Arts, Culture & Heritage
Kafar Kote: The ruins of the primitive clans of Tangir Valley
Tangir is a valley, rich in terms of archeological sites. Among these sites, the most prominent are the relics of the ancient populations living in the mountains. The valley harbored a very limited population in the past. People used to live together in the form of hamlets locally termed as Kote (singular). Remnants of a number of such KOTES can be observed at different places in the valley.
The pictures attached show remains of the pre-Islamic ‘Kote’ that now in the local ‘Shina’ language is called ‘Kafar Kote’ or ‘Kufaari Kote’ which means the Hamlet/abode of The Pagans.
Most probably the word kafar/Kufaari is an addition to the actual word KOTE after the population of the valley converted to Islam in 17th century AD, and this very addition vibrantly suggests that these KOTES are very ancient. Timespan passed since they came into existence can be better determined by someone who has expertise in archeology or the one who is well versed in anthropology but a common observer like me won’t hesitate to assume these KOTES to be thousands of years old.
Something very interesting and important about these KOTES is to know the hidden reasons behind their location that why those ancient people chose to settle in mountains or on hills instead of making their homes in the planes below.
Unfortunately, we don’t have any written history to find authentic information regarding this matter. As for the local oral historians; they in one way or another agree to these three most dominant assumptions:
1- The Pagan tribes most probably Buddhists were barbaric people by nature. They always kept enmity alive with the Parallel tribes. Therefore, they had to reside on hills or in the mountains for security purpose. The location of all these KOTES supports this hypothesis to be true.
2- Although all the individuals living in the valley collectively formed a small population but they being belonged to different tribes or sub tribes didn’t prefer to live together at one place rather they lived far apart from each other. Nevertheless they had to gather at one place on marriage, funeral or on other events related to collective cause, after all they were human beings.
They used to call each other to a general gathering by lighting huge fire and producing smoke in large amount. The huge fire at night and high rising smoke in day time could be noticed by other tribes.
This was considered to be a deadly important call to be assembled at the location of the fire and smoke. This was the reason behind their making abodes on high places so that they could easily see the signals from each other.
One can’t deny this explanation too, as today standing at any of these KOTES, one can easily see all the other KOTES, if not KOTES, at least rising smoke can easily be observed.
3- The third point that people stick to is that all the planes in the valley were under water at that time, therefore the ancient people were forced to live in mountains or on mounts. With the passage of time the river became able to unfetter itself from the chains and blocks lying at different intervals across the whole valley. Thus, the plane areas got rid of the long lingered standing water forever.
After observing geography of the Valley and the path of its river and seasonal watercourses, one has to agree to this point as well.
However, it’s yet to be dug out the reasons behind their settling down on high altitudes.
For the last few years, local people who deal in antiques have been searching every single inch of these olden KOTES. They have been able in digging out things made of gold, silver; idols, costly beads, necklaces, axe, file, pottery and many other instruments of daily use. Many of these items especially necklaces and beads have been observed lying in graves vertically dug up. Most of the beads found in these graves are partially burnt-out, sometimes with little ash found around. It seems that either these beads had been overworked to the point of exhaustion or the primitive tribes used to burn their dead ones as Hindus do. But one thing is for sure that they weren’t Hindus by belief. Different historians are of the view that they were Buddhists or they had some other belief system of their own.
Darel and Tangir may be well named as twin Valleys. In Darel Valley, remains of Buddhists’ worship place or university at Phoguch even today are quite alive. This place is considered to be the hub of Buddhism. People familiar with history say that Buddhist pilgrims from across the world used to visit there.
Keeping this in view, one can opine that the ancient people living in the KOTES of Tangir Valley were also Buddhists.
Decaying walls of this ancient KOTE located near Gali Pine village of Tangir can be clearly seen in the pictures.
Honestly speaking these are very well built, brave and strong KOTES who for thousands of years have been continuously competing with different powerful changes of nature. With regard to not let themselves completely wipe out by mounting ups and downs , they have been victorious to date but now they are facing very cruel creature called human beings who pursuing their unquenchable thirst of gaining more and more wealth have deformed their shape and this is continue. Presumably this creature claiming itself to be the crown of everything that exists will certainly defeat and permanently eliminate these long standing monuments if pragmatic measures not taken to preserve them.
Government of the region and The Department of Archeology must step forward and play their positive role to save these KOTES in whose bosoms buried is the wealth (history) of olden days.
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Altit Fort Hunza is a hidden gem in the heart of the Hunza Valley, Pakistan. This ancient fortress, dating back to the 11th century, offers a captivating blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty.
This is an ancient fort in the Altit town in the Hunza valley in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan. It was originally home to the hereditary rulers of the Hunza state who carried the title of ‘Mir‘, although they moved to the somewhat younger Baltit fort nearby three centuries later. The Fort and in particular the Shikari tower is around 1100 years old, which makes it the oldest monument in the Gilgit–Baltistan. The fort has received the UNESCO Asia Pacific Heritage Award for Cultural Heritage Conservation in 2011.
Why visit Altit Fort Hunza?
- Historical Significance: As one of the oldest surviving monuments in the Hunza Valley, Altit Fort provides a glimpse into the region’s rich past.
- Architectural Marvel: The fort’s intricate woodwork, carved balconies, and beautiful murals are a testament to the craftsmanship of its builders.
- Panoramic Views: Perched on a hilltop, Altit Fort offers breathtaking vistas of the Hunza Valley and surrounding mountains.
- Cultural Experience: The fort serves as a museum, showcasing artifacts and traditions of the Hunza people.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site highlights its cultural and historical importance.
Tips for Visiting:
Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather for visiting.
How to Get There: You can reach Altit Fort by trekking from Karimabad or hiring a taxi.
Entrance Fee: There is a small entrance fee to enter the fort.
Things to Do: Explore the fort’s chambers, visit the museum, and enjoy the panoramic views.
Don’t Forget: Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery and architecture.
Here are some additional photos:
This fort is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Pakistan. Its historical significance, architectural beauty, and cultural richness make it a truly unforgettable experience.
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