Second Phase of Zehanpora Archaeological Excavation Begins in North Kashmir

BARAMULLA, KASHMIR — The Department of Archives, Archaeology and Museums in Jammu and Kashmir has launched the second phase of excavation at the Zehanpora archaeological site located in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district.

Beginning on August 29, the ongoing three-month field exercise builds upon initial findings from the first phase, which previously uncovered structural remains, pottery, iron objects, and a human skeleton. The current phase will extend into unexplored portions of the nearly 2,000-year-old complex utilizing additional trenches, drone imagery, mapping, and scientific investigations.

According to K.K. Sidha, Director of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, J&K, the primary objective is to establish the full layout, extent, and nature of occupation at the site. Archaeologists are focusing specifically on identifying potential stupas, apsidal or chaitya-type structures, monastic remains, habitation areas, and structural walls.

Situated along the Jhelum-Baramulla corridor—historically recognized as an important north-western gateway into the Kashmir Valley—Zehanpora features Kushan-period remains and architectural styles that exhibit Gandharan affinities. Researchers are examining whether these elements indicate that the ancient settlement formed part of a broader cultural and communication network linking Kashmir with Gandhara, north-western India, and potentially Central Asia along the Silk Route.

The excavation data is expected to help scholars understand whether the site functioned as a larger religious complex or a multi-activity settlement supporting trade, art, religion, and the movement of people and ideas. However, officials noted that the precise extent of Zehanpora's historical trade connections cannot be definitively confirmed at this stage and will require further artefactual, scientific, and comparative analysis.

"The ongoing excavation at Zehanpora highlights the historical significance of regional corridors in facilitating cross-border trade and cultural exchange. From an economic and heritage perspective, preserving and scientifically mapping such ancient trade routes provides valuable insights into historical supply chains and connectivity between the Indian subcontinent and Central Asia. Understanding these ancient networks helps policy planners and researchers appreciate the long-term foundations of regional commerce and cultural integration." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes