Known as the Jewel of West, Gujarat is one state which is rich with heritage, culture & tradition. If you are an ardent traveler and love exploring new places, visiting Gujarat can mesmerize you to the fullest.
Gujarat tourism is embraced with a blend of sightseeing and rich history. Amitabh Bachchan has been the brand ambassador of Gujarat Tourism for a long time. His spectacle line, Kuch Din To Guzariye Gujarat Mai, has made Gujarat go into the bucket list of many travelers worldwide. National Parks, Salt Deserts, Heritage Sites, Temples, Beaches, Adventure Spots, Gujarat offers a plethora of places to visit and enthrall your experience. As Gujarat offers some mesmerizing destinations to amaze you, I have curated a list of 10 of the best places to stopover in the birth state of Mahatma Gandhi, So sit back and scroll through this list.
The Rann of Kutch
The Rann of Kutch is one of the largest white salt deserts in the world. Walking through a white land is something not everyone could imagine, but it is possible in the Rann of Kutch. It is one of the most amazing places to visit in Gujarat as the picturesque view of the white land will surely overwhelm you. The nearby village of Hodka and Dhordo will add an extra authentic touch to your trip and give you the accommodation you need. The Rann Utsav, conducted from December to March, is something you will regret if you miss.
Dwarkadhish Temple, Dwarka
The Dwarkadheish Temple in Dwarka is one of the most holiest temples in Hindu culture and pilgrimage. Dwarka is famous for being Lord Krishna’s sacred city. The temple premises is huge and will give you the eccentric feeling of blessed vibes. The 5-story temple is believed to be 1400 years old and remains the best sacred and holy pilgrimage in the entire state of Gujarat.
Marine National Park, Gulf of Kutch
The Marine National Park is located at the shore of the Gulf of Kutch. It is the first Marine conservatory for various underwater species like the Corals reefs, Finless Porpoise, Sei Whales, Sperm Whales, Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin, and Bottlenose Dolphins. One of the best things about this place is that you can witness corals without diving in the water.- This is quite unique because it happens here only.
Gir Wildlife Sanctuary
Gir Wildlife Sanctuary is the only home for the Asiatic Lions, which remains the only reason why one should visit Gir. If you are a lover of wildlife, you shall never miss out on visiting Gir Wildlife Sanctuary. The area spread across miles is well protected due to the great stretch of vegetation and other species residing in this sanctuary. Yes, the Asiatic Lions are the prime attractions here, but Gir comprises Hyenas, Leopards, and more than 250 species of birds too.
Patan & Modhera
Patan and Modhera are two different towns nearby Ahmedabad. It takes a few hours to visit the township from Ahmedabad. The towns set the example of the Solanki period architecture seen in the Anahilwada Patan.- The town is famous for its Patola sarees and one of the most exquisite step wells in India, the Rani-ki-Vav, which is a UNESCO world heritage site built in the 11th Century by queen Udayamati. Also, there is a well-kept secret in the town of Modhera that not everyone is aware of i.e., the Sun Temple that rivals the famous Konark Temple in Odisha.
Saputara
Not many know, but Gujarat has its own beautiful hill station as well. The amusing land of Saputara is known as the only hill station in Gujarat. It is regarded as one of the must-visit places in Gujarat, especially in summers. For those who are planning a perfect summer vacation in Gujarat, Saputara is one place to stopover. Do not forget to visit Sunrise point and Hatgad Fort to have a deeper insight into this place’s past.
Bhavnagar
If you are a history geek, Bhavnagar is the place you should not miss visiting. The city depicts the beautiful cultural history of the state. Monuments like Takhteshwar Temple, Nilambagh Palace, and the epic Brahma Kund add to the serenity of this place. Bhavnagar is also the place of Velavadar Blackbuck National Park. So, if you are looking for a perfect spot for cultural heritage and wildlife, Bhavnagar is the place to be.
Somnath Temple
Somnath Temple in Gujarat is one of the most sacred temples of Lord Shiva. It is the first of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and has attracted millions of spiritual enthusiasts to pay a visit every year. Somnath Temple is also known as the Shrine Eternal and is a major attraction around the globe. Somnath temple is carved with scintillating sculptures that mesmerize its beauty even more.
Being on the shores of the Arabian Sea, you can enjoy relaxing on the beach shores. You can visit the temple whenever you wish, but if you can, try visiting the temple during Maha Shivratri as there’s are grand celebrations inside the temple’s premises.
