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Lothal: Ancient Port City of the Indus Valley Civilization

Unearth the mysteries of Lothal, an ancient Indus Valley port city showcasing advanced urban planning and maritime trade from 2400 BCE.

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Explore the archaeological remains of Lothal, a significant Harappan port-town dating back to 2400 BCE in Gujarat, India. Discover the world's oldest known artificial dock, bead factories, and well-planned urban settlements, offering a glimpse into the Indus Valley Civilization's maritime trade and craftsmanship.

A brief summary to Lothal, Archaeological Remains Of A Harappa Port-Town

  • Lothal, Taluka, Saragwala, Dholka, Gujarat, 382230, IN
  • Visit website
  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the winter months (November to March) for pleasant weather, as summers can be extremely hot.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunglasses, and carry water, as there is a lot of walking on uneven terrain and little shade.
  • The site and museum are closed on Fridays.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours for a fulfilling visit to explore the site and museum.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby attractions like Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary.
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Getting There

  • Road

    Lothal is approximately 80 km southwest of Ahmedabad. Hire a taxi or drive from Ahmedabad, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Roads to Lothal are well-maintained. Car service providers are available in Ahmedabad. Expect to pay around ₹1,800 - ₹2,500 for a round trip taxi from Ahmedabad. Parking is available near the site.

  • Train

    Take a train from Ahmedabad's Gandhigram station to Lothal-Bhurkhi station, which is 6 km from the site. From the station, hire a local Chakda (local auto-style rickshaw) or a taxi to reach the site. Train tickets from Ahmedabad to Lothal-Bhurkhi typically cost between ₹50-₹100. A Chakda or taxi from the station to the site will cost approximately ₹100-₹200.

  • Bus

    Take a bus from Ahmedabad's Geeta Mandir Bus Station to Bagodara. From Bagodara, take a shared auto or bus to Arnej or Bhurkhi Fatak. From either of these villages, vehicles are available to Lothal. Bus fare from Ahmedabad to Bagodara is approximately ₹80-₹120. Shared auto or bus fare from Bagodara to Arnej or Bhurkhi Fatak is approximately ₹30-₹50. Vehicle fare from Arnej or Bhurkhi Fatak to Lothal is approximately ₹50-₹100.

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Discover more about Lothal, Archaeological Remains Of A Harappa Port-Town

Lothal, meaning 'Mound of the Dead' in Gujarati, was one of the southernmost sites of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, located in Gujarat, India. Construction of the city is believed to have begun around 2300 BCE. Discovered in 1954, Lothal stands as a testament to the achievements of the Indus Valley Civilization. Excavations have revealed the world's oldest known artificial dock, connected to an old course of the Sabarmati River, facilitating trade with Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Persia. The site features a well-planned city layout, including a citadel, lower town with residential structures, bead factory, warehouses, and a sophisticated drainage system. The Archaeological Museum near the site houses artifacts like jewelry, pottery, seals, and objects of daily use. Visitors can explore the excavated remains of the dockyard, acropolis, lower town, bead factory, and museum. The museum showcases a selective collection of artifacts, including beads, shells, seals, weights, and jewelry. Lothal offers a glimpse into the urban and commercial life of the Harappan civilization, showcasing their maritime connections and trade.

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