|  Area:
196,024 sq. Km
Population: 64.7 million
Capital: Gandhinagar
Main Language: Gujarati
Best time to visit: October to March
Gujarat is situated on the Western Indian coast having a 1,600kms
long Arabian Sea coastline that encloses Gujarat from three sides like a girdle.
It stretches from Kutch in the West to Daman in the South and the hilly tract
from Aravalli in the East to the Western hills with lush green forests, rivers
as well as plains. It lies to the north east of the Gulf of Cambay. On its western
and southwestern boundaries lies the Arabian Sea. To the northwest lies the country
of Pakistan. Northeast lies the State of Rajasthan, east lies the State of Madhya
Pradesh and to the southeast lies the State of Maharashtra.
Geographically,
the State is made up of three main areas. The Eastern (mainland) region includes
the major cities of Ahmedabad, Surat, and Vadodara (Baroda). The Kathiawar peninsula,
also known as Saurashtra, is the coastal plain that is divided from the mainland
by the Gulf of Cambay. The Kutch area, separated from Saurashtra by the Gulf of
Kutch is virtually an island, cut off from the rest of Gujarat to the east and
Pakistan to the north by the low lying Ranns (deserts). Gujarat derives its name
'Gujaratta' meaning the land of Gurjars. The Gurjars passed through the Punjab
and settled in some parts of Western India, which came to be known as Gujarat.
The
State has a long historical and cultural tradition. Legend as it that the temple
of Somnath in the Saurashtra region was actually there to witness the creation
of the universe. Along the south coast are sites associated with Lord Krishna's
life, like Dwaraka where Krishna established his dynasty after evacuating from
Mathura. On firmer historic footing, the recently excavated ancient port of Lothal,
an important site of the Indus Valley civilization, near Ahmedabad, bears testimony
to Gujarat's more than 4,000 years of history. It was an important trade centre
having links with the ancient civilizations of Sumer, Babylon and Egypt. The
Parsis when they fled from Iran in the 8th century first landed at Sanjan on the
shores of Gujarat with the holy flame, which still burns in Udwada in Valsad.
The Muslim influence left its lasting imprints on the local art and architecture
and it came to be known as the Indo-Saracenic style. Gujarat's ports have been
important centres of trade and embarkation points for Muslim pilgrims bound for
Mecca, while European colonial nations established factories and trading bases
around the coast from the late 15th century onwards. Gujarat was a part of the
erstwhile Mumbai State during the British Rule. But in 1960, the 'Gujarati' population
decided to secede from that union, which resulted in the formation of two new
states, namely Gujarat and Maharashtra. Gujarat was also the birthplace of many
leaders who played an important role in shaping modern India. Prominent among
them were Dadabhai Naroji, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and the father of the nation,
Mahatma Gandhi. It has also always been a major centre for the Jains Gujarat
has thus been exposed to a succession of alien races and in the process it has
imbibed elements of a variety of cultures, and yet retained its cultural individuality.
The state is renowned for its holy temples, historic capitals replete with immense
architectural wealth, wildlife sanctuaries, beaches and hill resorts. The fascinating
handicrafts, mouth watering cuisine and colourful lifestyle of the people of Gujarat,
are renowned all over the country. How
to Reach -
Most major cities of Gujarat like Ahmedabad, Vadodara,
Rajkot, Bhavnagar and Bhuj are air linked to Mumbai, Delhi and various other cities
in India. Ahmedabad, Vadodara and Surat are on the broad-gauge railway network.
There are metre-gauge connections to the rest of the state. An excellent network
of state highways, make various tourist centres of Gujarat easily accessible to
other parts of the country. Ahmedabad
Bharuch
Bhavnagar
Gandhinagar
Gondal
Junagadh
Lothal
Palitana
Saputara
Somnath
Surat
Vadodara AHMEDABAD
 Ahmedabad,
locally called Amdavad, is Gujarat's principle city. It was the former state capital
and is one of India's foremost industrial centres. It was founded by Sultan Ahmed
Shah on the banks of the Sabarmati River in 1411 AD. In the 17th century it was
thought to be one of the finest cities of India with the English Ambassador Sir
Thomas Roe calling it 'a goodly city as large as London'. But in the 18th century
it went through a period of decline. Its industrial strength, however, once again
raised it up and from 1915 it became famous as the site of Gandhi's Ashram and
the place where he launched his celebrated march against the Salt Law. Although
it retains little evidence of the Raj, its been called the 'Manchester of the
East' due to its textile industries. This city has many attractions for travellers
and is one of the best places to study the blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural
styles known as Indo-Saracenic. The
walled city is a living testimony to its heritage of crafts as women walk by in
dazzling embroidered garments and flashing ethnic silver jewellery. Traditional
Ahmedabad combines mosques of inspired workmanship, wooden Jain temples, unique
stone step-wells and houses with ornately carved wooden balconies and window screens.
Modern Ahmedabad, just across the River Sabarmati, is a showpiece of contemporary
architecture with designs by Le Corbusier, Louis Kahn and the best-known Indian
architects. Places
to See -
Jama Masjid - built
in 1423 by Ahmad Shah, the mosque is believed to have been constructed from the
items salvaged from the demolished Hindu and Jain temples. Described by some as
the most beautiful mosque in India, this congregational mosque is built in yellow
sandstone, it combines the best of Hindu and Muslim styles of architecture. Sidi
Saiyad's Mosque - constructed
in 1573 by Sidi Saiyad, a slave of Ahmad Shah, this mosque is close to the river
end. It has beautiful carved stone windows depicting the intricate intertwining
of the branches of the kalpa tree. Hathee
Singh Temple - located
just outside the Delhi Gate towards the north of the old city, this temple was
built in 1850 by a rich Jain merchant. Made of pure white marble and profusely
decorated with rich carvings, it is the best known of Ahmedabad's many ornate
Jain temples. The temple is dedicated to Dharamanath, the 15th Jain tirthankar
(apostle). Calico
Museum of Textiles -
has excellent exhibits of antique and modern textiles including rare tapestries,
wall hangings and costumes. Also on display are old weaving machines. The museum
is housed inside one of Gujarat's famous carved wooden havelis (mansion). There
is also an excellent reference library on textiles. Other
Sights -
Sabarmati Ashram - located
on a quiet stretch of Sabarmati River, 7kms north of the city, is the simple retreat
set up by Mahatma Gandhi in 1915. This was his first Satyagraha Ashram and for
many it was the nerve centre of India's freedom movement. Hridaya Kunj, the cottage
where he lived is preserved as it was during his lifetime. The Gandhi Ashram has
a memorial centre, library and a sound and light spectacle to offer its visitors. Kankaria
Lake - is a polygonal
artificial lake almost a mile in circumference, constructed in 1451 by Sultan
Qutb-ud-din. In the centre of the lake is an island-garden with a summer palace
known as Nagina Wadi. Once frequented by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir and Empress
Noor Jahan, this is now a popular recreational centre and is surrounded by parks,
'Bal Vatika', children's gardens, a boat club, natural history museum and a zoo. There
are various other mosques, tombs and gardens in the city - Ahmed Shah's mosque,
Rani Rupmati's mosque, Rani Sipri's mosque, Sidi Bashir's mosque, Raj Bibri's
mosque, the Law Gardens, the Victoria Gardens, the tomb of Darya Khan and the
tombs of Ahmad Shah and his queens. Around
Ahmedabad -
Adalaj Vav - located
18kms north of Ahmedabad in Gandhinagar district was built in 1499 AD by Queen
Rudabai. This Vav or step-well is a fine example of magnificent architectural
form, unique to Northwestern India - a combination of Hindu, Muslim and Buddhist
styles. The Vav is intricately carved and is several stories in depth. A unique
characteristic of step wells was that they not only conserved water but were also
cool chambers where one could rest during hot summer months. In the olden days,
these step wells used to be frequented by travellers and caravans as stopovers
along their trade routes. Sarkhej
- located about 8kms from the city, is one of the greatest complexes of medieval
architecture in Gujarat. Once a country retreat of the Muslim rulers, it is a
fine mausoleum complex with a mosque, palace, pavilions and tombs, all grouped
around a stepped tank. The style shows distinct Hindu influence. The buildings
are remarkable for the complete absence of arches and the use of pierced stone
trellises throughout. Nal
Sarovar Bird Sanctuary
- 65km southwest of Ahmedabad City, is this delightful bird sanctuary nestling
around the Nal Sarovar (Lake), extending over 116 sq. km. Established in 1969
AD, it is known to harbour over 250 species of wetland birds. It sees winter migrants
from the north that includes rosy pelicans, flamingoes, white storks, Brahmini
ducks and herons. Visitors are ferried in small boats to experience a sunrise
or sunset while gliding gently through the silent waters. The best time to visit
is between November to February. Modhera
- sometimes called Mundera is situated on the banks of the River Pushpavati is
about 119km from Ahmedabad City. It was an ancient township, traceable to the
Puranic age, when it was known as Dharmaranya. It is believed that Lord Rama performed
here a yajna (sacrifice) here to purify himself of the sin of having killed a
Brahmin - Ravana, the king of Lanka. Rama built "Modherak" which subsequently
came to be called "Modhera". It became a pilgrimage centre for hordes
of people who thronged to the place to pay homage to Surya, the Sun God. It
is famous for its Sun Temple, constructed in 1026-27 AD during the reign of King
Bhimdev I of Patan and is the best example of Solanki temple architecture in the
state. Although it bears a dilapidated look as it was ruined by Mahmud of Ghazni,
it is still a magnificent specimen of superb artistry of Gujarat's architects
of the bygone days. The temple is positioned in such a manner that at the equinoxes
the rising sun strikes the images in the sanctuary, which at other times languish
in a dim half-light. The canvas on the walls and pillars depict the incidents
from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, forms of gods and goddesses and the way
of life of the people of that time. Top BHARUCH
This very old town was mentioned in historical records nearly 2000 years
ago. It is located between Vadodara and Surat and is about one hour from each
place. In the 17th century, English and Dutch factories were established here.
The nearby island of Kabirwad, in the Narmada River, features a gigantic Banyan
tree, which covers a hectare. Places
to See -
Bharuch Fort - built
on a hillock it is a magnificent fort. The fort over looks the Narmada River and
at its base is the Jama Masjid. The Mosque is said to have been constructed from
the remains of a Jain temple. Temple
of Bhrigu Rishi - on
the riverbank, east of the city is the temple of Bhrigu Rishi, from which the
city took its name, Bhrigukachba, later shortened to Bharuch. Top BHAVNAGAR
 Bhavnagar
lies in the southeast corner of the Kathiawar peninsula in the Saurashtra plains.
Once the capital of a princely state, Bhavnagar is home to several lakes and temples.
It is in fact more of a convenient base to visit the Jain temples at Palitana
and the Velavadar Sanctuary, the home of the famous Indian Black buck. Founded
in 1743, by Bhavsinhji Gohil, on the site of a small village of Vadva, near the
creek, Bhavnagar was once a flourishing port. Today, however the only activities
related to the sea near Bhavnagar take place at the port of Ghogha and Alang.
The Bhavnagar lock gate keeps ships afloat in the port at low tide. Places
to See -
Takhteshwar Temple -
is located on a small hillock, which is high enough to provide good views over
the city and out into the Gulf of Cambay. Gandhi
Smriti Museum - located
northeast, by the clock tower, this museum has a good collection of Gandhi memorabilia. The
Bazaar - is quite an
interesting area with over hanging wooden balconies, countless little shops and
lot of local colour. Around
Bhavnagar -
Alang - is a modern
day wonder of Gujarat. Located on the coast between Bhavnagar and Talaja, it is
India's largest the ship-breaking yard. Here large ships from America, Europe,
Asia ranging from super tankers, container ships, warships and other vessels are
dismantled and scrapped. It is a fantastic spectacle. The reason behind the selection
of this site was the nature of its tide, suitable for such maritime activities
and the proximity of industrial zones that could utilize its metal and other scrap. Velavadar
National Park - this
park, located 65km north of Bhavnagar, is famous for its Black Bucks - the fastest
of the Indian antelopes. The best time to visit is from October to June. Velavadar
is a unique grassland ecosystem that has attracted fame for the successful conservation
of the black buck. Top GANDHINAGAR
 Gandhinagar,
named after Mahatma Gandhi, is the capital city of Gujarat. Built on the river
Sabarmati it is just 32km away from Ahmedabad. In 1960 when the old Bombay State
was partitioned into Maharashtra and Gujarat, the city of Bombay went to Maharashtra.
It was then decided to construct a new capital for Gujarat. Thus came into being
Gandhinagar, the second planned city in India after Chandigarh. It presents a
spacious, well-designed look of an architecturally integrated city. Extensive
planting of trees and large recreational areas along the river gives the city
a fresh, green garden city atmosphere. The
sole tourist site here is the splendid Akshardham, the most famous temple of the
Swaminarayan Sect, one of the richest religious sects in the world. It is a unique
cultural complex built in the memory of Sreeji Swami its founder in 1993, Akshardham
is an intricately carved, majestic monument of 6000 tonnes of pink sandstone and
is surrounded by lush green gardens and beautiful fountains. Besides a 7ft gold-leafed
idol of Lord Swaminarayan and his holy relics, there are three exhibitions on
Indian Culture with Sound and Light shows, a multimedia show and an animation
show. It also incorporates an amusement park, a museum, a cafeteria, picture gallery
and library. Top GONDAL
Located on the Rajkot to Junagadh road on the River Gondali, is the town
of Gondal. It was once the centre of a former prosperous princely state. The former
rulers of Gondal were members of the Jadeja Rajput clan, said to be the descendants
of Lord Krishna and the moon god who ruled the princely states of Kutch, Jamnagar,
Rajkot and Gondal for more than 300 years. But it was in the late 19th century,
early 20th century under Maharajah Bhagwat Sinhji that saw Gondal grow into one
of the most progressive princely states in the region with an efficient system
of a Tax-less economy, roads, railways, schools, hospitals, highways, sanitary
drainage, irrigation and free compulsory education. Places
to See -
Naulakha Darbargadh Palace
- built during the 17th century, this is the oldest extant palace in Gondal.
It is named after the nine lakhs it cost to build it. There are stone carvings
with exquisite jharokhas (balconies), a fabulous pillared courtyard, delicately
carved arches, and a unique spiral staircase. The private palace museum has an
impressive display of silver caskets, which carried messages and gifts for Maharajah
Bhagwat Sinhji on his silver jubilee as ruler of Gondal and other princely relics.
Riverside
Palace - built in 1875
AD by Maharajah Bhagwat Sinhji for his son Yuvraj Bhojraji, the Palace is set
in lawns and gardens beside the river Gondali. There are marvelously appointed
sitting arrangements furnished in typical colonial style with antique wooden furniture
and many pleasant sit-outs on the terraces and galleries overlooking either the
river or the garden. The
Orchard Palace - located
in a huge complex of fruit orchards, lawns and gardens, is a wing of the Huzoor
Palace (the present royal residence) where the ruling family of Gondal entertained
guests. The 'room of miniatures' is a splendid sitting room with a collection
of miniature paintings, brass, and antique furniture. The
Royal Garages have an extensive collection of vintage and classic cars including
a 1910 New Engine, a Delage and a Daimler from the 1920s, a 1935 Mercedes, 1935
Packard two-door convertible, 1941 and 1947 Cadillac, 1955 Cadillac limousine,
sports cars from the 1950s and 1960s like the Mercedes 300 SL, Jaguar XK 150 and
Chevrolet Camaro, numerous imposing American cars of the 1940s and 1950s, a fleet
of four-wheel drive vehicles from the World War II and post-war period, and some
contemporary sports cars. Most of these cars are restored and some bear the original
Gondal State number plates. Gondal
is also a paradise for birdwatchers. The lake attracts demoiselle and cranes,
rosy pelicans, flamingoes, spoonbills, ibises, myriad species of ducks and many
kinds of wading birds. The royal grasslands are populated by herds of blue bull
antelope, jackal, jungle cat, sand grouse, great horned owl, gray and painted
partridge, quails, larks, warblers and so on. Jeeps for game viewing at the grasslands
and boats for bird watching at the lake can be arranged. Other
places of interest are - the Bhuvaneshwari Ayurvedic Pharmacy, which still makes
traditional herbal medicines according to ancient principles. The Bhuvaneshwari
Stud Farm has remarkable specimens of Kathiawadi horses and won prestigious awards
at national level and prizes at local horse and cattle shows. The Sangram Sinhji
High School is a model of Eton in Gondal, with some fabulous Gothic architecture.
Top JUNAGADH
Junagadh is situated in the Saurashtra region at the foot of the temple-studded
Mount Girnar, on the northern fringes of the Gir forest. The city takes its name
from the Fort that enclosed the medieval town (juna means old). Through various
phases of history, Junagadh is described with equal importance and for many centuries
it was the capital of the western region ruled by several dynasties of rulers
such as Mauryas, Greeks, Kshtrapas and Guptas. The Ashokan edicts here that date
from 250 BC testify to the great antiquity of this site. Junagadh is a veritable
treasure trove of ancient temples, museums, palaces and caves and is rich in myth
and legends. Places
to See -
Mount Girnar - is one
of the two hills most sacred to the Jain community (the other being Shatrunjaya
in Palitana). It rises to a height of more than 600m, a climb marked by 10,000
stone-steps. Five of the temples of Girnar are Jain temples including the largest
and the oldest - the 12th century temple of Neminath dedicated to the 22nd Jain
tirthankar. The temple of Mallinath, dedicated to the 9th tirthankar, is also
a strong attraction. There are Hindu temples as well like the Bhavnath temple
dedicated to Lord Shiva and the temple of Amba Mata where newly weds go to worship
in order to ensure a happy marriage. Damodar
Kund - is a holy water
reservoir that marks the ascent to the Girnar temples. It is surrounded by a well-built
ghat (bathing deck). It is believed that here Lord Krishna placed a flower garland
around the neck of the great poet-saint Narsinh Mehta. Ashoka's
Rock Edicts - located
on the route to Girnar, is a huge boulder, housed in a small roadside building,
on which are inscribed the fourteen Edicts of Emperor Ashoka. The inscriptions
carry Brahmi script in Pali language and date back to 250 BC. On the same rock
are inscriptions in Sanskrit. The Edicts incorporate moral lectures. Uperkot
Fort - or Upper Fort,
stands on the eastern side of Junagadh. It is believed to have been built in 319
BC by Chandragupta Maurya, though it has been rebuilt and extended many times
over the centuries. An ornate triple gateway forms the entrance to the fort. There
is a mosque, the Jama Masjid that was built from a demolished Hindu temple. The
fort has many interesting exhibits like the canon guns placed on the western wall
and believed to have been cast in Egypt. There are also two step-wells, a tomb
and some ancient Buddhist caves belonging to the 200 BC to 200 AD era within the
fort premises. Mahabat
Maqbara - is a stunning
Mausoleum of one of the Nawabs of Junagadh, built in 1892. It is resplendent with
silver doors and intricate architecture, including minarets encircled by spiraling
stairways. Durbar
Hall Museum - has the
display of weapons and armour from the days of the Nawabs with collections of
silver chains and chandeliers, thrones, palanquins and so on. There is also a
portrait gallery of the Nawabs. It was once the hall where the Nawabs held their
darbars (assemblies). Narsinh
Mehta's Choro - is a
humble but greatly revered place where the great poet-saint Narsinh Mehta used
to hold his assemblies and discourses in the 15th century. There is a small temple
of Gophnath and the idol of Shri Damodar Raiji and Narsinh Mehta. Top LOTHAL
 Located
about 86km southwest of Ahmedabad and towards Bhavnagar, this important archaeological
site was discovered in 1954. The city that stood here 4500 years ago is clearly
related to the Indus Valley cities of Mohenjodaro and Harappa. It has the same
town planning and drainage system. Lothal, in the dialect of the local people,
literally means 'the mound of the dead'. Excavations have revealed a dockyard,
at its peak. This was probably one of the most important ports on the subcontinent.
The discovery of seals suggests that trade may have been conducted with the contemporary
civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt and Persia. An
unusual discovery was made here of two bodies found in a single grave. At least
three such instances show that double burial was a common feature among the people
who lived in Lothal. The people also appear to have worshipped fire and believed
in some from of animal sacrifice as is apparent from the presence of sacrificial
altars. The
Archaeological Museum at the site displays jewellery, pots and other finds. Top PALITANA
The town of Palitana lies 51km south west of Bhavnagar and
is the gateway to the Shatrunjaya hills. This is one of Jainism's holiest pilgrimage
sites. There are 863 temples atop the hills, exquisitely carved in marble and
built over a span of 900 years. The hilltops are bounded by sturdy walls and the
temples are grouped in nine tunks (enclosures) - each with a central temple with
many minor ones clustered around. Some of the earliest temples were built in the
11th century but were destroyed by Muslims in the 15th and 15th centuries. The
current temples date from the 16th century onwards. The
600m climb from the base of the hill to the summit is 2km, up ,more than 3000
steps. At a moderate pace the ascent will take about two hours. You can also be
carried up the hill in a Doli or lift chairs. Walking sticks are also available.
The entire experience of visiting Shatrunjaya is worth the effort as what will
await you when you reach the summit. It is a breathtaking view of Palitana town
as if in obeisance to the mountain's awesome presence, the crisp, balmy air and
the Shatrunjaya River glistening like a foil of silver. The
most notable of the temples is dedicated to Shri Adishwara, the first Jain tirthankar
(apostle). It is one of the most magnificent temples and the most sacred on Shatrunjaya.
The temple is ornately carved with a frieze of dragons along the walls of its
prayer halls. Adjacent to this temple is the Muslim shrine of Angar Pir where
childless women make offerings of miniature cradles to the saint to bless them
with children. Another important temple is the Chaumukh or Four-Faced Temple.
It has an image of Adinath facing out in the four cardinal directions. Other notable
temples are Kumar Pal, Vimal Shah and Sampriti Raj. Top SAPUTARA
 In
the southeast corner of the state, perched on a plateau in the Dang forest area
of the Sahayadri Range, lies Saputara. Situated at an altitude of 1000m, it has
a cool bracing climate. Saputara literally means the Abode of Serpents and there
is a sacred snake image on the banks of the Sarpaganga River. The thick forest
around Saputara is dotted with Adivasi tribal villages and tribals like Bhils,
Kunbis, Warlis, and Gamits inhabit the area. They are known for their dances,
which are performed wearing masks made out of Bamboo and Wood. Saputara is a good
base to explore these tribal villages. Long
walks along the beautiful Saputara Lake are some of the treats of this uncluttered
and simple hill station. Paddleboats are available for indulging in boating on
the lake. The more adventurous can trek down to nearby villages, the Hatgadh Fort
or the legendary Pandava Caves. The hill station does not require any local transport
and is best covered on foot. Places
to See -
Sunset Point - a ten-minute
ride straddles the valley to the Sunset Point. The comfortable coupe is safe and
ideal for a family. The view from the halt midway is breathtaking, unforgettable
on a moonlit night. Valley
View Point - provides
a bird's eye view of the valley, a somewhat adventurous climb (1.5km) Artist
Village - visitors can
pick up fine pieces of pottery, jewellery, vases, paintings, pen stands, key chains,
all made from bamboo chips and other locally found material. Children can learn
to make simple items in the workshop organised by the craftsmen. Museum
- has tribal theme displaying the lifestyle, ornaments and musical instruments
of the tribes of the Dangs. There is also a workshop making some of the traditional
displays. Gardens
- there are a few gardens like the Lake garden, Step garden and the Rose garden,
that offer scenic places to laze in while walking around Saputara. Around
Saputara -
Gira Falls - located
a km off the Saputara-Waghai road is a vast clearing from where the picturesque
falls emerging from the Kapri tributary can be viewed. An absolute must from June
to November. There are picnic huts that make it an ideal spot for relaxing and
picnicking. Ambapada
- is a typical Dang
Village located about a km off the Saputara-Waghai Road near the Gira Falls. The
route to it is somewhat tricky but very scenic as it is surrounded on all sides
by lush and tall bamboo. Visitors can take a walk in and around the village and
also see some tribals engaged in the making of toys and lamps out of bamboo roots. Top SOMNATH
 Located
near Veraval and about 80kms from Junagadh, is the legendary shore temple of Somnath.
It is one of the twelve most sacred Shiva shrines, a jyotirlinga, and has had
an almost chequered past. According to the legend, Somnath is as old as creation
and was built originally in gold by Somraj, the Moon God. It was rebuilt by Ravana,
the king of Lanka, in silver; then by Krishna in wood and Bhimdev in stone. Mahmud
of Ghazni, upon hearing the description of the temple by Al Biruni, an Arab traveller,
raided the temple in 1024 AD and carried away camel loads of jewels and gold.
In all Somnath was rebuilt and destroyed seven times till 1706 when it was razed
by the notorious Mughal fundamentalist Emperor Aurangzeb. After that it was finally
rebuilt in 1950 with the support of Sardar Vallabhabhai Patel. The
current temple was built to traditional designs on the original site by the sea.
The majestic monument as it stands today is a replica of the earlier construction.
Top SURAT
The town of Surat stands on the Tapti River and was once one of Western India's
major ports and trading towns. Parsis first settled here in the 12th century.
It became an important Mughal trading port under Akbar and went on to become a
wealthy city with the British establishing a trading factory followed by the Dutch
and the French in the 17th century. It was also the point of departure for Mecca-bound
Muslim pilgrims. Though
Surat is no longer an important port, it is still a major industrial centre, especially
for the manufacture of textiles and chemicals and the processing and finishing
of diamonds. Places
to See -
The Castle - built in
1546 by the Sultan of Gujarat, the castle is located on the riverbank, beside
the Tapti Bridge. It provides a good vantagepoint for viewing the city and surrounding
countryside. The
Museum nearby has an interesting collection of textiles, furniture, paintings,
stamps, coins and ceramics. The strong Muslim influence is evident in several
mosques. There are also two Fire Temples and a triple - domed Swami Narayan Temple. Around
Surat -
Beaches - there are a
number of beaches near Surat. Dumas, 16kms away is also a popular health resort;
Hajira is 28kms from the city is fringed by feathery casurina trees; while Ubhrat
42kms away, is known for its fine, sandy beach and shady palm groves. Bardoli
- situated 34kms from Surat is the place where Gandhi had launched a farmers'
satyagraha in 1921-22 under the leadership of Sardar Vallabhabhai Patel. Swaraj
Ashram at Bardoli has become a place of pilgrimage in India. It is also the birthplace
of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Top VADODARA
Vadodara (also called Baroda) was the capital of the princely Gaekwad State
prior to independence. The name Baroda has been derived from the profusion of
Banyan trees in the city. The Gaekwads ruled from Baroda for a few decades under
the leadership of the Peshwas and gradually carved out an independent kingdom
in close association with the British Empire. Their power reached its zenith with
Sayajirao Gaekwad's accession in 1891. Baroda can boast of one of the finest palaces
in India. Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad commissioned the famous British Architects,
Major Mant and Chisolm to work on the Laxmi Vilas palace - one of the grandest
palaces in India. Vadodara
is also known as the 'Garden City' of Gujarat. Today it is a pleasant city with
some interesting museums, gardens and art galleries. The city's Fine Arts College
attracts students from around the country and abroad. Places
to See -
Sayaji Bagh - is an extensive park encircled by a
mini railway. It is a popular spot for an evening stroll. Within the park are
several attractions like the Baroda Museum and Art Gallery. The Museum, founded
by the Gaekwads in 1894, has impressive collections on Art and Archaeology, Natural
History, Geology and Ethnology. The Art Gallery has a good collection of Mughal
miniatures and European Masters. There is also a Planetarium here. Maharaja
Fateh Singh Museum -
located in the palace grounds, this royal art collection includes copies of European
works by Raphael, Titian and Murillo and examples of Greco-Roman exhibits, Chinese
and Japanese art, as well as Indian exhibits. Other
Sights -
There are various palace like the Nazarbaug Palace,
once used on ceremonial occasions by the Gaekwads, it now houses the royal family
heirlooms. The Laxmi Vilas Palace, was the Royal Family's residence. The Pratap
Villas Palace, is also an extravagant and flamboyant building and houses a remarkable
collection of old armoury and sculptures in bronze, marble and terra cotta. The
Makarpura Palace, designed in the Italinate style, is now used as a training school
of the Indian Air Force. There
is also the Kirti Mandir, the family vault of the Gaekwad rules. It is decorated
with murals made by the famous Indian artist Nandlal Bose and the Tambekarwada
Haveli, famous for its wall paintings. Around
Vadodara -
Champaner & Pavagadh Hill - located 47km northeast
of Vadodara, the town of Champaner was subjugated by Sultan Mahmud Begara in 1484.
The Jama Masjid here is one of the finest mosques in Gujarat. The Hill of Pavagadh
with its ruined fort rises beside Champaner in three levels. According to legend,
the hill is actually a chunk of the Himalayan mountainside, which the monkey-god
Hanuman carted off to Lanka in an episode of the Ramayana, hence the name Pavagadh,
which means Quarter of a Hill. The fort on the hill is divided into three parts
- the ruined fort, the palace or middle fort and finally the upper fort with Jain
and Hindu temples, which are important places of pilgrimage. Dabhoi
Fort - is a 13th century
walled town located 29km southwest of Vadodara. It is a fine example of Hindu
military architecture and is notable for the designs of its four gateways, particularly
the Hira or Diamond Gate. Top
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