Exploring the Mysteries Beneath Dwarka: India’s Underwater Archaeologists in Action

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is leading a fresh round of onshore and underwater explorations at Dwarka and Bet Dwarka in Gujarat . The research, led by Prof. Alok Tripathi, Additional Director-General of ASI, aims to examine submerged archaeological remains and expand understanding of the region’s history. This study is a continuation of the earlier fieldwork conducted in February 2025. 

Dwarka has a long historical and cultural significance, frequently mentioned in ancient texts. Over the years, researchers and archaeologists have studied this region to learn about its past. Previous excavations have uncovered structural remains, stone anchors, sculptures, and other artefacts, hinting at the presence of an ancient settlement.  

About February 2025: Fieldwork 

Initially, in February 2025, a five-member team from the ASI carried out an investigation south of Gomati Creek, located on the eastern side of Dwarka. This fieldwork was aimed at inspecting earlier explored areas and examining the present condition of the area. It also aimed to identify probable areas for further investigations and study. The selected area was explored by archaeologists, and important features were photographed. 

The earlier excavations conducted at Dwarka were done in a limited area due to the unavailability of an open area around the Dwarkadheesh temple. The excavations conducted by the Archaeological Survey of India in the forecourt of the Dwarkadheesh temple revealed important structural and archaeological remains, indicating regular ancient settlements in the area. 

What is the Focus of This Research? 

The current investigation is centered on locating and identifying new archaeological sites, documenting submerged structures, and studying artefacts through scientific analysis. Additionally, the project seeks to train archaeologists in underwater research methods, ensuring proper documentation and preservation of findings. 

Divers Leading the Way: 

A group of nine archaeologists selected from different parts of the country are participating in the ongoing investigations. They are also being trained in the field of underwater archaeology to expand the activities of the Underwater Archaeology Wing. Divers participating in the team also include three women divers, namely Dr Aprajita Sharma, Assistant Superintending Archaeologist of the Underwater Archaeology Wing, and Ms Poonam Vind, Assistant Superintending Archaeologist, and Dr Rajkumari Barbina, Assistant Archaeologist. 

Director Excavations and Explorations, Shri Hemasagar A. Naik, is also associated with the excavations. The team is conducting their survey under the most experienced underwater archaeologist in the country. 

Current Plans for Exploration: 

The ongoing study is expanding into the Okhamandal region, where archaeologists are searching for additional sites that could offer new insights into Dwarka’s history. The work involves: 

• Exploring new locations for excavation 
• Conducting scientific diving operations 
• Searching for submerged artefacts 
• Analysing discoveries using advanced scientific techniques 

What Have Previous Excavations Revealed? 

Earlier excavations near the Dwarkadheesh Temple were restricted due to limited space. However, between 2005 and 2007, archaeologists uncovered evidence of ancient settlements, including iron objects, beads, copper artefacts, rings, and pottery. With the assistance of Indian Navy divers, underwater surveys revealed scattered remains buried beneath marine deposits and layers of vegetation. 

In 2007, a small excavation near the northern gate of the temple uncovered 26 layers of deposits, extending to a depth of 10 metres. The findings provided further evidence of continuous human activity in the region over centuries. 

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