Archaeological Sites of the Hindu Shahi Period in Shalbandai, District Buner, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Abstract

This study highlights the result of a systematic archaeological field survey conducted in the Shalbandai area of Gagra tehsil, Buner where a dense cluster of fortified settlements, military posts, and associated architectural remains of the Hindu Shahi period (c.9th to 11 century CE) has been documented. These sites, ranging from large fortified complexes such as Gandhao Fort to smaller security check-posts like Kotkai and Laila, were examined in terms of their spatial organization, architectural features, and strategic significance. The analysis reveals a highly organized defensive network, strategically distributed across mountain ridges, valleys, and passes to monitor movement and control communication routes linking Buner with the Indus River and adjoining regions. The integration of defensive, residential, and administrative architectural elements reflects a complex socio-political system under Hindu Shahi rule. The study further emphasizes the urgent need for detailed archaeological investigation and conservation, as many of these sites are currently threatened by natural erosion, human encroachment and illicit excavation activities.