This project is designed to preserve and showcase some of District Mansehra’s most valuable heritage sites the Ashoka Rock Edicts, the Tomb of Sultan Mahmud Khurd, and the Naukot Fortress through the use of modern digital technologies. By applying tools such as 3D scanning, photogrammetry, GIS mapping, and digital archiving, the initiative seeks to safeguard these monuments from ongoing threats like environmental damage, urbanization, and neglect. At the same time, it will make them more accessible for education, research, and public engagement, while also training local students and professionals in advanced methods of heritage documentation.

Project Summary

The project focuses on the digital preservation and documentation of three key heritage sites in District Mansehra:

Ashoka Rock Edicts (3rd century BCE)

Tomb of Sultan Mahmud Khurd (14th century CE)

Naukot Fortress (19th century CE)

It will apply emerging technologies like 3D scanning, photogrammetry, GIS, and digital archiving to record, conserve, and create interactive virtual models of these sites.

Objectives

Digitally document and preserve the sites through high-resolution imaging and modeling.

Develop a GIS-based heritage map and open-access digital archive.

Create educational resources, VR/AR experiences, and awareness campaigns to engage the public.

Train local students and professionals in digital heritage documentation.

Implementation & Timeline

Duration: 24 weeks (June to November 2025).

Phases: Site surveys, data collection, 3D modeling, GIS integration, archive creation, and public outreach workshops.

Expected Outcomes

A comprehensive survey report of current site conditions.

A digital archive with 3D models, GIS data, and photographs.

Increased public awareness and involvement in cultural heritage preservation.

Capacity building for heritage professionals and students.

Support & Funding

The project is supported under the PUAN Grants Program 2025, with funding allocated to research activities, documentation, training workshops, and outreach efforts .

This initiative aims to safeguard endangered archaeological sites in Mansehra by combining modern digital tools with community engagement and capacity building, ensuring long-term conservation and accessibility for research, education, and tourism.