Located in the westernmost part of India, Gujarat is home to several architectural marvels and is famous for its vibrant culture and rich heritage, apart from the scenic landscapes and mouth-watering cuisine. Offering a broad range of the most spectacular attractions, Gujarat, also known as 'The Land of Legends', presents a perfect blend of art, history, music and culture.
Being the sole home of the pure Asiatic Lions, Gujarat also offers splendid views of the scenic beauty ranging from the Great Rann of Kutch to the hills of Satpura. Apart from the picturesque landscapes and the more than 1600 kilometres long coastline, Gujarat also offers its tourists with some magnificent ancient cave paintings, historic murals, holy temples, historic capitals, wildlife sanctuaries, beaches, hill resorts and fascinating handicrafts. Gujarat is a dry state but the cultural exuberance of the Gujratis will give rejuvenate you.
Best Time to Visit Gujarat
Like any other vibrant region of India, Gujarat has plenty to offer the eager traveller, opening up its treasured past and bejewelled attractions to all those who visit it. If you are planning a trip to this state in Western India, November to February is the best time to visit Gujarat. The weather is pleasant and the warm sun makes the perfect companion when you are outdoors heading from one sightseeing spot to another in the nippy air. Gujarat during winter is the perfect holiday destination.After winter, the next best climate to visit Gujarat is the monsoon, from July to September. The land bursts with colour and it is joyful to traipse along lush green roads as one takes in the beauty of the state. Be warned; the monsoon has been known to play spoilsport as well. If it’s raining heavily, it might come in the way of you being able to go out and explore to your heart’s content.
We advise against visiting Gujarat during summer. The heat can get unbearable and you might not wish to step out of the confines of your air-conditioned hotel room.Irrespective of the season you choose to visit Gujarat, there is much to see and explore. Just make sure you come with enough time on hand to go to all the major attractions, natural and manmade.
Peak Season (November-February)
Winter in Gujarat is from November to February, with the temperature usually between 12°C and 29°C. The weather in the winter of Gujarat is comfortable enough for you to walk about outdoors enjoying the local sights. The coast and beaches might be a little cold in winter, but nothing should stop you from enjoying the rest of the state of Gujarat.
Low Season (March-June)
Summer in Gujarat is a tough season, lasting from March to June. Temperatures are unforgiving, hovering between 29°C and 41°C. Sightseeing could be a problem since it is rather difficult to step out in the blistering sun. You can plan a hill station vacation instead and head over to Saputara for a peaceful and pleasant time. You can also go to Dwarka and Vadodara for temple-hopping to enjoy the cities at night.
Shoulder Season (July-September)
The monsoon in Gujarat arrives in July and lasts through till September. Temperature ranges from 27°C to 35°C, making it a pleasant change from the hot summer earlier. The weather of Gujarat in monsoon is thrilling. Soak your senses in the rain-washed land. Sit by the window and watch the rain come down on the parched ground, or watch it drench the already roiling sea. Head down to the wildlife sanctuary and experience the rainfall in the deep jungles of Gujarat. And when you are done, come back to a delicious hot Gujarati meal.
Gujarat in Winter (November to February)
Temperature: Avg. of 29 degrees high to 12 degrees low
Weather: If you can handle a bit of a nip in the air, then you will love winters in Gujarat. Winter is also the best time to explore Gujarat, as the temperature is just right for sightseeing and walking around the region. With a minimum of 12 degrees and a maximum of 29 degree Celsius, you can be sure never to have to worry about it becoming uncomfortable. What brings you to Gujarat? Perhaps it is the wildlife in Gir National Park that appeals to you. Or it is the colourful and vibrant festivals that you wish to experience? If you have a taste for history, Gujarat also has numerous archaeological sites. Champaner Pavagarh Archaeological Park and Dholavira being some of them that are best visited in winter. Gujarat tourism is in its elements in winter, and this is the best time to book sightseeing tours and cultural excursions in the major cities and beyond.
Significant events: The biggest winter festival of Gujarat, Rann Utsav, is most awaited and is a deeply cherished event. The festivities embody a celebration of life and the rich culture of the Kutch and Gujarati people. Celebrated for over two months, you cannot miss the rich colours and vibrant energy of the barren lands of the Rann if you are visiting Gujarat in winter. Another famous festival in January is the International Kite Festival. You will be mesmerized by the levels of enthusiasm that the place erupts in. Shop and offices shut, and everyone takes to the rooftops, roads and open spaces to fly kites and celebrate Uttarayan or Makar Sakranti. It isn’t just a fun activity; there are serious challenges and competitions among neighbours and localities. And when you are satiated with the kites and the Rann Utsav, you can take time out to travel to Modhera for the 3-day dance festival held at the Sun Temple of Modhera.
Why you should visit now: With the fantastic weather as a backdrop, Gujarat offers a platter of glorious festivals and a rich culture to feast on.
Know before you visit: You might think Gujarat will have mild winters. But it can get nippy at night, so carry enough woollens with you.
Tips: Arrange private transport in advance. Unbelievably long distances and lack of public transport can make moving about tricky, especially during tourist season.
Gujarat in Monsoon (July to September)
Temperature: Avg. of 35 degrees high to 27 degrees low
Weather: Gujarat in the monsoon is a beautiful place. While the rainfall itself varies from region to region, it does quench the thirst of the land, leaving it breathtakingly scenic. The rain is moderate to heavy across the state, and it comes and goes with irregularity. The Gulf of Cambay and the Saurashtra region receive scanty rainfall. The Rann of Kutch, the salt desert, faces water-shortage due to poor rainfall; and the northern sections of Gujarat receive the most rainfall of the state. Gujarat in the monsoon is less crowded and you can enjoy some of the sights and destinations peacefully without being jostled by other tourists. Do include a visit to Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, Dwarka, Saputara, Jamnagar and Rajkot when you visit Gujarat in the monsoon.
Significant events: You would think the monsoon means a rain-soaked land and a subdued people. However, the Gujarati penchant for celebration and activities continues throughout the year. The Monsoon Festival is one such event organised by Gujarat Tourism to make tourists aware of the richness of Gujarat and its culture. Head over to the enchanting hills of Saputara in Gujarat to participate in adventure sports. Explore the stalls for the arts and crafts of the state, enjoy the many cultural shows and get a taste of delicious Gujarati cuisine. The Tarnetar Fair is actually a matchmaking event attended eagerly by the young men and women of Gujarat. But with its highlight being traditional music, dance, art and crafts, and costumes, Gujarat has been attracting crowds from across the world since years, and its popularity is only growing. The festival, held at Tanetar village near Thangadh, spans for three days and has something for every member of the family.Finally, the festival that everyone has been waiting for is here! Navratri is everything it promises to be and more. This 9-day festival of dance and traditions is a peek into the bright and colourful culture of Gujarat. If you are in Gujarat during the Navratri season, do grab an opportunity to participate in it.
Why you should visit now: The monsoon is a welcome respite from the hot summer, turning the dry land into a green paradise. And with fewer tourists around, you’ll get to enjoy all the tourist spots better.
Know before you visit: Always carry an umbrella with you as you never know when it might rain.
Tips: Skip the tented accommodation at Tarnetar as the prices are through the roof. Look for homestays instead.
Gujarat in Summers (March to June)
Temperature: Avg. of 41 degrees high to 29 degrees low
Weather: Avoid visiting Gujarat in summer if you can. The weather is hot, dry and also humid, making daytime extremely uncomfortable. Nights are no better – the temperature might be low, but the humidity will get to you. However, Gujarat has its lone hill station at Saputara that you can escape to. It has lakes, lots of activities and a pleasant climate throughout the year. Be warned; it throngs with people, locals and tourists alike.
Significant events: One would have thought that the hot summer months would see the people of Gujarat sitting indoors. However, the number of festivals events held during this time will leave you breathless.
If you wish to learn more about the tribal lifestyle and culture of Gujarat, we recommend adding the Dang Darbar Fair to your list. It is held in the Saputara hills and the lush green forests provide the perfect backdrop to lose yourself in the history of the original dwellers of this land. Summer is a great time to experience Holi, India’s festival of colours. It is celebrated with as much enthusiasm in Gujarat as it is in the rest of India. It marks the agriculture season and it time for festivities and great cheer. Bonfires are lit the previous night to signify the victory of good over evil. Dancing, music and lots of delicious food mark the event.
The Chitra Vichitra Fair, named after the sons of king Shantanu, Chitravirya and Vichitravirya, is another important tribal festival of Gujarat. The festival is organised in the village of Gunbhakhari at the confluence of the rivers Sabarmati, Akul and Vyakul. The beautifully decorated temple is a sight to behold and so are the people dressed in their traditional attire. Do not leave Gujarat without feasting at the famous mango festival. With over 1000 varieties of sweet and juicy mangoes to sample, you really can’t afford to miss festival held at Sasan Gir, Junagadh.
Why you should visit now: The land may be hot, but it more than makes up with beautiful festivals and colourful celebrations. And you will find it slightly less crowded than the peak tourist season of winter.
Know before you visit: The weather can get very dry. Keep rehydrating yourself. Wear sunblock and carry an umbrella when you step out during the day. The hot summer sun can be harsh.
Tips: Keep your camera ready all the time. This is the season for festivals and bright costumes. Pictures taken in the bright sunlight will be stunning.
Now that we have whetted your appetite for Gujarat, do browse through our Gujarat Tour Packages . Get all of your Gujarat trip needs fulfilled here, all at Thomas Cook.
How To Reach Gujarat
If you are planning a vacation in Gujarat, you must also be wondering how to reach Gujaratvia the most economical as well as fast route possible. Since the state is such a charmer and a major tourist destination for people from all over the world, it is very well connected to all the major cities of the country as well as a few international locations. The strong transportation links mean that you can easily reach the state via air, rail or road, whatever suits you best. Local transportation options are also easily available, such as taxis and buses. One of the most beautiful states of India, Gujarat is a land of many marvels and if you really want to explore it to the fullest make sure to come over for a long vacation.
By Air
If you are planning to fly in to the state, read on to find out how to reach Gujarat by air. Aviation connectivity is not a problem in Gujarat since the state boasts of the highest number of domestic airports in the entire country. There are 17 airports here in total, of which the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport offers international flights. The others offer connectivity to all major cities of the country. The main domestic airports of the state include the Vadodara airport, Surat airport, Keshod airport, Porbandar airport, Rajkot airport, Bhavnagar airport, Deesa airport and Kandla airport.
By Train
If you are wondering how to reach Gujarat by train, then you would be glad to know that there are several options. All of the state is well connected to the rest of the country, and there are internal rail connections also available even when going to the most interior parts of Gujarat such as Kutch or Saurasthra. Coming under the Western Railway Zone, Gujarat is home to many railways stations, the most important and frequently used ones including the Ahmedabad Railway Station, the Vadodara Railway Station, the Rajkot Railway Station and the Surat Railway Station. There are super-fast trains available from places such as Delhi and Mumbai. Make sure that you have your reservations made in advance, since these trains are generally always full.
By Road
If you love road trips then you must be wondering how to reach Gujarat by road, and there are several ways for you to choose from. Thanks to some of the best maintained roads of the country, Gujarat is well connected to several locations across the country. Indeed, some of these roads are major 2 lane or 4 lane highways, which are an absolute delight to drive on. Depending on where you are coming from, you can hire a taxi to take you to Gujarat or buy a bus ticket. From the air conditioned super luxury private buses with a bathroom on board to the simply functional state run buses, the choice is yours to make based on your requirements and budget. You could also opt to drive your own car. Whatever way you choose, you are sure to enjoy a comfortable ride.
Best Time To Visit In Gujarat
1:Gir National Park
The only natural habitat of the Asiatic Lions, Gir National Park is the best place to come face to face with them. Truly one of the best places to visit in Gujarat, Gir is also home to a variety of other rare wild animals, such as hyenas, fish owls, black bucks and many more. Spread across nearly 1412 sq km of land, this is also the only national park in India that has a community living inside its perimeters, and that too in complete harmony with each other. That eerie feeling of anticipation that you get, while riding the open top jeeps, looking for lions is unworldly, and a must do for whenever you are in Gujarat.
Places To Stay: The Gateway Hotel Gir, Gir Vihar Resort, Amidhara Stay
Things To Do: Safari, bird watching
Location: Gujarat
How To Reach: The best way to reach Gir is by landing at the airport in Keshod or by taking a train till Junagadh or Veraval. Following this, take a taxi to reach your destination.
2. Somnath Temple
The next one on the list of famous places in Gujarat is a famous temple. One of the most sacred of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, Somnath Temple is not just a religious site. Lying as it is on the shores of the rough Arabian Sea, the temple is also a thing of wonder. It has been destroyed and rebuilt countless times, once by Lord Soma in gold, once by Ravana in silver, once by Krishna in wood and once by King Bhimdev in stone. It is the stone edifice that stands tall now and attracts millions of devotees to come over and seek the Lord’s blessings.
Places To Stay: Imperial Somnath, The Fern Residency Somnath, The Bliss Hotel, Lords Inn Somnath, Hotel Somnath Atithigruh
Things To Do: See The Beautiful Suraj Mandir, Visit Laxmi Narayan Temple, Witness Dehotsarg Teerth, Visit Somnath Temple
Places To Visit: Suraj Mandir, Dehotsarg Teerth, Junagarh Gate, Triveni Ghat
Location: Somnath Mandir Rd, Veraval, Gujarat 362268
How To Reach: Take a flight from any of the major cities of Delhi to Diu Airport which is located at a distance of 65 kilometers from the temple or take a ride in the train till Veraval which is just 6 km away.
3.Rann of Kutch
Rann of Kutch is probably the most beautiful thing you will ever lay eyes on. Nestled comfortably between the endless Thar Desert and the mighty Arabian Sea, Rann of Kutch is a mesmerizing wonder of sand and salt. On full moon nights, the desert shines bright as a diamond and brings a surreal sense of calm with it. Cultural programs are held on full moon nights, tents are pitched and the wondrous land is yours for the night. Truly one of the most mesmerizingly beautiful places to see in Gujarat.
During winters, Rann of Kutch is home to the flamingoes, here all the way from Siberia! The white desert turns a delicate shade of pink, and brings with it the chance to enjoy proximity to these elusive birds and many others. But Rann Mahotsav is the best time to visit Gujarat, with Rann of Kutch coming alive with music, cultural shows, dances, food, camel safari and artisans flaunting their ware. During the monsoon season, it is entirely submerged in water and visitors might return home dejected.
Places To Stay: Mahefeel e Rann Resort, Rann Village Resort, Kutir Craft Village Resort, Dharani Village Resort, Rann Utsav – Tent City
Places To Visit: Great Rann Of Kutch, Kalo Dungar, Kandla Port, Dholavira
Location: Gujarat
How To Reach: The nearest railway station or airport is located in Bhuj from where one has to take a taxi to reach Rann of Kutch.
The largest city in Gujarat, Ahmedabad is probably the first you want to visit in the state for a look at some of the best tourist places in Gujarat. It is a city steeped in culture and with a rich heritage, making it a must-visit for people from all over the world. Notable attractions include the Akshardham Temple Complex, Sabarmati Ashram, and Kankaria Lake. The International Kite Festival is a must-see if you arrive during this amazing one-day fest. The sky swells up with kites, from gigantic to minuscule, from simple to the most complex and bizarre ones, and from the bland ones to the rainbow-colored ones.
Also, Ahmedabad is probably the best place to enjoy a delicious Gujarati meal, full of all the Khakhra, Dhokla, fried chillies, and Fafda that you can find. Make is a short trip if you don’t have much time, and take a look at the best places to visit in 4 days in Gujarat.
Places to stay: Palm Green Club, Shanku’s Water World Resort, Rann Riders, Madhubhan Resorts And Spa, Radhe Upavan Resort
Things to do: Sabarmati Ashram: Feel The Silence, Jhulta Minara: Quite A Sight, Law Garden: For The Shopaholics, Victoria Garden: Feel The Vibe
Location: Gujarat
How To Reach: There are several trains that ply between the major cities of India and Ahmedabad. So, take a train ride from your city to Kalupur Railway Station and then hire a taxi to reach your destination.
5.Laxmi Vilas Palace – Ideal For History Buffs
Back when Laxmi Vilas Palace was built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, it was the largest private dwelling unit in the world. Does that give an idea of its size? The palace compound covers an area of more than 700 acres, and houses several other buildings such as the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum and the Moti Baug Palace. What is worth a look, when not being awed by the sheer opulence of the place, is the collection of sculptures and armory in marble, terracotta and bronze that are strewn across the palace. Laxmi Vilas Palace is one of the best places to visit in Vadodara. Although it is still the residence of the royal family of Vadodara, it is open to the public for visits and is one of the most famous tourist places in Gujarat.
Location: Old Agra Achhnera Road, Kakaji Ki Kothi, Bharatpur, Rajasthan 321001
How To Reach: The palace is easily accessible from any part of the city as it is located on the Nehru Road. You can take a cab or taxi and reach the palace in a very short time.
6.Rani ki Vav
Rani ki Vav is one of those rare UNESCO World Heritage Site that was built by a queen in memory of her king! Sort of like the Taj Mahal, in reverse and one of the best places to visit in Gujarat. It is an ancient step-well, from the early 11th century, which was constructed by Udayamati in memory of Bhimdev I. With stairs that can take you down seven levels, it is home to more than 1,500 sculptures. The best part about it is that it has been discovered fairly recently, since the River Saraswati had flooded it in earlier years, and it is only now that it has been excavated and become a popular tourist spot.
Location: Mohan Nagar Society, Patan, Gujarat 384265
How To Reach: The best way to reach Rani ki Vav in Patan is by taking a bus from Ahmedabad which will take around 3.5 hours to cover the distance.
7. Bhuj – Marvel At Interior Designs
Bhuj is also a major tourist attraction of Gujarat. The city can trace its roots back to the early 16th century when it was an independent state. The city is famed for being home to ancient monuments, such as the Cenotaphs Complex that houses tombs of the royal family. Other places of interest in Bhuj include the Prag Mahal, a magnificent palace, and the Aina Mahal Palace, a marvelous creation with the interiors covered in mirrors. The Kutch Museum is also worth a visit, as well as Hamirsar Lake. An ancient Shiva Temple in Kera is another place to visit in Bhuj.
Places To Stay: Divyajyot Residency, Tree Top Residency, Hotel Tulsi Residency, Hotel Shiv Lake, Shiv Hotel
Things To Do: Shankar Vada Pav, Mandvi Beach, Sharad Baug Palace, City Shopping
Places To Visit: Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, Aina Mahal, Prag Mahal, Banni Grassland Reserve
Location: Bhuj, Kachchh District, Gujarat
How To Reach: There are several ways to reach Bhuj which include flights, trains, and buses. Bhuj is well-connected with all the major cities of India
Beautifully lying amongst the Pavagadh hills and the centre of Champaner city in Gujarat, the archaeological park is one of the main sites to explore in this state and is also declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Combining both Islamic and Hindu designs of fine architecture, this park is surely nothing less than a sight to behold. This park is counted among the top places to see in Gujarat so make sure that you do not skip it.
Location: Champaner, Gujarat 389360
How To Reach: Nearest railhead (48 km) to this park is Vadodara railway station and the nearest airport is Vadodara Airport (42 km). After reaching one of these places, you will have to hire a taxi to reach the destination.
How about visiting a small island while you’re in Gujarat? Diu is just the place to be if you wish to traverse through powdery-white sand and charming waves splashing across the shore. One of the advantages of visiting this island is the legal alcohol but don’t forget to check out the amazing architectural work of Portuguese essence in the Diu fort or the exquisite seashells at the Sea Shells Museum. There is no dearth of places to visit in Diu which is why it is counted among top Gujarat destinations.
Places to stay: Apaar Hotel, The Grand Highness, Palacio De Diu, Laabh, The Royal, Samrat
Places to visit: Naida Caves, Diu Fort, Gangeshwar Mahadev Temple, INS Khukri Memorial, St. Paul Church
Location: Diu Island
How To Reach: The best way to reach Diu is by taking a train ride from Ahmedabad or Mumbai to Una railway station. From there, you can take a taxi to cover a distance of around 12 km to Diu.
10. Mandvi Beach – Relax & Marvel At The Views
Located close to the Arabian Sea, Mandvi Beach offers nothing less than absolute bliss and serenity. But, having some exciting water sports on board, along with camping adventures, this beach is perfect for any type of outing- be it with your family or friends. Watching the sunset from this beach while you walk barefoot on the golden sand, is surely not to be missed!
Things to do: Windfarm Beach – Visit, Vijay Vilas Palace – Visit, Shyamji Krishna Verma Memorial – Walk Around, Mazar-e-Noorani – Experience Serenity
Places to visit: Mazar-e-Noorani, Roha Fort, Rann Of Kutch, Shree Bhadreshwar Jain Temple
Location: Mandvi Rural, Gujarat 370465
How To Reach: Some of the best ways to reach Mandvi Beach is by taking a ride in the bus, train, or car from Bhuj.
11. Modhera – Count Your Steps
Yet another ancient gem in Gujarat is the scenic village of Modhera, which lies pleasantly storing all the spiritual vibes. Not only does the famous Sun temple add more to it, the structures, legends and relics of the medieval era post a significant yet remarkable experience for all the travelers visiting. Make sure you don’t miss out on various festivals that this place is known for such as Kuchipudi, Garba and Bharatnatyam in the Sun temple.
Location: Modhera, Mehsana District, Gujarat
How To Reach: You will first have to reach Ahmedabad to reach Modhera. You can either opt for a train or a flight till Ahmedabad from where you can take a taxi till Modhera.
12.Porbandar – The Famous Trading Hub
Developed as a major trading hub in recent times, Porbandar is amongst the most beautiful beach towns in Gujarat that is famous as the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi. Scenic temples and dams add more to the beauty of the place and what’s more, is that there are also many wildlife spots available here to add to your fun-packed holiday in Gujarat.
Places to stay: Hotel Balaji Palace, Hotel Indraprasth, Hotel Kuber, Harmony Hotel, Hotel Azura
Location: Gujarat
How To Reach: All the three ways of transportation are valid to reach Porbandar – by flight, train, and bus. The city is connected with the major cities of India which is why one can opt for any of these direct transport.
13.Bhavnagar – Witness The Vibrant Culture
Located in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat, a firm historical connection of Ocean trade, vibrant culture and markets full of chirpy vibes is what makes Bhavnagar stand out from the rest of Gujarat. Many renowned literary achievers are also known to have originated from this place but more importantly, you also get to see the Gulf of Khumbat here. Bhavnagar surely contributes to one of the good places to visit in Gujarat!
Places to visit: Nilambagh Palace, Barton Library And Museum, Gaurishankar lake, Takteshwar Temple
Location: Gujarat
How To Reach: As Bhavnagar is equipped with an airport, the best way to reach this place is by air. From airport, you can take a bus or a cab to reach your final destination.
14.Wankaner – Get The Rajput Feels
Held gorgeously by the famous river Macchu on its bend, Wankaner is famous for several heritage monuments and royal palaces around. As the city was initially ruled by Jhala Rajputs, the great portrayal of fine architecture is sure to sweep you off your feet. Don’t miss the chance of staying in one of the stunning heritage hotels in this city on your next visit as this is one of the most astonishing hidden places to visit in Gujarat!
Location: Gujarat
How To Reach: The best way to reach Wankaner is by taking a train ride from any of the nearby cities to Morbi.
15. Girnar – Haven For Adventure Seekers
It has a mix of both – the fine golden-brown sand of Gujarat’s beautiful desert as well as the lush green environs of the Gir Forest. Girnar is more of a set of mountains located in the Junagadh district of Gujarat that offer endless thrill and excitement to adventure seekers and wildlife enthusiasts. It also has many religious sites that attract pilgrims from time to time. The Neminath Temple and the Meravasi Temple are two of the most important and sacred shrines in this town. It’s a great spot for a weekend getaway where you can enjoy enjoy Gujarat sightseeing from atop scenic hills.
Location: Gujarat
How To Reach: As there is no railway station in Girnar, the best way to reach this destination is by taking a train journey to Junagadh which is just 5 kilometers away from Girnar.
16.Anjar – Religious Destination
Anjar is a town and municipality in Kutch District, Gujarat. With over 1,400 years of history, it is known as the oldest town in Kutch. Anjar is famous for its cuisine, its known for the gher and dabeli. It has also been a centre for trade and commerce in Kutch for eons, being a target of invasion in medieval times and during the British colonisation. There are many ancient temples & shrines in Anjar including the Madhavrai Temple, Mohanrai Temple and Amba Mata’s Shrine, the most famous of them all being the Jesal Toral Samadhi. It is one of the many places to visit in Gujarat.
Places to stay: Hotel Empire, Shree Manav Residency, Hotel Shree Maruti
Things to do: Jesal Toral Samadhi, MacMurdo bungalow, temples, shrines
Location: Gujarat
How to reach: Kandla airport is one of the nearest airports to Anjar. The railway station that is close to Anjar is Anjar Railway Station
17.Junagadh
Being the capital of Junagadh Princely State once, the town shines with historical significance with many historical monuments to see.
Junagad is also very close to the Girnar Hills and the world renowned Gir National Park. Catch a glimpse of the wild in the Sakkabaug Zoo and the Wildlife Museum. Also visit the Girnar Hills and get a feel of the serene yet religious atmosphere. The fort at Uperkot is another tourist magnet.
18.Zarwani Waterfalls, Vadodara Overview
At a distance of about 90 km from Vadodara in Gujarat, Zarwani Waterfalls are amongst the most sought natural destinations in India. Huddled deep inside the heart of Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary near the district of Narmada, the perennial and gorgeous Zarwani Waterfalls provide you with an opportunity to trek, picnic, and indulge in wildlife photography.
19.Pirotan Island, Bhuj Overview
Pirotan Island spreads over an area of 3 square kilometres and is one of forty-two islands in the marine park area, nestled within the vicinity of the Marine National Park in the Jamnagar district of Gujarat on the western coast. As part of the first marine national park - the Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park, established in 1982, Pirotan Island offers an undisturbed rendezvous with nature in its abode. It is one of the two islands in the area which is normally permitted for tourists and visitors, Narara Island being the other one.
With only a handful of people living here which includes people from the forest department, Mujhavar at the Khwaja Khizer Dargah and a couple of people from the lighthouse, this enchanting island is much away from human habitation and way of life and comes close to being ideal if you are looking for a secluded getaway.
Although visits require permits from the local Forest Department, Customs & Ports Department, the hassle is entirely worth it. The island is a secluded getaway from the hubbub and commotion of daily life and deserves a space on your bucket list!
20.Kabirvad, Surat Overview
Kabirvad is a small island in the Bharuch district of Gujarat rumoured to be Saint Kabir’s residence several hundred years ago. Located along the banks of the river Narmada, the island promises you a calm and serene abode underneath the humongous canopy of Banyan trees that Kabirvad is most prominent for.
What started as a single Banyan tree in Kabirvad has emanated into over 3000 trunks currently, with the mother tree believed to be over 600 years old, interestingly the tree populous has grown manifold to such an extent that it is impossible to distinguish the mother tree from the other trees at present. The canopy of the Banyan trees envelops a massive area of 17,520 square metres with its perimeter extending up to 641 metres. And while the natural wonder remains the most alluring attribute about Kabirvad, the legend and local folklore around it only add to the island’s mystical charm and aura.
Etymology
The island of Kabirvad is surrounded by a host of myth and legends. The most illustrious one says that during his time of residence in Kabirvad, Saint Kabir threw his Datun(a twig used as a toothbrush) onto the ground and a Banyan tree sprouted from it and the tree then later multiplied into over 3000 trees. The island also draws its name from the two of the central components of this legend, Saint Kabir and Vad(Gujarati for Banyan)
Another tale suggests that Saint Kabir meditated under a Banyan tree, the tree never aged and propagated into a thousand more trees.
Places to See
1.Kabir Temple
The island of Kabirvad houses a Kabir Temple with a shrine devoted to the great poet and philosopher Saint Kabir. The temple is a circular structure with pillars on all side upholding it. The temple is the perfect place for people who believe in the ideologies of Saint Kabir and a spiritual abode for others alike.
Kabir Temple, Kabirvad
Source
2. Golden Bridge
The golden gate bridge is an architectural paragon built during the days of the British empire. It was initially known as the Narmada Bridge, but later got nicknamed Golden Bridge due to the heavy expenditure on it. The bridge connects the Ankleshwar and Bharuch cities and is over 1.4 kilometres long and perfect for a drive, ride across the golden bridge and take a close look at the architectural wonder that still stands tall after 132 years despite being subjected to floods and earthquakes.
3. Shri Swaminarayan Temple
A beautifully constructed temple, about 13 kilometres from Kabirvad near the Zadeshwar Chowkdi area in Bharuch. The temple is devoted to Lord Swaminarayan and is a calm and peaceful place that sees a mix of locals and tourists alike, it also has a sprawling garden spread across the front where you could sit and spend time in the tranquil ambience of the temple. The temple also serves meals in the afternoon and evenings for the devotees visiting.
4. Nilkanteshwar Temple
The Nilkanteshwar Temple is situated on the banks of the river Narmada in Zadeshwar Chowkdi around 13 kilometres from Kabirvad. The temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and the walls of the temple are adorned with inscriptions of 1008 names of Lord Shiva. The waterfront at the temple makes for the best views during sunsets, you can also take a boat ride in the river. The temple has a lawn and a peaceful praying area, the Aarti time during the evening is when it receives maximum visitors. The temple also has arrangements for food and accommodations for devotees visiting from afar.
5. Shirdi Sai Baba Temple
This is a fairly new temple approximately 13 kilometres from Kabirvad, with intricate carvings along the temple walls making it resemble an older structure. The temple has a shrine of Sai Baba. The temple also houses a small pond with walkways for devotees. People usually visit the temple and seek blessings from Sai Baba and then take a walk along the pond to experience the soothing ambience of the temple.
6. Gayatri Mata Temple
The Gayatri Mata Temple is another temple located along the banks of river Narmada 13 kilometres from Kabirvad, the temple is devoted to Goddess Gayatri Mata. The temple has ample seating along the river ghat with spectacular views of floating diyas(earthen oil lamps) on the river Narmada and the new Sardar Bridge. The temple also has an area where the devotees can take a dip in the river and pay their respects. Once a year, a Maha Aarti takes places when a 1000 diyas are lighted and set afloat on the river Narmada making it the most visited time of the year.
7. Narmada Park
Narmada park is a huge garden on the coast of the river Narmada 13 kilometres from Kabirvad, it is perfect for a leisurely stroll in the evening with views of the peace laden Narmada river and the upcoming Narmada bridge. The garden also houses a separate play area for kids making it a perfect spot for the whole family.
Things to Do
The island is a haven for nature lovers, you can take a walk around the area and just spend your time under the Banyan tree canopy and have a picnic on the lawn. You can also take a swim in the Narmada river, close to the shore.
Kabirvad is a natural wonder, with its unique ginormous canopy of Banyan trees. It is a secluded little getaway in the middle of the sea offering all its visitors solace and sanctity. With a rich legend and deep rooted history, quite literally, Kabirvad makes for a great day trip especially for all the history lovers out there.
Post a Comment