Gujarat is one of the most populous and colorful states in the western part of India that has several interesting and culturally rich places to visit. From ancient religious centers, fascinating adventure and wildlife parks, barren and beautiful deserts, and romantic hill stations to remarkable architectural marvels, Gujarat offers its guests a rich choice. Here are some of the top places to discover the vibrant tapestry of this state.
Here are some of the top places to discover the vibrant tapestry of this state:
1. Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad is the largest city of Gujarat and also the most active commercial center of the region. It is historically famous for being the capital of the Gujarat Sultanate in the 15th century and is still known as the ‘Manchester of the East’ because of its textile industries. The old city is filled with narrow streets, busy bazaars, and majestic pols that are indicative of the city’s prosperous business class. Tourist attractions are Hutheesing Jain Temple, famous for its beautiful carvings on the exterior surface, Jama Masjid, one of the oldest mosques in Ahmedabad constructed from yellow sandstone, Siddhi Saiyed Jali, popular for a filigree style stony window, Sarkhej Roza, an exquisite Islamic architectural monument.
2. Rann of Kutch
The Rann of Kutch is a salt desert in the Thar which transforms into a white desert for the Rann Utsav festival. It is barren with shining salt plains that blend with the sky and during monsoon turns into a large sea with only small Island villages emerging. They can comprise any people residing in the wilderness such as the agrarians who are salt farmers or the mutvas who are fishermen but live in hutments. Avoid missing full moon nights on the silver-white salt desert, cultural dance performances, ethnic hand-made products selling, and going to the nearby villages with the beautiful mud work art.
3. Gir National Park
As previously noted, the Gir National Park is the only place in the entire world where Asiatic lions are found in their natural habitat. This forest has numerous hills, valleys, rivers, and reservoirs and therefore provides a natural habitat for lions, leopards, antelopes, birds, and reptiles among others. Get a feel of open skyed wild jungle jeeps to watch the pride of lions dozing under trees, or moving in stealth to hunt for deers and antelopes. This region also consists of other ancient temples such as Somnath temple and wildlife sanctuaries like Pania Wildlife Sanctuary.
4. Dwarka
Known as one of the important places of pilgrimage for Hindus, Dwarka is considered to be the kingdom of Lord Krishna. The major attraction of the place is the majestic temple of Dwarkadhish or Jagat Mandir nestled on the banks of the sacred Gomti river. Temple architecture is depicted through carved pillars, intricate stone carvings as well as soaring flagpoles. The nearby Bet Dwarka is a small island with old temples that are believed to be connected to Krishna tales and to reach there one has to take a boat ride. Janmashtami is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Dwarka and you should not miss the occasion.
5. Somnath
Still reckoned to be the first among the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Somnath is one of the twelve celebrated Shiva Temples. This sea-fronted temple was often robbed and destroyed in history which added a lot of character and history to this place. Watch the architectural elegance of the sculptures on the outer walls, silver doors, and impressive Shikhara of the present golden temple. It is also home to some of the most stunning sunsets over the sea. It also features other attractions like Somnath Beach, old Triveni Sangam, and the UNESCO-listed site Prabhas Patan including Somnath Museum.
6. Vadodara
Vadodara also known as Baroda is a big city that has integrated modernity with historical significance beautifully. Being the former Maratha principality, it has vibrant European-style palaces, gardens, universities, and museums that symbolize its royal past. Among the cities is the beautiful Lakshmi Vilas Palace which is the largest private home built for a Maharaja, with mosaic floors, chandeliers, and fabulous architecture. Located within the structure of the museum are numerous art pieces that were owned by Maharaja Fateh Singh and the Royal family of Baroda.
7. Saputara
Saputara is the only hill station situated in the Dang district of Gujarat, located in Sahyadri hills. This picturesque country inhabited by thick forests, beautiful lakes, and charming British-style houses allows travelers to sail, hike, and camp in cool weather. Enjoy a cup of tea, snack on some savory food, and enjoy an undisturbed view of the Waghai valley from the Saputara Lake and Table Top. Take a stroll through the colorful Saputara Lake Garden on the way to Gira Falls and Echo Point. There are galleries and art buffs can fully indulge in the colorful Dang tribal setting.
8. Palitana
Palitana is a religious city of Jains and there are more than 800 beautiful temples in and around the Shatrunjaya hills which look like a large jewel box glowing in the sun. Palitana temples are one of the most important pilgrimages among Jains and represent the best example of temple construction in Gujarat. Expect to walk over 3000 stairs to reach the marvelous series of temples made of marble – no cars can travel this number of stairs. Take some time to explore the topmost temple where one can get breathtaking views in all directions.
9. Bhuj
Bhuj often serves as a starting point for exploring the vast territory of the Rann of Kutch. Outside the desert, this historic city is rich in cultural appeal with its palace museums, bazaars, and architectural icons of the Hindu and Muslim dynasties of the past. Do not miss out on the Aina Mahal Palace which has the Darbar Hall having ornamental designs and work done with white marble carving and golden plating. The next palace which is equally magnificent and is now a museum is the Prag Mahal.
10. Junagadh
Junagadh is historic as seen from Uparkot Fort and several Buddhist cave sites on the hills surrounding Junagadh which were part of trading routes. Saktiwad takes a lot of pride in being home to the single temple in the entirety of India devoted to Ashok and his empress on Mount Girnar. Climb 9999 steps up to reach the temple of Ambaji and at the same time feel the spiritual aura all around the place. The Gandhi Park is an example of modern city planning while the Mahabat Maqbara cemetery complex and vibrant markets with Jain temples reflect the traditional touch of Junagadh city.
It is so diverse that it looks like a cultural gem that has preserved its identity and enriched it with its heritage, fairs and festivals, fabrics and arts, foods and people, history, and geographical features. Its vivid locations provide thrilling tourist experiences that are best described as soul-searching.
Also Read: Looking into the Diverse Culture of Arunachal Pradesh