{"id":235,"date":"2024-10-15T11:38:46","date_gmt":"2024-10-15T06:08:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/safetripto.com\/blog\/?p=235"},"modified":"2024-10-15T11:38:46","modified_gmt":"2024-10-15T06:08:46","slug":"top-10-places-to-visit-in-gujarat","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/safetripto.com\/blog\/top-10-places-to-visit-in-gujarat\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 10 Places to visit in Gujarat"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Are you thinking of visiting Gujarat? But you don\u2019t know where to go. Then you come to the right place. In this blog, we\u2019ll introduce you to the best places to visit in Gujarat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The immense richness of Gujarat\u2019s heritage includes both history and culture. It holds this distinction because the number of foreign travelers who come here is very small. Gujarati is the major language that is the official language in India. The Gujarat culture is mixed, with a combination of the traditional and the modern sides. The state celebrates festivals with great cheerfulness and food is a synonym for the state with dishes such as the Obsession of Dhokla and Thepla. To put it the other way, we will go through the 10 best places to visit in Gujarat right now.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\">Located on the western coast of India between Maharashtra and Rajasthan, Gujarat didn&#8217;t really feature on the tourist map until recent years. A successful ad campaign with Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan and the addition of the Statue of Unity changed this, though. Tourist interest in the state has grown substantially, and there are many beautiful places to visit in Gujarat.Gujarat&#8217;s extensive history can be traced all the way back to the Harappan civilization and its establishment of coastal trading ports from 2400 to 1900 BCE. Much later, warrior communities came and set up kingdoms in the state, followed by the Delhi and Gujarat sultanates, the Mughals, and the British. Gujarat is perhaps best known as the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0\">The legacy of Gujarat&#8217;s heritage includes remarkable architecture, temples, palaces,\u00a0heritage mansions\u00a0(many of which have been converted into hotels), and handicrafts. The state also has some rare wildlife and many bird-watching sites. If you&#8217;re serious about birding and wildlife viewing, archeology, or textiles,\u00a0Soar Excursions\u00a0are highly recommended for guided trips. Vegetarians will do well in Gujarat, where\u00a0plant-based cuisine predominates. Note that Gujarat is a dry state, so alcohol is not widely or freely available. Visitors from outside the state may obtain liquor permits from upmarket hotels in Gujarat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">List of 19 best places in Gujarat<\/h4>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>AHMEDABAD OLD CITY<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>BARODA<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>STATUE OF UNITY<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>CHAMPANER-PAVAGADH ARCHELOGICAL PARK<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>CHOOTA UDEPUR DISTRICT<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>SUN TEMPLE<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>RANI-KI-VAV<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>SIDHPUR<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>IDAR HILL FORT<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>KUTCH REGION<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>DWARKA<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>SOMNATH<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>GIR NATIONAL PARK<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>JUNAGADH<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>SHATRUNJAYA HILLS TEMPLES<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>VELAVADAR BLACKBUCK NATIONAL PARK<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>NALSAROVAR BIRD SANCTUARY<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>LOTHAL ANCIENT HARAPPAN SITE <\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>SATUPURA<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\"><code>1. Ahmedabad Old City<\/code><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_7-0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tripsavvy.com\/thmb\/N2KtuTpT2UuXgx8RV279zUMcvAs=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/GettyImages-148636329-5a7a9cad1d64040037e45ed3.jpg\" alt=\"Old City, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>AHMEDABAD OLD CITY<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\">Ahmedabad, the capital of Gujarat for many centuries, was declared to be\u00a0India&#8217;s first UNESCO World Heritage City\u00a0in 2017, beating both Delhi and Mumbai. Its walled Old City was founded by Sultan Ahmad Shah in the 15th century and is home to diverse\u00a0Hindu, Islamic, and Jain communities. The Old City is divided into numerous\u00a0<em>pols<\/em>\u00a0(historic residential neighborhoods with winding lanes and carved wooden homes). It has some of the finest examples of\u00a0Indo-Islamic architecture and Hindu Muslim art in India. Explore the area on this fascinating\u00a0Ahmedabad Heritage Walk.\u00a0You can even stay in a heritage mansion such as\u00a0French Haveli.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_10-0\">Gandhi&#8217;s Ashram\u00a0is one of the most visited places in Gujarat. It was the starting point for his movement for India&#8217;s freedom through non-violence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\"><code>2. Baroda (Vadodara)<\/code><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tripsavvy.com\/thmb\/Ox5pIMiAJRwHzHKtZa_MrGG7TFE=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/GettyImages-168637506-547069694b6c413ca41cc63e24a1ec29.jpg\" alt=\"Baroda palace.\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Getty Images\u00a0<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>BARODA<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_13-0\">Baroda (renamed Vadodara) stands out for its regal heritage. The\u00a0Gaekwad royal family\u00a0formed their kingdom there in the 18th century and their expansive Laxmi Vilas Palace features imposing Indo-Saracenic architecture. It&#8217;s set on 500 acres of parkland and is reputed to be the largest private residence in India\u2014and four times the size of England&#8217;s Buckingham Palace. Part of the palace is open to the public daily; this includes the Coronation Room, Gaddi Hall (containing the throne of past kings), Darbar Hall, and the Royal Armoury. Tickets cost 200 rupees and include an audio guide.\u00a0Madhav Baug Palace homestay\u00a0offers an authentic heritage experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\">Baroda is also known for its art scene and vibrant\u00a0Navratri festival garba dances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_15-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Where:\u00a0<\/strong>115km southeast of Ahmedabad via the Ahmedabad Vadodara Expressway.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\"><code>3. Statue of Unity, Kevadia<\/code><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_17-0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tripsavvy.com\/thmb\/fC5G2zcjTeH7eyAbb6r4uUvyRjw=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/GettyImages-1177580196-03d5a14d70964788b716bd78ccfda0a8.jpg\" alt=\"Statue of Unity\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>STATUE OF UNITY<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\">The world&#8217;s tallest statue, dedicated to Indian independence activist Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (1875\u20131950), was completed in 2018. At 182 meters tall, it&#8217;s twice the size of the Statue of Liberty. Patel was the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of independent India, and is highly regarded for his leadership in bringing the 562 princely states of India together. The area around the statue has been developed as a comprehensive tourist destination for the whole family to enjoy, with\u00a0enough activities and attractions\u00a0to fill at least three days.<br><br> Apart from the statue, these include a sound and laser show, butterfly garden, cactus garden, Ayurvedic wellness center, eco-friendly and medicinal plant nursery, handicraft stores, valley of flowers, forest with native trees, children&#8217;s park with train and mirror maze, safari park and zoo, zip-lining, white water rafting, cycling, and boating on the lake. There&#8217;s also been a focus on the empowerment of local women, through training and employment. Accommodations are provided in luxury tents, hotels, and local homestays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Where:\u00a0<\/strong>About two hours (90km) southeast of Vadodara.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_20-0\"><code>4. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park<\/code><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tripsavvy.com\/thmb\/5WAxqLGkBZlYuw7ZiUyBT39hMTk=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/GettyImages-487516327-573573c45f9b58723d4208d4.jpg\" alt=\"Jama Masjid, Champaner (Gujarat), India\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>CHAMPANER-PAVAGADH ARCHELOGICAL PARK<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_23-0\">The\u00a0little-known UNESCO World Heritage Site\u00a0of Champaner and Pavagadh is laden with historical, architectural, and archeological treasures from both Muslim and Hindu traditions, dating back to the 8th to 14th centuries. These include a hill fortress, palaces, places of worship (Jama Masjid is one of the most spectacular mosques in Gujarat), residential areas, reservoirs, and step wells. Stay at\u00a0Champaner\u00a0Heritage Resort\u00a0or\u00a0Jambughoda Palace hotel\u00a0if you want to spend time in nature as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_24-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Where:\u00a0<\/strong>An hour (48km) northeast of Vadodara.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_25-0\"><code>5. Chhota Udepur District<\/code><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tripsavvy.com\/thmb\/ajkwtIbImStR0AH5yN2LZgG20gQ=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/GettyImages-521742340-00a443e9325a421b9f3a4e10651b134e.jpg\" alt=\"Tribals dancing in holi festival, Kawant, Gujarat\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>CHOOTA UDEPUR DISTRICT<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_27-0\">Part of Gujarat&#8217;s tribal belt, Chhota Udepur is ideally visited during\u00a0the Holi festival\u00a0when tribal fairs erupt into life throughout the district. Tribal markets also take place there on Saturdays and Mondays. If you&#8217;re interested in India&#8217;s tribal heritage, don&#8217;t miss Bhasha Research and Publication Center&#8217;s\u00a0Adivasi Academy\u00a0in Tejgadh village of Chhota Udepur. Its incredible Vaacha: Museum of Voice documents tribes from across the country. It has a comprehensive collection including musical instruments, paintings, sculptures, textiles, images of worship, and agricultural equipment. Another highlight is the museum&#8217;s Bhasha Van forest of languages. Stay at\u00a0Kali Niketan palace hotel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Where:<\/strong>\u00a0Eastern Gujarat. About two and a half hours (110km) east of Vadodara.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_29-0\"><code>6. Sun Temple, Modhera<\/code><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_30-0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tripsavvy.com\/thmb\/XkTNB9BV2JWrVyNmn8GX8l64mQk=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/170585283-56a3bedb5f9b58b7d0d394a1.jpg\" alt=\"Sun Temple, Modhera, Gujarat\" style=\"width:839px;height:auto\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>SUN TEMPLE<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_32-0\">One of the most significant sun temples in India is located in peaceful Modhera village. Built in the 11th century by Solanki dynasty rulers, the temple is dedicated to Surya the Sun God. It&#8217;s a substantial structure, consisting of a carved stepped tank, assembly hall, and main shrine. It&#8217;s covered in intricate stone sculptures. The sanctum is positioned in a way that it receives the first rays of the morning sun at the equinox.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Where:\u00a0<\/strong>Northern Gujarat. About two hours (99km) north of Ahmedabad.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_34-0\"><code>7. Rani-ki-Vav (theAQueen's Stepwell), Patan<\/code><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_35-0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tripsavvy.com\/thmb\/B7Sm-bHplDU4tcOmaeSxctr0xYs=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/GettyImages-145867863-56a3c36b3df78cf7727f0a72.jpg\" alt=\"Rani ki Vav (the Queen's Stepwell)\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>RANI-KI-VAV<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_37-0\">Rani-ki-Vav is an\u00a0ancient abandoned stepwell dating back to the 11th century\u00a0and UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was also constructed during the Solanki dynasty, apparently in memory of ruler\u00a0Bhimdev I, by his widowed wife. The stepwell has stairs going down seven levels, and panels containing more than 500 main sculptures and over 1,000 minor ones. The stepwell was flooded by the nearby Saraswati River and silted over until the late 1980s. When it was excavated by the Archeological Survey of India, its carvings were found in pristine condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_38-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Where:<\/strong>\u00a0Northern Gujarat. About three hours north of Ahmedabad (128km) and 50 minutes north of Modhera (35km).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_39-0\"><code>8. Sidhpur<\/code><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_40-0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tripsavvy.com\/thmb\/1mgt4EZoits-m2Z2XRo_4YJCu-8=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/GettyImages-585341369-314ccc94d39b480881efe7b1cf23e683.jpg\" alt=\"Facades of old houses in Sidhpur, Gujarat\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>SIDHPUR<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_41-0\">A town trapped in time, Sidhpur will delight architecture aficionados with its colorful century-old mansions belonging to the affluent Dawoodi Bohra Muslim community. Many of the houses are empty as their owners have moved abroad. Sidhpur sits alongside the holy Saraswati River and is also a Hindu pilgrim destination. It&#8217;s dotted with temples and water bodies. The ruins of 10th century Rudra Mahalaya Temple, with its towering carved pillars and torans, is a major attraction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_42-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Where:\u00a0<\/strong>Under two hours (76km) east of Patan. It can be visited as part of a Patan and Modhera circuit.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_43-0\"><code>9. Idar Hill Fort, Sabarkantha District<\/code><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_44-0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tripsavvy.com\/thmb\/WOBhLXbv8KxQGvrrVaF7E6jUylg=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/GettyImages-521107802-deda298af32a48a4a1484e2071bc8cd4.jpg\" alt=\"Idar hill fort.\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>IDAR HILL FORT<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_45-0\">Giant boulders have guarded the town of Idar, at the southern end of the Aravali mountain range, for centuries. A scenic but strenuous climb to the top of the hill (Idariyo Gadh) through the rocks will take you past the remains of various palaces and temples. The town is known for its handmade wooden toys as well. They can be purchased at the market near the clock tower.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_46-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Where:<\/strong>\u00a0Northern Gujarat. About two hours east of Patan (98km), near the Rajasthan border. It&#8217;s on the way to\u00a0Mount Abu in Rajasthan.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_51-0\"><code>10. Kutch Region<\/code><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_52-0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tripsavvy.com\/thmb\/kM_aClZXME4p2rEYwY4v4sjJeCg=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/GettyImages-537000923_Fotor-56c87bfd5f9b5879cc4420bb.jpg\" alt=\"Great Rann of Kutch.\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>KUTCH REGION<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_54-0\">The immense stretch of largely barren and harsh desert landscape that is the Kutch region of Gujarat is sometimes described as India&#8217;s &#8220;Wild West&#8221;. Its name, Kutch (or Kachchh), refers to the fact that it alternates between wet (submerged during the\u00a0monsoon season) and dry. Much of Kutch consists of seasonal wetlands known as the\u00a0Great Rann of Kutch\u00a0(famous for its salt desert) and smaller Little Rann of Kutch (famous for its\u00a0Wild Ass Sanctuary). Other attractions in the Kutch region include historic Bhuj, villages and traditional handicrafts, the shipbuilding in the port town of Mandvi, and the Dholavira ruins of an ancient Indus Valley Civilization\/Harappan city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_55-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Where:\u00a0<\/strong>Northwest Gujarat. Bhuj is about seven hours west of Ahmedabad (400km). It has an airport.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_56-0\"><code>11. Dwarka<\/code><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_57-0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tripsavvy.com\/thmb\/x5IRtJL9JQPIePU129zO2Tiqs38=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/GettyImages-177800537-fc9fc86c142649ed8ca265365fb08bc9.jpg\" alt=\"Dwarka, Gujarat\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Getty Images\u00a0<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>DWARKA<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_59-0\">One of the four most sacred C<em>har Dham<\/em>\u00a0Hindu pilgrimage sites and seven most ancient S<em>apta Puri<\/em>\u00a0religious cities in India, Dwarka is considered to be the ancient kingdom of Lord Krishna and the first capital of Gujarat.\u00a0The Krishna Janmashtami festival is a major event there. Of special importance is\u00a0Dwarkadhish Temple, built approximately 200 BCE and often referred to as Jagat Mandir. Head down to Gomti Ghat, at the holy water&#8217;s edge, for a spectacle of decorated camels, tea stalls, and seashell jewelry sellers. Just north of Dwarka, is Shivrajpur beach, which was awarded an international Blue Flag certification for safety and cleanliness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_60-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Where:\u00a0<\/strong>Western Gujarat, at the mouth of the Gomti River on the Arabian Sea. It&#8217;s about three hours west of Jamnagar (132km).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_66-0\"><code>12. Somnath<\/code><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_67-0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tripsavvy.com\/thmb\/4IIz7goDdDnWItz8xIho9a684hw=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/GettyImages-520958764-de55da62e8b24fed9d6d9fdd14f3af79.jpg\" alt=\"Somnath, Gujarat\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Getty Images\u00a0<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>SOMNATH<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_69-0\">An important pilgrimage destination,\u00a0Somnath Temple\u00a0is one of the 12\u00a0<em>jyotirlingas<\/em>\u00a0(shrines of Lord Shiva, where he&#8217;s worshiped as a\u00a0<em>linga<\/em>\u00a0of light) in India. Its seaside location is powerful, the intricate carvings on its sandstone architecture are superb, and its history is fascinating. The temple was ransacked by Islamic invaders and rebuilt numerous times, with the final reconstruction taking place after India achieved independence from the British. Maha Shivratri is celebrated in a big way in\u00a0February\u00a0or\u00a0March. A colorful religious fair is also held every year on Kartik Purnima (full moon night, usually in\u00a0November), complete with small children dressed up as Lord Shiva and plenty of\u00a0<em>bhaang<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_70-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Where:<\/strong>\u00a0Southwest Gujarat. The closest airport is in Diu. Ahmedabad is about seven hours away. You can take a train from Ahmedabad to Veraval.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Don&#8217;t miss the evocative evening\u00a0Sound and Light Show at Somnath.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_71-0\"><code>13. Gir National Park<\/code><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_72-0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tripsavvy.com\/thmb\/u1zhf9ZYkWOfz8isDEuiglo3U04=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/GettyImages-495085365-5a7aaa871d64040037e5719e.jpg\" alt=\"Lions at Gir.\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>GIR NATIONAL PARK<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_74-0\">Gir National Park, one of the\u00a0top parks to see wildlife in India, is the only place in the world where the Asiatic lion can now be found. For safari enthusiasts, this is\u00a0<em>the<\/em>\u00a0place to visit in Gujarat. Thanks to conservation efforts, their numbers have been increasing. Gir is the largest dry deciduous forest in western India. There&#8217;s plenty of other wildlife there, including about 300 types of birds. You&#8217;ll have the best chance of spotting a lion if you go during December through May although April and May can be very hot. Safaris run daily. Plan your trip with this\u00a0Gir travel guide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_75-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Where:<\/strong>\u00a0Southwest Gujarat, under three hours northeast of Somnath (68km). It&#8217;s inland from the beaches of Diu. The closest airport is in Diu.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_76-0\"><code>14. Junagadh<\/code><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_77-0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tripsavvy.com\/thmb\/E0Df3WMIrf_Vds_WYeaprqKV2hk=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/GettyImages-170864399-5a7a95d13de4230037516099.jpg\" alt=\"Bahauddin Makbara, Junagadh\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>JUNAGADH<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_79-0\">If you&#8217;re interested in Indo-Islamic architecture, you&#8217;ll marvel over the splendid design of the striking 19th-century Mahabat Maqbara mausoleum complex of local rulers at Junagadh. This historical city, whose name means Old Fort, is situated at the bottom of the sacred and temple-covered Girnar Hills. On the way to the hills is a building housing 14\u00a0rock-carved edicts of Emperor\u00a0Ashoka, dating back to 250 BCE. You can also visit the ruins of Uparkot Fort, built in 319 BCE by Chandragupta Maurya, which has some interesting structures such as step wells and Buddhist rock-cut caves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_80-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Where:<\/strong>\u00a0Southwest Gujarat, about three hours south of Jamnagar (140km) and two hours north of Somnath (96km).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_81-0\"><code>15. Shatrunjaya Hill Temples, Palitana<\/code><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_82-0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tripsavvy.com\/thmb\/mzhCvmdbo5gxU5aTxHaIKXfHZg8=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/GettyImages-552560907-5a7a97e3d8fdd5003776dc66.jpg\" alt=\"Gujarat, Palitana, Shatrunjaya temple\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>SHATRUNJAYA HILLS TEMPLES<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_84-0\">Palitana, a principal pilgrim center for Jains, has accumulated nearly 900 temples and more are being constructed. Climb more than 3,000 steps to the top of the hill and you&#8217;ll find an astonishing Jain temple complex with sensational views. Do note that the hill is considered to be sacred. You cannot wear or carry any leather items and must dress conservatively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_85-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Where:\u00a0<\/strong>Southern Gujarat, about five hours south of Ahmedabad (210km). The nearest airport is in Bhavnagar, about an hour and a half away.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_86-0\"><code>16. Velavadar Blackbuck National Park<\/code><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_87-0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tripsavvy.com\/thmb\/TKHn1jblBjDF_D8dSYJl1_5ZNQM=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/GettyImages-758362911-5a7a97763128340036329684.jpg\" alt=\"Blackbuck National Park.\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>VELAVADAR BLACKBUCK NATIONAL PARK<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_89-0\">The largest population of Blackbuck, the unusual spiral-horned Indian antelope, lives at Velavadar. This untamed area is the only tropical grassland in India to be given the status of a national park. It&#8217;s home to wolves and many species of grassland birds too. The\u00a0Blackbuck Lodge, one of\u00a0India&#8217;s top jungle lodges, is an outstanding place to stay there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_90-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Where:<\/strong>\u00a0About three hours south of Ahmedabad (145km) and an hour north of Bhavnagar (47km).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_91-0\"><code>17. Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary<\/code><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_92-0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tripsavvy.com\/thmb\/TRYQ5Uh2wTqfEukJfqNxZvJDK0M=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/GettyImages-157318110-cce218d31cb1411498f03dcff345137d.jpg\" alt=\"Nalsarovar, Gujarat.\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Getty Images\u00a0<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>NALSAROVAR BIRD SANCTUARY<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_93-0\">Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is one of the\u00a0best places to go bird watching in India. It&#8217;s made up of Nalsarovar Lake, and surrounding marsh wetlands and islands. More than 250 types of migratory birds can be seen but you&#8217;ll have to go further into the lake than the standard trip to Dhrabla Island. Unfortunately, it&#8217;s not set up properly for tourists. Facilities are poor and boat operators are not well regulated, resulting in them charging really high rates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_94-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Where:<\/strong>\u00a0Just under two hours southwest of Ahmedabad (63km).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_95-0\"><code>18. Lothal Ancient Harappan Site<\/code><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_96-0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tripsavvy.com\/thmb\/rH44XJTTYIy4A-Qo23NVXCq6HvY=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/GettyImages-1196154208-24ae7a706e274637b471b84eabb69619.jpg\" alt=\"Lothal, Gujarat.\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>LOTHAL ANCIENT HARAPPAN SITE <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_97-0\">Lothal is the most extensively excavated Indus Valley (or Harappan) Civilization site in Gujarat. Situated on the Gulf of Combay, it&#8217;s believed to have been a flourishing seaport and trade center. Although the site is in ruins now, it has some significant remains including parts of a dockyard that&#8217;s thought to have been the first of its kind in the world. Many items from the Indus Valley Civilization are also on display at the small archeological museum at the site. It&#8217;s open daily except Fridays. The Indian government is in the process of founding a maritime heritage museum at Lothal too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_98-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Where:<\/strong>\u00a0About two hours southwest of Ahmedabad (78km) via Ahmedabad-Bhavnagar National Highway 47.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_99-0\"><code>19. Saputara, The Dangs<\/code><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_100-0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tripsavvy.com\/thmb\/4Ibp-OUcG2dICY7GJhwjqgGs7O8=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/GettyImages-1131314223-95cd229d714b442e93443c2ca5a3045c.jpg\" alt=\"Saputara, The Dangs, Gujarat\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Getty Images\u00a0<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>SATUPURA<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_102-0\">Saputara, meaning &#8220;Abode of Serpents&#8221;, is situated on a densely forested plateau on top of the\u00a0Sahyadri mountain range. This hill station has been developed as a tourist destination with hotels around a large lake, a boat club, a tribal museum, a cable car, an artist village, and other attractions. It&#8217;s a popular weekend getaway, especially during the monsoon season when it&#8217;s misty there. The district, known as The Dangs, is home to a large tribal population and is an ideal place to\u00a0experience rural India.\u00a0Community-based tourism is being pioneered by\u00a0Rural Pleasure\u00a0at Subir village.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_103-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Where:<\/strong>\u00a0Southern Gujarat, close to the Maharashtra border.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Thankyou for showing your interest\u2026.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Contact for more information:<\/strong><br>91+9914019506<br>agencyrstravels@gmail.com<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Social media<\/em><\/strong><br>Instagram: safetrip_123<br>Facebook: RS Travels Agency (Safetrip with RS)<br>Whatsapp: 91+9914019506<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Are you thinking of visiting Gujarat? But you don\u2019t know where to go. Then you come to the right place. In this blog, we\u2019ll introduce you to the best places&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-235","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/safetripto.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/235","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/safetripto.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/safetripto.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/safetripto.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/safetripto.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=235"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/safetripto.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/235\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":236,"href":"https:\/\/safetripto.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/235\/revisions\/236"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/safetripto.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=235"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/safetripto.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=235"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/safetripto.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=235"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}