Gujarat is a land of immense natural beauty, rich culture and heritage, and historical significance. The state attracts tourists with its multitude of historical sites, beaches, hills, wildlife sanctuaries, vibrant festivals, scrumptious food, and more. Known as the ‘Land of Legends’, it is a superb destination for a vacation, whether with friends, family or alone.

The best time to visit Gujarat is during the winter season, i.e. between October and February. Since it is a dry region and experiences high temperatures and humidity; visiting the state in the monsoons (July to September) may also be a good idea especially in the regions that receive less or no rainfall. During summers, i.e. between March and June, the temperature soars high, making it difficult for travellers to explore most of the attractions, but there are some places worth visiting like the Saputara Hill Station and the natural reserves that provide quite some respite in the scorching heat.

Here are some of the most delectable Gujarati dishes that would make any food lover drool over.

The Dhokla is famous street food as well as most eaten snack by the Gujaratis, Khandvi is the yummiest snack of all the times. It made up of besan and salt. Dhabeli is the type of modern Vada pav. It consists of vada which is made up of aloo and besan deep fried in the olive oil. A staple in almost every household, Gujarati kadhi is a lovely curry with sweet undertones. Shrikhand is a type of sweet dish which is served chilled in the desert. It is made up of yoghurt and sugar. Undhiyu is the well known dish of Gujarat. The dish is tasty and healthy as well.

Due to this impressive heritage and culture, shopping in Gujarat is a great way to experience the city of fashion and colors. From arrays of crafts and textiles to beautiful handmade fabrics and unusual tribal jewelry, even the most reluctant of shoppers will not be able to resist himself from all the intricately beautiful articles that the city has to offer. Patterned bead work, mirror work, handmade shawls, rugs, dyed sc arves, and silver jewelry make shopping in Gujarat a lifetime experience.

Gujarat is known for its local language Gujarati. But there are other languages also which are spoken here in Gujarat like Sindhi, English, and Hindi.

1. TEMPLES

Somnath Temple, Dwarkadish Temple, Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple, Bala Hanuman Mandir, Rukmini Holy Place

2. WILDLIFE

The jungles of Gujarat are home to several species of wildlife, making it an absolute treat for all nature lovers. You can expect to spot the Asiatic lions, sloth bear, greater flamingo, blackbuck, Indian wild ass and Indian bustard, among several types of flora as well. The state has 21 wildlife sanctuaries and four national parks, making it the perfect destination for a wildlife getaway in India. When in Gujarat, do visit: Gir Forest National Park, Blackbuck National Park, Marine National Park, Vansda National Park, and Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary

3. THE RANN OF KUTCH

A desert of salt marshes, the Rann of Kutch is bordered by the Thar Desert and the Gulf of Kutch. It covers around 10,000 square miles and spills over into the region of Sindh in Pakistan. The flooded grasslands of the Rann are a variety of ecosystems. It is the site of the colourful annual Rann Utsav festival.

4. ART AND CULTURE

Gujarat is a state that boasts of a rich culture and a variety of traditions. The arts and crafts of Gujarat have international appeal and are critical to the state, not just from an aesthetic purpose, but also with a commercial point of view. Visitors will find stores and roadside stalls with the traditional art, all across the state. Some of the handicrafts to pick up while on a visit include: Beadwork, Leather work, Silver jewellery, Wood carvings, Embroidery and mirror work, Block printing, Tie and dye, Zari work.

5. GANDHI ASHRAM

In the year 1915 on 25th may Gandhi established the first ashram near Kochrab Area, which was later on shifted on the banks of the river Sabarmati. The Sabarmati Ashram, also known as Harijan Ashramwas the centre of Indian freedom struggle. The famous Dandi march was launched from here. Being a source of inspiration and guidance, The Ashram still stands as a monument to Gandhi’s life mission.

UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES – (AS OF JANUARY 2023)

• Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park
• Rani ki Vav (Queen’s Stepwell) Patan
• Historic City of Ahmedabad
• Dholavira, Kutch

1. AHMEDABAD

A rapidly growing metropolis, an industrial hub, an educational hotspot, and a city with a magnificent past – Ahmedabad is one of the most important cities in Gujarat. Located on the banks of the Sabarmati River, Ahmedabad is the former capital of Gujarat, and it’s delicious food, colourful culture is making it a fast-growing tourist destination. The historic city of Ahmedabad or the old part of the city was declared as the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Places to Visit in Ahmedabad: Sabarmati Riverfront, Swaminarayan Temple, Sabarmati Ashram, Kankaria Lake, Sidi Saiyyed Jali, Jhuta Minar, Sardar Vallabhai Patel National Museum, Adalaj Stepwell

2. VADODARA

Vadodara or Baroda is a cosmopolitan city located in Gujarat. Home to some of the most exemplary displays of architecture, Vadodara is a fitting memorial to Maratha leader Sayaji Rao Gaekwad III who had envisioned a dream to make this Big City an educational, industrial and commercial centre. Known for one of the most lavish palaces in India- the Lakshmi Vilas Palace and plenty more legendary monuments, Vadodara is the cultural capital of Gujarat.

Places to Visit in Vadodara: Laxmi Vilas Palace, Sayaji Gardens, Ajwa Nimeta Garden, Vadodara Museum and Picture Gallery, Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum, EME Temple

3. CHAMPANER

The Capital of the Sultanate of Gujarat, Champaner is a historical city located in the Panchmahal district in Gujarat. Being included in the elite list of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites across the globe, this marvellous archaeological park set in the heart of the city of Champaner and amidst the Pavagadh hills is one of the most sought after places in Gujarat.

Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park holds a lot of historical as well as mythological significance in itself. The Park comprises of umpteen numbers of splendid architectural wonders consisting of both Hindu & Islamic styles of design.

Places to Visit in Champaner: Kalika Mata Tempe, Pavagadh Fort, Jain Temples, Jami Masjid, Lakulisa Temple

4. KUTCH

Kutch is probably one of the most beautiful, yet surreal places in India with the vast expanses of the white salt desert.  The place comes to life during the winters when the Rann Festival is held during December-February everywhere in which there are huge camp settlements with cultural programs, functions and adventure activities like hot-air ballooning.

Places to Visit in Kutch: Great Rann of Kutch, Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, Kutch Museum, Kalo Dungar

5. BHUJ

Bhuj is known as a desert city, with a history dating back to kingdoms and empires, palaces from the rule of the Naga chiefs, the Jadeja Rajputs, the Gujarat Sultans and the British Raj. With numerous temples, small streets, and traditional handicrafts, Bhuj is one of the unique historical sites in India. The land of Bhuj is home to various historical sites, like the 2000-year-old Kshatrapa inscriptions in the kutch museum, hall of mirrors in the Aina Mahal, the bell tower of Prag Mahal, the sculptures in Ramakund stepwell, and the beautiful Hamirsar lake. Hence, Bhuj is a blend of vibrant history and ethnic cultures.

Places to Visit in Bhuj: Aaina Mahal, Hamirsar Lake, Prag Mahal, Bhujia Hill, Vande Mataram Memorial

6. GIR NATIONAL PARK

Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is the only remaining home for the ASIATIC LIONS. Located in Talala Gir in Gujarat, the Sanctuary is a part of Kathiawar- Gir dry deciduous forests ecoregion. Gir National Park is closed from 16 June to 15 October every year and the best time for wildlife spotting is April and May.

7. SOMNATH

Somnath, literally meaning ‘lord of the moon’ is a pilgrim center and is home to one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. It is a town which derives much of its identity from the mythology, religion, and legends that surround it. Somnath also offers beaches, museums and other attractions. While the SOMNATH TEMPLE and SOMNATH BEACH are the primary places to visit here, Gita Mandir, Balukha Tirtha, Kamnath Mahadev Temple, Somnath Museum are some of the other places that one can visit.

8. DWARKA

Dwarka is believed to be the capital city of Lord Krishna’s kingdom. Known as Devbhoomi Dwarka, Dwarka boasts of being the only city that is a part of both Char Dham (four principal holy places) and also Sapta Puris (seven sacred cities) mentioned in the Hindu religion. Dwarka was a part of the ancient kingdom of Krishna and Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, is also located in Dwarka. The beachside and the seashores are an added tourist attraction.

Places to Visit in Dwarka: Dwarkadhish Temple, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, Dwarka Beach, Rukmani Temple, Shivrajpur Beach

9. DHOLAVIRA

Known as a remarkable excavation site during the Indus Valley Civilization, Dholavira was one of the most developed cities roughly 4500 years ago. It was a flourishing Harappan site between 2650 and 1450 BCE.

Presently an archaeological site in Khadirbet of Kutch Gujarat, the village is also locally known as Kotada Timba. The location not only holds evident pieces of architecture but also of the Harappan lifestyle. Divided into three main architectural layouts, the town also had a vast open stadium.

Many remains such as earthen pots, beads, jewellery and other materials were excavated as well. The town of Dholavira had an exceptional water conservation system. Two of its most important water channels were the Mansar and the Manhar. Dholavira become the 40^th site from India to get the UNESCO’S WORLD HERITAGE tag. The archaeological site of a Harappan-era city was added to the heritage site list on July 27th 2021.

10. PORBANDAR

Porbandar, best known as the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, is a beautiful beach town with some temples and dams and is now also a popular trading hub. The ancient port city with a significant event in its history is a tourist destination which modestly offers a number of attractions.

Apart from the haveli where Gandhiji was born which has now been converted into a temple, there are a few more temples, dams, reservoirs, serene beaches and wildlife spots as well to add to your experience in Porbandar. It attracts pilgrims with temples such as the Sudama Mandir, Bharat Mandir, Ram Dhoon Mandir, Hanuman temple and more.

Places to Visit in Porbandar: Kirti Mandir, Porbandar Beach, Sudama Mandir, Madhavpur Beach

11. DIU

Located near the port of Veraval, Diu is a small island which was earlier a Portuguese colony and is now guarded by beaches all around. Diu takes up most popularity given the ample number of beaches, along with Gujarat’s southern coast such as the Nagoa beach, but has a lot more to offer too. The Diu Fort, a primary imprint of the Portuguese on the area’s heritage and architecture makes up a popular tourist attraction.

Places to Visit in Diu: Nagoa Beach, Naida caves, Fort Diu, St. Paul Church, Sunset Point, Diu Museum, Ghogla Beach

12. JUNAGADH

Being the capital of Junagadh Princely State once, the town shines with historical significance with many historical monuments to see.

Junagadh 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.

Places to Visit in Junagadh: Uperkot Fort, Girnar Hills, Dattatreya Temple, Darbar Hall Museum, Jama Masjid

13. PATAN

Home to RANI KA VAV, the latest Indian entrant to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Site, Patan is a treasure trove of architectural gems and ancient temples that has a history dating back to the medieval period.

Places to Visit in Patan: Rani ki Vav or ‘Queen’s Stepwell’, Sahastralinga Talav, Patola Saree making unit

14. MODHERA

Modhera is an ancient village in the state of Gujarat, famed for housing the remains of the SUN TEMPLE built by the Chalukya dynasty is a true historical treasure. The village is surrounded by a mystical aura that the Sun Temple brings along; it is also a hub for spirituality and culture.

15. STATUE OF UNITY

Statue of Unity is a memorial to The Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The statue has been erected to propagate Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s vision of India and to inspire the Citizens of India through his patriotism and freedom struggle. The Bronze statue of the founding father of the Republic of India stands 182 metres tall grabbing the attention of the whole world as the ‘Tallest statue in the World’.

16. SAPUTARA

Snuggled in the Sahyadris or the Western Ghats, Saputara is a quaint little hill station in the Dang district of Gujarat. Popular for lush green forests, undulating mountains, dazzling waterfalls, dreamy winding roads, livid landscapes and plenty of charming cubbyholes to spend time with your loved ones, the town is the first favourite among tourists. It is located at a height of 875 metres above sea level and is a perfect getaway for eco-lovers, wildlife enthusiasts and people who love adventure sports.

Places to Visit in Saputara: Artist village, Hatgadh Fort, Saputara Lake, Saputara Museum, The Ropeway Cable

17. RAJKOT

Rajkot is the fourth-largest city in Gujarat. A commercial city with not many sightseeing options, Rajkot should be visited for its sweets, traditional snacks, Navratri celebrations, handicrafts (silverwork, patola weaving, bandhani) and its maze of narrow alleys with distinct cultural character. Located halfway between Ahmedabad and Porbandar, Rajkot is perfect for a one-day trip.

Places to Visit in Rajkot: Khambhalida Caves, Kaba Gandhi no Delo, Ranjit Vilas Palace, Pradhyuman Zoological Park

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