Gujarat is one of the most popular tourist destination for people from all over the world. The enchanting scenic beauty, historical monuments, remnants of ancient civilizations, and picturesque beaches cast a spell that is hard to break. It is also one of the only places to have a glimpse of Asiatic lions, free from captivity and in their natural habitat, at Gir National Park. Apart from that travellers visiting Gujarat also get to enjoy the unique folk dances and absolutely lip-smacking dishes of the state, famed the world all over. There are several great places to visit in Gujarat, all of which are steeped in a certain charm and history.
Gujarat
1. Vadodara
Baroda (renamed Vadodara) is worth visiting for its regal heritage. The Gaekwad royal family established their kingdom there in the 18th century and their expansive Laxmi Vilas Palace features imposing Indo-Saracenic architecture. It’s set on 500 acres of parkland and is reputed to be the largest private residence in India—and four times the size of England’s Buckingham Palace. Part of the palace is open to the public daily; this includes the Coronation Room, Gaddi Hall (containing the throne of past kings), Darbar Hall, and the Royal Armoury.
2. Champaner and Pavagadh
A little-known UNESCO World Heritage Site, Champaner and Pavagadh are laden with historical, architectural and archeological treasures from both Muslim and Hindu traditions, dating back to between the 8th and 14th centuries. These include a hill fortress, palaces, places of worship (Jama Masjid is one of the most spectacular mosques in Gujarat), residential areas, reservoirs and step wells.
3. Rani ki Vav
Rani ki Vav is an ancient abandoned stepwell dating back to the 11th century and UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was also constructed during the Solanki dynasty, apparently in memory of ruler Bhimdev I, by his widowed wife. The stepwell has stairs going down seven levels, and panels containing more than 500 main sculptures and over 1,000 minor ones. Only discovered relatively recently, the stepwell was flooded by the nearby Saraswati River and silted over until the late 1980s. When it was excavated by the Archeological Survey of India, its carvings were found in pristine condition.
4. Polo Forest
Trekkers should head to one of Gujarat’s best kept secrets, Polo Forest, to discover old Hindu and Jain temples tucked away deep within the jungle. It was once a city called Abhapuri, believed to have been established in the 10th century by Idar kings and later conquered by Rathod Rajputs of Marwar in the 15th century. Visit after the monsoon, between September and December, for the most spectacular greenery.
5. Idhar Hill Fort
Giant boulders have guarded the town of Idar, at the southern end of the Aravali mountain range, for centuries. A scenic but strenuous climb to the top of the hill (Idariyo Gadh) through the rocks will take you past the remains of various palaces and temples. The town is known for its handmade wooden toys as well. They can be purchased at the market near the clock tower.
6. Sun Temple
The peaceful village of Modhera is home to one of the most significant sun temples in India. Built in the 11th century by Solanki dynasty rulers, it’s dedicated to Surya the Sun God. The temple is a substantial structure, consisting of a carved stepped tank, assembly hall, and main shrine. It’s covered in intricate stone sculptures. The sanctum is positioned in a way that it receives the first rays of the morning sun at the equinox.
7. Marine National Park
Isolated and off-the-beaten-track, Marine National Park lies along the coast on the way to Dwarka. It was established as a national park in 1982 and is the first of its kind in India. Yet, not many people know about it. The national park is made up of 42 islands, 33 of which are surrounded by coral reef, and is home to diverse marine and bird life. Tourists are only permitted to visit a couple of the islands though. The main one, Narara Island, is accessible by car and a long walk during low tide. Visit during the winter, and be prepared to wade through ankle deep water on the seabed. Local guides are available. Pirotan Island can be accessed by charter boat but it’s difficult and permission needs to be obtained from numerous government departments in advance.
If you are planning a trip to Gujarat, then the above-mentioned attractions are a must-visit. Do you think we missed out on a few places that deserve to be on the list of best places to visit in Gujarat? Let us know in the comments below!