic hub.
However, these are just the tips of the iceberg. Numerous other cities, towns, and villages from the Indus Valley Civilisation have yet to be fully explored or even discovered. In addition to Mohenjo Daro and Harappa, Pakistan is home to many lesser-known archaeological sites that offer clues to the country’s ancient past.
One such site is Kot Diji, a pre-Indus Valley settlement located in Sindh. It is one of the earliest known urban centres in the region, featuring mud brick fortifications and intricate pottery designs that highlight the emergence of an organised society. Another significant site is Dholavira, situated on the arid island of Khadir in Gujarat (India). Although part of the Indus Valley Civilisation, it remains relatively unknown outside of academic circles. Dholavira was a thriving urban centre and an important trading hub, showcasing advanced city planning and water management systems.
Beyond the well-known ruins, Mohenjo Daro’s surroundings have also yielded fascinating discoveries. Recent excavations around the periphery of the site have uncovered additional settlements, suggesting that Mohenjo Daro was part of a vast network of interconnected cities.
Mehrgarh, located in Balochistan, is another remarkable site, dating back to around 7000 BCE. It is one of the earliest known farming villages, providing crucial evidence of the transition from hunting and gathering to settled agricultural societies. The artefacts found here offer valuable insights into the development of early urban life in South Asia.
Over the years, archaeologists have worked hard to uncover the mysteries of Pakistan’s lost cities. With modern technology, including satellite imagery, ground-penetrating radar, and excavation tools, new sites are being found more quickly than ever before. This resurgence of interest in Pakistan’s ancient urban centres is not only important for historical and archaeological research but also for the country’s cultural identity.
Pakistan’s forgotten cities hold the potential to rewrite parts of history. Research into the Indus Valley Civilisation and its contemporaries offers insights into trade routes, early governance, art, and daily life. The sophisticated urban planning and development seen in these ancient cities challenge modern assumptions about the past, proving that ancient societies were far more advanced than we often realise.
Alongside academic research, these ancient cities present a huge opportunity for tourism. With rich cultural heritage and stunning archaeological remains, sites like Mohenjo Daro, Harappa, and Mehrgarh could attract thousands of tourists from around the world, eager to witness the origins of one of the world’s earliest urban societies.
Currently, Pakistan’s archaeological tourism is underdeveloped, but there is great potential for growth. Developing these sites for tourism could boost the local economy, create jobs, and raise global awareness of Pakistan’s ancient heritage. A more structured approach to preserving these sites, including proper management and infrastructure, could lead to increased international attention and more opportunities for research and education.
Moreover, archaeological tourism could also help raise awareness of Pakistan’s role in global history, building cultural understanding and connections with other countries. International collaborations could further enhance the research and conservation efforts at these sites, bringing new insights into ancient urban life.
Pakistan’s lost cities, particularly those from the Indus Valley Civilisation, are treasures waiting to be rediscovered. As research continues and more forgotten urban centres come to light, there is immense potential for both academic discovery and tourism. These sites offer a window into the past, showing us, how ancient civilisations shaped the world we live in today. It is time to look back at these hidden gems and appreciate their significance, not just for Pakistan but for the entire world. With the right efforts, the secret history of these lost cities can be shared with future generations, preserving their legacy for years to come.
The writer is a seasoned journalist and a communications professional. He can be reached at tariqkik@gmail.com
