Places to visit in Gujarat (India)

Gandhi Ashram

As per historical sources, after returning from South Africa, Gandhiji established his first ashram at Kocharab Bungalow, which belonged to his barrister friend, Jivanlal Desai, on May 25, 1915. Back then, it was called Satyagraha Ashram. However, Mahatma Gandhi had plans to begin various activities like animal husbandry and farming so he needed a larger space. On June 17, 1917, the ashram was relocated to an area of 36 acre on the banks of River Sabarmati and thus came to be known as Sabarmati Ashram. At Sabarmati Ashram, one can travel back in time to get a sense of Mahatma Gandhi’s ideology and remarkable life.

Documents related to his non-violence movement, including the Dandi March, which began from here, have been put on display at the Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya (museum). There is a library for literature on Gandhi that holds an immense archive of letters written by him, most of them on used paper scraps. The ashram shares land with Hridaykunj-the quarters where he lived; Vinoba-Mira Kutir, a guest house, a prayer land and a building used as a training centre for cottage industries. At this ashram, Gandhiji tried his hand at farming, learnt the art of spinning and weaving, and led the production of khadi.

Rani no Hajiro

When entering it, it is a square open courtyard, it is about 37 meters in width, which has a big corridor on all sides. This was built in 1445 but it was completed by Mehmood Begada in 1457. It has eight marble graves of Ahmed Shah I queens and other Gujarat Sultanate rulers in its courtyard. The main tomb is Mughal Bibi, the wife of Muhammad Shah II and the mother of Mahmud Begada. The area around this complex is now a market for women’s clothing, jewelry and accessories.

Sabarmati Riverfront

Sabarmati Riverfront is a waterfront being developed along the banks of Sabarmati river in Ahmedabad, India. Proposed in the 1960s, the construction began in 2005. Since 2012, the waterfront is gradually opened to public as and when facilities are constructed and various facilities are actively under construction.

Akshardham Temple

Swaminarayan Akshardham in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India is a large Hindu temple complex inspired by Yogiji Maharaj the fourth spiritual successor of Swaminarayan, and created by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the fifth spiritual successor of Swaminarayan according to the BAPS denomination of Swaminarayan Hinduism

Jhulta Minar

According to history, a slave of Sultan Sidi Bashir constructed the Siddi Bashir’s Mosque and the minarets in the year 1461. There are many myths surrounding the Jhulta Minar or the Shaking Minarets and the most popular belief is that it was done to avoid the earthquakes. Jhulta Minar is mainly known for its unique architecture. This is a pair of pillar which is a part of the Sidi Bashir Mosque. Known for its superb craftsmanship, these minarets are built in such a manner that it starts swinging if a little pressure is applied on any one side of the Minar. Jhulta Minar or the Shaking Minarets is an interesting tourist attraction of Ahmedabad.

Bhadra Fort

Bhadra Fort was built in 1411AD by Sultan Ahmad Shah. The fort had many temples, mosques, palaces, and other structures. The fort was named so because of the presence of Bhadra Kali temple built during the reign of the Marathas. It is also said that Sultan Ahmad Shah built the Bhadra gate for entering the fort and due to this, the fort is called Bhadra fort.

Sarkhej Roza

Sarkhej Roza is one of the most elegant and attractive architectural complexes in the state of Gujarat. The tombs of Saint Ahmed Khattu Ganj Baksh (1445), Mehmud Shah Begada, a prominent ruler of Gujarat Sultanate (1511), and his queen, their palace and pavilions and a mosque all lie clustered together in this complex, surrounding a huge, stepped tank. The buildings are remarkable from an architectural point of view and draw visitors from across the country. An absence of arches and the use of pierced stone to build trellises are fine examples of early Islamic architecture. In fact, the architectural style of the monument is a precursor to the Mughal era and reflects Hindu, Jain and Islamic styles.

Kankariya lake

Kankariya lake is the second largest lake in Ahmedabad and Multiple tourist spots like the zoo, kids city, toy-train, hot-air balloon ride, water-based rides and other such entertainment attractions are in abundance in the lakefront that has been developed around Kankaria lake.

Adalaj stepwell

Located in Adalaj, close to Gandhinagar, it is a stepwell built in 1498 that was once integral to the semi-arid regions of Gujarat, as they provided water for drinking, washing, and bathing. It was also a venue for colorful festivals and sacred rituals.

Science city

Located off the Sarkhej Gandhinagar Highway, Science City is an ambitious initiative of the government of Gujarat to trigger an inquiry of science in the mind of a common citizen with the aid of entertainment and experiential knowledge. It has a amphitheater, aquatic gallery, robotics gallery, energy park, hall of space and many more

Auto world Vintage Car Museum

A wonderful collection of vintage cars, motorcycles and carts manufactured by well known automobile companies. Visitors can find a wonderful assemblage of vehicles including Bentley, Lagonda, Rolls Royce, Cadillac, Austin, Jaguar, Mercedes and Auburns.

Hutheesing Jain temple

A Jain temple in Ahmedabad in Gujarat, India. Constructed in 1848, it is a huge attraction for Jain devotees.

Somnath Temple

The Somnath Temple in Gujarat, majestically situated by the Arabian Sea, stands as a remarkable testament to India’s rich heritage and resilience. As one of the twelve revered Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, this sacred site has been rebuilt multiple times, with its origins tracing back to a legendary golden structure created by the Moon God Soma. The present temple, designed in the exquisite Chalukya style, boasts intricate carvings and a towering shikhara, showcasing the brilliance of ancient Indian architecture. Despite facing numerous invasions and destructions, most notably by Mahmud of Ghazni, the temple’s enduring spirit continues to draw millions of devotees and tourists annually, offering a profound blend of spirituality, history, and architectural grandeur.

Dwarkadhish Temple

The Dwarkadhish Temple, located in the sacred city of Dwarka in Gujarat, is a magnificent testament to India’s spiritual and architectural legacy. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, known as Dwarkadhish or the “King of Dwarka,” this temple is a major pilgrimage site for devotees. With its origins believed to date back over 2,000 years, the current structure, built in the Chalukya style, features a five-storied tower adorned with intricate carvings and a 78-meter tall shikhara. The temple’s sanctity and historical significance, combined with its coastal beauty, attract millions of visitors seeking spiritual solace and a glimpse into ancient Hindu traditions.

Sasan Gir National Park

Sasan Gir National Park, located in Gujarat, India, is a wildlife sanctuary renowned for being the last abode of the Asiatic lion. Established in 1965, this park covers approximately 1,412 square kilometers of diverse landscapes, including dense forests, scrublands, grasslands, and rocky hills. Besides the majestic lions, Gir is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including leopards, deer, antelopes, and numerous bird species. The park’s conservation efforts have been pivotal in reviving the Asiatic lion population from the brink of extinction. Sasan Gir offers a unique blend of adventure and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

White Desert of Kutch

The White Desert of Kutch, located in Gujarat, is a breathtaking expanse of pristine white salt flats stretching as far as the eye can see. This surreal landscape, also known as the Rann of Kutch, comes alive during the Rann Utsav, an annual cultural festival celebrating the region’s rich heritage. Visitors can experience the magical sight of the desert glowing under the full moon, partake in traditional music and dance, and explore local handicrafts. The White Desert, with its unique geography and vibrant cultural offerings, provides an unforgettable experience that captures the heart and spirit of Gujarat.

Sun Temple

The Sun Temple in Modhera, Gujarat, is a magnificent example of ancient Indian architecture and devotion. Built in the 11th century by King Bhima I of the Solanki dynasty, this temple is dedicated to Surya, the Sun God. The temple complex is intricately designed, with a beautifully carved main shrine, a grand Sabha Mandap (assembly hall), and a sacred Surya Kund (stepwell) adorned with numerous shrines. The exquisite carvings depict scenes from Hindu mythology and daily life, showcasing the artisans’ skill and creativity. Aligning with the equinoxes, the temple is a marvel of astronomical precision, bathing in sunlight during specific times of the year. The Sun Temple at Modhera stands as a testament to India’s rich cultural heritage and architectural brilliance, attracting history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike.