Home | Excursion Ahmedabad | Lothal

Situated 80 km away from Ahmedabad, Lothal is one of the most significant archaeological sites in India. In the language of the local people, Lothal means 'the mound of the dead'. This archaeological site was revealed in the year 1957, followed by excavations done by the Archaeological Survey of India. As a result of this excavations, fact came out that the ruins of the settlement belonged to the Harappan Era, dating back to the 2nd millennium BC. It is an wonderful example of Harrappan town planning.

Tourist can see here the most interesting site - the dockyard. The evidence of dockyard reveals the fact that Lothal was once one of the most important ports in the region. Apart from this, there is the fortress that is divided into two parts, an acropolis and the lower town. The most charming facet of this site is the excellent sanitary drainage system of the town. Lothal was a central trade destination till 1900 BC in India.

It is believed by historians that the town was shattered by floods that struck three times. Nevertheless, this did not deteriorate the spirit of its residents. Even after being sternly struck by floods, residents did not abandon the town; rather they rebuilt and modernized it to meet the future calamities. As per the archaeological excavations towards the west of the site, there is the site museum. Here, tourists can see plans, plaster of Paris models and paintings by archaeologists. All this is put together in an attempt to rebuild what Lothal must have looked like 4000 years ago.

Other places of interest of the museum are perforated and painted potteries, toy bullock carts, beads and jewelry. Evidence of number of seals found here, which indicates on the trade prevalent with ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt and Persia. Consequently, Lothal showcases an insight towards the Indus Valley civilization.