Gujarat, the westernmost region of India, is home to numerous architectural marvels. In addition to beautiful landscapes and delectable cuisine, it is renowned for its vibrant culture and rich heritage. Gujarat, also known as ‘The Land of Legends,’ provides a rich blend of art, history, music, and culture and a wide range of the most impressive attractions.
Must Visit the 12 Most Popular Tourist Attractions in Gujarat, India
Gujarat is a dry state, but the vibrancy of Gujarati culture revitalizes you. Here are the top 12 places to visit in Gujarat
1. Ahmedabad
2. Kutch
3. Somnath’s
4. Dwarka
5. Vadodara
6. Junagadh
7. Gandhinagar
8. National Park of Gir
9. Saputara
10. Porbandar
11. Surat
12. Diu
1. Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad is one of Gujarat’s most important cities, as it is a rapidly expanding metropolis, a manufacturing centre, an educational mecca, and a city with a rich history. The former capital of Gujarat, Ahmedabad, is located on the banks of the Sabarmati River, and its delicious cuisine and vibrant culture make it a popular tourist destination. The historic core of Ahmedabad, or the old city, has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ahmedabad is renowned for its textiles and tie-dye bandhani handloom, making it an excellent shopping destination. Bandhani sarees, dupattas, and typically broken dress fabrics, as well as other local handiwork. Read More: Notable Activities in Ahmedabad
2. Kutch
Kutch is an ancient princely state of India that retains the grandeur of the past and resembles an island in the shape of a tortoise. With its vast expanses of the white salt desert, Kutch is likely one of best places to visit in gujarat.
The place comes to life during the winter when the Rann Festival occurs everywhere from December to February. Large camp communities have cultural activities, events, and adventure activities such as hot-air ballooning.
3. Somnath’s
Somnath, which translates to “king of the moon,” is a pilgrimage site and the location of one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. It is a town whose identity is heavily influenced by local folklore, religion, and legends.
Somnath is primarily a religious centre and top places to visit. The potent scent of religion and myth permeates tourism and even daily life. The abundance of temples in the city enhanced its spiritual atmosphere. Nonetheless, Somnath provides beaches, museums, and other attractions. However, the Somnath temple and Somnath beach, Gita Mandir, Balukha Tirtha, Kamnath Mahadev Temple, and Somnath should be visited first. Museums are additional locations that can be visited.
4. Dwarka
Dwarka is an ancient Indian city located on the westernmost point of the Saurashtra peninsula in Gujarat. This location is referred to as Devbhoomi Dwarka. Dwarka boasts that it is the only town in the Char Dham region (four major holy sites). It is a component of Hinduism. Dwarka was part of the ancient kingdom of Krishna, and one of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples, the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, is also located in Dwarka. It has religious significance for these reasons and attracts thousands of pilgrims annually. A tourist attraction enhances the beachfront and seashores.
Recent excavations have revealed that a city existed in this location, corroborating the urban legend that the ocean once submerged it. Dwarka translates the meaning of ‘door’ to Dawar and ‘path to salvation’ to moksha.
5. Vadodara
Gujarat’s Vadodara, or Baroda, is a cosmopolitan city. The site of some of the most remarkable architectural displays. Vadodara is a fitting memorial to the Maratha leader Sayaji Rao Gaekwad III, who envisioned this Big City as an educational, industrial, and commercial hub.
Vadodara is the cultural capital of Gujarat and is home to some of India’s most opulent palaces, including the Lakshmi Vilas Palace and many other renowned monuments. During the nine days of the Navratri festival, this position is the most coveted due to the many Gujaratis holding it. Vadodara celebrates the Navratri festival with greater enthusiasm and vitality than any other city in India. It is home to the University of Maharaja Sayajirao, one of India’s top universities.
6. Junagadh
The town exudes historical significance as the former capital of Junagadh Princely State and is home to numerous historical monuments.
Junagadh is comparable to Girnar Hills and the renowned Gir National Park. The Sakkabaug Zoo and Museum of Wildlife provide a glimpse into the wild. Additionally, visit the Girnar Hills to experience the religious yet tranquil atmosphere. Uperkot’s fort is yet another tourist attraction.
7. Gandhinagar
Gandhinagar provides its visitors with a rich cultural heritage, stunning temples, and a tranquil atmosphere. In addition to other attractions, there is a charming Children’s Park and a unique stepwell.
Gandhinagar’s less-famous religious sites, such as the Hanuman Temple and the Brahmani Temple, are also worth visiting for a spiritually enriching experience.
8. National Park of Gir
Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is the sole remaining refuge for Asiatic lions. The Sanctuary is part of an ecoregion of Kathiawar-Gir dry deciduous forests in Talala Gir, Gujarat.
Gir National Park is closed every year from 16 June to 15 October, and the best months to view wildlife are April and May.
9. Saputara
The Dang district is located four kilometres from the border with Maharashtra and 250 kilometres from Mumbai.
Saputara is Sanskrit for “snake habitat,” and the tribal inhabitants of this region worship serpents, especially during Holi. It is a breathtaking hilly region surrounded by lush vegetation that offers a magnificent panorama, a unique tribal culture, and excellent trekking opportunities.
10. Porbandar
The birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, Porbandar, is a beautiful beach town with temples and dams and a thriving commercial centre.
With a significant historical event, the ancient port city is a modest tourist destination with various attractions.
11. Surat
Surat is a Gujarat port city synonymous with Saurashtra (the good land). This city, the second-most populous in the state, is a global diamond-cutting and textile-trading hub.
The ‘flyovers area’ attracts tourists interested in the region’s colonial past and exotic wildlife. Due to its reputation for being light-hearted, easy-going, and fun-loving, Surat is the ideal location for a family vacation with a love of food. More: Six Notable Locations Near Surat.
12. Diu
Diu is a small island once a Portuguese colony and is now surrounded by beaches near the port of Veraval. Diu is the most popular destination due to its many beaches, the southern coast of Gujarat, and resorts such as Nagoa, but it offers much more. In Diu, alcohol is legal.
Another fascinating location is Vanakbara, a small fishing village whose beauty is characterised by the colourful hues of fishing boats and the hum of daily life. Exciting museums, such as the Sea Shell Museum, temples, and churches, are a wonderful addition to a tour of Gujarat.
Gujarat, the sole habitat of pure Asian Lions, also offers breathtaking views of the Great Rann of Kutch and the Satpura hills. In addition to its picturesque landscapes and 1,600 kilometres of coastline, Gujarat offers its visitors spectacular ancient cave paintings, historical murals, holy temples, historical cities, wildlife sanctuaries, beaches, hill resorts, and fascinating handicrafts.
