4000 – 1800 B.C.
The Indus Valley Civilization, also known as the Harappan Civilization, was one of the world’s earliest urban cultures, thriving in what is now modern-day Pakistan and northwest India. Known for its advanced cities like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, this civilization featured complex urban planning, sophisticated drainage systems, and well-organized streets. The people of the Indus Valley were skilled traders, artisans, and builders who lived in carefully planned cities. Though much of their written language remains undeciphered, their achievements in architecture, craftsmanship, and trade reveal a highly advanced society.
Picture books
Chapter books
Non-fiction books
The People of the Indus
Beautiful graphic novel introduction to the Indus Valley civilization
Buy
The Ancient South Asian World
Middle-grade, detailed description of life in ancient South Asia, with primary sources
Buy
Indus Valley City
An urban design lens on the cities of the Indus Valley
Buy
Smart Green Civilizations: Indus Valley
Exploration of the green inventions and practices of the Indus Valley people
Buy
Activities
Hands-On History! Ancient India
Activities and crafts inspired by the Indus Valley and Mughal Empire
Buy