Morbi: A Travel Guide to Gujarat's Architectural & Ceramic Gem

Welcome to Morbi, a city in Gujarat, India, often hailed as the Paris of Saurashtra for its blend of traditional Indian and European architectural styles. While Morbi itself is rich in history and industry, the surrounding region offers opportunities for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.

Situated on the banks of the Machhu River, this former princely state, once ruled by the Jadeja Rajputs, is a fascinating destination that offers a mix of historical elegance, religious reverence, and industrial prowess.

The city's European-style town planning is evident in its layout, approached through a series of grand gates that serve as historical landmarks leading to the main square. Beyond its historical architecture, Morbi thrives today as a massive industrial centre and also holds significance for Hindu devotees.

Morbi is widely known as the Ceramic Capital of India, producing over 90% of the country’s ceramics, including tiles, sanitaryware, and industrial ceramics. This industrial cluster is one of the world's largest.

A unique part of a visit to Morbi is exploring this industrial landscape. You can often arrange tours or visits to the large ceramic factories or the Gujarat Tiles & Bathware Exhibition to witness the cutting-edge manufacturing process and browse an incredible variety of tiles and bathware. It's a fascinating insight into a key sector of the Indian economy.

Be sure to try authentic Kathiawadi cuisine. Look for local thalis (platters) to sample a variety of regional dishes.

Morbi's heritage is best seen in its splendid historical buildings, many commissioned by the progressive Thakor Sahibs, particularly Sir Waghji Thakor, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

This guide will take you through the must-visit places in Morbi, ensuring you experience the best of its unique charm.

1. Mani Mandir

The Mani Mandir is an exquisite Hindu temple complex located within the premises of the former Wellingdon Secretariat. Built by Sir Waghji Thakor in the memory of his Queen Mani, this structure is a marvel in shimmering Jaipur stone.

It showcases the finesse of Indian temple architecture, featuring a grand shikhara (spire), intricately carved chhatris (pavilions), arches, and brackets. The temple is primarily dedicated to Radha-Krishna and Lakshmi-Narayan, though Lord Rama, Mahakali, and Shiva are also worshipped here.

The temple complex sustained some damage in the 2001 earthquake but has undergone renovation to restore its former glory. The surrounding Victoria Garden is also worth a tranquil visit.

2. Wagh Mahal

Located adjacent to the Mani Mandir, the Wellingdon Secretariat, also known as Wagh Mahel, is another fine example of the city’s architectural excellence. Built in the Rajput architectural style, it represents the administrative heart of the former princely state. While parts were damaged in the 2001 earthquake, its structure still speaks volumes of the era's craftsmanship.

3. Art Deco Palace

A rare find in this part of India, the Art Deco Palace is a testament to the influence of the European Art Deco movement that swept the world after World War I. The low, two-storey building is constructed out of granite and features classic Art Deco elements like horizontal fenestration, curves, and bays.

It is known for its unique design, including a bathroom made of seashells and, reportedly, erotic murals in subterranean bedrooms, making it an architectural anomaly in the region.

4. Lloyd Gate

Also known as Nagar Darwaja, it was earlier named Lloyd Gate before being given its current name. Made of stone, it blends elements of Rajput architecture with a European touch, prominently featuring a central clock tower.

5. Green Chowk

The bustling commercial heart of the old city, this central square is the convergence point of the historical gates and is dominated by the majestic Green Tower, a local imitation of the Eiffel Tower, built in 1888.

6. Darbargadh Palace

The former official residence of the rulers, the Darbargadh Palace, is located on the bank of the Machhu River. It is approached through an imposing, beautifully carved front gate. Parts of the palace have been converted into a heritage hotel, allowing visitors to experience royal living.

7. Julto Pul

The Suspension Bridge (Julto Pul) was an iconic pedestrian bridge spanning the Machhu River, connecting the Darbargadh Palace with the Nazarbag Palace. Built in the late 19th century by Sir Waghji Thakor, it was a symbol of the progressive nature of the Morbi rulers and their adoption of cutting-edge European technology.

It was a narrow, 233-meter-long, 1.25-meter-wide engineering marvel that showcased the innovative spirit of the time. Tragically, the bridge collapsed on October 30, 2022, causing a significant loss of life. As a result, this site is no longer a tourist attraction but stands as a point of solemn remembrance and historical context for the city's past.

8. Shree Khodiyar Maa Mandir, Matel

Located about 17 km from Wankaner (near Morbi), the Khodiyar Maa Mandir in Matel is a highly revered pilgrimage site. The temple is situated on a high rock overlooking the river and a deep water body known as Mateliya. It is a major destination for devotees of the goddess Khodiyar.

9. Jadeshwar Mahadev Temple

Situated near Wankaner, amidst picturesque surroundings of rolling mountains and the Vadsar Lake, the Jadeshwar Mahadev Temple is an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. The natural setting makes it a peaceful and scenic spot for both devotion and relaxation.

10. Rampara Wildlife Sanctuary

Located a short distance from Morbi, the Rampara Wildlife Sanctuary offers a chance to experience the local flora and fauna. It's an ideal spot for birdwatching and enjoying the tranquility of nature, away from the city's hustle.

11. Brahmani 2 Dam

This dam is a popular local spot for its scenic location and is great for a short trip to enjoy the water and surrounding landscape, offering a break from the historical and industrial sights.

Morbi is a city of layers—a testament to royal vision, a showcase of diverse architecture, and a powerhouse of modern industry. It promises a travel experience that is both historically rich and uniquely contemporary.