Community archaeology in Himalayas: A case study in Chitral Valley (Pakistan)

This research project introduces community-based archaeology in Chitral (Pakistan), a valley situated in the westernmost part of the Himalayas. The study recognises the significance of intangible records alongside material remains for comprehending the region's archaeological history. Local narratives linked to specific sites offer insights into artefact functions, be they ritualistic, utilitarian, or cult-related. The permanence of local communities in post-fieldwork is highlighted, underscoring their crucial role in safeguarding and maintaining these sites against further damage, distinct from archaeologists' intermittent presence. Acknowledging limited resources within federal and provincial departments to safeguard the myriad archaeological sites across the Himalayan region, coupled with community unawareness of their archaeological heritage, underscores the urgent need for community engagement. Successful models of community involvement in global archaeological initiatives underscore the potential for such an approach in this context. This interdisciplinary project, which draws upon anthropological and archaeological data, has two main objectives. Firstly, it aims to illuminate the area's archaeological past. Secondly, it seeks to foster site protection and preservation through sustained local involvement.