One of the western most states in India, Gujarat is a state comprised of a small interior region, and a large oddly shaped peninsula that makes its ruggedly shaped1,660 kilometre coastline one of the longest in India. Historically, this geographical alignment has also made Gujarat a state with any major ports and spectacular sea routes to most of the globe. With a population of 60.4 million, Gujarat is the fifth largest state by area, and the ninth largest by population. The local language is called Gujarati, while many unique dialects of the same do exist, based on geographical location.
The region is economically extremely prosperous, and the qualities of being extremely astute and business oriented are part of the very cultural fabric of the state. Even besides this, Gujarat is often forgotten by travellers, when planning a trip to India, opting instead for the flashier regions of Mumbai and Rajasthan that lie around it.
The state is overflowing with historical symbolism, abundant flora and fauna, religious sites, tribal culture, some of India’s finest textiles and so much more! With so much to offer, We say that Gujarat must definitely be on your list of places to visit in India.
Places to visit in Gujarati:
- Ahmedabad
- Surat
- Silvassa
- Vadodra
- Kutch
- Bhuj
- Rajkot
- Gandhinagar
- Gir Somnath
- Dwarka
- Mandvi
- Dang
- Saputara
- Jamnagar
- Porbander
- Junagarh
- Gir National Park
- Rann of Kutch
- Champanger-Pavagadh Archeological Site
- Lethal
- Girnar
- Statue of Unity
- Sardar Sarovar Dam
- Rani Ki Vav
- Pirotan Island
Ahmedabad
Locally called the ‘Manchester of India’, Ahmedabad is one of Gujarat’s most famous cities, often better known than even its capital city. The ideal destination for a long weekend getaway, Ahmedabad is a city abundant in architecture, history, culture, vibrant cuisine, and hospitable people. An all-round slice of all that Gujarat has to offer, Ahmedabad is is known for it’s textile industry (specifically cotton) all over India. This vibrant city also attracts a lot of tourists due to its abundance of both religious sites and architectural marvels. Having been inhabited by the renowned Bhil king of Ashaval in 11th Century, Sultan Ahmed Shah in 1411 C.E. and later by Shahjahan, the fusion of architectural influences on the city has led to some truly unique monuments.
Located on the banks of the River Sabarmati, the Sabarmati Ashram was built in 1917, and was the residence of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, known world-wide as Mahatma Gandhi, during the early years of the Indian struggle for independence from the British rule. So iconic is this region, that Mahatma Gandhi is called ‘Sabarmati ke sant’ (saint of Sabarmati), especially in a popular tribute song about him.The Ashram has historically not only been a significant site for the epicentre of the freedom movement, but in modern days is also considered as a shrine to the ideals of ahimsa or nun-violence, intellectualism, purity, and serenity. The ashram is not only a minimalist structure in itself, but is also surrounded by lush greenery and prosperous wildlife.
Visit if:
Ideal for all kinds of travellers, a trip to Gujarat is incomplete without visiting Ahmedabad.
Stay for:
3 to 4 days
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February.
Don’t miss out on:
- Kankaria Lake
- Sabarmati (Mahatma Gandhi) Ashram
- Sabarmati Riverfront
- Adalaj Step-well
- Auto World Vintage Car Museum
- Manek Chowk
- ISKCON Temple
- Hate Singh Jain Temple
- Lothal
- Riverfront Flower park
- Vaishnodevi Temple
- Bai Harir ni Vav (Stepwell)
- Dada Bhagwan Temple
- Sidi Saiyyed Mosque
- Shree Swaminarayan Mandir
- Vikram Sarabhai Space Exhibition
- Jami Masjid
- Sardar Vallabhai Patel National Memorial
- Koteshwar Mahadev TemplePiramal Garden
- Sarkhej Roja
Surat
Like Ahmedabad, Surat is another city that is more popularly known than the capital city of Gujarat. Significant not just for it being an economic hub in modern times, Surat has historically been an economic, cultural and political hub of the entire country of India. Known also as the ‘Diamond City’, the region has traded in diamonds and other such precious stones for centuries. The city is adorned with many temples, springs, green parks, tree-lined roads, and breathtaking architecture. Believed to have first been inhabited in 1516 and called Suryapur, Surat is a major tourist attraction in Gujarat.
From modern art to pre historic rock carvings, from road-side Gujarati cuisine to fines dining, from tall sky-scrapers to heritage monuments’ ruins, Surat truly has it all. The vast salt expanses on the regions seamlessly trail into the dense forests that surround it, creating an air of lush beauty around the place. The city comes alive during the annual Navratri festival (a nine day Pooja or worship of the Goddess Ambe Mata, followed by one of the world’s largest folk dance festivals), with decorative, elaborate lights as well as sparkling skylines of fireworks and music wafting through the wind.
Visit if:
If you’re visiting Gujarat, you must visit Surat. Ideal for all age groups, vacation budgets, and interests, Surat is one location you cannot miss.
Stay for:
2 to 3 days
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February
Don’t miss out on:
- Amazia Water Park
- VR Surat
- Gopi Talav
- Galteshwar
- ISKCON Temple
- Sarthana Nature Park
- Surat Castle aka Old Fort
- Ambika Niketan Temple
- Dumas Beach
- Ubharat Beach
- Kavi Narmad Central Library
- Siddharth Mahadev Temple
- Snow Park
- Shabari Dham
- Dutch Cemetery
Silvassa
Overflowing with abundant wildlife and lush greenery, Silvassa is accessible from both Maharashtra and Gujarat, making it the ideal getaway for a weekend vacation. Formally a Portuguese colony in India, Silvassa’s colourfully vibrant charm and local cuisine reflects its multi-cultural past. Comprised of 72 individual villages, the regions abundant, beautiful churches are not a familiar sight in Gujarat. The region also houses the The Lion Safari Wildlife Park, spread over 25 hectares of land, is home to the majestic Asiatic Lion. May you fancy a calming walk through the flower at Vanganga Lake, or the many adventure activities to try in the area, Silvassa is a must-visit location!
Visit if:
Ideal for families looking for a quick, affordable getaway. Also a popular location for school trips.
Stay for:
1 to 2 days
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February. Some travellers visit in the monsoon months of July to September as will, since the region receives sparse rainfall.
Don’t miss out on:
- Khanvel
- Dudhni
- Tribal Cultural Museum
- Vasona Lion Safari Park
- Vanganga Lake Garden
Vadodra
Breath taking palaces, a glorious past, rich culture, and abundant architectural marvels are but a few of the attractions that make Vadodra such an amazing location to visit. This resplendent city in Gujarat often gets overlooked, but is a fan-favourite amongst avid domestic travellers. Ideal for both thrill seekers and peace keepers, Vadodra is a beautiful city of parks, gardens, temples and more! Besides its many markets where you must not be shy to haggle, and it’s beautiful Laxmi Vilas Palace, Vadodra is also known as a hub of stunning and authentic craftsmanship.
There is no better time to visit Gujarat, and specifically Vadodra, than during the state’s two biggest religious and cultural festivals – Navratri and Ram Navami. The city transforms to a land of sparkling lights, colourful mirror-adorned embroidered clothes, and folk music playing from every ground, road and house! The city is a true representation of the vibrancy of Gujarat’s cultural traditions, music, and cuisine.
Visit if:
Ideal for history and architecture buffs as well as foodies hoping to experience authentic Gujarati cuisine.
Stay for:
1 to 2 days
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February. Blessed with the perfect climate, through the year, some travellers visit in the monsoon months of July to September as will, since the region receives sparse rainfall.
Don’t miss out on:
- Laxmi Vilas Palace
- Sayaji Garden
- Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery
- Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum
- Ajwa Nimeta Dam Garden
- Sur Sagar Lake
- Kirti Mandir
- BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
- Sardar Patel Planetarium
- Mandvi Gate
- Gaekwad Baroda Golf Club
- Narmada Canal
- Shri Aurobindo Ashram
- Nyay Mandir
- Jambughado Wildlife Sanctuary
- Kabirvad
- Hazira Maqbara
Kutch
One of the most beautiful vistas you will ever see, Kutch is the crème de la crème of places you should visit in Gujarat. Covering most of Gujarat’s peninsular region, Kutch not only boasts a large arid desert, but also some beautiful beach location on its far ends. Kutch also shares a border with the neighbouring country of Pakistan, making some of its outposts heavily militarised regions.
During the winters, the region transforms, bursting with life, colour and celebration. The long nights and shallow days shimmer across the white sands of the desert, making an already scenic view truly magical. The famous Rane of Kutch festival takes place during this period.
The region is also a hub for cultural preservation and traditional practices, with a vast inventory of non-used and extinct scripts like the Kutchi Script and ancient coins. The local museum also preserves paintings, arms, and intricately crafted, embroidered pieces. Add to this the beauty of the seemingly never-ending expanse of the Rain of Kutch, and what you have is a truly humbling experience for all those who visit Kutch.
Visit if:
A shrine to mankind dedication to a high quality of life and celebration, even in the most adverse conditions, Kutch is a must-visit for those who visit Gujarat. The region is also a hub for Bollywood (Indian film industry) buffs who can visit many famous filming spots in the region.
Stay for:
2 to 3 days
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February. Some travellers visit in the monsoon months of July to September as will, since the region receives sparse rainfall.
Don’t miss out on:
- Vijay Vilas Palace
- Kalo Dungar
- Kutch Museum
- Mandvi beach
- BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
- Dholavira
- Aina Mahal
- Marine National Park
- Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
- Narayan Sarovar
- Roha Fort
- Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary
- Kanthkot Fort
- Surkotada
- Hamisrsar Lake
- Siyot Caves
- Kutch Great Indian Bastard Sanctuary
- Bhadreshwar Jain Temple
Bhuj
A centre for culture and architecture, the city of Bhuj was founded in 1510 by Rao Hamir, and once was the capital of Kutch. Being an ancient town, Bhuj has been witness to many wars and battles, and carries the scars of the same in its monuments and historical sites. Today, Bhuj is a significant trade and economic zone. Bhuj’s iconic landscape features a mighty lush hill, a rugged fort, and the hustle and bustle of the busy city.
An ideal place to shop for handicrafts, local spices, traditional Gujarati clothes, and the world-renowned meenakari jewellery, Bhuj Haat market is a complex of many seller congregated together, with only the most authentic wares up for offer.
Visit if:
Ideal for families or friend groups looking to explore the beautiful fusion of Mughal and Rajputana architectural schools of thought.
Stay for:
2 to 3 days
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February.
Don’t miss out on:
- White desert
- Mandvi Beach
- Sunsets at Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
- Aina Mahal
- Hamirsar Lake
- Souvenir shopping in Bhuj
- Narayan Sarovar Santuary
- Mata no Madh
- Prag Mahal
- Banni Grassland Reserve
- Chari-Dhand Wetland Conservation Reserve
- Kutch Museum
- Clock Tower, Bhuj
- Living and Learning Design Centre for textile and handicrafts lovers
- Kranti Tirth
- Kutch Fossil Park
- Bhartiya Sankriti Darsham Museum
- Bhujia Hill
- Vande Mataram Memorial
Rajkot
Once the humble epicentre of activity during the freedom movement for independence against the British in Gujarat, today Rajkot is a sprawling metropolitan city. Much of the city’s architecture and monument reflects the colonial era thoughts from whence it flourished. From the historical Jubilee Gardens to the iconic Connaught Hill, every turn in this city reminds on of a dichotomous time in India’s past – one of great spender yet great suffering. Given its connections with the freedom struggle, many of Rajkot’s buildings and streets are dedication to Mohandas Karamchan Gandhi, aka Mahatma Gandhi.
The city is also known for its local music scene called, “Dyro” with many live and open-air performance venues dotted all around the map. Also known for its theatrical scene, watching a play at the Hemu Gadhvi Natyagruha is a must, an evening that can be followed up with shopping on the vibrant streets for ivory handicraft, beaded jewelry, desi fabrics, and meenakari items.
Visit if:
Best suited for those (families as well as friend groups) who want to envision the life and world of the Indian freedom movement during the British era
Stay for:
2 to 3 days
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February.
Don’t miss out on:
- Khambhalida Caves
- Kaba Gandhi no Delo (where M. Gandhi spent his early years)
- Pradhyuman Zoological Park
- Ranjit Vilas Palace
- Gondal automobile displays
- Jagat Mandir
- Gandhi Museum
- Ishwariya Park
- Swaminarayan Mandir
- Lalpari Lake
- Watson Museum
- Jubilee Garden
- Picnics at Nyari Dam
- Aji Dam
Gandhinagar
Seated idyllically on the banks of the River Sabarmati, Gandhinagar is the capital city of Gujarat and was named after prominent freedom fighter, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi aka Mahatma Gandhi. The city’s pleasant climate, boisterous atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage make it an ideal place to visit in Gujarat. Often referred to as the cultural and commercial hub of Gujarat, Gandhinagar is both traditional and modern, both bustling and serene, and has both a small town charm and an urban outlook to life. The city was very well-planned at inception, making for a very appealing and aesthetic journey through it. It’s tranquil gardens and mighty monuments are offset by narrow streets overflowing with people, charm, and sensory stimuli. May you visit for the city’s significant temples, or its well-developed tourist attractions, Gandhinagar is a unique visit you must not miss.
Visit if:
With something for everyone, Gandhinagar is ideal for families or friend groups
Stay for:
2 to 3 days
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February.
Don’t miss out on:
- Akshardham Temple
- Adalaj Stepwell
- Children’s Park, Gandhinagar
- Sarita Udyan
- Puneet Van
- Rollercoasters at Fun World
- Craftsmen’s Village
- Trimandir
- Indroda Nature Park
- Aolloa Hills Resort Gold Course
- Rani Roopmatis Mosque
- Sant Sarvar Dam
- Capital Complex
- Vithalbhai Patel Bhawan
- Mahudi Jain temple
- Swarnim Park
Gir Somnath
With mentions in Hindu religious epics such at the Rigveda and the Gita, Gir Somnath is amongst the oldest heritage cities in India. The region is seated in the Saurashtra region, bordered by the Arabian Sea on one side and an endless expanse of lush dense forestry on the other. Though often referred to as one city, Gir and Somnath are in fact, two separate locations, each with heir specific attractions and significance, for example: Somnath acts as a coastal town while Gir is known for its lush greenery. Estimated to have been built as easily as 649 CE, the Somnath Temple is the crowning glory of the Yadava dynast’s many architectural endeavours, and is today known as one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva (most significant religious sites of worship around India for Lord Shiva). Built with great influence from he Chalukya style of architecture, the central ‘shikara’ (domed central tower) is 15 metres tall, with intricately carved walls, emerging proudly from the landscape of the town.
Visit if:
Both spiritual and aesthetically pleasing to the eye, Gir Somnath is ideal for religious devotees and photographers
Stay for:
1 to 2 days
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February.
Don’t miss out on:
- Somnath Mahadev Temple
- Sasan Gir National Park
- Kankai Mata Temple
- Somnath Temple
- Jamjir Waterfall
- Bhalka Tirth
- Devalia Safari Park
- Veraval beach
- Gita Mandir
- Triveni Sangam
- Panch Pandav Gufa
- Prabhas Patan Museum
- Suraj Mandir
Dwarka
Nestled within the devbhoomi (God’s sacred abode) of Gujarat, Dwarka is an ancient city with much religious significance in not only Gujarat, but throughout India. Begin your pilgrimage through the city at the ancient and revered Dwarkadish Temple, a 2000 year old shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple’s architecture is beautiful, par none, with the central shikhara (domed central tower) containing some of the most intricate inscriptions and sculptures in the region. The 72 pillars at the temple hold engraved motifs that tell a story of elaborate rituals and godly endeavours. The grounds are well known for their fairs, festivals and many events.
Visit if:
Ideal for those looking to find spiritual serenity
Stay for:
1 to 2 days
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February.
Don’t miss out on:
- Dwarkadish Temple
- Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
- Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Mandir
- Beyt Dwarika
- Nageshwar Shiva Temple
- Rukshamanee Mandir
- Sudama Setu
- Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
- Gomti Ghat
- Siddheshwar Mahadev Mandir
- ISKCON Dwarka Temple
- Blue Bell Beach’s lighthouse
- Dunny point
Mandvi
A quaint city located in the Kutch, peninsular area of Gujarat, Mandvi is known equally for its beaches and its historical architectural ruins. Traditionally, Mandvi was the central hub in India, and continues to be the residence of some of India’s best known traditional ship builders. Named after the sage Mandavya, the city has been extensively mentioned in Hindu scriptures and epics, making it also an important religious site. The waters of the Mandvi beach are calm, and the large extensive beach is host to many water sports activities, people lounging, and children playing on it. The region is also known for bird watching, owing to its abundant flora and fauna. The town was once enclosed on all sides with a fort, the remnants of which are still visible.
Visit if:
Ideal for people looking for a calming and convenient weekend getaway
Stay for:
1 to 2 days
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February.
Don’t miss out on:
- Mandvi Jain Temple
- Mandvi Beach
- Vijay Vilas Palace
- Mazar-e-Noorani
- Shipyards tour
- Ghoghla Beach
- Rukmavati Bridge
Dang
Located in the Ahwa district of Gujarat, Dang is the erstwhile royal estate of the Bhil Kings’ families, and still has many houses, gardens and monuments dedicated to the same. The only dynasty to still rule and get support from the Indian Government after 1947, the Bhil Kings were known for their offbeat architectural style and astonishing knack for horticulture, changing the landscape of this once-arid region into a lush abode for their loved ones. One of he smallest and least populated areas in Gujarat, the region surrounding Dang comprises of largely untouched forests, hills, and flowing rivers. The native tribal communities have been well-preserved, lending the region a rich heritage of traditions, dances, and fairs.
Visit if:
Ideal for those looking for a calming getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life, nestled amongst nature and royalty
Stay for:
1 to 2 days
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February.
Don’t miss out on:
- Saputara Lake
- Gira Waterfalls
- Sunset point
- Waghai Botanical Garden
- Step Garden
- Table Point
- Saputara Tribal Museum
- Sunrise Point
- Nageshwar Mahadev Temple
- Lake Garden
- Maharshi Sadafaldeo Dandakvan Ashram
- Pandava Gufa
- Honey Bees Centre
- Echo Point
- Roopgarh Fort
Saputara
A recent pioneering region for tourist activities, Saputara is hilly region located within the Dang district. Nestled amongst the Western Ghats that begin in Maharashtra and extend into Gujarat, Saputara is just a short distance from the city of Mumbai. The only prominent hill station in Gujarat, thousands of visitors flock Toit in the scorching heat of the summer months in Gujarat. The local tribal community or ‘Adivasis’ evacuated the area on Government request, yet have significant influence on the culture of ht region. A hub for art, nature, painting, handicrafts, and fine local craftsmanship, the Artist Village, a place only a few kilometers from Saputara, is a must-visit for all those who appreciate native culture. A calming journey through Purna Sanctuary is the perfect way to conclude a visit to they beautiful hill station.
Visit if:
Best suited for those hoping to experience Gujarats rich tribal culture in a meaningful, respectful, and authentic way
Stay for:
1 to 2 days
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February.
Don’t miss out on:
- Artist village
- Hatgarh Fort
- Vansda National Park
- Sunrise and sunset point
- Saputara Lake
- Gira Falls
- Saputara Museum
- Purna Wildlife Sanctuary
- Nageshwar Mahadev Temple
- Townview Point
- Stay in a forest log-hut
- Echo Point
- Don Hill Station
Jamnagar
Amongst its many historical, spiritual, and environmental attractions, Jamnagar is domestically famous as the inception point for oil generations here by the Reliance industries. Just south of the Gulf of Kutch, this lush region is overflowing in natural resources and opportunities for scenic vistas. Jamnagar is also known for the world-famous Darbargadh palace, feted for its sophisticated architecture featuring both Rajputana and European styles of construction. The Venetian gothic arches blend seamlessly into the Fretwork jail screens, ornamental mirrors, stone carvings, and wall paintings of its more Rajput influences, creating the perfect amalgamation of styles, reflective of the culture of the times. Willingdon Crescent and the Kotha Bastion are another two such specimens of the region’s unique amalgamated architectural style. The town’s fort is a shrine to the architectural beauty of the city, and the museum housed within holds examples of ancient beads, jewellery, embroidery and more.
Visit if:
Best suited for those who wish to witness the intersection of British and Gujarati culture, traditions, architecture and cuisine.
Stay for:
1 to 2 days
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February.
Don’t miss out on:
- Dwarkadish Temple
- Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary
- Sivrajpur Beach
- Lakhota Talav at night
- BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
- Aradhana Dham
- Beyt Dwarka Beach
- Ranmal Lake
- Ranjitsagar Dam
- Pratap Vilas Palace
- Adinath Mandir Jain Temple
- Lakhota Palace
- Lakhota Fort
- Milkanth Shiva Temple
- Bedi Fort
- Mata Ashapura Maa Temple
- Bhidbhajan Temple
- Bhujiyo Kotho
Porbander
The birthplace of both Mahatma Gandhi and Lord Krishna’s best friend, Sudama, Porbander is of both religious and historical significance. The region is so significant, it is said to have been the heart of the pre-historic Harappan settlements. The annual Janmashtami mela (celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna) is a great crowd puller, full of fun activities and yummy cuisine.
Visit if:
Ideal for those who enjoy a blend of culture and nature
Stay for:
1 to 2 days
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February. Some travellers visit in the monsoon months of July to September as will, since the region receives sparse rainfall.
Don’t miss out on:
- Barda Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
- Kirti Mandir, Porbander
- Porbander Wildlife Sanctuary
- Porbander Beach
- Nehru Planetarium
- Miyani beach
- Bharat Mandir, Porbander
- Sri Hari Mandir
- Bhutnath Mahadev Mandir
- Krishna Sudama Mandir
- Ghumli archaeological site
- Chowpatty Beach
- Huzoor Palace
- Khimeshwar temple
- Ramdhun Temple
- The ruins of Gop
- Sartanji Choro
- Rani Baug Park
- Daria Rajmahal
- Darbargadh
Junagarh
Located int he foothills of the Girnar district, Junagarh is the Indianised name for Yonagadh, the name of Indo Greek origin. With some of the greatest architectural marvels in Gujarat, Junagarh offers any forts, mausoleums, natural getaways, and amusement parks for viewing. With an atmosphere heavy with cultural heritage, a walk through the city makes one feel as if they have been transported to the times in which this get city was built.
Visit if:
Best suited for family vacations
Stay for:
1 to 2 days
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February.
Don’t miss out on:
- Girnar
- Dattatreya Temple
- Sakkarbaug Zoological Gardens
- Madhavapur Beach
- Mahabhat Maqbara
- Tulsi Shyam Springs
- Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
- Jatashankar Mahadev temple
- Uperkot Fort
- Goddes Ambe Temple
- Moti Baag
- Wellington Dam
- Bhavnath Mahadev Temple
- Adi Kadi Vav
- Navgha Kuvo
- Uparkot
- Dataar Hills
Gir National Park
Also known as Sasan Gir, this National Park is amongst one of the best known in India. The protected habitat of the Asiatic lion, this region is perhaps the only barrier (except some reserves in Africa) to their global extinction. Besides lions, the region boasts more than 400 species of fauna and 2300 species of fauna.
Visit if:
Best suited for a calming getaway from city life
Stay for:
Ideal for a day trip of 5 to 6 hours.
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February.
Don’t miss out on:
- Sasan Gir National Park
- Kankai Mata Temple
- Jamjir Waterfall
- Devalia Safari Park
- Wild Mark
- Rural hut tours
Rann of Kutch
One of the most famous tourist locations in Gujarat, the Rann of Kutch is the largest salt deserts in the world. Both aesthetically a sight unlike you’ll ever see elsewhere, and a geographical anomaly nestled int he midst of lush greenery, this region has attracted both tourists and film crews for many years. The white sands and camel-filled skylines come alive under the moonlight, creating a vista you’re unlikely to ever forget.
Visit if:
A must-visit for all those who come to Gujarat, a humbling experience like none other
Stay for:
1 to 2 days
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February. Some travellers visit in the monsoon months of July to September as will, since the region receives sparse rainfall.
Don’t miss out on:
- Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
- Dholavira, the site of the pre-historic Indus Valley Civilisation
- Kutch Museum
- Kutch Bustard Santuary
- Kite festival at Mandvi Beach
- Shopping in street markets
- Aaina Mahal
- Kandl Port and Mudra Fort
- Narayan Sarovar
- Hamirsar Lake
- Indian Wild Ass Sactuary
- Prag Mahal
- Mata no Madh
- Rann Utas of Kutch (seasonal festival)
- Anjar, the oldest town in Kutch
Champanger-Pavagadh Archeological Site
Located in Vadodra, this impressive complex of excavated archaeological sites is built on the ruins of the 16th century Capital City built by Mehmud Begda, giving a unique look into the architecture of the times.
Visit if:
Ideal for historical and archaeological buffs
Stay for:
Ideal for a day trip of 5 to 6 hours.
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February. Some travellers visit in the monsoon months of July to September as will, since the region receives sparse rainfall.
Don’t miss out on:
- Kalika Mata Temple
- Pavagadh Fort
- Jain Temples tour
- Jami Masjid
- Lakulisa Temple
- Kevada Mosque
- Nagina Masjid and Cenotaph
- Lila Gumbaji Ki Masjid
Lothal
This pre-historic site of the Indus Valley civilisation is one of the most intriguing places to go in Gujarat due to its spectacular riverside construction of a dock and ASI protected stunning prehistoric architecture of brick walls, burial ground, houses, drainage system, wells, etc.
Visit if:
Ideal for historical and archaeological buffs
Stay for:
Ideal for a day trip of 2 to 3 hours
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February. Some travellers visit in the monsoon months of July to September as will, since the region receives sparse rainfall.
Don’t miss out on:
- Lothal Archaeological Site
- Archaeological Museum
Girnar
The ‘City on the hill’, Girnar is a cluster of 5 hills that come together to make one of the most scenic places in Gujarat. Said to be older than even the Himalayas, these mountains contain many shrines for the Jain and Hindu religions. It is a popular hiking trail in India.
Visit if:
Ideal for a family vacation, or for trekkers
Stay for:
1 to 2 days
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February.
Don’t miss out on:
- Dattareya Temple
- Goddes Ambe temple
- Jatashankar Mahadev Temple
- Rishabhdev Temple
- Sakkarbaug Zoological Gardens
- BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
- Uperkot Fort
- Ashok Shilalekh
- Shri Damodar Hari’s temple
Statue of Unity
Designed by the renowned Indian sculptor Ram V Sutar, the Statue of Unity stands proud at 790 feet tall, and is even visible from space! Built in honour of the 18th-century Indian freedom fighter and first Deputy Prime Minister of free India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the statue was inaugurated on his 143rd birth anniversary.
Visit if:
A must-visit for all who visit Gujarat
Stay for:
Ideal for a day trip of 3 to 4 hours, since the complex is quite large
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February. Some travellers visit in the monsoon months of July to September as will, since the region receives sparse rainfall.
Don’t miss out on:
- The main Statue’s complex
- Boating and helicopter rides
- Valley of Flowers
- Riverfront cycling
- Sardar Zoological Park and Safari
- Sardar Sarovar Dam
- Panchmuli Lake
- Cactus Garden and Butterfly Garden
- Zarwani Waterfall
- River rafting at Khalwani
Sardar Sarovar Dam
The second-largest concrete dam in the world, Sardar Sarovar Dam has been surrounded by both controversy and lush greenery from day 1. Seated on the majestic Narmada river, the sam is even more beautiful in the monsoon, overflowing with flora, fauna, and culture. It is an ideal picnic spot.
Visit if:
Ideal for those who appreciate modern architectural marvels, and those looking for a scenery of serenity
Stay for:
Ideal for a day trip of 3 to 4 hours
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February.
Don’t miss out on:
- Valley of Flowers
- Zarwani Falls
- Sardar Zoological Park and Safari
- Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Statue of Unity
Rani Ki Vav
Translating to ‘Queen’s stepwell’, Rani Ki Vav is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is even printed on the new Indian Rs.100 currency note. This intricately carved underground gem is fully of floor to ceiling depiction of Hindu cosmology i.e. heaven, earth, and the underworld (patal lok).
Visit if:
Idea for all this einterested in architecture, history, and design
Stay for:
Ideal for a day trip of 1 to 2 hours
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February.
Don’t miss out on:
- Patan Patola Heritag centre
- Panchmukhi Hanuman
- Sahasralinga talk
- Shri Khodiyar Mataji Temple
Pirotan Island
Located in the Arabian Sea, off the coast of Kutch, Pirotan island is a breathtaking protected region that can only be accessed with permission from the Forest, Port, and Customs department, making it even more intriguing. The region is dotted with rare corals, thick mangroves, and stunning, shallow, sandy beaches.
Visit if:
Ideal for nature buffs
Stay for:
Ideal for a day trip of 4 to 5 hours
Best time to visit:
In the winter season, from October to February.
Don’t miss out on:
-
- Lakhota Lake
- Bala Hanuman Temple
- Lakhota Palace and Museum
- Pratap Vilas Palace
- Lakhpta Fort
- Ranmal Lake Park
- Bedi Port
- Dwarkadish Temple
- Bhujiyo Kotho
There’s coasts, there’s mountains. There’s forests, there’s deserts. There’s technology and innovation, their pre-historic civilisations. There’s almost nothing that the prosperous state of Gujarat cannot offer. Ideal for both lovers of land and sea, culture and commercialisation, Gujarat has something for everyone. Whether you sip a drink on the Portuguese enclave of Diu, just off the coast of Gujarat, or you enjoy some delicious local food on road-side vendors in Ahmedabad, Gujarat is the destination for your next vacation.