Gujarat is a state located in the western part of India, which is known for its rich history, vibrant culture and diverse landscape. The state is home to several historical sites that offer a glimpse of the rich past. The state is known for the rich cultural heritage in dance, music, art and festivals. The travelers from all over the world are attracted towards the religious sites in the state. Gujarat offers a diverse range of experiences for the travelers, from exploring the historical sites to visiting pilgrimage sites. The state is rich in culture and heritage that attracts souls from all over the world.

Places to explore in Gujarat

There are several historical and religious sites in Gujarat that attract the tourist’s soul towards Gujarat. Some of the places are: 

Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad is a heritage destination of Gujarat. Located in the state of Gujarat, the state offers wildlife parks, heritage sites and colorful annual festivals. Gujarat is known for textile industry, vibrant culture, and architectural heritage. The city carries cultural and historical importance. The major attractions to visit in Ahmedabad are Akshardham Temple (Swaminarayan Temple), Sabarmati Riverfront, Kankaria Lake, Sabarmati Ashram, Adalaj Stepwell, Science City and Calico Museum of Textiles.

Vadodara

Vadodara is renowned as the cultural capital of Gujarat. Vadodara offers rich historical background and vibrant culture to the travelers and local people. The major attractions to visit in Vadodara are Laxmi Vilas Palace, Kirti Mandir, Sayaji Sarover, Sursagar Lake and Sayaji Baug. Travelers can also visit Kevadia which is around 90 Km distance from Vadodara. The attractions to visit in Kevadia are Statue of Unity, Sardar Sarovar Dam and Sardar Patel Zoological Park.

Surat

Surat is renowned as the Diamond City of India, is a city located in the state of Gujarat. The city is a global diamond cutting center and a commercial hub of textiles. The city attracts tourists who are interested in the colonial history of the region and the exotic wildlife. The major attractions to visit in Surat at Dumas Beach, Surat Castle (Old Fort), Sardar Patel Museum.

Dwarka

Renowned as the home of ‘Lord Krishna’, Dwarka is an ancient city situated in the state of Gujarat. The city is a part of Char Dham and Sapta puri and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, i.e. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is located in the city. The city is one of the famous pilgrimage destinations among the tourists. The main attractions to visit in Dwarka are Dwarkadheesh Temple and Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple. Other attractions include Beyt Dwarka, Dwarka beach, Gopi Talav and Rukmini Devi Temple.

Somnath

Somnath is a famous religious destination located in the state of Gujarat. Somnath is famous for the Jyotirlinga located in the city. The city offers a spiritual environment with serene views to the travelers. Other than the temple, the city offers beaches and beautiful architecture. The main attraction of Somnath is the Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple. Other attractions include Bhalka Tirth, Somnath Beach and Triveni Ghat.

Rann of Kutch 

Rann of Kutch is a salt marshy area in the Thar Desert located in the state of Gujarat. Rann of Kutch is famous for its stunning white salty desert sand and is the largest salt desert in the world. It is one of the most unique and beautiful landscapes in India. Travelers can experience Rann Utsav in Rann of Kutch. Rann Utsav is a cultural festival that celebrates art, culture and heritage of the region. This festival is generally held annually from November to February. The festival gives the traveler a chance to experience the vibrant culture of Kutch including local handicrafts, local dance, local folk music and traditional cuisines of the region.

Bhuj

Bhuj is a city in the Kutch district located in the state of Gujarat. Travelers can experience the historic craftsmanship of the Kutch region such as beautiful handicrafts and embroidery. Bhuj city is a gateway to the Rann of Kutch. The attractions to visit in Bhuj are Bhujnar Hill, Aina Mahal, Prag Mahal, Shri Swaminarayan Temple, Vande Mataram Memorial and Clock Tower.

Gir National Park

Gir National Park, also known as Sasan Gir is a wildlife sanctuary situated in the state of Gujarat. The national park is famous for its Asiatic lion with other wildlife and birds. Visitors can experience jeep safaris to spot lions in their natural habitat and experience the rich biodiversity of the park.

Things to do in Gujarat

Tourist can perform various activities in Gujarat such as

Visit Rann Utsav in Kutch

Rann Utsav of Kutch offers rich history and vibrant culture of Gujarat. The festival is celebrated with the traditional dance, music, art and local cuisine of Gujarat. Mud huts and tents are offered for the overnight stay in Kutch. The festival takes places in the winter months (November to February). People are recommended to stay in Kutch especially in the full moon night, to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture and traditions of Gujarat.  

Visit Sabarmati Ashram

Sabarmati Ashram also known as Gandhi Ashram is a residence of Mahatma Gandhi and his wife Kasturba. Sabarmati Ashram is situated near the Sabarmati River Ahmedabad showcasing the life of Mahatma Gandhi. Visitors can also explore the “Hriday Kunj”, residence of Mahatma Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi. The duration of the visit can vary from 1-2 hrs.  

Visit Dwarkadheesh Temple

Dwarkadheesh Temple is located near Gomti River in the city of Dwarka in Gujarat. Dwarka is one of the four sites of Char Dham Pilgrimage including Badrinath, Puri and Rameshwaram and one of the 12 Jyotirlinga (Nageshwar Jyotirlinga) is located in the city of Dwarka. The visitors can eye-witness the architectural beauty of the temple and can seek blessings.  

Safari in Gir National Park

Gir National Park is situated in Talala Gir in the state of Gujarat. The National Park is home to the Asiatic Lions and several mammal and bird species. The National Park offers Jungle safari which is conducted in an open-roof vehicles with the experience guides. The best time to visit Gir National Park is December to March and duration of the safaris is around 3 hours. The park is usually closed from the months of June to October.   

Visit Statue of Unity 

Statue of Unity is situated in Kevadia which has 90 Km distance from Vadodara in the state of Gujarat. The statue represents the “Ironman of India” Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The complex offers spectacular views of the surrounding areas and the Sardar Sarover Dam. The statue is a symbol of peace and unity.

Best Time to Visit Gujarat

Gujarat is a state of vibrant culture and rich history that offers various experiences. The ideal time to visit Gujarat is in the month of November to February as the weather is calm and pleasant in these months. The temperature in winter months varies from 29℃ to 20℃. The pleasant weather in the winter months makes Gujarat a must-visit destination for the tourists. Tourist can experience the Rann Utsav and can visit the local market for shopping handicrafts and enjoy local foods of the State.

How to reach Gujarat

By Flight

You can reach Gujarat by flight. There are several major airports in Gujarat; one of the Airport with good connectivity in Gujarat is Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport which is well connected to the other states of India. Other international airports in Gujarat are located in Surat, Rajkot and Vadodara.

By Train 

The major railway station in Gujarat is Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat and Rajkot. These stations are well connected with the other cities of India.

By Road

The roads are well connected to reach Gujarat. The state has good network of National Highways and State Highways. Local transport is available to reach different cities.

History of Gujarat

Gujarat located in western India has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The state is known for its vibrant culture, historical sites, religious destination and natural beauty. The tourism industry has evolved over time with its diverse culture, heritage, history and natural beauty. In recent years, Gujarat has focused on promoting its tourism industry and developed the attractions such as Rann of Kutch and Gir National Park. The infrastructure project of Statue of Unity has become one of the major tourist destinations. 

Local Cuisine of Gujarat

Gujarat is a state located in the west coast of the country. The state cuisine is influenced by the vegetarian lifestyle of Hinduism and Jainism. Cuisine is the proof for its rich history and diverse culture. The cuisine is a mixture of sweet, spicy and unique dishes.

Top 10 must-try food of Gujarat

Dhokla

Dhokla is a must-try Gujarati snack made from fermented rice and gram flour.

Thepla

Thepla is a dish of Gujarat made from gram flour, fenugreek leaves, and various spices.

Gathiya

Gathiya is a snack made of gram flour and fried deeply to get crunchy texture and rich taste.

Jalebi Fafda

Jalebi Fafda is a famous dish of Gujarat. Fafda is a crunchy snack made of gram flour and Jalebi is a sweet spiral dish paired with Fafda. 

Khaman

Khaman is a famous dish of Gujarat made of gram flour. It has soft and fluffy texture.

Dabeli

Dabeli is a snack made with buns which is filled with sev, peanuts, chutney, pomegranate, Dabeli masala and spices.

Dal Dhokhli

Dal Dhokli is a Gujarati dish made of wheat flour dumplings cooked in sweet and sour dal.

Khandvi

Khandvi is a dish of Gujarat that offers sweet and savory flavor. This dish is made with gram flour and buttermilk.

Shrikhand

Shrikhand is a dessert made of yogurt, saffron and cardamom, garnished with nuts.

FAQs on Gujarat

What is the best time to visit Gujarat?

The ideal time to visit Gujarat is in the month of November to February as the weather is calm and pleasant in these months. The temperature in winter months varies from 29℃ to 20℃. 

What are the top attractions to visit in Gujarat?

The top attractions to visit in Gujarat are Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, Dwarka, Somnath, Bhuj, Rann of Kutch and Gir National Park. Gujarat offers vibrant culture and rich history that attracts visitor from all over the world. 

What are the activities to perform in Gujarat?

Gujarat is a state that offers rich history and vibrant culture to the visitors. You can visit Dwarkadheesh temple in Dwarka, Somnath Temple, Sabarmati Ashram, Statue of Unity and experience Rann Utsav.

What are the must-try dishes of Gujarat?

One must try the Gujarati Thali which offers a whole meal to the visitors. Some of the must-try dishes of Gujarat are khaman, Dhokla, Khandvi, Jalebi Fafda, Thepla, Gathiya and Dal Dhokli.

What are the things tourists must buy from local markets of Gujarat?

Tourist must buy the handicrafts and the local arts from the market. Some of the must buy things are embroidery, bead work, wood crafts, printed and woven clothes, pottery and tribal art.