India has a long and vibrant historical past, spanning from the Lower Pleistocene to modern times and the entire subcontinent is highly varied in its ecology, cultures, and traditions. The people of India include diverse tribal communities, nomadic and semi-nomadic groups, as well as historically-established caste-based populations. As a result, the region provides archaeologists with ample opportunities to conduct anthropological and archaeological research on living traditions as well as on past material cultures.


This manual, part of the WAC Cultural Heritage Manual series, represents a source of reference for those interested in pursuing professional archaeological research in India. This book provides readers with basic information of archaeological research in India, such as:




General Indian geography
A brief history of archaeological research and development of field methods
The diversity of the Indian archaeological record
The scope of ethnoarchaeology on various cultural groups
Important governing bodies and legislative practices
Cultural norms and ethics for archaeologists


as well as practical knowledge - relevant organizations for advice and collaboration, obtaining an official field permit and research visa, understanding unique fieldwork methods in Indian cultural and ecological contexts, and managing cultural heritage and research data.


This first-of -its-kind manual for the Indian subcontinent will be indispensable to anyone working in the archaeology of the region.