Gujarat

Gujarat

Gujarat: The Best of All Worlds

Gujarat, the sixth largest state in India, brims with culture, history, spirituality, and natural wonders. Its name is derived from the Gurjaras, the original settlers who ruled the region during the 8th and 9th centuries. Today, Gujarat is known for its vibrant traditions, exquisite arts and crafts, and a rich cultural heritage. Home to the highest population of Jains in the country, it draws pilgrims from all over to its stunning places of worship. But the appeal of Gujarat extends beyond spirituality—it offers something for every traveler, from tranquil beaches to bustling cities, from historical sites to wildlife adventures.

Gujarat: A Quick View of the State

• Capital: Gandhinagar
• Official Languages: Gujarati, Hindi
• Dial Code: 2712
• Population: Over 60 million (as of 2018)
• Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)
• Time Zone: UTC+05:30 (IST)
• Area: 1,96,024 square km

Highlights of Gujarat: Things to See and Do

Gujarat offers endless experiences for those eager to explore. You can immerse yourself in its rich cultural history, taste its unique cuisine, and marvel at its natural beauty and wildlife. Whether you prefer a heritage holiday visiting forts and palaces, an eco-friendly adventure through waterfalls, deserts, and forests, or a custom-planned vacation, Gujarat has something to fulfill your wanderlust.

Places to Visit

Gujarat is a fascinating blend of varied landscapes, cultures, and history. To truly appreciate its essence, you need to explore its diverse cities. Some of the must-visit destinations include:

• Ahmedabad: The cultural and economic hub known for its stunning architecture, bustling markets, and the Sabarmati Ashram.
• Anand: The land of white revolution, famous for Amul and its dairy industry.
• Bharuch: One of the oldest cities, known for its historical significance and natural beauty.
• Dwarka: The ancient city associated with Lord Krishna, offering spirituality and serenity.
• Gandhinagar: The state’s capital, known for its greenery and the magnificent Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple.
• Junagadh: A historic city at the foot of the Girnar hills, rich in mythology and ancient monuments.
• Kutch: A vast expanse of white salt desert, home to the vibrant Rann Utsav.
• Rajkot, Narmada, Panchmahal, and Porbandar are other gems of Gujarat, each with its unique charm.

Temples

Gujarat’s spiritual aura is enhanced by its beautiful temples, which showcase ancient architecture and spiritual richness. Some of the state’s most revered temples include:

• Somnath Temple: One of the twelve Jyotirlingas, a symbol of India’s ancient glory.
• Dwarkadhish Temple: A five-story marvel dedicated to Lord Krishna, overlooking the serene Arabian Sea.
• Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple: An architectural marvel reflecting peace, beauty, and devotion.
• Bala Hanuman Mandir: Known for its continuous chant of “Ram Dhun” since 1964, listed in the Guinness Book of World Records.
• Rukmini Holy Place: Dedicated to Goddess Rukmini, this temple is a blend of devotion and ancient architecture.

Wildlife

Nature lovers will find Gujarat’s wildlife sanctuaries and national parks a paradise. Home to Asiatic lions, sloth bears, blackbucks, Indian wild asses, and a plethora of bird species, Gujarat offers a thrilling wildlife experience. Key places to explore include:

• Gir Forest National Park: The only natural habitat of the majestic Asiatic lions.
• Blackbuck National Park: A haven for the beautiful blackbuck and other unique species.
• Marine National Park: India’s first marine sanctuary, teeming with aquatic life and coral reefs.
• Vansda National Park and Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary are other havens for diverse flora and fauna.

Museums

To delve deeper into Gujarat’s rich history and culture, visit its outstanding museums. These repositories of knowledge offer a glimpse into Gujarat’s past and its influence on present-day society:

• Sabarmati Ashram: The serene retreat where Mahatma Gandhi lived and started his non-violent struggle.
• The Calico Museum of Textiles: One of India’s premier textile museums showcasing exquisite collections of Indian fabrics.
• Lalbhai Dalpatbhai Indology Museum: A treasure trove of manuscripts, rare sculptures, paintings, and artifacts.

Art and Culture

Gujarat is a land of vibrant art and cultural heritage. Its arts and crafts are internationally acclaimed, blending beauty with commercial importance. While traveling, pick up exquisite handicrafts such as:

• Beadwork and Embroidery: Intricate designs showcasing Gujarat’s traditional artistry.
• Leatherwork, Silver Jewelry, and Wood Carvings: Authentic pieces reflecting the rich craftsmanship of the region.
• Block Printing, Tie and Dye, and Zari Work: Unique textiles that make perfect souvenirs.

Festivals

The people of Gujarat are known for their love of dance, music, and festivities. Navratri, the nine-night festival, sees communities come together to celebrate with music, dance, and joy. During this period, Garba and Dandiya become an intrinsic part of the state’s cultural scene. Other must-see festivals include:

• Modhera Dance Festival
• International Kite Festival
• Rann Utsav (Desert Festival)
• Uttarayan
• Tarnetar Fair
• Bhavnath Fair
• Rath Yatra
• Vautha Fair

Cuisine

Gujarat’s cuisine is predominantly vegetarian, influenced by its strong Jain roots. The state’s five regions—North Gujarat, Kathiawad, Kachchh, Central Gujarat, and South Gujarat—offer distinct culinary flavors. A typical Gujarati Thali includes roti, dal or kadhi, sabzi, rice, and a variety of side dishes like dhokla, samosa, farsan, and an assortment of sweets like jalebi and mohanthal.

Interesting Facts About Gujarat

• Gujarat is one of the three alcohol-free states in India.
• It is the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, and Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan.
• Gandhinagar, the capital, is Asia’s greenest city.
• It has the highest number of airports in India.
• With a 1,600 km coastline, Gujarat has the longest coastline in India.
• Some of India’s wealthiest businessmen hail from this state.

Location

Gujarat is located on the western coast of India, bordered by the Arabian Sea. It shares borders with Rajasthan to the northeast, Maharashtra to the southeast, and Madhya Pradesh to the east. With its extensive coastline, including the ancient port of Lothal, Gujarat has been a key trading hub since ancient times.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to explore Gujarat is during the winter months (November to February), when the weather is pleasant with temperatures in the twenties. Avoid the scorching summer months (March to June) and the monsoon season (July to September), when heavy rains can make travel inconvenient.

How to Get to Gujarat

• By Flight: Gujarat’s international airport in Ahmedabad connects to major global cities. Domestic flights operate from Ahmedabad and other key cities.
• By Rail: Gujarat has a well-developed railway network that connects major cities within the state and across India.
• By Road: Excellent road connectivity allows you to drive in from neighboring states. Inter-city private and government-run buses are also readily available.

History: A Civilization Rooted in Time

Gujarat was a major center of the Indus Valley Civilization, with over 50 settlement ruins unearthed. It has been an important trading center since ancient times, maintaining commercial ties with regions like Bahrain, Egypt, and Sumer. The state has been ruled by various dynasties, including the Mauryas, Guptas, Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, and more. Islamic invasions brought rulers like Allauddin Khilji and Humayun. The Portuguese and Marathas also left their mark, followed by European colonization until independence. Post-independence, Gujarat emerged as an independent state on May 1, 1960.

Experience Gujarat’s rich cultural tapestry with Ocean6 Holidays, where history, nature, and tradition come together to create an unforgettable journey.

Share this tour