The colorful state of Gujarat is an unparalleled vista into history. However, Gujarat has managed to entwine modernity into its heritage of history creating a fascinating blend.
The history of Gujarat is an ancient one. This state has seen empires come and go and it still withstood their ravages proudly. Remarkably, the state contains some of the most important sites of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization. The state has also been a witness to some major historical events. These events have left an indelible mark on its landscape through its rich collection of monuments. However, in recent years, the birth of the Mahatma Gandhi has been the most significant event the state has seen. Gandhi started some of his important movements here in Gujarat such as the Satyagraha. Cities like Porbandar and Ahmedabad still remember the great man.
Nature has given bountiful blessings to Gujarat. In the state you will find a remarkable collection of natural treasures. The pristine national parks here are home to a veritable deluge of wildlife, birds and even plants. It is here in Gujarat that you will find the last haven for the rare Asiatic lions. The magnificent Rann of Kutch is a spellbinding creation of Nature.
If you are inclined towards spirituality, Gujarat can take care of that too. After all, Lord Krishna was born here according to Hindu myths. The place was also chosen by the god to create his empire. Hindu temples flourish in the state filled with a staggering variety of them. The Jain religion has also found a place here through their many temples.
The state of Gujarat has often been referred to as a jewel of west India. It is quite easy to see why.
Ahmedabad is a showcase of the vibrant nature of the Gujarati people and their fondness of color, music, fun and food. It are those characteristics which bring forth the wonderful and enchanting nature of the lively city. Heralded as the seventh largest city of India, Ahmedabad is nothing sort of fantastic. The serene Sabarmati River flows by the city. In Ahmedabad, you will find an incredible blend of a fascinating history and modern culture. The ancient walls of the city surrounds the beautiful lanes which are lined with gorgeous wooden havelis decorated with intricate carvings. Here monuments and amusement parks dot the city side by side. The architectural styles of the buildings are just as interesting as the people who live here. It will be difficult for you to get bored here.
Sabarmati Ashram
Adalaj Step Well
Akshardham Temple
Hutheesing Jain Temple
Jhulta Minara
The people of Gujarat call Vadodara, Sanskari Nagari which means ‘the cultured city’. It is easy to see why such a name would be bestowed upon the place once you enter Vadodara. Numerous interesting sights fill up the city of Vaodara, earlier called Baroda. You will find treasures left behind by Mother Nature and incredible place created by men in equal measure here. History runs through its streets where once Mughals rode followed by the proud warriors of the Maratha clan. The city of Vadodara, however, does not live in the past. It has given modernity a warm welcome and embraced it heartily.
EME Temple
Kirti Mandir
Laxmi Vilas Palace
Sayaji Bagh
Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum
Dwarka holds a special significance in the hearts of the Hindus. It is one of the most important religious sites for their religion. However, the splendor of nature has also found a way to express itself here. Dwarka is the very spirit of religious enlightenment. In fact, it has become synonymous with Lord Krishna himself. According to the holy scriptures of Hinduism, the city is a place of devotional liberation and salvation. It was here in Dwarka that Lord Krishna decided to build the capital of his empire. As such, it holds immense religious value. There are an incredible number of shrines here demonstrating the fervor of the religious spirit through their architecture. The colorful designs and impressive structure adds to the profound religiosity that hangs in the air. According to the Hindu legends, the city was drowned by the sea on the death of Lord Krishna. However, religion is not the only offering by Dwarka. Here, you can enjoy the peace that rests on the exotic beaches. The cool water of the sea has an allure that is hard to miss. You can enjoy a religious sojourn at the many temples or you can rest languidly on the spectacular beaches in Dwarka.
Dwarkadish Temple
Rukshamanee Mandir
Bet Dwarka
Nageshwara Jyotirlinga Temple
The beautiful city of Bhuj is located in the Kachchh region. It is a very interesting place which has some very historic buildings lining its streets. Bhuj served as the capital for the Jadeja Rajputs who ruled over the Kachchh region in the 16th century. Although devastated by the 2001 earthquake, the city has recovered much of its former glory. Here you can enjoy temples, palaces and wooden pavilions. Bhuj does not offer only historic sites for you to indulge your tourist spirit in. There is a thriving textile business here. The traditional Batik textiles have become popular all over the world. You will witness some of the most elaborate and intricate embroidery in silk in the markets of Bhuj. The heritage of Bhuj is rich and the culture is fascinating.
Great Rann of Kutch
Aina Mahal
Prag Mahal
The incredible town of Somnath radiates an aura of holiness from the famous Somnath Temple. The temple looms large over the townscape not only physically but also in a very spiritual manner. Somnath has a rich cultural tradition and a legacy of spirituality which revolves around the temple. However, the heady dose of spirituality is tempered with some scenic vistas. The seas produce a calm and languid atmosphere which has a charm of its own. The natural sights of the region will surprise you with their quiet beauty.
Established in 1727, Jaipur is the first planned city of India and was the Kachwaha capital for many years. This is a city worthy of royalty with its incredible history, breathtaking architecture and rich culture.Also known as the Pink City, Jaipur is an enchanting place with its large splendid havelis, scenic temples nestled in serenity, and imposing palaces that exude a majestic aura of awe.
Somnath Mahadev Temple
Bhalka Tirth
Panch Pandava Gufa
Triveni Ghat
In Porbandar, you will get to hear the soothing music created by the waves crashing on the spectacular shores. It is one of the most famous cities in Gujarat. Its history has become merged with legends. Porbandar was where the great freedom fighter, Mahatma Gandhi, was born. According to Hindu myths, the city was the birthplace of Sudama, a close friend and ally of Lord Krishna. The well-planned layout of the city only helps in making the place seem all the more spectacular. Here, buildings are mainly made of stone with ashlar masonry. The facades of these buildings are rich with artistic designs. The city offers a plethora of delights for your enjoyment. You have religious sites dotting the charming landscape. The cool sea breeze flows without a break rejuvenating you as you take a languid stroll through tree-lined streets.
Sudama Mandir
Kirti Mandir
Junagadh is one of the most remarkable places in the state of Gujarat. The ancient city is nestled amongst some of the most amazing topography in Gujarat. The entire area of Junagadh is filled with incredible temples. However, it is the old fort that looms large over them. The fort is more than 2300 years old and located right on the base of the holy hill, Girnar. The scenic location of the fort will make your jaw drop with awe. Here history has left behind some incredible buildings of cultural and religious value. Make your way through them and you will be drenched in history and religion alike. In short, Junagadh offers a fascinating experience for you to enjoy.
Mahabat Maqbara
Durbar Hall Museum
Mount Girnar
Ashoka’s Rock Edicts
Uperkot Fort
Gir National Park
As you take a walk through the pristine streets, you will realize that Surat is definitely one of the cleanest cities you have ever encountered. In fact, it comes second to Chandigarh in terms of cleanliness. The impeccable cleanliness of the city serves to highlight the wonders available here. There are various temples here in Surat such as the Chintanamani Jain Temple and the Swaminarayan Temple. You will also come face to face with some fascinating historical buildings such as the Surat Castle. The rich heritage of Surat enriches the experience you are going to enjoy in the city. Surat is one of the major centers of the diamond trade in India. In fact, the commercial nature of Surat has much to do with this trade in the shiny gemstones. Textiles are another burgeoning business here. You can take your pick amongst the exquisitely embroidered textiles available here. In fact, the city boasts of having innumerable machines for embroidery.
