Its majestic temples have also been attracting thinkers, philosophers, saints, and sages. There is no dearth of places to explore ranging from national parks, wildlife sanctuaries and camping grounds to temples, shrines and step wells. Gujarat makes for a wonderful holiday destination with your family and loved ones. Travelling to Gujarat would definitely be worthwhile.
Here are the best places to visit in Gujarat all year long:1. Rann of Kutch
From the footsteps of Mahatma Gandhi to the Great Terrain of Kutch - experience this magical land of Western India. The district of Kutch is often known as the Far East of India. A unique destination in India, Kutch is the largest natural salt desert in the world situated in the state of Gujarat in India.
Kutch is the largest district of Gujarat famous for white desert site. This culturally rich region is one of tourism hub of Gujarat. Bhuj is center to visit the Kutch region and well connected with major cities. there are many tourist place in Kutch region which attract the tourist to visit. few of them are as below which definitely attract the tourist to take lifetime memorable experience once in a life.
White desert is situated 86 KMs away from the Bhuj. The desert has white layer of salt which reflected after monsoon season. due to white layer of salt it seen white. tourist enjoy sunset as well as sunset in the white desert.
Expansive, endless white unobstructed salt desert panning to as far as the eyes can see. Rann of Kutch definitely tops the list of must visit places in Gujarat as your visit here remains incomplete without a trip here. Ranked for being one of the largest salt deserts in the world, this type of landscape is a rare occurrence and walking here or going on a jeep safari tour of Kutch is truly a once in a lifetime experience.
Tourists also experience full moon night here to enjoy the white nature beauty. Every year Gujarat Tourism organised the Rann Utsav during the month of November to February. Every year for a couple of months in winter the entire white desert sets the stage for the ethnic Gujarati fair of Rann Utsav. The month of February is the best time to visit this unique landscape, as the popular Rann Utsav takes place around this time of the year.
The Rann Utsav is a time of the year when this gorgeous stretch of salt and marshes turns into a sight for sore eyes. The Rann festival brings the festive vibes and builds a fun atmosphere that gives you he required “feel”. Why to waste your trip just to see a melted desert. Instead visit during the festive season and experience the culture, food, dance, cultural activities and the fun.
Similarly, pockets of Gujarat bloom with festivity as Makar Sankranti brings the spirit of colours, brightness, and of course - Kite Flying! It is ideal for camping in the wild under a tent or entering a white horizon that offers some of the best sunsets in India.
An arid and nomadic place whose main attraction is known as Rann of Kutch, a clayey and salty desert located between the Gulf of Kutch and the mouth of the Indus River. A curious scenario that during the monsoon season is flooded to form different marshes that attract species of flamingos (inhabitants of the Great Rann of Kutch) and even donkeys (the Wild Ass Sanctuary of the Little Rann of Kutch).
Also known as black hill and towering at a height of around 1,516 feet above sea level, Kalo Dungar is the highest point in Kutch. Black hill is situated 90 KMs away from the Bhuj city. Extremely easy to reach this place is a favourable option for families travelling with kids. Once you reach the top of the hill you will get the whole panoramic view of the glimmering white Rann of Kutch surrounding you.
If you carry a binocular along you will even be able to see the India Pakistan border from the top due to its incredible proximity. For people with a religious incline you have the option of visiting the 400 year old Dattatreya Temple located here. If you go in March or anytime after March till November, the desert will look more like a river/salty water and it will be difficult to walk on it or go inside and click pics. Best time to visit is from mid-November to mid-February.
Truly one of its kind, especially in India, make sure to take a trip to this ultimate and unique Marine National Park dedicated entirely to the conservation and preservation of marine life. As the high tides recede back into the sea for some time, you will be able to witness the magical world that lies under water.
Observe various types of unique fishes like sea urchins, starfish etc. along with sponges and various life giving corals. You can walk around the shallow water region and travel there by boats which will be an unexpectedly fun and refreshing experience for you especially if you are holidaying with kids.
2. Junagadh
One of the most important tourist attractions in Junagarh is the Junagarh Fort. Lal Garh Palace is a masterpiece of architecture in red sandstone. The palace has an impressive collection of paintings in good condition and hunting trophies. Bougainvillea flowers and dancing peacocks make a visual extravaganza.
To see these havelis the suggested route is Gogagate, Daddhon Ka Chowk, Rangari Chowk, Assanion Ka Chowk, Mohta Chowk, Binnanion Ka Chowk Dagger Chowk, BK School and Jassuar Gate .
Located 2 km east of Junagarh and 3 km from the foot of Girnar Hill. There is ashok shilalekh, an edict of the Emperor Ashoka here. Stroll through the Bazaars in Junagadh. Some of the items that could possibly be collected as souvenirs are tapestries, Bandhni saris, cloth toys, embroidered clothes and silk saris. Bargain to get the best offer.
3. Gir National Park
Famous for being the only habitat favourable for the survival of the Asiatic lions, Gir is undoubtedly one of the largest national parks in Gujarat. The landscape of this incredible national park comprises of isolated hills, plateaus, shrubby and rugged ridges and valleys. The park is of deciduous forested regions and is lined all over with jungle trails and hikes where you can observe various plants, animals and birds anywhere you look.
It is especially a thrilling and fun experience for kids and photography enthusiasts. Avoid making plans during the monsoon season as most likely the park remains shut.
4. Patan
Gujarat is replete with numerous iconic and heritage landmarks and the collection of step wells here is truly mind boggling. Apart from being a source of water for the villagers a step well was also utilized as a social interaction place where people used to go there, talk to each other and socialize while collecting water. One of the latest addition to UNESCO heritage sites is Rani ka Vav.
Rani Ki Vav is an architectural masterpiece consisting of numerous fine works of craftsmanship along with 800 sculptures spread across 7 galleries. An architectural jewel erected in honor of King Bhima I by his own widow in the eleventh century which consists of 7 levels where some 500 sculptures of motifs that will suppose a delight for lovers of history.
Discovered by accident the place is a magnificent jewel in the collection of tourist destinations in Gujarat. Despite being abandoned and being invaded by the waters of the nearby river years later, Rani Ki Vav was rescued from oblivion in the 80s.
A city situated inside the walls and the former capital of the state during medieval represents the Indian history and culture in olden times. Following the current of the Sabarmati River, you can enter the largest step well of India in the town of Patan.
5. Champaner
Located in the Panchmahal district of Gujarat and 47 km from Vadodara, Champaner is home to some of the most stunning temples, mosques, and palaces that can be easily described as the epitomes of the luminous architecture of the bygone days. The distance from Golden Chowkadi to Pavagadh Foot Hill is around 42 Km. After Asoj village (23 Km from Golden Chowkadi), there is Narmada canal. Similarly, one can also reach to Pavagadh temple and Champaner, driving thorough Halol Town. There is a famous Shiva Temple on the road. The temple is on a small hill.
After crossing Champaner Gate, on the left, you can see the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park – World Heritage Site. One of the many UNESCO world heritage sites in Gujarat, this archaeological park is a deserted city and had once existed as a thriving city. The entire complex rests majestically on the foothills of Pavagadh hills which is dotted with various types of temples, mosques, forts and palaces all of them dating back to the 16th century.
There are two options are available to reach the Maha Kali Mata Temple on Hill. One is park your car, and get in the Jeep (available on rent) or drive your car to Machi. There are turns on the road which will excite you. It is a beautiful road and gives breathtaking view of surrounding areas.
After reaching Machi, one can ride on rope way. After getting down from rope way, The Maha Kali Mata Temple is very near. Attractions at Pavagadh, are Maha Kali Mata Temple and Champaner. The Maha Kali Mata Temple at top of hill is very famous and one of the Shaktipeeth. Thousands of pilgrims visit the temple on daily, and more on full moon and almost all Sunday.
The Girmal Falls is the largest waterfall in Gujarat. The waterfall originates from a small Gira river flowing through the plains and joins the Ambika River, making its way through the Satpura hills in Gujarat's Saputara. The Sunset Point located in Saputara is also known as Gandhi Shikhar. The views of the tribal villages extending from the sunset point of Saputara to the mountains and plains of the Sahyadri ranges provide a very pleasant feeling.
Some must visit sights here include Jama Masjid, Lila Gumbaj Ki Masjid, Lakulisa Temple, Helical step well etc. this is one of the oldest standing complex in the state which makes a day here well spent with the family.
6. Dhordo
Gujarat is famous for its incredibly colorful and unique culture that resides in the ethnic parts of the State. Villages like Dhordo and Hodko are few of the villages that you must visit if you wish to get to know more about the Gujarati culture in a close manner. There are even traditional accommodations available for you to stay among the original locals of Gujarat.
Make sure to shop for authentic and traditionally made items that you can find here as the people here depend on the sale of these handmade products for their livelihood. What’s better than travelling and doing your bit!
7. Mandvi
Being a coastal state, Gujarat is blessed with an incredible glimmering coastal line which allows for refreshing and relaxing beaches to develop. Out of all this, Mandvi beach is the most popular one and a great decision to explore after a day of sightseeing in Gujarat. You can try out some awesome and fun filled water sports or just sit by the river and relax yourself.
Feel the waves rhythmically come and go, or check out the serene sunset moment in this perfect place to go with your family, friends and loved ones.
8. Modhera
In India, there are staggered wells such as the famous Chand Baori, Rani Ki Vav or, especially, the Sun Temple located 2 kilometers from the Modhera town. Built in the 11th century by the Solanki dynasty in honor of Surya, the sun god, the Modhera Sun Temple is characterized by an indoor pool surrounded by various staircases and a temple that attracts hundreds of pilgrims each year.
Tourists from all over the world throng the place, so you might want to book your travel early in advance to get the best accommodations. Enjoy folk dances, folktales, performances, camel races, taste some of the best local cuisine and spend your day in frolic in the vast whiteness of the sandy ocean of the desert to truly discover yourself.
9. Porbandar
Located between the Veraval and Dwarka, Porbandar beach is located towards the southwest coast of the state of Gujarat. It is best known throughout the country for its various tourist attractions. It has an old port. Porbandar is the birthplace of Mahatama Gandhi, the father of the nation. Apart from this, this place is also believed to be the birthplace of Sudama, who was a close and devoted friend of Krishna.
The remains of old docks and ports along the Porbandar Creek certify that the city was once a center for marine activities.
10. Dholavira
It is one of those rare places, where you can find traces of Indus Civilization. It is not as touristy as other known places in India. There are traces of entire colonies of that time. If you are interested in the history, then this place is a must visit.
11. Mata no Madh
Mata no Madh is the temple of goddess Ashapura maa, situated in Lakhpat at a distance of 95 KMs from Bhuj. The temple was built in 14th century. Ashapura maa is deity of Kutch.
12. Anand
When referring to the village, the picture of dusty roads, bullock or horse carriages, raw-paved houses and far-sighted fields comes to mind, but there should be a village where there are paved and clean roads instead of raw, on them What if expensive cars like running Mercedes or BMW and restaurants like McDonalds are also seen at the village square.
Yes, Dharmaj village in Anand district of Gujarat is one such place, where you will see this prosperity scattered all over the place. The people of the village lead a life of both urban and rural surroundings. People of Dharmaj are settled all over the world. Dharmaj village is also called the village of NRI, where every person from every home does business abroad.
Here in almost every family, one brother lives in the village and cultivates, while the other brother goes abroad and earns money. It is said that in every country you will definitely find a person of religion. This will probably be the first village in the country whose coffee tablebook has been published expressing its history, present and geography.