NCERT Class 6 History — Chapter 3: In the earliest cities

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The Harappan city of Dholavira was located on which of the following islands (Beyts) in the Rann of Kutch?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

APirotan Beyt
BDiu
CKhadir Beyt
DAliabet

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Solution

The correct option is

Khadir Beyt

Explanation

Dholavira is one of the five largest metropolises of the Indus Valley Civilization (IVC) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its geographical setting is distinct from other river-based Harappan settlements.

Geographical Location:

Dholavira is located on Khadir Beyt (also spelled Khadir Bet), a strategic island situated in the Great Rann of Kutch in the Kutch District of Gujarat.
The city is bounded by two seasonal streams: the Mansar in the north and the Manhar in the south.
Unlike other Harappan cities located near major perennial rivers, Dholavira's location on an island in the Rann suggests a strategic intent related to trade and water conservation in an arid environment.

Analysis of Other Options:

Pirotan Beyt: Located in the Marine National Park off the coast of Jamnagar; it is known for marine biodiversity rather than archaeological significance.
Aliabet: An island located in the estuary of the Narmada River.
Diu: An island off the southern coast of the Kathiawar peninsula, historically significant for Portuguese colonial history but not a major Harappan site.

Key Takeaway: Dholavira is situated on Khadir Beyt in the Great Rann of Kutch, Gujarat, distinguishing it geographically from other major IVC sites.

Your note

More from Chapter 3: In the earliest cities

Consider the following statements regarding the architectural features of Harappan cities: 1. Most cities were divided into two parts, the citadel and the lower town. 2. Walls of mud were built around each part of the city. 3. The bricks were laid in a simple stacking pattern to allow for easy dismantling. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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To ensure water-tightness, the brickwork of the Great Bath at Mohenjodaro was coated with a layer of:

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Consider the following statements regarding the drainage system in Harappan cities: 1. Drains in houses were often connected to those on the streets. 2. Inspection holes were provided at intervals to clean the covered drains. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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In the Harappan civilization, the stone known as 'Chert' was predominantly used to manufacture:

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The correct option is

Khadir Beyt

Explanation

Geographical Location:

Dholavira is located on Khadir Beyt (also spelled Khadir Bet), a strategic island situated in the Great Rann of Kutch in the Kutch District of Gujarat.
The city is bounded by two seasonal streams: the Mansar in the north and the Manhar in the south.
Unlike other Harappan cities located near major perennial rivers, Dholavira's location on an island in the Rann suggests a strategic intent related to trade and water conservation in an arid environment.

Analysis of Other Options:

Pirotan Beyt: Located in the Marine National Park off the coast of Jamnagar; it is known for marine biodiversity rather than archaeological significance.
Aliabet: An island located in the estuary of the Narmada River.
Diu: An island off the southern coast of the Kathiawar peninsula, historically significant for Portuguese colonial history but not a major Harappan site.

Key Takeaway: Dholavira is situated on Khadir Beyt in the Great Rann of Kutch, Gujarat, distinguishing it geographically from other major IVC sites.