In addition to their verdant beauty, the Margalla Hills also known for their archaeological importance offer a perfect opportunity for explorers and people with an interest in archaeology. According to historians the Margallas were located between two ancient civilisations –Soan and Gandhara. Various archaeological sites scattered in the Margallas provide glimpses into the rich history of the region. Such a site can be found at a serene spot, nestled among the green hills, where an ancient step well locally known as ‘Losar Baoli’ still exists. The well constructed with bricks known as dressed bricks is still functional and is located on an ancient trade route which connected Taxila with Punjab. The spot can be reached from Shah Allah Ditta in Sector D-13, using the Kenthla-Haripur Road constructed in 2007 by a federal minister. The well with a diameter of six feet provides water to the locals in the area for daily use and a spot where many find rest amongst the trees and the music of birds. “The well has existed since ancient times, as far back as the Gandhara period, but the well in its current shape was constructed in the Sher Shah Suri period,” said Nadeem Omar Tarar, anthropologist and director of National College of Arts, Rawalpindi Campus. Tarar explained that the well was constructed to provide drinking water to the travellers who used the ancient road. “There was also mosque near the well and its marks can be seen today,” he said. Some youngsters who were enjoying a picnic near the well said that it was their first time visiting this place. “I read about this place somewhere and decided to come see it with my friends,” said Ammar Ali, a pre-engineering student who had driven here on a bike.

Published in Dawn, October 12th, 2014