Great Bath, Mohenjo-daro

The Great Bath at Mohenjo-daro is a rectangular structure with staircases at both ends and a waterproof floor made of carefully laid baked bricks. The interior was designed with channels and openings that directed water flow and managed drainage effectively.

This structure was built around 2500 BCE during the Indus Valley civilization and showcases the advanced construction methods of this early urban culture. It has survived thousands of years and stands as one of the oldest preserved structures of its kind.

The bath served as a central meeting place for residents and reflects how much they valued communal activities. Its prominent location suggests that ritual bathing or public gathering held significant importance in their way of life.

The site is accessible year-round and visitors can explore the ruins independently or join guided tours to learn more. It is helpful to wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection, as there is little shade at this location.

The bath employs an innovative waterproofing system using bitumen sandwiched between two layers of brick, an early engineering solution to prevent seepage. This technique reveals that builders of this period already understood advanced methods for protecting materials from water damage.