Harappan Sites in Gujarat

The Harappan civilization, also known as the Indus Valley civilization, thrived around 2500 BCE to 1900 BCE in the western part of the Indian subcontinent. Gujarat, located in the western region of India, is known for its rich archaeological sites related to the Harappan civilization. Among the given options, Banawali is the site that is not located in Gujarat.

Explanation:

1. Surkotada
- Surkotada is an archaeological site located in the district of Kutch in Gujarat.
- It is one of the important Harappan sites in Gujarat.
- Excavations at Surkotada have revealed a fortified settlement with evidence of a citadel, residential areas, and a cemetery.
- Numerous artifacts such as pottery, beads, tools, and animal remains have been found at the site, indicating the economic and cultural activities of the Harappan people.

2. Lothal
- Lothal is another significant Harappan site located near the village of Saragwala in the district of Ahmedabad in Gujarat.
- It was an important port city and a center of trade and commerce during the Harappan period.
- The site exhibits well-planned urban structures, including a dockyard, warehouses, residential areas, and a marketplace.
- The discovery of a large number of seals, beads, pottery, and a unique dockyard suggests Lothal's active participation in maritime trade.

3. Dholavira
- Dholavira is a major Harappan site located in the district of Kutch in Gujarat.
- It is one of the largest and most well-preserved Harappan cities.
- The site consists of a fortified citadel, a middle town, and a lower town.
- The unique features of Dholavira include an elaborate water management system, large-scale reservoirs, and well-planned urban structures.
- The discovery of the famous "Dholavira signboard" with Indus script has contributed to our understanding of the Harappan script.

4. Banawali
- Banawali is an archaeological site belonging to the Harappan civilization.
- However, it is not located in Gujarat, but in the Hisar district of Haryana.
- Banawali was discovered in 1974 and has revealed evidence of a fortified citadel, residential areas, and a cemetery.
- Excavations at Banawali have provided insights into the Harappan culture and its connection with other contemporary settlements.

In conclusion, among the given options, Banawali is the Harappan site that is not located in Gujarat. It is located in the Hisar district of Haryana. The other three sites, Surkotada, Lothal, and Dholavira, are significant Harappan sites located in Gujarat.