Zhob Culture Sites
The Zhob Culture Sites are an intriguing journey into the prehistoric past of Balochistan located in the district's namesake city—Zhob Valley. These archaeological mounds, dating back to 3000 BC, include Periano Ghundai, Mughal Ghendui, and Rana Ghindau. These sites offer a unique perspective into early agricultural communities that thrived in the region during ancient times before the Indus Valley Civilization emerged prominently elsewhere.
The best time to visit is during March, April, May, September and October. These months offer the most favorable conditions for visitors.
Zhob Culture Sites dates back to 3000 BC.
Look for the famous 'Zhob Mother Goddess' terracotta figurines, which feature distinctive hollow eyes and hood-like headgear. You may also see red pottery decorated with stylized humped bulls and bucks.
The sites were notably excavated by Sir Aurel Stein in 1924 and later studied by Brigadier E.J. Ross and Walter Fairservis. Their work established the chronological link between northern Balochistan and the Indus Valley Civilization.
Visitors must stay on designated paths to avoid causing soil erosion on the fragile archaeological mounds. Using metal detectors or digging for 'souvenirs' is strictly illegal and punishable under heritage protection laws.
When photographing rock shelters like those in the Kalwa area, avoid using a flash to protect the ancient pigments. Natural, indirect sunlight is best for revealing the faint outlines of the prehistoric animal and hunting scenes.
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