Indus-Valley Civilization — Sites

The Indus-Valley Civilization Sites were among the most advanced in the world for their time. They feature sophisticated urban-planning of their streets, houses, and ritual areas, in addition to especially elaborate design for their city’s drainage system and public baths.

The IVC/HC was a major early civilization that existed from 3300–1300 BCE — a span of about 2000 years. It covered much of modern Pakistan, northwest India, and at least one trading colony in Afghanistan. (NE Afghanistan) [1]

Over 1000 Indus-Valley Civilization sites have been discovered so far. However, only about 40 were known by pre-Partition era archaeologists in India. [1]

Mohenjodaro and Harappa

The most widely-known IVC/HC sites are definitely Mohenjodaro and Harappa. Mohenjo-daro is located in modern Sindh, while Harappa is in West Punjab. These two sites are also the greatest of the Harappan sites, accounting for most of the inscribed objects and seals that have been found. We still have not deciphered the language they hold.

Over 90% of the inscribed objects found have been discovered in ancient urban centers along the Indus river where it is now in the modern country of Pakistan. [1]

More than 50 IVC burial sites have been found, including Rakhigarhi (the first site with genetic testing), Mohenjodaro, Harappa, Farmana, Kalibangan, Lothal, Dholavira, Mehrgarh, Banawali, Alamgirpur, and Chanhudaro. [1]