Wankaner

Wankaner :

As Indian states go, Gujarat has a long way to go before becoming tourist friendly. It may be the homeland of many a global Indian (the Patel clan comes from there), but it’s lacking in some of the things that draw tourists, namely the Taj Mahal and alcohol. Nevertheless, as Gujarat borders on Maharashtra, we decided to pay a weekend visit. Mind you, we didn’t go to the cities like Ahmedabad (home to Gandhi’s erstwhile ashram) or even to Surat. Instead, we flew into Rajkot and drove an hour to the village of Wankaner, a dusty, but bustling village and home to the Wankaner Palace. Like most former Raj palaces, Wankaner has tried to position itself as a heritage hotel.

General Information about Wankaner :

Location: Rajkot

State: Gujarat

Capital: Gandhinagar

Language: Gujarati, Hindi, English

Temperature: Max 42˚C, Min 27˚C (summer), Max 26˚C, Min 14˚C (winter)

Best Season: September to March

Aji Dam

About Aji Dam :

It is situated 8 Kilometers from Rajkot and supplies the town’s water.

General Information about Aji Dam :

Location: Rajkot

State: Gujarat

Capital: Gandhinagar

Language: Gujarati, Hindi, English

Temperature: Max 42˚C, Min 27˚C (summer), Max 26˚C, Min 14˚C (winter)

Best Season: September to March

Swaminarayan Temple :

Swaminarayan Temple :

The Swaminarayan Temple, Rajkot is famous all over the world as the most notable holy place in Rajkot. The Swaminarayan Temple was set by the BAPS as the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha is known. BAPS is an organization which operates by the Swaminarayan faith. BAPS as an organization was established in the year 1907 by Shastriji Maharaj. The Swaminarayan Temple, Rajkot operates in the same way as all other temples which belong to the same organization. The Swaminarayan Temple are known world wide for their spiritual value as well as the social work and the humanitarian service that they offer to the world. As all other temples that operates under BAPS, Swaminarayan Temple in Rajkot is also known for the hand carved stone by which the temple is made of. The central figure of The Swaminarayan Temple at Rajkot in Gujarat in India is the Lord Swaminarayan. The idol set in the temple is a white idol of Lord Swaminarayan, beautifully clad in gorgeous cloth. The Swaminarayan temple follows some philosophical guidelines as set by the BAPS. They try to understand the five basic eternal units which comprises of Jiva, Ishwar, Maya, Brahman and Parabrahman. The Swaminarayan temple in Rajkot in Gujarat in India is a major Tourist Attraction in Rajkot. People who come on a tour to Rajkot must visit the Swaminarayan Temple in Rajkot in Gujarat in India. The temple is famous for its spirituality and the humanitarian deed that it offers to the people all over the world. The act of doing such a commendable social service gives it a higher recognition than just a temple. People with a spiritual bent of mind should make it a point to visit this temple while on Rajkot tour. The Swaminarayan temple at Rajkot in Gujarat in India is also noteworthy of the beautiful building and the statue of the Lord Swaminarayan centrally placed and clad, which makes people in thousands to flock to the temple everyday in order to offer their prayers. The types of social work that The Swaminarayan Temple at Rajkot in Gujarat in India does comprises of making the people learn the ways to quit smoking, anti-social activities, drinking and taking drugs. The Swaminarayan Temple in Rajkot also holds bone marrow and blood donation camps. Several other activities that are practiced as a part of the work of the Swaminarayan Temple of Rajkot comprises of spreading literacy and educating children. The adults are encouraged to learn scriptures and motivate themselves through spiritual introspection and discourses. The Swaminarayan Temple of Rajkot in Gujarat in India has also actively participated in organizing relief camps in areas hit by natural disaster. Rajkot is easily accessible from any parts of India and Gujarat. As Rajkot stands as an important city and is well connected to every part of Gujarat and India by trains and buses. Tourists planning to take a flight to Rajkot can also reach Rajkot easily.

The Textile Market :

The Textile Market :

The textile market in Surat is reputed as possessing the best-embroidered products of silk and brocade. The traditional market of the region gets its supplies from the textile industry that is situated in the city of Surat. The industry is engaged in the production of yarn and in weaving and embroidering the textile goods. With its wide variety of embroidered saris, the textile market of Surat is become one of the popular Surat tourist attractions. The textile market at Surat displays embroidered saris and drapes that is the traditional dress of the Indian women. The saris were ornamented with the Zaris that are woven manually by the skilled workmen of the region of Surat. The shiny design of the Zaris is popular decorations that are in demand all across the world. The textile market of Surat is revolutionizing its products by incorporating new methods and designs that have earned its repute in the foreign countries as well. Computerized embroidery machines are used in the industries to make designs on the traditional drapes of the Indian women. The new technology incorporated has led to the decrease of the cost of production reducing the price of the saris as well. However, the new technology is not beneficial for the Zari weavers who are finding it difficult to compete with the designs computed on machines. The textile market in Surat exports its beautifully ornamented saris to the Middle East countries. The international market demands more improvisations in the designs of the saris. New trends in the design of Zari embroidered saris are being introduced to capture the increasing demand of the saris in the international markets.

SURAT - MORESWARA MAHADEV MANDIR

SURAT - MORESWARA MAHADEV MANDIR

The city of Surat enjoys a high reputation of enshrining scores of ancient temples dedicated to supreme deities, like Balaji, Ambaji, Kalikamata, Ramanath, Hanuman, Mahaviraswami, Paraswanath etc. In addition to these hoary mandirs, there are two mandirs dedicated to Siva. The Kasi Viswanath temple lying on the Balaji Road and Muleswara or Moreswara Mahadev Mandir situated in Gopipura are deservedly famous and are attracting devout Saivates and theists throughout the year. These two are built under ground, yet possess all the parivaradevatas for conducting prayer services according to agama sastras. These mandirs enshrine Sivalingas in addition to the icons of Lord Maheswar made of marble. Being very ancient, renovations were carried out several times, so they embody many modern trends, yet aradhana rituals remain same and hence the hovering of Saivism over the entire area. They are visit-worthy. Surat is a harbour town of Gujarat and is accessible by air, road and railways.

The Old Fort :

About The Old Fort :

The Old Fort is one of the popular tourist attractions in Surat. This fort of Surat has close association with the history of India. In the 14th century, the Old Fort has been constructed. Muhammed Tughlak, the then ruler took the initiative to build this fort in Surat. The Old Fort in Surat had been built by Tughlak as a fortification against the attack of Bhils. Bhils, were local tribal people of this region who rose against the Mughal ruler of India.The Old Fort is not merely a tourist spot in Surat but it has a historical importance. Surat has been always a witness to many incidents that are historically important. The ideal period to visit Surat is from October to March. Tourists can avail trains from all major cities in the country. They can also access bus services from other states of India. The tourists can also reach the city of Surat in Gujarat by availing air services from major cities of India to Surat.

Dandi

Dandi :

Situated at a distance of 5 kilometers from the heart of the city, Dandi in Surat is a center for the production of salt and is of historical importance to all the Indians. Owing to its significance in the history of Indian Independence struggle, the region has become one of the chief Surat tourist attractions. Beckoning the history of the Indian independence struggle would rekindle the historic act of civil disobedience started in Surat. The famous Dandi March was launched in this region by Gandhiji and his followers in the year 1930. The taxes levied on salt were imposed by the British in the year 1930. To refute the imposition of taxes in the region, the Dandi March was launched. In the early months of spring in the year 1930, 78 dedicated followers along with their leader, Gandhiji, marched 241 miles from the Sabarmati Ashram to the salt center in the remote hamlet of Dandi. The apparent purpose of the march may have been to protest against the levying of salt taxes, the underlying purpose was to start the non-violent civil disobedience act that would root out the British Empire from their colonial rule in India. The breach of law by the Dandi March was the primary salvo directed to the yoke of the British Empire. The small coastline hamlet of Dandi in Surat has been established as a center of historical importance. The visit to this small hamlet is quintessential for those who desire to relive and learn about the history of India.

BHADRAVATHI - MANESWAR CHOKANDA MAHADEV MANDIR

BHADRAVATHI - MANESWAR CHOKANDA MAHADEV MANDIR

Bhadravathi, an ancient city in the State of Cutch, lying in the North Western tip of India boasts of many temples of renown built by Rajput kings. Though they patronised Jainism amazingly well, and the are ardent followers of Thirthankaras, they built mandirs for Hindu Gods. One among them is Maneswar Chokanda Mahadev Mandir. There are many inscriptions relating to the mandir and they adequately bring out the fame of the mandir. The very fact of the existence of Saivaaradhana in a region dominated by the predominance of Jainism, speaks volumes of the glory of Hinduism. Saivagama puja is performed in this ancient mandir and it is attracting devotees through out the year. It is in the modern town of Bhadreeswar in Cutch।

Ukai Dam

About Ukai Dam :

It is situated 94 kms from Surat. A major multipurpose irrigation project of Gujarat, the storage of water at the dam site is almost as large as that of Bhakra Nangal Dam in Punjab .

General Information about Ukai Dam :

Location: Surat

State: Gujarat

Capital: Gandhinagar

Language: Gujarati, Hindi, English

Temperature: Max 42˚C, Min 27˚C (summer), Max 26˚C, Min 14˚C (winter)

Best Season: September to March

Vansda National Park Bulsar

About Vansda National Park Bulsar :

The Vansda National Park is situated in Bulsar District. Wild animals such as leopards, tigers, panthers and wild boars are found here.

General Information about Vansda National Park Bulsar :

Location: Near Surat

State: Gujarat

Capital: Gandhinagar

Language: Gujarati, Hindi, English

Temperature: Max 42˚C, Min 27˚C (summer), Max 26˚C, Min 14˚C (winter)

Best Season: September to March

ALANDI - SIDDHESWARA MANDIR

ALANDI - SIDDHESWARA MANDIR

Alandi, the seat of Nath Sampradaya enshrining the Jnaneswar Maharaj's samadhi is a small town of unique spiritual significance. It is also a premier centre of Advaitha matha and hence turned out a great pilgrim town of all India importance. It contains several objects of veneration that detain the visitors for hours. Among them, Siddheswar mandir takes precedence over others. It is adjacent to the Samadhi of Jnaneswar and forms an integral part of it. The Sivalinga now worshipped has been existing since the Vedic times. The prayer services offered here follow the Saivaagamas, though Maharastrian customs greet the eyes of the visitors. There is a big size Nandi installed in a beautiful raised mandap and is placed at the entrance. The Sivalinga resembles in size and shape of the Bhimashankar of Sahyadri and receives all types of services as observed in the Siva Mandirs.

Ambaji Temple

Ambaji Temple in Gujarat is one of the 51 Shaktipeeths and is visited annually by millions of devotees. The full moon day (Poornima) in the month of Bhadrapada (August – September) is a highly auspicious day at Ambaji Temple. More than a million people travel to the temple on the day, majority of them on foot, carrying religious flags. Bhadrapadi Purnima Festival is also referred as Bhadarvi Poonam festival. In 2010, the date of the festival is September 23.

Shakti Swaroopini Mata Ambika, or Ma Ambaji, is an important female goddess in Shakti Cult and is also known as Amba Bhavani and Arasuri. It is believed that the heart of Goddess Sati fell here, when her body was cut into pieces by Lord Vishnu to stop the intense tapas of Lord Shiva after Sati’s death. There is no idol in the temple and Goddess Ambika is represented by a triangular Vishwa Yantra, inscribed with figures and the syllable ‘Shree’ in the center.

Legend has it that Lord Krishna Mata Ambika here and that Rukmani worshipped here prior to her marrying Krishna. Another legend states that the tonsure ceremony of Child Krishna was performed at Ambaji Temple.

Mata is visited by scores of women devotees who follow the Padyatri Sangh from their region during the Bhadrapad Purnima festival. Ancient folk dance is a major event during the festival, which lasts for four days.

Situated on the Arasur hill near Mount Abu, Ambaji Temple is located in Banaskantha District in Gujarat on the Gujarat – Rajasthan border.

One can reach Ambaji Temple by buses from Ahmedabad and also through Rajasthan Roadways. Ambaji is around 20 km from Abu Road (Rajasthan), 21 km Danta by road and 50 km from Palanpur, an important town in Banaskantha District.

The nearest Railway Station from Ambaji is Abu Road.

Hazira Beach :

About Hazira Beach :

The Hazira is one of the prime Surat tourist attractions and is a popular hangout for the tourists and the local people alike. The beach is situated at a distance of 28 kilometers from the city of Surat in the Indian state of Gujarat. The shallow water of the beach is a proposed site for an all weather cargo port in the state of Gujarat. The spectacular sea beach of Hazira is located near the city and is popularly visited by the local people on the weekends. The beach overlooks the crystal blue waters of the Arabian Sea. The warm sand and shingles of the beach attract tourists who can bask under the blazing heat of the sun. The holiday resorts situated close to the beach present a magnificent view of the sea. The tourists may enjoy a comfortable stay by the beach in Hajira. The beach is bordered with a wooded line of casurina trees that casts an enticing and mesmerizing spell on the visitors. The beach is embellished with the fragments of shells of various shapes and sizes. Children enjoy gathering shell fragment from the beach in Hazira. The Hazira in Surat has been declared as the health resort. The region has two wells dug deep into the ground that are rich and laden with sulfur and iron deposits that are beneficial for the people. The sea weather and the fresh breeze also facilitate the sick. Located by the creek of the Arabian Sea, the Hazira is a popular tourist destination in Surat.

Pavagadh Temple

Pavagadh is one of the major attractions for pilgrims and tourists. Pavagadh is mountain about 46 kms from Vadodara and 190 kms from Ahmedabad. It is situated in the Halol, Panchmahal district. It covers 42 Kms in circumference. Champaner in the foot of Pavagadh is established by King Vanaraj Chavada in memory of his wise minister Champa. Champaner area is declared as protected area by the Archeological survey of India. Gujarat government has developed Pavagadh as a hill resort because of its scenic beauty and fresh atmosphere. The hill of Pavagadh rises from Champaner in three stages. The plateau at an altitude of 1471 ft. is known as the Machi Haveli. State bus service is extended up to Machi. Small hotels and rest houses are available at Machi. Teliya Talav and Dudhia Talav come on top of Machi. Famous temple of Goddess Mahakali is located on the top of hill. Rope-way facility is available from Machi to reach Mahakali Mata's temple at the top. About 250 steps have to be climbed from there to reach the temple. On the roof of the temple is a adanshah Pir Dargah, visited by Muslim devotees. Pavagadh is also known as the birth place of Gujarat 's famous musician, Baiju Bawra. Halol and Kaalol near Pavagadh is very good place for tourist. There is also a film studio at Halol.

Tithal Beach :

About Tithal Beach :

It is situated 108 kms from Surat and 5 kms from Valsad on the Bombay Vadodara Western Railway. A beautiful sandy beach palm sheltered cottages is what you would get to see there.

General Information about Tithal Beach :

Location: 108 Km From Surat

State: Gujarat

Capital: Gandhinagar

Language: Gujarati, Hindi, English

Temperature: Max 42˚C, Min 27˚C (summer), Max 26˚C, Min 14˚C (winter)

Best Season: September to March

How to Reach Tithal Beach :

By Air:
Surat Airport is situated on the outskirts of the city. The airport has been inaugurated recently and has made the city all the more accessible for the tourists. Presently, there are two airlines operating from the Airport, the Indian Airlines and the Kingfisher Airlines. Surat is well connected to main cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Bhavnagar and Kandla by air. The airport will soon become equipped to handle international cargo and traffic also.

By Train:
Surat Railway station is situated in the eastern-central part of the city. The city is a major Railway junction on the Mumbai – Delhi – Ahmedabad broad gauge line. A number of trains run to and from the station, connecting it with many important cities in Gujarat and India. It is linked to all the major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Vadodra etc. Surat is also connected to the Central Railways through the Udhana Junction and the Tapti line. From local trains to goods trains, from passenger trains to super fast trains, all operate from the Surat Railway station.

By Road:
There are a number of buses operating from Surat. Theses buses connect the city to various important states like Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi and Rajasthan. Apart from this, there are state buses as well as private buses connecting Surat to various cities in Gujarat. The city is connected to the National Highway via a connector highway. It is also accessible from National Highway 6, via Hazira.

Janmashtami or Gokulashtami

Janmashtami or Gokulashtami (Shri Krishna Janmots

This is one of the famous songs that people sing on the occasion of Janmashtami, the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna the eighth avatar (Incarnation) of Lord Vishnu. This religious festival is celebrated all over India in the month of August/September on the ashtami of Krishna Paksh or the eighth day in the month of Bhadon according to the Hindu calendar with great devotion and zeal. Janmashtami is also known as Gokulashtami, Krishnasthami, Srijayanti. The Janmashtami of Mathura and Vrindavan, the places where Lord Krishna had spent his childhood, are famous all over the world. Devotees from across the world come to these pious places to celebrate Janmasthami. On this auspicious occasion, temples and homes are beautifully decorated and illuminated. Night long prayers are offered and religious hymns are sung in temples. The priests chant holy mantras and bath the idol with Panchamrit which comprises of Gangajal (water from the holy Ganges River), milk, ghee (clarified butter), curd, and honey pouring all these from a conch shell. After this bath the idol of the infant Krishna (also known as Balmukund) is placed in a cradle. Devotional songs and dances mark the celebration of this festive occasion all over Northern India. The temples especially in Vrindavan witness an extravagant and colourful celebration on this occasion. Raslila is performed to recreate incidents from the life of Krishna and to commemorate his love for Radha.Krishna Janmashtami, also known as “Krishnashtami”,”Saatam Aatham” ,”Gokulashtami”, “Ashtami Rohini”, “Srikrishna Jayanti”, “Sree Jayanthi” or sometimes merely as “Janmashtami”, is a Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, an avatar of the Hindu deity Vishnu. Krishna Janmashtami is observed on the Ashtami tithi, the eighth day of the dark half or Krishna Paksha of the month of Shraavana in the Hindu calendar, when the Rohini Nakshatra is ascendant. The festival always falls within mid-August to mid-September in the Gregorian calendar. In 2009, for example, the festival was celebrated on the 14th of August, while in 2010, the festival will be celebrated on 2nd of September. Rasa lila or dramatic enactments of the life of Krishna are a special feature in regions of Mathura and Vrindavan, and regions following Vaishnavism in Manipur. While the Rasa Lila recreates the flirtatious aspects of Krishna’s youthful days, Govinda Pathaks or Dahi Handi celebrate the God’s playful and mischievous side, where teams of young men form human pyramids to reach a high-hanging pot of butter and break it.

Champaner Pavagadh

The site was declared a world heritage site in 2004. Champaner Pavagadh Archeological Park is known for housing a number of archaeological and historic sites that are yet to be excavated along with living cultural heritage structures. The sites include a hill fortress of an early Hindu capital from the 16th century in the state of Gujarat complete with palaces, temples, residential precincts, agricultural structures and water installations. These structures belong to the period ranging from 8th to 14th centuries. Thousands of pilgrims flock throughout the year to the Kalikamata Temple atop the Pavagadh Hill to pay their homage to the Goddess. The site is quite important to study the pre-Mughal Islamic history, as it is the only complete city from that time that hasn't been altered later.

One can see ancient Hindu palace and temple architectural styles, the special water retaining installations of that time that were used to fight off the scarcity of water and the religious, military and agricultural structures that befit the 16th century capital of the region built by Mehmud Begda. These structures help to fill the gaps in Indian history and present a harmonious blend of Hindu-Muslim architecture. The Great Mosque or the Jami Masjid is believed to have served as the model for the mosques built later in India and is representative of regional sultanates that existed before Mughals came into power. The capital was not used for long. It is place of worship for Hindus and presents pregnant historical mysteries to the arche

Ahmedpur Mandvi

Ahmedpur Mandvi

Ahmedpur Mandvi is a beautiful sea-resort, commands a panoramic view across the creek of Diu island. The 6-km. Big beach provides utmost relaxation to visitors and ideal place for water sports and enjoying traditional food in huts decorated with local style of architecture. The mud-plastered low-roof cottages are unique and provide space to visitors with swings in the verandah and an open air sitting in space of the courtyard. Fairs and festivals of cultural importance offer a lot of colour and sounds for the promotion of cultural tourism are also being promoted as annual features in Gujarat. These fairs are of big draw to foreign tourists. Tarnetar fair of Surendranagar, kite festival of Ahmedabad, Saputara summer festival, rann utsav of Katchchh and Navratri are some of the important fairs and festivals organised by the Gujarat Tourism Corporation.

Gujarat is a paradise for tourist shopping and for curie hunters. The State of Gujarat is famous for both quality and design of textiles, traditional and modern. The tie and dye of Bandhani work of Jamnagar is famous. Gujarat is also known for hand printing on cloth and traditional motifs and pictures of Gods and Goddesses. The Jari or gold thread work of Surat is legendary. The Surat Gajee or satin silk has a luscious shimmer to it. The coloured rugs, many handicrafts from Kachchh, the brass covered wooden chests of Bhavnagar and woolen shawls from Saurashtra are attractive items for tourists. Gujarat tourism also conducts regular tours and provides transport of various types for tourists. Details can be had from its central office at Ashram Road, Ahmedabad and branches at Delhi, Bombay Vadodara, Surat and Junagadh.

Chorwad

Chorwad

Chorwad popularly known, as Palace Beach Resort is a unique complex where cool sea breeze refreshes the visitors. In surrounding area Somnath, Sasangir, Porbandar are easily accessible. The folk dance popularly known as Tippani Nritya, which is a peculiarity of this region, is also worth watching

Major Temples of Gujarat

> Sri Somanath Temple

Sri Somnath temple is known as the Eternal Shrine as it has withstood the shocks of time and the attacks of the destroyers. Situated in Prabhas Kshetra in Saurashtra at 79 kms from Junagadh and 25 kms from Chorwad on the western cost of Gujarat, it was the most revered shrine having one of the twelve pre-eminent Jyothirlingas.

There are several names for Somnath acquired during long history as Deo Pattan, Prabhas Pattan, or Pattan Somnath. This temple has glorious legend and history. Its reference can be traced in Rig Ved also. This temple facing east once had a large central hall with three entrances.

There are richly carved doorways with sculptured representations of Nandi, and figures of many goddesses and female attendants. A mutilated form of Nataraja, the dancing Shiva can be seen in the balconied corridor.

The legend says that Somraj, the moon god, built this Somnath temple originally in gold. The Moon or Soma with his wife Rohini worshipped the deity “Sparsha Ling” of the temple to free himself from the curse of his father-in-law, Daksha Prajapati. Lord Shiva pleased with his penance restored his light for half of the month. Hence the deity here is known as Someshwar or Somnath, Lord of the moon and the place is called as the Prabhas. Later, Ravana rebuilt the temple in silver. Then again Lord Krishna rebuilt it in wood. Krishna was hurt here at Bhalka in his foot by the arrow of a hunter who mistook him to be a deer.

There is Bhalkha Tirth temple at this sacred place. The mortal remains of Krishna were cremated at Dehotsarga, on the banks of river Hiren. The temple was again built by King Bhimdev Solanki in stone in the 10th century. The temple was very rich and courted over 300 musicians and 500 dancing girls. On hearing the description of the temple by Arab traveler Al Biruni, the Mahmud of Ghazni raided the temple in 1024 A.D and looted it carrying way the loads of jewels and gold on many camels. Each time the Somnath temple was destroyed, it was rebuilt again and again.

In 1706 A.D., it was demolished by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The present temple was rebuilt for the seventh time on the original site in 1950 A.D., with the support from Sardar Vallabhabhai Patel who was the first Deputy Prime Minister of India and was called as the iron man of India. Its reconstruction was completed on December 1st 1995 and the then president of India, Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma dedicated it in the service of the nation.

The present temple referred as Kailash Mahameru Prasada is built by Shree Somnath Trust which looks after the entire complex of Shree Somnath and its environs. The temple has Chalukya style of temple architecture reflecting the inherent skill of Sompuras, the Gujaraj’s master masons. There are the Shikhar portion, the Garbh Gruh, the Sabha Mandap and the Nritya Mandap in the temple. The Temple is situated at such a place that there is no land in between from Somnath sea-shore to Antartica, the South Pole.

The inscription in Sanskrit can be seen on the arrow-pillar erected on the sea protection wall of Somnath temple. The places around the temple include Prabhas Patan Museum with art treasures, and the Somnath beach with pleasant sands. There also other famous places such as the Bakhla Tirth, the Triveni Tirth, Surya Mandir, Ahilya Mandir and Veraval beach near the temple.

Chorwad Beach

Chorwad Beach of Gujarat is another splendid beach situated on the west coast of India. It is situated at a distance of 66 km from Junagadh. Chorwad has a high potential of attracting both domestic as well as international tourists. The beach constitutes of rocky hills and presents opportunity for thrilling boat rides. For a spell bounding vacation, you can also visit a number of other places situated nearby. Porbandar and Somnath are two such places which will further enrich your experience.

Chorwad is home to a palace which was constructed by Nawab Saheb Mohabbat Khan, the regional governor of his times. He was a man of fervor and indulged in activities like his dog's bizarre weddings, royal banquets and other related royal processions for his own enjoyment. The memories of the yester years still haunt the Palace. However, it has now been transformed into an attractive resort. Another such fascinating place here is the Daria Mahal Palace, an architectural gem of the yore.

Shaam-e-Sarhad Village Resort

Shaam-e-Sarhad Village Resort

Rating : Resorts

Address :
Hodka Village, Banni
Bhuj Distt.
Kutch-370510 India

Accessibility :
Bhuj Airport : 65 KM
Bhuj Railway Station : 65 KM

Locational Advantage : Shaam-e-Sarhad Village Resort is sited in the Northern Kutch of Hodka Village.

Description :
Shaam-e-Sarhad Village Resort is a charming property, located in the fascinating Hodka Village. The resort offers its guests an exotic getaway to unwind as well as to explore the enchanting lands of Kutch. It has been exceptionally designed in ethnic style, embellished with mirror work, textiles and other local crafts, offering a glimpse of the vivacious yet real rural life in India. In addition to cozy accommodation and delicious cuisines, the warm traditional hospitality offered by Shaam-e-Sarhad Village Resort induces its visitors to visit the place time and again.

Accommodation :
The resort offers 12 well-maintained accommodation units, including 3 Bhungas (Mud Huts), 7 Luxury Tents and 2 Family Tents. Each accommodation is nicely designed with local work and equipped with basic facilities.

Rann Riders

Rann Riders

Rating : Resorts

Address :
Distt - Surendranagar
Kutch-382750 India

Accessibility :
Ahmedabad : 90 KM
Viragam : 30 KM

Locational Advantage : Rann Riders is conveniently located near the Little Rann of Kutch wildlife sanctuary.

Description :
Situated close to the Little Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary, Rann Riders is a beautiful cottage camp in Dasada. Surrounded by swampland, it is an ecological resort creatively designed to resemble the manifestation of a village. Cottages are designed to give the feeling of Kooba houses of the Bajania community and the Bhunga houses of the Rabaris of Kutchi. The resort offers guests jeep safari, camel ride, horse ride and other outdoor activities. The resort also has a small lake, wherein guests can enjoy fishing. All in all, Rann Riders is an ideal place to enjoy a pleasurable vacation.

Accommodation :
The resort offers 15 traditionally designed A/C cottages. Each cottage is equipped with modern facilities and is decorated with mirrors, mud-plaster work and embroideries.

The Shiv Mid-Town

The Shiv Mid-Town

Rating : 3 Star

Address :
Near Commerce College
Ward 2/A, Adipur
Kutch-370 205 India

Accessibility :
Bhuj Airport : 65 KM
Adipur Station : 1 KM

Locational Advantage : The Shiv Mid-Town resides in the core of stylish residential region of Adipur town.

Description :
The Shiv Mid-Town is situated in the heart of the fashionable residential area of Adipur town. The interior of the hotel is absolutely pleasant, enveloped in the touch of historical beauty and spirit of golden bygone era. The hotel offers a wide range of elegantly designed spacious banquet and conference hall with vast capacity, perfectly suited for events like wedding parties and business meetings. In short and snappy terms, The Shiv-Town with its generous hospitality and personalized services is an ideal place for discerning corporate travelers as well as holiday-makers.

Accommodation :
The Shiv Mid-Town offers 10 fabulously designed rooms, categorized as Executive Room, Superior Room, Deluxe Room and Suites. All the rooms and suites are well-appointed with contemporary facilities, ensuring supreme luxury to its guests.

Devpur Homestay

Devpur Homestay

Rating : Heritage

Address :
Krutarthsinh Jadeja
Darbargadh, Devpur
Kutch India

Accessibility :
Bhuj : 40 KM
Gandhidham : 100 KM

Locational Advantage : Devpur Homestay is located in close proximity to the major activities of the city.

Description :
Sprawling over 2 acres of land, Devpur Homestay offers a beautiful and soothing view of nature. The hotel offers magnificent accommodation facility, which consists of porticos, courtyards, stucco pavilions and pillared halls. It bestows a royal impact in its building and decoration style. The hotel treats its guests majestically, ensuring supreme comfort and luxury. In short, Devpur Homestay is an ideal place for the travelers fascinated to explore Devpur’s affluent tradition and cultural heritage.

Accommodation :
The homestay provides 3 well-appointed spacious rooms, coupled with gracious serviced apartment including a tennis court. All the rooms are stuffed with modern amenities and wrapped with charming and traditional royal decor.

Restaurants :
Kutch Rasoi: A dinning room, serving scrumptious Indian & continental cuisine.

Kutch Mandvi Beach

Kutch Mandvi is an important beach in Gujarat, situated at Mandvi. Mandvi is the historic port town of Maharao of Kutch, located at a distance of 75 km from Bhuj. Kutch Mandvi was once inhabited by the Maharao of Kutch and was an important seaport. The private beach of Maharao is the perfect place, in case you are looking for peace and solitude. It has beautiful white sand, serene locales and enchanting sunset views.

Kutch Mandvi Beach is the ideal place to have fun and enjoy yourself to the fullest. The beach is just the place for swimming and long walks. Apart from this, horse and camel rides are also quite popular here. Savor sweet coconut or hot brewing tea, while watching the neighboring wind mills. The scintillating blue water, enliven birdlife, pristine beaches and colorful fishing hamlets, present just the right picture of the Mandvi town.

You can also watch wooden ships being made in a nearby dock in the town. But, this is not all. There is much more to the town, which boasts of historical places of princely times. It also offers a plethora of items for shopping, like handicrafts, silverware, shell-work, Kutchi embroideries, Bandhini tie-and-dye saris as well as block prints.

Beaches

Gujarat has the longest coastline of all the states in India. As a result, the state and its neighboring Union Territories offer a plethora of beaches. These beaches are the finest in the country and attract a huge number of tourists every year. The pristine waters, soft sands and rich flora and fauna are their main attractions. You can relax and unwind amidst the natural serene surroundings. It's a promise that your trip to these exotic beaches of Gujarat will provide you with an unforgettable experience. Apart from this, the towns located near the beaches have immense possibilities for sightseeing. They house a number of historical forts, palaces, churches and museums worth seeing.

Tourism in Junagadh

Tourism in Junagadh

A visit to Junagadh, and an attendant visit to Tourism of Gujarat, offers a tourist, a golden opportunity to explore and discover the interior recesses of Junagarh town, located in Gujarat, India. Tourism of Gujarat, offers information that Junagadh, located in Gujarat, India, is a town with a lot of historical significance attached to it. Junagadh, situated in Gujarat, India, is, located at the foothills of the Girnar hills with the city of Junagadh being an important trading center with the edicts of King Ashoka in 250 B.C, offering the same information.

Tourism of Gujarat, offers information that Junagadh, located in Gujarat, India, has to its credit, the Uperkot Fort on the eastern side of the town of Junagadh, located in Gujarat, India. The fort is believed to be built by Chandragupta in the year 319 A.D. with the fort getting rebuilt in the past, quite a few times. Then, Tourism of Gujarat, takes a tourist on a journey across Mahabat Maqbara, which is the mausoleum of one of the Nawabs of Junagadh, located in Gujarat, India. Then, other places of tourist attraction include, the Durbar Hall Museum, which is replete with armour and weapons from the times of Nawabs of Junagadh, located in Gujarat, India.

Tourism in Jamnagar

Tourism in Jamnagar

A visit to Tourism of Gujarat and a trip down Jamnagar, located in Gujarat, India, offers information that Jamnagar is a historically significant town of Gujarat, located in India. Tourism of Gujarat, takes the tourist on a journey across the delights and attractions of Jamnagar, located in Gujarat, India. Tourism of Gujarat, offers information that Jamnagar, situated in Gujarat, India, is home to Saurashtra region of the state of Gujarat, located in India and the languages spoken in Jamnagar, located in Gujarat, India, are Hindi, Gujarati and English and coupled with these facts going by the ancient Puranas, it is said and believed that the capital of Lord Krishna was Dwarka, once he moved his entourage from Mathura, located in Uttar Pradesh, India, and Dwarka, happened to be in the Jamnagar district, located in Gujarat, India.

Tourism of Gujarat, offers important information to the tourists and the local people alike that, Jamnagar was built by Jadeja Rajputs, who are popularly known as Jams in Jamnagar, located in Gujarat, India. Tourism of Gujarat offers further information that travel attractions like Lakhota Fort and Kotha Bastion are some of the twin historical structures, which draw crowds in Jamnagar, located in Gujarat, India. Bedi Ports and Jansahed's Palace are some of the other seaside ports of Jamnagar, located in Gujarat, India, and are recognized as ideal picnic spots.

Tourism in Palitana

Tourism in Palitana

A visit to Tourism of Gujarat, and an attendant visit to Palitana, situated in Gujarat, India, takes the interested tourist on a journey across the town of Palitana, which is located in Gujarat, India. Palitana, situated in Gujarat, India, is located about 51 kilometers south west of Bhavnagar, located in Gujarat, India. Palitana, located in Gujarat, India, is part and parcel of the famed Saurashtra region which is much in demand due to the presence of beautiful beaches, architecturally marvelous temples and other sites of tourist importance. And, all this is located in Gujarat, the western state of India.

Tourism of Gujarat, takes the tourist on a journey across the beauty and élan of Palitana, located in Gujarat, India. Palitana, situated in Gujarat, India, is home to Shatrunjaya Hill, the place of victory, which is a place of religious significance for the Jains in Gujarat, India. The whole mountainous region is peppered with big and small Jain temples which are dedicated to various Jain tirthankars with the most important among them being the Chaumukh Temple, which houses the four faced deity of Adinath, placed atop a marble pedestal with the shrine being open on all sides.

Tourism in Bhavnagar

Tourism in Bhavnagar

Tourism of Gujarat is a rich source of information for the tourists who need to explore and seek out the attractions and travel destinations of Bhavnagar, located in Gujarat, India. Tourism of Gujarat, takes the tourist on a journey across the length and breadth of the town of Bhavnagar, located in Gujarat, India. Tourism of Gujarat, offers information that Bhavnagar, situated in Gujarat, India, is a famous trading point for a multitude of cotton products which are one of the chief attributes of the city of Bhavnagar, located in Gujarat, India. Bhavnagar, situated in Gujarat, India, is also a commercially important city as it enjoys proximity to the Gulf of Cambay and the Arabian Sea in India.

Bhavnagar, situated in Gujarat, India, has few historical monuments as it happens to be a modern city. Still, Bhavnagar, located in Gujarat, India, is home to the popular pilgrimage of Takhteshwar, located in Gujarat, India, which houses the lingam of Lord Shiva and enjoys a rich attendance every year. The Gandhi Smriti or the Gandhi memorial offers another important travel destination to be visited by the tourists and the localites, alike Gandhi memorial bears the photographs and memorabilia out of the life and times of Mahatma Gandhi.

Tourism in Gondal

Tourism in Gondal

Tourism of Gujarat is a rich source of information about the travel destination of Gondal, situated in Gujarat, India. Tourism of Gujarat, provides an interested tourist with information that Gondal, located in Gujarat, India, is placed at a distance of 60 kilometers from the headquarter town of Junagadh with the town of Gondal, located in Gujarat, India, lying on the banks of river Gondali, located near Gondal, in Gujarat, India.

Gondal town is a clever admixture of historical monuments and modern day buildings with the culture of the town of Gondal, receiving its modernity due to the influence of their King Bhagwat Singhji as he was a modernity-influenced individual and his very many visits to Europe helped provide a modern veneer to the buildings and life patterns in Gondal, situated in Gujarat, India.

Gondal, located in Gujarat, India, is home to the most attractive and charming building in the form of the Navlakha Palace, located in Gondal, in Gujarat, India. The Navlakha Palace rises up from the riverbed at a height of 30 stately meters. Then, apart from the palaces, vintage cars are also an added attraction of the town of Gondal, located in Gujarat, India. Gondal, located in Gujarat, India displays a rich and thriving collection of birds like peacocks, sunbirds and bee eaters, to name a few of the birds.

Tourism in Vadodara

Tourism in Vadodara

A visit to Tourism of Gujarat, and an attendant visit to the city of Vadodara, located in Gujarat, India, offers a golden opportunity to the tourist and the interested travelers to seek out the truth behind Vadodara, located in Gujarat, India. Tourism of Gujarat, offers travel related information about Vadodara, situated in Gujarat, in India, that it has turned out to be a very modern and happening kind of city in the definition of the tourists and outsiders who happen to visit the city of Vadodara, located in Gujarat, India, after a long time haul.

Tourism of Gujarat, lets a well intentioned tourist know about the various attractions like Vadodara's palatial palaces, large and ornately decorated museums and the green and expansively resplendent gardens, all second to none in terms of history attached and superficial beauty. Some of the travel destinations and stations of tourist attraction are Sayaji Bagh, Baroda Museum and art gallery along with Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum and a Planetarium and an inbuilt zoo inside the confines of the structure. The Naulakhi well, a fine example of a step well or baoli, and the EME temple, a peculiar place of worship, with an aluminum roof, are worth visiting.

Temples in Gujarat

Temples in Gujarat

A visit to the magnificent and sacred temples in Gujarat, located in India, would enable a tourist to come to terms with the religion oriented life in Gujarat, India. Temples, apart from serving as the religious barometers for a travel destination, also act as a podium and a platform where-in the tourists can come together and partake of their general social life, too. Temples in Gujarat are also architectural marvels apart from being the seat of sacredness in the province. Temples in Gujarat, are very many while some of them can be enumerated as Somnath Temple, Akshardham Temple, Parsi Fire Temples, Bhrigu Rishi Temples and last but not the least the Gangeshwar Temple, all located in the state of Gujarat, India. Temples of Gujarat, include the greatly popular Somnath Temple, which was said to hold a great variety and quantum of gold and other coveted treasures. Then, as our history lessons tell us that a Muslim marauder came up and destroyed the Somnath temple and looted the booty contained in its sacred portals and precincts. Akshardham is too a self sufficient and well maintained temple complex which was recently in news as it was made a target of a terrorist attack but the religious activities have resumed there with all the imaginable fervor. More information about the temples in Gujarat, India, can be had by enlivening up the following links.

Inspirations: They Hail From Gujarat

Inspirations: They Hail From Gujarat
Gandhiji
Father of the Nation who made India Free
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
Iron man ‘Architect of India’
Vikram Sarabhai
Visionary Physicist ‘Father of Indian Space Program’
Dhirubhai Ambani
The Leader with a vision
Jamshedji Tata
Father of the Indian Industry
Many more adorn the Land of the Legends who make Gujarat proud as we sing in the Glory of Gujarat. People who came from diverse fields. We shall be featuring ‘Faces’ – faces that make Gujarat Proud, faces that inspire, faces that are reflections of the Land of the Legend ‘Gujarat.’ We call for your participation. Let us together build ‘Inspirations for Gujarat’ as we project the best of the best – who’s who and important people who contribute to ‘Gujarat’ and Make a Big Difference!
Choose your Inspirations from the following or from above. Register and add your Inspirational insight. Let us know, Who you like the Best and why. Choice is entirely yours:

Land of the Legends

Land of the Legends

Discover sense of Excellence in Gujarat – where life breathes, Rediscovering life in nation’s Heritage - In the beauty and charm of Culture and traditions, In the life and lifestyles of people who made their contribution to Gujarat - Rediscover real meaning of life everywhere. There is something about the soil, the sun, the moon and the stars – something about the space and the people – Above all, Freedom – freedom of choice, to breathe the air of joy and happiness, peace and tranquility. Life is a Celebration for those who live in the Land of the Legends – A place where Gods chose to exist! Gujarat, the Land of the Legends go down in History to leave behind impressions with footprints on the sands of time. Since many years, the land is Inspired by great Legends.

Lothal:

Lothal:
History dates back to Indus Valley Civilization which leave behind the ruins of Lothal, the first Indian Port between 1800-2400 BC. It also shows a very high degree of town planning, like other sites in the Indus valley.

The discovery of seals at Lothal suggests that the former civilization from this part of the Indian subcontinent traded frequently with the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt and Persia. An unusual discovery was made here of two bodies found in a single grave. At least three such instances show that double burial was a common feature among the people who lived in Lothal. More than 4000-year-old seals of the Indus Valley and Sumerian civilizations, terracotta artefacts, ancient beads and necklaces made from colourful semi-precious stones, resembling modern day junk jewellery, among others is being brought alive in the minds of the people by the Archeology survey of India. Thus, Lothal is an emerging Tourist attraction in Gujarat.

Why Gujarat

A State on the Move Strategic Location Strategically located on the West Coast of India, Gujarat is also a Gateway to the rich land-locked Northern and Center Vicinity of the country. Gujarat spearheads the Indian march for the “Global Economic Super Power” status with access to all Major Port based Countries like UK, Australia, China, Japan, Korea and Gulf Countries, etc. Winds of Change Gujarat has witnessed Winds of Change under the leadership of Narendra Modi, the CM who believes that "Future of India belongs to Gujarat. With the inherent strength and immense potential, Gujarat is destined to bring glory to the nation." Road Ahead To Glory Gujarat is on road ahead to new heights of development by bringing about quality and speedy changes. Gujarat has immense potential and strengths. Efforts are aimed to bring qualitative changes in the life of a common man with the Panchamrut Philosophy : Jan Shakti Powering the vision with its active contributions in education, healthcare and many other sectors. Gyan Shakti Knowledge is Power in Gujarat - Synergizing Excellence and Innovative thoughts with talent and technology. Here wisdom sets its pace to achieve goals with an inspiring force . Urja Shakti Gujarat has set a time frame for Electricity Management. Broadband connectivity and uninterrupted electricity supply has remained instrumental in rural development. Jal Shakti Harnessing Water Resources with emphasis on harnessing rain water and scientific management of water. Raksha Shakti Enhancing Physical, Social, Economic Security. Security and well being of citizens.