Also known as Jagat Mandir, the five-storey structure of the Dwarkadhish Temple is built on seventy-two pillars. The temple spire is 78.3m high. From the temple dome waves an eighty-four foot long multicolored flag decorated with the symbols of the sun
and moon. Lord Krishna's grandson, Vajranabha, is said to have built the original temple of Dwarkadhish over the hari-griha (Lord Krishna's residential place).The sanctum of the temple is formed by the Jagat Mandir, or Nija Mandir, dating back at least 2500 years. The Jagat Mandir has a tall tower and a hall of audience. There are two entrances to the temple. The main entrance (north entrance) is called "Moksha Dwara" (Door to Salvation). This entrance takes one to the main market. The south entrance is called "Swarga Dwara" (Gate to Heaven). Outside this doorway are 56 steps that leads to the Gomati River.
Kutch is the largest district in the state of Gujarat. It is the least populated owing to the fact that it is barren, covered with desert and marshland. Although it forms a major part of the state it has its own distinct identity. It is mostly inhabited by varied tribes. There are around 18 tribes living in the region which have their own discrete language and culture. This has made the place a paradise for the flourishing different cultures. It is a showcase of all the tribal culture of the region.
Vadodara city is the administrative headquarter of the Vadodara district in Gujarat. It is often termed as Baroda and is the industrial capital of the state. The city stands on the bank of River Vishwamitri, flanked by a number of graceful buildings like palaces, parks, temples and museums. This has greatly boosted tourism in Vadodara. The cultural galore of Vadodara impels visitors to travel to this historic city. In the ancient time, it served as the capital city of Gaekwads, the former rulers of Vadodara.
Gandhinagar is the capital city of Gujarat. It is located on the west bank of River Sabarmati, about 32 km from Ahmedabad. The city is named after the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. After the partition of Gujarat and Maharashtra, it was decided to make a new capital for Gujarat. As a result, Gandhinagar was established in the vicinity of Ahmedabad. It is a well organized and architecturally integrated city and is slowly picking up as a tourism destination.
Saputara is a picturesque hill station situated in the Sahyadri Hills, which come under the Dangs District of Gujarat. The hill station serves as an added treat for the tourists who travel to the state. It is a perfect retreat from the hustling bustling city life and is popular from tourism point of view. The pleasant town offers utmost peace and tranquility. Amidst the lush green woods, one can rejuvenate and admire the chronicles of Mother Nature. The sightseeing tours of Saputara reveal much of its beauty.
Champaner is an ancient fortified city of Gujarat. It is located at the foothills of Pavagadh, around 159 km from Ahmedabad. The city falls under the Panchmahal district of Gujarat. It is believed that the city derived its name either from the Champa tree or from Champaraj. Champaraj was the founder of the city and a contemporary of King Vanraj Chavda of Anhilwada. Tourism is slowly picking here and people are drawn towards exploring the historical town of the yore. In the late 15th century, Muhammad Begada, the Muslim King of Gujarat captured the fort of Champaner.
Vadodara also known as Baroda was the capital of the princely Gaekawad state in the pre-independence era. While in the post-independence era Vadodara became famous as a major hub of education and arts. Situated in the industrial corridor of Gujarat, Vadodara is emerging as the commercial and industrial capital of the state. Over the years a number of large and medium industrial units have come up in surrounding areas and the city's main avenues are lined up with a number of commercial complexes that rate among the best in modern architecture. Today Vadodara is an industrial city with some interesting museums and art galleries and a fine lush park. Popularly known as the City of Palaces and Gardens, Vadodara is home to a number of magnificent palaces and monuments which attract large number of tourists every year.
These two monuments are located in south-east direction, outside the Amarthol Darwaja. Their religious importance has been described even in Skand Puran. Gauri Kund has been decorated with carving of large number of sculptures in varied sizes. Late Dr Kantibhai Sompura had written his study paper on these sculptures. The carving pattern of these sculptures is indicating that they were made during the Solanki era.
