Marine archaeological investigations in Okhamandal region of Saurashtra, west coast of India

Abstract

The history of Okhamandal region, west coast of India has been often viewed from point of religion and very little interest has been shown on the social and commercial history of this area. Marine archaeological investigations during last two decades have focused on material remains from inter-tidal zone as well as from offshore, which yielded valuable antiquities, suggesting a very rich maritime history, commencing from the Harappan period to recent. Despite of unavailability of fertile land, the Okhamandal area has witnessed all phases of the history. Antiquities recovered from this region suggest that the early settlement took place because of the richness of gastropod shells and safe harbour. On the basis of archaeological evidences it has been observed that during protohistoric period Okhamandal had contacts with Sind region and not with Saurashtra and Kachchh. While during the early historical phase the area has became focus of International trade. Offshore explorations in Dwarka brought to light the remains of an ancient harbour and different types of stone anchors. Explorations in Bet Dwarka yielded the evidence on the early European contacts during early historical period suggesting that ships were anchored near present Bet Dwarka jetty.