Shortugai

Shortugai is an archaeological site in Takhar Province, Afghanistan, formed by two separate mounds. Each mound covers roughly two hectares (five acres), with one serving as a residential settlement and the other as a defensive compound.

The settlement was founded around 2000 BC and marks the northernmost outpost of the Indus Valley Civilization. It operated for centuries as a trading hub linking different cultural zones.

Square seals with animal motifs and clay figurines of oxen pulling carts reveal connections to the Harappa culture. These objects can be seen in regional collections today and show how distant communities exchanged ideas and craft traditions.

The location near the Kokcha River allowed residents to construct irrigation channels for farming. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear, as the ground is uneven and walking between the two mounds requires careful steps.

Flax seeds found in plowed fields prove dryland farming was practiced, while irrigation canals point to advanced techniques from multiple civilizations. This combination shows how different farming methods were used side by side.