The westernmost state of the country, bordering Pakistan has a varied landscape ranging from the forests of Gir to the hills of Diu and the white sand desert at Kutch. With a splash of color and culture around every corner, Gujarat is an ideal place to witness India’s reason for being called incredible. With the largest coastline stretching over 1600 km, the state has numerous offerings spread across culture, nature, art, wildlife, history and religion. From the splendid beaches of Diu to the historical gems of Lothal and Porbandar, Asiatic lions and Blackbucks in the Saurashtra region, and beautiful temples in Vadodara, Gujarat is a surprising holiday getaway for explorers.
The westernmost state of the country, bordering Pakistan has a varied landscape ranging from the forests of Gir to the hills of Diu and the white sand desert at Kutch. With a splash of color and culture around every corner, Gujarat is an ideal place to witness India’s reason for being called incredible. With the largest coastline stretching over 1600 km, the state has numerous offerings spread across culture, nature, art, wildlife, history and religion. From the splendid beaches of Diu to the historical gems of Lothal and Porbandar, Asiatic lions and Blackbucks in the Saurashtra region, and beautiful temples in Vadodara, Gujarat is a surprising holiday getaway for explorers. The state's travel motto is, ‘Aavo Padharo’, which translates to its humble request to come and experience Gujarat. The birth state of the iconic Mahatma Gandhi, the state is immensely popular among domestic travellers for its natural beauty and cultural festivals. Cities like Vadodara, Ahmedabad, Diu, Dwarka, and Saputara have slowly made dents in the travel map of the country. While Ahmedabad is being established as a major metropolitan hub, quaint cities like Kutch, Dhola Vira and Bhuj are major centres of local culture. The greatest time to visit Gujarat is during the Navratri festival, which takes place in September or October each year. Here is a look at all the major attractions to see in the state so you can decide what surely not to miss when travelling to India.
Located on the banks of Sabarmati River, the growing city was once the capital of the state before it was shifted to Gandhinagar. Parts of the city have been titled a UNESCO Heritage Site due to their historic value. The town offers scrumptious food and a perfect glimpse of the lifestyle of people in the state. It is also home to many temples, museums and regional markets that are known for their textiles and bandana handloom technique. It is best to list as places to buy local handicrafts.
Located on the banks of Sabarmati River, the growing city was once the capital of the state before it was shifted to Gandhinagar. Parts of the city have been titled a UNESCO Heritage Site due to their historic value. The town offers scrumptious food and a perfect glimpse of the lifestyle of people in the state. It is also home to many temples, museums and regional markets that are known for their textiles and bandana handloom technique. It is best to list as places to buy local handicrafts. The city has become a commercial hub with an old fashioned charm and a colonial past. Many people also visit the city to see the Sabarmati Ashram, located immediately beside the Sabarmati river, which was constructed by Mahatma Gandhi when he came back from South Africa. It is an iconic place as Gandhiji resided here for many years and the historic Dandi March also started from its doorstep. The place is now a museum exhibiting the belongings of Bapu as Gandhiji was fondly known. One can learn more about his life and teaching through a visit to this place.
One of the most surreal places to witness in India, the Kutch region is known for its picturesque landscape, it is on every traveller’s wishlist. The architectural splendour, natural beauty and cultural abundance attract one and all to this gem in the state. Located on the Pakistan India border, there are many sections from where you can visually see the neighbouring state. The region is best experienced during the month of November to February during the winter months when the moonlight
One of the most surreal places to witness in India, the Kutch region is known for its picturesque landscape, it is on every traveller’s wishlist. The architectural splendour, natural beauty and cultural abundance attract one and all to this gem in the state. Located on the Pakistan India border, there are many sections from where you can visually see the neighbouring state. The region is best experienced during the month of November to February during the winter months when the moonlight reflects on the white sand desert making up for some majestic views. The famed Rann of Kutch festival is held at the same time, displaying its magnificent splendour. It has been an iconic location for some Bollywood movies too due its pristine untouched beauty. The area has a very low population and yet is also famous for crafts, embroidery, flamingo sanctuaries and wild ass sanctuaries. The are nearby areas like Bhuj and Dholavira, worth adding to you list too. When in Kutch you can also enjoy a stay at Banni Village, that are the regional people woking in the handicrafts industry. There are few resorts in the area that offer a unique experience of the region.
This desert city has a vibrant history dating back to the reign of kingdoms and empires be it the Naga Chiefs, the Jadeja Rajputs, the Gujarat Sultans and then the British Raj. Bhuj offers a deep dive into the various civilizations and events in South Asian history through its archaeological finds, Indus Valley Civilization remains and places related to epic tales of Mahabharata and Alexander’s historic March into India. Some of these sites have been converted into museums so that one can carefully track the history of the region
This desert city has a vibrant history dating back to the reign of kingdoms and empires be it the Naga Chiefs, the Jadeja Rajputs, the Gujarat Sultans and then the British Raj. Bhuj offers a deep dive into the various civilizations and events in South Asian history through its archaeological finds, Indus Valley Civilization remains and places related to epic tales of Mahabharata and Alexander’s historic March into India. Some of these sites have been converted into museums so that one can carefully track the history of the region You must see sites, including the 2000-year-old Kshatrapa inscription at the Kutch Museum, the Mirror Hall of Aina Mahal, the Prague Mahal Clock Tower, and the sculpture of Ramakund Stepwell, and the beautiful Hamirsar lake. It is also used as a base for the Rann of Kutch festival as many arrive here and travel to the desert region.
This historic city is known to be the cultural centre of Gujarat because of its vibrant festivals. Maratha leader Sayaji Rao Gaekwad III, hosted some of the most exemplary architectural exhibits and envisioned the dream of transforming this metropolis into a learning, industrial and commercial centre. The city is home to some majestic monuments like the Laxmi Vilas Palace. From palaces to museums, the city is ideal to capture the essence of the state. Some of the places you can visit are Laxmi Nivas Palace
This historic city is known to be the cultural centre of Gujarat because of its vibrant festivals. Maratha leader Sayaji Rao Gaekwad III, hosted some of the most exemplary architectural exhibits and envisioned the dream of transforming this metropolis into a learning, industrial and commercial centre. The city is home to some majestic monuments like the Laxmi Vilas Palace. From palaces to museums, the city is ideal to capture the essence of the state. Some of the places you can visit are Laxmi Nivas Palace, Sayagi Baug, Champaner Archeological Park, Ajwa Nimeta Garden, and Vadodara Museum Art and Gallery
This southern centre of Harappan Civilization situated on an arid island in Gujarat is a beautiful site to study the history of human evolution. The ancient city of Dhola Vira which was occupied between 3000 and 1500 BCE is one of the best surviving urban settlements from the time period in Southeast Asia, consists of a fortified city and a cemetery. At that time two seasonal streams provided water to this walled city which is marked by a heavily guarded fortress and ceremonial grounds as well as streets
This southern centre of Harappan Civilization situated on an arid island in Gujarat is a beautiful site to study the history of human evolution. The ancient city of Dhola Vira which was occupied between 3000 and 1500 BCE is one of the best surviving urban settlements from the time period in Southeast Asia, consists of a fortified city and a cemetery. At that time two seasonal streams provided water to this walled city which is marked by a heavily guarded fortress and ceremonial grounds as well as streets and homes of varying percentage quality, indicating a stratified socioeconomic hierarchy in the region. People are drawn to Dholavira because it offers a glimpse into the pioneering Harappan mentality, complete with the world's best water conservation system, first signboards, and ancient Indus characters. The region was discovered in 1967 by archaeologists from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Terracotta ceramics, beads, gold and copper ornaments, seals, fish hooks, animal figures, tools, urns, and vessels, all of which show trade contacts with other lands, were also discovered. All of these artefacts and articles are now on display in the museum near the city's entrance. All the findings reveal interesting facts about inter-regional trade with other Harappan cities, as well as cities in Mesopotamia and the Oman Peninsula. History lovers will find this place to be an insightful way to add more knowledge to their learnings.
Adventure lovers should definitely add Gir National Park to their list of explorations. The sanctuary is part of a very dry deciduous forest region and home to the iconic Gir Lions. The regional governments have played a crucial role in maintaining the area keeping conservation in mind. the protection of these lions was initiated by Nawab of Junagarh. Hills, plateaus, high ridges, and segments of seven important rivers in the region, including the Datardi, Hiran, Raval, and others, make up the park's unique terrain.
Adventure lovers should definitely add Gir National Park to their list of explorations. The sanctuary is part of a very dry deciduous forest region and home to the iconic Gir Lions. The regional governments have played a crucial role in maintaining the area keeping conservation in mind. the protection of these lions was initiated by Nawab of Junagarh. Hills, plateaus, high ridges, and segments of seven important rivers in the region, including the Datardi, Hiran, Raval, and others, make up the park's unique terrain. It holds about 400 types of fauna and 2300 species of fauna, making it one of the top sites to visit in Gujarat. Other important hunting species found here are leopards, chausingha, spotted deer, hyenas, sambar deer, and chinkara. National Park and the National Wildlife Refuge are the only homes of Asian lions. Enjoy a lion safari at the Gir Interpretation Zone and get up and personal with crocodiles at their breeding centre. At the park's souvenir shop, you may buy local handicrafts and materials. If you travel 15 days after Holi, you can attend the Maldhari and Siddis tribes' folk dance and cuisine celebration.
Like every other state Gujarat’s vibrancy lies in its places and its culture which can only be truly experienced through its festivals. One of the biggest festivals celebrated all across the state is Navratri. Families and friends come together to dance their way into the night. The nine-day festival is to honour Goddess Durga, who is worshipped for nine days and then submerged in water. Loud music, exciting competitions, flea markets and exhibitions, tongue-inspiring food, and the most beautiful and vibrantly dressed crowds, this is what you'll experience in Navaratri, Gujarat. As mentioned above, the festival at Rann of Kutch, Rann Utsav as it is called, is an extravagant festival to showcase the region in all its glory.
Like every other state Gujarat’s vibrancy lies in its places and its culture which can only be truly experienced through its festivals. One of the biggest festivals celebrated all across the state is Navratri. Families and friends come together to dance their way into the night. The nine-day festival is to honour Goddess Durga, who is worshipped for nine days and then submerged in water. Loud music, exciting competitions, flea markets and exhibitions, tongue-inspiring food, and the most beautiful and vibrantly dressed crowds, this is what you'll experience in Navaratri, Gujarat. As mentioned above, the festival at Rann of Kutch, Rann Utsav as it is called, is an extravagant festival to showcase the region in all its glory.. Exciting music, authentic handmade items, bandana sarees and traditional ornaments can be experienced on the dazzling white sands. The festival is the purest reflection of Gujarat's folk culture. Sleep in a desert tent, try delicious Gujarati food and have a heavenly experience. Then there is the festival of Uttarayan or the Kite Festival where the sky is filled with colourful kites of all shapes and sizes making it a sight to behold. Being the birthplace of Lord Krishna, Janmashtami is also celebrated with full zeal and enthusiasm.
Beautifully representing India’s partition history, northern cultural traditions and delectable cuisines, one should explore Amritsar
Overlooked by many, Andhra Pradesh is one of India’s most diverse states, home to some underappreciated treasures that can add
India’s northern region is blessed with the mighty Himalayan range, but only as you explore the states you realize that even the
Telangana is a state in southern India. In the capital of Hyderabad, the Charminar is a 16th-century mosque with 4 arches supporting 4 towering minarets
No better title than ‘One State Many Worlds’ to describe the plethora of experiences that this state has to offer. This ancient yet
Titled as ‘Paradise on Earth’, Kashmir offers magnificent beauty that not only leaves one speechless but turns every soul into a
God’s own country, Kerala, is such an enticing destination in terms of an experience that one wonders what to add and what to skip
Redefining what breathtaking beauty truly means, Ladakh offers the most stunning views of the Himalayan wilderness, stretching
A beautiful set of islands set on the eastern coast of Arabian Sea come together to form India’s smallest union territory, Lakshadweep
Known to be the heart of India, Madhya Pradesh offers a bouquet of cultural experiences topped with the sparkle of unique landscapes
Delhi, the city of garden and park, is the capital and union territory of India. It constitutes two quite distinctive worlds, New Delhi and
A reminiscent of French culture and architecture, this small town near Chennai is one of Tamil Nadu’s top destinations among travellers.
This incredible state of India, said to be the Land of Kings offers great history, vibrant culture, prolific wildlife and amazing hospitality.
India, known for its cultural beauty, surprises you through every state, city, district, corner. One such gem showcasing the diversity of South India
Situated right in the centre of India, Uttar Pradesh is home to some of the most ancient cities that have shaped a distinctive culture
opularly known as the ‘Devbhumi’ or ‘Land of the Gods’, Uttarakhand is a prominent pilgrimage destination with abundant natural beauty. Home to the two sacred
Arising from a vibrant history, the naturally blessed state of Maharashtra is home to a broad range of historic sites, national parks and cultural legacy.
The westernmost state of the country, bordering Pakistan has a varied landscape ranging from the forests of Gir to the hills of Diu and the white sand
Topped as one of the country’s favourite holiday destinations, everyone travelling to India is either planning a trip to Goa or has already added a thoroughly
This east Indian state bordered by Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Jharkhand and Nepal is said to be the birthplace of Buddha. Situated on the Gangetic plains
Odisha is known to be the land of myriad marvels as the state boasts of more than 20,000 temples with historic culture. While the state has previously
Titled the, ‘Sweetest part of India,’ West Bengal comprises stunning landscapes, majestic forests, coastal beauty, rich history and the unspoiled Sunderbans.
India is such a vast and beautiful country with so many options for travelling that one might feel confused as to what to see and what to miss. No matter
Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal on the eastern side is another lesser explored destination of the country. The 572-island archipelago is a
917,9th Floor, Tower-A, Nextra-The Address, Plot No. 4B, District Centre, Mayur Vihar Ph-1 Extension, New Delhi-110091
+91 11 43519903/ 43519904
info@ercotravels.com
© 2024 All Rights Reserved. Erco Travels Pvt. Ltd.