Places to visit in Gujarat – Situated on the west coast of India, Gujarat is a land of architectural wonders and vibrant colors. Most of the state lies in the Kathiawar peninsula. Gujarat is a state of much historical significance and encompasses some parts of the ancient civilization of Indus Valley, such as Lothal and Dholavira.
Lothal is one of the first seaports in the world. Gujarat has a vast range of spectacular attractions, ranging from scenic landscapes to ecstatic architectural marvels, mouthwatering cuisine, fascinating handicrafts, and a cultural exuberance enough to rejuvenate you.
Gujarat has two international airports, nine domestic airports, two private airports, and three military bases. Railways as well as roads well connect it. Having a long coastline, the state also has multiple ports. The best time to visit Gujarat is from November to February.
Remember to indulge in these experiences while in Gujarat –
01 Visit The Home To The Asiatic Lion- The Gir National Park
The only natural habitat of the Asiatic lions, The Gir National Park, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Gujarat. Spread across 1412 sq km approximately, the national park is home to rare wild animals like hyenas, blackbucks, fish owls, chinkara, chausingha.
The Nawab of Junagadh initiated the preservation of the Asiatic lions. The forest falls on the ecoregion of dry deciduous forest. Gir is the only national park in India that has a community living inside its perimeters in complete harmony with the flora and fauna of the region.
Best time to visit Gir National Park- The best time to visit the park is from December to March. The park remains closed from 16th June to 15th October every year.
The closest airport to the Gir National Park– The nearest airport is the Keshod Airport, situated 38 kilometers from the Gir National Park.
Timings– 6:30am -5:00pm
02 Explore The Vibrant Rann Of Kutch
A great white desert, shining bright like a diamond in moonlight, the Rann of Kutch is an enchanting wonder of salt and sand. It lies between the scorching Thar desert and the Arabian Sea.
Sunsets at the Great Rann of Kutch is a treat to both the soul and eyes. The massive salt deposits found in this salt marshland are known to create the optical illusion of mirage. The Rann of Kutch Utsav is the best time to visit the place.
A three-month-long event and a vibrant celebration of colors and life, the festival is ideal for experiencing the rich cultural exuberance of Gujarat. World-famous unique handicrafts, beautiful embroidery material, and finger-licking Gujarati cuisine are available in this festival of life. Please do not visit the Rann of Kutch during the monsoons when it is completely submerged in water.
Best time to visit Rann of Kutch– The best time for visiting the Rann Of Kutch is during the Rann Utsav. This takes place during the winter, from October to February.
Closest Airport- The Bhuj Airport is the closest airport to the Rann of Kutch, about 70 kilometers from there.
03 Visit The Ancient Kingdom Of Lord Krishna- Dwarka
In India, Dwarka is a trendy Hindu pilgrimage destination, one of the ‘Char Dham’ (four holy places) and Sapta Puris (seven sacred cities). Considered the ancient kingdom of Lord Krishna, Dwarka is also home to Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, which is one of twelve Jyotirlingas.
Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated with ebullience and gallant efforts. The city of Dwarka is extremely famous for its beaches and coral reefs. The shallow waters are perfect for scuba diving, and you can catch a glimpse of starfishes, sea urchins, turtles, and the remains of the kingdom of Dwarka, which was believed to be engulfed by water according to a legend.
Best time to visit Dwarka- The best time to visit Dwarka is from November to February. Still, if someone wants specifically to participate in the festivities celebrated here, they can visit the place during August and September.
The closest time to visit Dwarka– Jamnagar airport is the nearest airport situated 137 kilometers from the holy city of Dwarka.
Timings– The timings for Dwarkadhish Temple are 6:30 to 1:00 pm and 5 pm to 9:30 pm. Timings for Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple are 7 am to 9 pm.
04 Visit The UNESCO World Heritage Sites In Gujarat
There are three worth visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Gujarat –
- The city of Ahmedabad– The historic city of Ahmedabad, or Old Ahmedabad, was declared the first UNESCO World Heritage City in India. Pols-type houses are a fascinating feature of the town. In the present era, Ahmedabad is a cultural hub in Gujarat. The places of attraction include Sabarmati Ashram, Akshardham, Kankaria Lake, etc. The International kite festival is a must-watch in Ahmedabad. During this one-day festival, the sky is filled with colorful kites. It’s a sight worth beholding.
The best time to visit Ahmedabad– is November to February.
The closest airport to Ahmedabad– is Ahmedabad Airport situation in the city itself.
- Ran ki Vaav– A stepwell constructed in the 10th-11th century, the Rani ki Vaav- or the Queen’s stepwell, is an exciting and beautiful underground water storage facility. Udaymati built it in memory of Bhimdev I. The site has seven levels with more than 1500 sculptures.
Best time to visit Ran ki Vaav- December to January
The closest airport from Ran ki Vaav- Closest airport from Ran ki Vaav is the Ahmedabad airport which is 102 kilometers away.
Timings- 8:30am to 7pm
- Champaner Pavagadh Archaeological Park – Lying between the Pavagadh hills, the Champaner Archaeological Park has architectural influences from both the Hindus and the Muslims and is a sight to marvel at.
Best time to visit Champaner Archaeological Park– October to February.
The closest airport to Champaner Archaeological Park- is Vadodara airport, which is 42 kilometers away.
Timings- 8:30am – 5:00pm
05 Visit Porbandar
The birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, Porbandar, is one of Gujarat’s most serene and beautiful beach towns. There are a lot of wildlife spots in Porbandar.
The best time to visit Porbandar- is September to December.
The closest airport to Porbandar- Porbandar Airport is present in the city itself.
06 History Buffs – Should Visit Vadodara And Rajkot
Vadodara is a cosmopolitan city in India famous for one of the most lavish palaces in India- the Lakshmi Vilas Palace. There are plenty of beautiful monuments in the city.
The best time to visit Vadodara– is October to March.
The closest airport to Vadodara- The Vadodara Airport is present in the city itself.
Timings of Lakshmi Vilas Palace- 9:30 am to 5:00 pm
Rajkot was also known as the City of Princes. It was established in 1620 by the Jadejas and was under their rule until the Independence of India. It’s the 22nd fastest growing city in the world.
The best time to visit Rajkot– is October to February.
The closest airport to Rajkot- Jamnagar airport is the nearest airport to Rajkot, 81 kilometers away.
07 Take A Dig Into The Ancient Era At Lothal
The most well-preserved site of the Indus Valley Civilization, Lothal is a treat for all the history buffs out there. It has relics of the ancient era’s jewelry, utensils, gemstones, and apparel. It has a highly well-planned dockyard and marketplace. The place is of historical significance and a must-watch if you visit Gujarat.
The best time to visit Lothal– is October to February.
The closest airport to Lothal– Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel International Airport, is closest to Lothal.
Timings- The Archaeological site of Lothal has visiting times from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Gujarat is a beautiful state with an amalgamation of natural beauty, historical and architectural significance, and a perpetual festival of life. Ranging from mouthwatering cuisine to historical sites, Gujarat has much to offer.
This concludes my research on places to visit in Gujarat. Leave a comment with any suggestions or ideas.
Also Read: Rajasthan – The Abode of Kings