Mapping the Past: Preliminary Assessment of Survey of Archaeological Sites and Monuments in District Bhimber, AJ&K (2020-21)

Abstract

Archaeological research has played a crucial role in preserving the cultural heritage of the Bhimber region. Numerous researchers and explorers have contributed to documenting its historical monuments and sites, but its potential has not been exploited at large. To document the archaeological potential of the District Bhimber, a survey was proposed. This paper focuses on the preliminary results of this survey and documentation of archaeological sites and monuments in the Bhimber district, AJ&K, conducted between 2020-21. The main objective of the survey was to find new sites and monuments and document in detail the exposed features of already reported and new sites and monuments. Traditional field walk following village to village survey methodology equipped with proforma has been adopted for the documentation of sites and monuments. Through these efforts, over fifteen archaeological sites and historic monuments have been identified and documented detail in District Bhimber, with the majority located in Tehsil Bhimber. The sites comprise of religious structures such as temples, gurdwaras, mosques, as well as residential and defensive structures such as forts and havelis mainly associated to Sikh and Mughal period. The discovery of these significant structures emphasizes the need for continued research and preservation efforts to safeguard the cultural heritage of the region for future generations. There is still a need of large-scale survey to document the archaeological sites and monuments in other regions of the Bhimber as well as AJ&K.