1. Gir – Popular For Its Fauna
Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Sasan Gir, is a forest and wildlife sanctuary near Talala Gir in Gujarat, India. It is located 43 km (27 mi) north-east of Somnath, 65 km (40 mi) south-east of Junagadh and 60 km (37 mi) south-west of Amreli. It was established in 1965, with a total area of 1,412 km2 (545 sq mi), of which 258 km2 (100 sq mi) is fully protected as national park and 1,153 km2 (445 sq mi) as wildlife sanctuary. It is part of the Khathiar-Gir dry deciduous forests ecoregion.
The 14th Asiatic Lion Census 2015 was conducted in May 2015. In 2015, the population was 523 (27% up compared to previous census in 2010). The population was 411 in 2010 and 359 in 2005. The lion population in Junagadh District was 268 individuals, 44 in Gir Somnath District, 174 in Amreli District , and 37 in Bhavangar District. There are 109 males, 201 females and 213 cubs.
Gir National Park is closed from 16 June to 15 October every year. The best time to visit it is between December and March. Although it is very hot in April and May, these are the best months for wildlife viewing and photography.The only natural habitat of the Asiatic Lions, Gir National Park is the best place to come face to face with them. Truly one of the best places to visit in Gujarat, Gir is also home to a variety of other rare wild animals, such as hyenas, fish owls, black bucks and many more. Spread across nearly 1412 sq km of land, this is also the only national park in India that has a community living inside its perimeters, and that too in complete harmony with each other. That eerie feeling of anticipation that you get, while riding the open top jeeps, looking for lions is unworldly, and a must do for whenever you are in Gujarat.
History
In the 19th century, the rulers of Indian princely states used to invite the British colonists for hunting expeditions. At the end of the 19th century, only about a dozen Asiatic lions were left in India, all of them in the Gir Forest, which was part of the Nawab of Junagarh's private hunting grounds. British viceroys brought the drastic decline of the lion population in Gir to the attention of the Nawab of Junagadh, who established the sanctuary. Today, it is the only area in Asia where Asiatic lions occur and is considered one of the most important protected areas in Asia because of its biodiversity. The Gir ecosystem with its diverse flora and fauna is protected as a result of the efforts of the government forest department, wildlife activists and NGOs. It is now considered the jewel of Gujarat's ecological resources.
Gir Interpretation Zone, Devalia
Gir National Park and Sanctuary does not have a designated area for tourists. However, to reduce the tourism hazard to the wildlife and to promote nature education, an Interpretation Zone has been created at Devalia within the sanctuary. Within its chained fences, it covers all habitat types and wildlife of Gir with its feeding-cum-living cages for the carnivores and a double-gate entry system.
Ecological problems
Gir National Park and Sanctuary faces a number of threats to its ecosystem. Natural threats include recurrent drought, cyclones, and forest fires. Anthropogenic threats include over-grazing, encroachment, excessive traffic and resultant weed infestation.Tourism contributes to this environmental degradation, as does the mining carried out in the peripherals zone. Pollution results from the railway lines that run through the peripheral zone. And the narrow genetic base in the large mammals is of growing concern.
Places To Stay: The Gateway Hotel Gir, Gir Vihar Resort, Amidhara StayThings To Do: Safari, bird watchingLocation: GujaratHow To Reach: The best way to reach Gir is by landing at the airport in Keshod or by taking a train till Junagadh or Veraval. Following this, take a taxi to reach your destination.
2. Somnath Temple – a shiv temple
One of the most important pilgrim sites in Gujarat, Somanath is a small town in the state that houses one of the 12 jyotirlingas that are holy to the Hindus. The town’s best and most attractive attribute is the temple situated here by the same name. Somanath temple speaks of piousness, beauty and magnificence of the ancient artisans. Known for its lingering spiritual aura and exquisite architecture, this temple has had its name prominently mentioned in the history, being one of the richest temples of the country and for being looted on several accounts by invaders for the same reason. All in all, today the temple which was rebuilt in 1950, stands as an amazing pilgrim as well as a tourist destination. It is one of the most frequented temples by tourists in India.
Location: Somnath
Known for: Being one of the 12 sites of jyotirlingas, its architecture and rich history
How to reach: The nearest airport lies at Keshod at a distance of 125 km and the nearest railway station is at Veraval at 5 km. From here and from anywhere else in Gujrat you can take a state transport bus or a luxury coach to reach Somnath.
Approximate Cost: Free
Operating hours: 5:00 am to 9:00 pm
Type: Temple
3. Rann Of Kutch – Not To Be Missed Gujarat Destination
The Rann of Kutch is located mostly in the Indian state of Gujarat, specifically Kutch district, for which it is named. Some parts extend into the Pakistani province of Sindh. The word Rann means "salt marsh".
The Rann of Kutch covers around 26,000 square kilometres (10,000 square miles). The Great Rann of Kutch is the larger portion of the Rann. It extends east and west, with the Thar Desert to the north and the low hills of Kutch to the south. The Indus River Delta lies to the west in southern Pakistan. The Little Rann of Kutch lies southeast of the Great Rann, and extends southwards to the Gulf of Kutch.
Many rivers originating in Rajasthan and Gujarat flow into the Rann of Kutch, including the Luni, Bhuki, Bharud, Nara, Kharod, Banas, Saraswati, Rupen, Bambhan, and Machchhu Kori Creek and Sir Creek, tidal creeks which are part of the Indus River Delta, are located at the western end of the Great Rann.
The surface is generally flat and very close to sea level, and most of the Rann floods annually during the monsoon season. There are areas of sandy higher ground, known as bets , which lie two to three metres above flood level. Trees and shrubs grow on the bets, and they provide refuges for wildlife during the annual floods.
Climate
The climate of the ecoregion is subtropical. Temperatures average 44ºC during the hot summer months, and can reach highs of 50ºC. During the winter the temperature can drop to or below freezing.
Rainfall is highly seasonal. The Rann of Kutch is dry for most of the year, and rainfall is concentrated in the June to September monsoon season. During the monsoon season, local rainfall and river runoff flood much of the Rann to a depth of 0.5 metres. The waters evaporate during the long dry season, leaving the Rann dry again by the start of the next monsoon season.
Ecology
The Rann of Kutch is the only large flooded grasslands zone in the Indomalayan realm.The area has desert on one side and the sea on the other enables various ecosystems, including mangroves and desert vegetation. Its grassland and deserts are home to forms of wildlife that have adapted to its often harsh conditions. These include endemic and endangered animal and plant species.
Flora
The predominant vegetation in the Rann of Kutch is grassland and thorn scrub. Common grass species include Apluda aristata, Cenchrus spp., Pennisetum spp., Cymbopogon spp., Eragrostis spp., and Elionurus spp.
Trees are rare except on the bets which rise above the flood zone. The non-native tree Prosopis juliflora has become established on the bets, and its seed pods provide year-round food for the wild asses.
Rann of Kutch is probably the most beautiful thing you will ever lay eyes on. Nestled comfortably between the endless Thar Desert and the mighty Arabian Sea, Rann of Kutch is a mesmerizing wonder of sand and salt. On full moon nights, the desert shines bright as a diamond and brings a surreal sense of calm with it. Cultural programs are held on full moon nights, tents are pitched and the wondrous land is yours for the night. Truly one of the most mesmerizingly beautiful places to see in Gujarat.
During winters, Rann of Kutch is home to the flamingoes, here all the way from Siberia! The white desert turns a delicate shade of pink, and brings with it the chance to enjoy proximity to these elusive birds and many others. But Rann Mahotsav is the best time to visit Gujarat, with Rann of Kutch coming alive with music, cultural shows, dances, food, camel safari and artisans flaunting their ware. During the monsoon season, it is entirely submerged in water and visitors might return home dejected.
Places To Stay: Mahefeel e Rann Resort, Rann Village Resort, Kutir Craft Village Resort, Dharani Village Resort, Rann Utsav – Tent City
Places To Visit: Great Rann Of Kutch, Kalo Dungar, Kandla Port, Dholavira
Location: Gujarat
How To Reach: The nearest railway station or airport is located in Bhuj from where one has to take a taxi to reach Rann of Kutch.
Things To Do: Attend Rann Mahotsav, Watch cultural performances
Rann of Kutch is probably the most beautiful thing you will ever lay eyes on. Nestled comfortably between the endless Thar Desert and the mighty Arabian Sea, Rann of Kutch is a mesmerizing wonder of sand and salt. On full moon nights, the desert shines bright as a diamond and brings a surreal sense of calm with it. Cultural programs are held on full moon nights, tents are pitched and the wondrous land is yours for the night. Truly one of the most mesmerizingly beautiful places to see in Gujarat.
During winters, Rann of Kutch is home to the flamingoes, here all the way from Siberia! The white desert turns a delicate shade of pink, and brings with it the chance to enjoy proximity to these elusive birds and many others. But Rann Mahotsav is the best time to visit Gujarat, with Rann of Kutch coming alive with music, cultural shows, dances, food, camel safari and artisans flaunting their ware. During the monsoon season, it is entirely submerged in water and visitors might return home dejected.
4. Ahmedabad – Attend The International Kite Fest
The largest city in Gujarat, Ahmedabad is probably the first you want to visit in the state for a look at some of the best tourist places in Gujarat. It is a city steeped in culture and with a rich heritage, making it a must-visit for people from all over the world. Notable attractions include the Akshardham Temple Complex, Sabarmati Ashram, and Kankaria Lake. The International Kite Festival is a must-see if you arrive during this amazing one-day fest. The sky swells up with kites, from gigantic to minuscule, from simple to the most complex and bizarre ones, and from the bland ones to the rainbow-colored ones.
Also, Ahmedabad is probably the best place to enjoy a delicious Gujarati meal, full of all the Khakhra, Dhokla, fried chillies, and Fafda that you can find. Make is a short trip if you don’t have much time, and take a look at the best places to visit in 4 days in Gujarat.
5. Saputara – The Only Hill Station
The only “hill-station” in Gujarat, Sapatura comes as a breath of fresh air in the otherwise hot and humid clime of the state. Sprawled beautifully on a densely forested plateau, Sapatura is a hot new tourist destination, with a gigantic lake surrounded by resorts. It doesn’t get very cold there, but monsoons can be the best time to visit when the mist rises out of the lake and covers the nearby area. Attractions in Saputara include a boat club, an artisan village, a tribal museum, cable car and a couple of others. One of the perfect and romantic places to visit in Gujarat if you are looking to relax for a little while on an otherwise hectic trip.
6. Laxmi Vilas Palace – Ideal For History Buffs
Back when Laxmi Vilas Palace was built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, it was the largest private dwelling unit in the world. Does that give an idea of its size? The palace compound covers an area of more than 700 acres, and houses several other buildings such as the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum and the Moti Baug Palace. What is worth a look, when not being awed by the sheer opulence of the place, is the collection of sculptures and armory in marble, terracotta and bronze that are strewn across the palace. Laxmi Vilas Palace is one of the best places to visit in Vadodara. Although it is still the residence of the royal family of Vadodara, it is open to the public for visits and is one of the most famous tourist places in Gujarat.
7. Dwarka – A Beach city
Dwarka is one of the famed and highly revered “Char Dham” Hindu pilgrimages. It is considered to be the ancient kingdom of Lord Krishna, and also the very first capital of the state of Gujarat. With so many things to do in Dwarka, this destination boasts peace and serenity. Perched on the mouth of River Gomti on the Arabian Sea, Dwarka is a holy pilgrimage for Hindus from all over the world.
The beach running alongside the temple is a serene one, with the shallow waters being a great place to catch a glimpse of sea turtles, sea urchins, octopuses, and starfish. Try to schedule a visit during the Krishna Janamashtami festival, which witness the temple decked with garlands of flowers and fairy lights.
8. Rani Ki Vav – Landmark Of Patan
Rani ki Vav is one of those rare UNESCO World Heritage Site that was built by a queen in memory of her king! Sort of like the Taj Mahal, in reverse and one of the best places to visit in Gujarat. It is an ancient step-well, from the early 11th century, which was constructed by Udayamati in memory of Bhimdev I. With stairs that can take you down seven levels, it is home to more than 1,500 sculptures. The best part about it is that it has been discovered fairly recently, since the River Saraswati had flooded it in earlier years, and it is only now that it has been excavated and become a popular tourist spot.
9. Diu – Best Beach Destination
how about visiting a small island while you’re in Gujarat? Diu is just the place to be if you wish to traverse through powdery-white sand and charming waves splashing across the shore. One of the advantages of visiting this island is the legal alcohol but don’t forget to check out the amazing architectural work of Portuguese essence in the Diu fort or the exquisite seashells at the Sea Shells Museum. There is no dearth of places to visit in Diu which is why it is counted among top Gujarat destinations.
Akshardham Mandir
The focal point of the complex is the Akshardham Mandir, which measures 108 feet high, 131 feet wide and 240 feet long and features 97 carved pillars, 17 domes, 8 balconies, 220 stone beams and 264 sculpted figures.In accordance with Vedic architectural principles, no steel or iron has been used anywhere in the mandir. 20 foot-long stone beams, each weighing five tons, have been used as load-bearing support throughout the mandir.[1] The mandir's central chamber houses a seven-foot-tall, gold-leafed murti, or sacred image, of Swaminarayan, who is worshipped by followers as God. The murti rests upon a three-foot pedestal and weighs 1.2 tons. It is flanked by the murtis of the ideal devotee, Aksharbrahma Gunatitanand Swami and Aksharmukta Goplanand Swami, both in postures of loving devotion toward Swaminarayan. In each of the four corners of the mandir sits a life-sized marble murti of the lineages of gurus or successors of Swaminarayan revered by BAPS. The first floor of the mandir is known as the Vibhuti Mandapam and features lotus-shaped displays describing the spiritual character of Swaminarayan, while the basement of the mandir, called the Prasadi Mandapam, houses a historical display of various sacred relics from Swaminarayan's life.
Abhishek Mandapam
The complex houses an Abhishek Mandapam an area designated for all visitors to perform abhishek on the murti of Neelkanth Varni - a yogic form of Swaminarayan. The murti of Neelkanth Varni was consecrated in 2014 by Pramukh Swami and the Abhishek Mandapam was inaugurated on 14 December 2015 by Mahant Swami, the sixth spiritual successor of Lord Swaminarayan according to the denomination of Swaminarayan Hinduism. The abhishek ritual begins with the tying of a Kalava, a sacred Hindu thread, on the visitor's wrist along with the recitation of Hindu shlokas. Following the tying of the thread, the visitors bath the murti of Neelkanth Varni with a small pot of sanctified water. While the murti is bathed, visitors are encouraged to pray for their personal wishes.
Exhibition Halls
The complex's five exhibition halls use audio-visual presentations and life-sized dioramas to explore various themes in Hinduism. The Neelkanth and Sahajannd Halls depict Swaminarayan's life, work and teachings. The Mystic India Hall features an IMAX theater which screens a 40-minute film portraying the country-spanning pilgrimage Swaminarayan had embarked on at the age of eleven, when he assumed the name Neelkanth Varni. The film, directed by Keith Melton and narrated by Peter O’Toole, was shot at 108 locations across India and boasts a cast of over 45,000 people. It has received numerous plaudits including the Audience's Choice Award at the 10th International Large Format Film Festival at La Geode in Paris, France and the "Most Popular Film" at the San Jose IMAX Film Festival.[5] The Premanand Hall is divided into three sub-sections, the first is dedicated to the Hindu scriptural texts, the Upanishads, the Ramayan, and the Mahabharat; the second explores religions more generally and features photographic displays of the symbols, scriptures, sacred sites, moral codes and prayers of the world's major faiths; and the third section serves as a tribute to some of India's most famous poets.[3] The fifth exhibition hall, Sant Param Hitakari, houses an audio-animatronics show conveying a message of everlasting happiness.
Sat-Chit-Anand Water Show
The Sat-Chit-Anand Water Show is an interpretative performance of the parable of Nachiketa, as told in the Kathopanishad. The show's title translates to Truth-Knowledge-Bliss and is an appellation of the Hindu ontological reality Aksharbrahma or Akshardham. The show was inaugurated on 3 April 2010 by Pramukh Swami.[ The vibrant show employs fire, fountain animations, laser, water screen projections, music and live characters in a 45-minute retelling of Nachiketa's choice.Nachiketa was the son of a rishi named Udalak, who organized a yagna in which he gifted sickly, barren cattle to Brahmin attendees. Nachiketa was troubled by his father's deception and asked to whom he himself would be offered to in charity. Angered by this question, Udalak banished Nachiketa to the realm of Yamapuri, the underworld. Nachiketa stood at King Yama's doorstep for three days waiting for Yama's arrival; Yama was impressed by Nachiketa's resoluteness, and offered him three boons.Firstly, Nachiketa requested that his father may welcome him lovingly upon his return home; next that he be granted the knowledge by which he can be worthy of living in the heavens; and lastly he may attain knowledge of the eternal soul, the Atma, which transcends death.[5] The story of Nachiketa offers lessons in realizing one's true Self, living by one's principles, perseverance in the face of difficulties, and keeping spiritual perspective in any circumstance.
Sahajanand Van
Sahajanand Van is a 15-acre garden with various attractions, including rock arrangements, fountains, a waterfall, and an 18,000 sq. ft. plant nursery.[1] In addition, throughout the garden are six cultural wisdom spots which depict specific incidents and teachings of Hinduism. The first spot is a marble sculpture which depicts Swaminarayan on his favourite mare, Manki. Swaminarayan traveled in Gujarat on horseback, visiting villages and homes of devotees. Manki's love and emotion for Swaminarayan is notable. The second spot is a sculpture depicting Vishnu on the coils of the multi-headed serpent, Shesha. At Vishnu's side is Laxmiji, his choicest devotee. This spot expresses the role of the ideal devotee – to remain eternally in the service of God. The third spot is the Surya Rath, which depicts the Sun Chariot being drawn by seven stallions. Indian culture honors the Sun for it is the provider of light, energy and life. The fourth spot is the Samudra Manthan, which depicts the churning of the ocean, through a joint effort between the demi-gods and demons, in the search for immortalizing nectar, or amrut. Before amrut was discovered, a lethal poison was churned out. Shiva came to the rescue and saved the world from destruction. The moral of the story is that God should be sought when calamities emerge in life. The fifth spot depicts the holy rivers of Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. Along the banks of these rivers, Hindu culture has flourished. The sixth spot is Lake Narayan Sarovar. At the center of the lake is a 20-foot fountain.
Sahajanand Van also hosts an open air assembly ground with a seating capacity of 9,000. This area is used for cultural programs and festivals. Also within Sahajanand Van is a vegetarian restaurant titled, Premvati, serving Indian cuisine with regional choices.
Terror attack
On 24 September 2002, two armed terrorists attacked Akshardham, killing 33 people and wounding 70.
The Indian National Security Guard intervened and ended the siege by killing both terrorists. A prayer assembly led by Pramukh Swami was organized for 29 September 2002, with attendees praying for the departed souls and their families and also for communal and sectarian peace. More than 30,000 people attended assembly.The Akshardham complex was reopened fourteen days after the attack. Pramukh Swami's peaceful response to the incident from beginning to end has been termed by a brigadier general involved in the operation as the "Akshardham Response" and described as a model to be emulated to maintain peace and harmony in society.
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