Gujarat : Top 10 Best Destinations to Visit
Gujarat, a state rich in culture and history, offers an array of travel experiences. Whether you’re fascinated by history, drawn to nature, or seeking spiritual fulfillment, Gujarat has it all. Here’s a guide to the top 10 destinations you must visit in Gujarat, complete with details about hotels, tariffs, and some handy travel tips.
1. Ahmedabad – The Heart of Gujarat
Ahmedabad, Gujarat’s largest city, is a blend of old and new. With its UNESCO World Heritage city status, Ahmedabad is a must-visit for history lovers. The Sabarmati Ashram, once home to Mahatma Gandhi, offers a glimpse into India’s independence struggle. Don’t miss the intricately carved Adalaj Stepwell and the serene Kankaria Lake.
# Hotels and Tariff:
– Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad:Luxury stay with modern amenities. Tariff: ₹7,000 – ₹10,000 per night.
– Hotel Fortune Landmark:Comfortable and well-located. Tariff: ₹5,000 – ₹7,000 per night.
2. Gir National Park – Home of the Asiatic Lion
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, Gir National Park should be on your list. It’s the only place in the world where you can see Asiatic lions in the wild. The park also hosts leopards, antelopes, and a variety of bird species.
Hotels and Tariff:
– The Fern Gir Forest Resort: Luxurious stay amidst nature. Tariff: ₹8,000 – ₹12,000 per night.
– Gir Jungle Lodge: Budget-friendly option close to the park. Tariff: ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 per night.
3. Rann of Kutch – The White Desert
The Rann of Kutch is one of the most surreal places you’ll ever visit. The vast expanse of white salt desert is a sight to behold, especially during the Rann Utsav, a festival of music, dance, and cultural programs held every winter.
# Hotels and Tariff:
– Shaam-e-Sarhad Village Resort:Traditional Kutchi stay. Tariff: ₹5,000 – ₹8,000 per night.
– Rann Riders:A resort with a blend of comfort and rustic charm. Tariff: ₹6,000 – ₹9,000 per night.
4. Dwarka – The City of Lord Krishna
Dwarka is one of the four sacred Char Dham pilgrimage sites in India. The Dwarkadhish Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, is the main attraction here. The town’s coastal location also offers beautiful views of the Arabian Sea.
# Hotels and Tariff:
– Dwarkadhish Lords Eco Inn: A comfortable stay close to the temple. Tariff: ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 per night.
– Hotel Roma Kristo: Budget-friendly option. Tariff: ₹2,500 – ₹4,000 per night.
5. Somnath – A Spiritual Retrea
Somnath Temple is another important pilgrimage site, known for being the first among the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Shiva. The temple, located by the sea, is not only a place of worship but also a beautiful architectural marvel.
# Hotels and Tariff:
– The Fern Residency Somnath:Modern comforts with a spiritual touch. Tariff: ₹5,000 – ₹8,000 per night.
– Hotel Ambar:Affordable stay near the temple. Tariff: ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 per night.
6. Vadodara – The Cultural Capital
Vadodara, known for its rich cultural heritage, is home to the majestic Laxmi Vilas Palace. The Sayaji Baug, a vast garden housing a zoo and museum, is another popular spot. The city is also known for its vibrant Navratri festival.
# Hotels and Tariff:
– The Gateway Hotel Akota Gardens: Luxury with traditional charm. Tariff: ₹6,000 – ₹9,000 per night.
– Hampton by Hilton Vadodara:Contemporary stay. Tariff: ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 per night.
7. Saputara – The Hill Station
Saputara is Gujarat’s only hill station, offering a cool retreat from the heat. The lush greenery, serene lakes, and scenic viewpoints make it a perfect destination for nature lovers.
# Hotels and Tariff:
– Aakar Lords Inn: Comfort amidst nature. Tariff: ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 per night.
– Savshanti Lake Resort:Budget-friendly stay with beautiful views. Tariff: ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 per night.
8. Bhavnagar – The Historical Gem
Bhavnagar is a city with a rich history and vibrant culture. The Takhteshwar Temple and the historic Barton Library are must-visit places. The city also serves as a gateway to the Blackbuck National Park in Velavadar.
# Hotels and Tariff:
– GenX Bhavnagar 1589: Modern comforts at reasonable rates. Tariff: ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 per night.
– Hotel Bluehill:Budget-friendly with good amenities. Tariff: ₹2,500 – ₹4,000 per night.
9.Mandvi – The Beach Destination
Mandvi, a lesser-known gem, offers pristine beaches and historical sites like the Vijay Vilas Palace. It’s a great spot for a relaxing beach holiday away from the crowds.
# Hotels and Tariff:
– The Beach at Mandvi Palace: Stay in royal tents by the beach. Tariff: ₹6,000 – ₹9,000 per night.
– Hotel Sea View: Budget stay near the beach. Tariff: ₹2,500 – ₹4,000 per night.
10. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
This UNESCO World Heritage site is a fascinating mix of Hindu and Islamic architecture. The park, located at the foothills of the Pavagadh Hill, includes temples, mosques, and palaces from the 15th and 16th centuries.
# Hotels and Tariff:
– Jambughoda Palace: Stay in a heritage property. Tariff: ₹5,000 – ₹8,000 per night.
– Champaner Heritage Resort:Comfortable stay near the site. Tariff: ₹3,500 – ₹5,500 per night.
## Tips for Travelling in Gujarat
1. Best Time to Visit:The ideal time to explore Gujarat is from October to March, during the winter months when the weather is pleasant.
2.Local Cuisine : Make sure to try Gujarati Thali, which offers a variety of local dishes. Don’t miss Dhokla, Thepla, and Fafda.
3. Transportation:Gujarat has a well-developed road network. Renting a car or hiring a driver is a convenient way to explore the state.
4. Respect Local Customs:Gujarat is a culturally rich state, so it’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
5. Language: While Gujarati is the main language, most people also understand and speak Hindi and English.
Here are the most alluring highlights of Gujarat:
1. Ahmedabad’s Old City: Being a UNESCO World Heritage City, Ahmedabad is living proof of Gujarat’s glorious past. Explore its labyrinthine lanes to find beautiful architecture, ancient stepwells, and the serenity of the Sabarmati Ashram, where Mahatma Gandhi once stayed.
2. Gir National Park Imagine seeing, in the wild, the majestic Asiatic lions. This only happens at the Gir National Park, the only location across the world where they can be spotted. It indeed is a very thrilling adventure and a must for wildlife lovers.
3. Rann of Kutch: Visiting the Rann of Kutch is almost like stepping into another world. The endless expanse of white salt desert stretches out of sight. Visit during the Rann Utsav, a cultural festival that lights up the desert with music, dance, and vibrant crafts.
4. Somnath Temple: This ancient, sea-facing temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Not only a place for worship but its history and the views of the ocean make it quite serene.
5. Dwarka Known to be the kingdom of Lord Krishna, Dwarka is one of the four sacred Char Dham pilgrimage sites. The temple spires reaching toward the sky, the spiritual atmosphere—these are simply awesome.
6. Saputara If you need a break from the heat, Saputara is Gujarat’s only hill station. It’s a quiet retreat with lush green hills, cool weather, and beautiful views.
7. Laxmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara: This palace is four times the size of Buckingham Palace! Observe the architecture of this palace, comprising grand rooms, intricate carvings, and an impressive art collection narrating the tales of a royal past.
8. Mandvi Beach: If you are looking for a more secluded beach experience, then Mandvi is just the place. Not only do you have sand and a fabulous sea, but just a short drive from the local Vijay Vilas Palace and its regal charm adds that extra zing of history to your beach day.
9. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park: This site is relatively less visited but equally good. The thing that makes this UNESCO World Heritage Site unique is that it displays a really good mixture of Hindu and Islamic styles of architecture. The ruins here are very interesting and bring you right back in time.
10. Gujarat Festivals: Gujarat knows how to revel! The festivals of the state, especially the Navratri, are an explosion of colour, music, and dance. It is a time when the whole state comes alive, and you get to experience the real spirit of Gujarat.
Each of them speaks of the culture, history, and natural beauty of Gujarat. Places, or more correctly, experiences that stay with you long after you have left.
## Gujarat’s food is a celebration of flavours, and every bite tells a story of tradition and love for spices. Here are some must-try dishes:
1. Dhokla Imagine a soft, spongy cake, but savoury and with a little tang. That’s dhokla for you. Made from fermented rice and chickpea batter, it’s a favourite snack that’s light, fluffy, and often paired with green chutney.
2. Thepla These are thin, spiced flatbreads made from whole wheat and fenugreek leaves. They’re versatile—you can have them for breakfast, lunch, or even as a snack. Theplas are perfect for travel because they stay fresh for days.
3. Khandvi: These delicate, yellow rolls are made from gram flour and buttermilk. It’s the texture that makes them special—soft and melt-in-your-mouth, with a hint of spiced goodness. They’re often topped with mustard seeds and grated coconut for extra flavour.
4. Undhiyu A winter favourite, undhiyu is a mixed vegetable dish cooked in an earthen pot. It’s a hearty meal with root vegetables, green beans, and dumplings made from gram flour. The slow cooking process in a traditional clay pot gives it a unique, rich flavor.
5. Fafda-Jalebi: A classic combination that’s a must-try in Gujarat. Fafda is a crispy, savory snack made from chickpea flour, while jalebi is a sweet, syrupy dessert. The contrast of sweet and salty is what makes this pair irresistible.
6. Gujarati Thali: If you want to experience the full range of Gujarati flavors, try a traditional thali. It’s a platter with a variety of dishes—dal, kadhi (a yogurt-based curry), rice, roti, and several vegetable preparations. Each dish has a distinct flavor, and together they create a perfectly balanced meal.
7. Shrikhand: For dessert, shrikhand is a must. It’s a thick, creamy yogurt sweetened with sugar and flavored with saffron, cardamom, and sometimes dry fruits. It’s rich, indulgent, and a perfect way to end a meal.
8. Handvo This is a savory cake made with rice and lentil flour, mixed with grated vegetables like bottle gourd. It’s spiced with ginger, garlic, and green chilies, then baked until golden brown. It’s crispy on the outside and soft inside, making it a delicious snack or meal.
9. Mohanthal A traditional sweet made from gram flour, ghee, and sugar, flavored with cardamom and garnished with nuts. It’s rich, crumbly, and melts in your mouth, often enjoyed during festivals and celebrations.
10. Ganthia Similar to fafda, but thicker and crunchier. Ganthia is often eaten with spicy green chutney or a sweet and tangy mango pickle. It’s a popular snack, especially in the morning with tea.
Gujarat’s cuisine is all about balance—sweet, savory, tangy, and spicy flavors come together in every meal. Whether you’re indulging in a festive feast or enjoying a simple snack, the food here is bound to leave a lasting impression.
When visiting Gujarat, here are some dos and don’ts to help you make the most of your experience:
### Dos:
1. Respect Local Customs Gujarat is rich in culture and tradition. It’s important to be respectful of local customs, especially in religious places like temples. Dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.
2. Try the Local Food Gujarati cuisine is unique and delicious. Don’t miss out on trying local dishes like dhokla, thepla, and a traditional Gujarati thali. The food is often vegetarian and a mix of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors.
3. Stay Hydrated Gujarat can get quite hot, especially in the summer months. Always carry water with you to stay hydrated as you explore.
4. Bargain at Markets When shopping at local markets, bargaining is expected. Don’t hesitate to negotiate prices, but do it politely. It’s all part of the experience.
5. Learn a Few Words of Gujarati While many people speak Hindi or English, learning a few basic words in Gujarati can go a long way in connecting with locals. A simple “Kem Cho?” (How are you?) can bring a smile to someone’s face.
6. Explore Beyond the Citie Gujarat has much more to offer than just its cities. Visit the villages, coastal areas, and national parks to see the state’s natural beauty and experience rural life.
### Don’ts:
1. Avoid Public Displays of Affection Gujarat is a conservative state, so it’s best to avoid public displays of affection. What might seem normal elsewhere could be seen as inappropriate here.
2. Don’t Drink Alcohol in Public: Gujarat is a dry state, meaning the sale and consumption of alcohol are restricted. If you do choose to drink, do so in private and discreetly, respecting the local laws.
3. Don’t Litter Gujarat, like the rest of India, struggles with waste management. Be mindful of where you dispose of your trash, and if you can, carry your waste with you until you find a proper bin.
4. Avoid Disrespecting Religious Sites Always be mindful of your behaviour in and around temples and other religious sites. Avoid taking photos where it’s prohibited and maintain a respectful demeanour.
5. Don’t Assume Everyone Speaks English: While English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas, not everyone may be fluent. Be patient and clear when communicating, and use simple language if necessary.
6. Don’t Skip the Street Food Gujarat’s street food is a must-try, but always choose clean, busy stalls to avoid any health issues. Freshly prepared food is usually safe and incredibly tasty!
By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll have a more enjoyable and respectful experience as you explore the vibrant culture and beauty of Gujarat.
# FAQs About Travelling in Gujarat
Q1: What’s the best time to visit the Rann of Kutch?
– The best time to visit the Rann of Kutch is during the Rann Utsav, which runs from November to February.
Q2: Is Gujarat safe for solo travellers?
– Yes, Gujarat is known for its safety. However, as with any travel, it’s wise to take standard precautions.
Q3: How many days are needed to explore Gujarat?
– A 10 to 15-day trip is ideal to cover the major attractions.
Q4: What are the must-try dishes in Gujarat?
– Don’t miss out on trying Dhokla, Thepla, and Undhiyu, which are some of the most popular Gujarati dishes.
Q5: Can I find non-vegetarian food in Gujarat?
– While Gujarat is predominantly vegetarian, you can find non-vegetarian options in cities like Ahmedabad and Surat.
Q6: Do I need a permit to visit Gir National Park?
– Yes, you’ll need a permit, which you can book online or at the park entrance.
Q7: Are there any luxury accommodations in Kutch?
– Yes, options like Shaam-e-Sarhad Village Resort offer luxurious stays with a traditional touch.
Q8: What’s the significance of Dwarka in Hindu mythology?
– Dwarka is believed to be the ancient kingdom of Lord Krishna and is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites.
Q9: Is photography allowed in the temples?
– Photography is generally allowed in the outer premises but might be restricted inside the sanctum.
Q10: What’s unique about Champaner-Pavagadh?
– The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a unique blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture.
Gujarat is a land of wonders, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Ahmedabad, witnessing the majestic lions of Gir, or experiencing the serenity of the Rann of Kutch, Gujarat promises an unforgettable journey. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the vibrant state of Gujarat.