The culture heritage of Gujarat can be traced back to the time of the famous Harappan civilization. Gujarat, one of the most prosperous and progressive states of India – with its throbbing life and mélange of hues – has ample to offer for the tourists.
Since the dawn of civilization, this state has witnessed to the revolutionary changes which have kept the wheel of evolution on a consistent move. This is a land where Mahatma Gandhi – the father of nation – was born. This state has a mythological link as it is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Be it literature or art and craft, Gujarat is rich in culture.
Geographical location has much to do with its thriving prosperity. Due to its proximity to sea, this state has converted into the hub of burgeoning economic activities. The state is being flooded with milk and honey because it has appreciated the needs of modernization and implemented it in agricultural and industrial sectors as well. Business class and the high officials are the preponderant majority in the cities of Gujarat. However, the rural areas have also made remarkable progress over time. In recent times, Gujarat is exploring the new horizons like information technology, infrastructural domain and other trades.
Gujarati art and craft are world-famous. The cultural side of Gujarat has flourished under the patronage of the business brackets of the state. The artwork of Gujarat has endured the taste of time and is still going a hot favorite with the Indians and foreigners alike. Ghagra-choli, the traditional ornate dress of Gujarat and tie-and-die work are very much popular at home and abroad too. The folk dances including dandia and garba – one of the identities of Gujarati culture – are full of colors, life and exquisite elegance.
Diverse habitats have blended seamlessly to create and contribute to the hues of Gujarat. Its vast land mass has varieties to offer. The vast expanse of grass lands near Velavadar, wetland territory like Nalsarovar, Pirotan islands, dry deciduous forests like Gir, and moist deciduous jungle of Dnags – Gujarat has many surprises in store to amuse and amaze you.
Among other tourist draws, the most famous are the sanctimonious temple of Dwarka and Somnath; Palitana, the beautiful mountain city seated at about 2,000 feet height on the Shetrunjaya hills; Modhera, the site of the Sun Temple, an 11th century architectural wonder; Lothal, a place of archaeological importance; Udwada, a sacred place to the Parses and the oldest site of the fire temple etc. Another must-visit is famous Sabarmati Ashram at Ahmedabad.
Places to visit:
Somnath temple – This legendary shore temple is regarded one of the twelve most sanctimonious Shiva shrines in India. According to mythological belief, the temple was built by none other than the Moon God (Soma) himself. The temple is located at 25 km from Chorwad and 79 km from Junagadh. Keeshond is the nearest Airport and well connected with Mumbai, the capital city of Maharashtra. The temple was ravaged and rebuilt seven times. The stories of its fabulous treasure spread far and wide. Lured by the treasures and guided by the greed, Mohammed of Gazni raided the Somnath temple in 1026 and plundered loads of jewels and gold.
Kankaria Lake – Built by Qutb-Ud-Din in 1451, this artificial lake offers recreational activates to the visitors. The perfectly manicured gardens, slopes, an aquarium, a Children’s Park (Balvatika), and an island palace pretty up the picture-perfect beauty of the lake. A zoo has been built up beside the lake. The palace comprises of 34 sides, each of which is 60m long. During the Mughal regime, the palace was frequented by Nur Jahan and Jehangir.
Gandhi Ashram – This Ashram has a pride of place in Indian History. It is the place from where Gandhiji started his Dandi Yatra in 1930 to flout the oppressive ‘salt law’. This ashram was established in 1915 and is situated on the banks of Sabarmati River. Nowadays, it serves as a Gandhi memorial. A museum standing near the ashram displays some personal belongings of Mahatma. The ashram also houses a library. The amazing light and sound show organized in the evening is an additional attraction for the backpackers. Even today, the inhabitants of the ashram engage themselves into making handicrafts, handmade paper and spinning wheels, thereby presenting a piece of tradition introduced by Gandhji.
Hatheesing Jain Temple – This nineteenth century architectural wonder is the finest Jain temple of Ahmadabad. The temple with its ornate and delicate carvings is a mirror to architectural opulence. This marvelous temple was made of white marbles. It was built by a rich Jain businessman and is dedicated to Dharmnath, the 15th Jain tirthankar or Jain apostle.
Gir Lion Sanctuary – It is the only natural habitat of the Asiatic lion and is 59 km from Junagadh. Covering a vast area of 1400 sq km, this forest was set up with a view to protecting the lions from going into extinction. This sanctuary is a home to 30 species of other animals, including panthers.
Gujarat Teen Darwaza – These arched gateways, built by Sultan Ahmed Shah in Ahmedabad, served as the royal entrances to the Royal Square or Maidan Shah. From this spot, the Sultans used to watch parade starting from the palace and approaching the Jama Masjid.
Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary – Seated 60 km from Ahmadabad, this 116 sq. km lake is a paradise for the bird watchers. This lake is a home to a variety of migratory and indigenous birds. It drives the birds in droves from neighboring and far-flung counties throughout the year. This bird sanctuary is easily accessible via bus route and gives one the pleasure of watching the ducks, geese, flamingos, pelicans here.
Lakhota Fort – It is located at the heart of old Jamnagar. Lakhota Fort acts as Jamnagar’s Museum and its terraces showcase an excellent collection of sculptures of a long period spanning from the 9th to 18th Century. The Kotha Bastion is one of the main draws in Jamnagar. An old well is of greater interest for the visitors. Water can be drawn from the well by blowing into a tiny hole in the floor.
