1. Gir – Popular For Its Fauna
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.
2. Somnath Temple – Pay A Visit With Your Family
The next one on the list of famous places in Gujarat is a famous temple. One of the most sacred of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, Somnath Temple is not just a religious site. Lying as it is on the shores of the rough Arabian Sea, the temple is also a thing of wonder. It has been destroyed and rebuilt countless times, once by Lord Soma in gold, once by Ravana in silver, once by Krishna in wood and once by King Bhimdev in stone. It is the stone edifice that stands tall now and attracts millions of devotees to come over and seek the Lord’s blessings.
3. Rann Of Kutch – Not-To-Be-Missed Gujarat Destination
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.
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.
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 – For A Beachy Vacation
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.
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. Lothal – Dig Into The Ancient Era
If you are an ancient history buff then a visit to Lothal would be right up your alley! Lothal is considered to be one of the most important sites of the Indus Valley Civilization and is also one of the most well-preserved ones. There is also a small museum here, which is home to relics of an era gone by, including cooking utensils, jewelry, apparels, gemstones, and scrolls, for an in-depth insight into the lives of our ancestors.
10. Bhuj – Marvel At Interior Designs
Bhuj is also a major tourist attraction of Gujarat. The city can trace its roots back to the early 16th century when it was an independent state. The city is famed for being home to ancient monuments, such as the Cenotaphs Complex that houses tombs of the royal family. Other places of interest in Bhuj include the Prag Mahal, a magnificent palace, and the Aina Mahal Palace, a marvelous creation with the interiors covered in mirrors. The Kutch Museum is also worth a visit, as well as Hamirsar Lake. An ancient Shiva Temple in Kera is another place to visit in Bhuj.
1. Java+ Ahmedabad
Java+ is the most rated cafe which is located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. It is inside Courtyard Marriot which everyone knows of. The ambience is great and the place is big with smoking and non-smoking area separated. The cafe serves mainly Shakes, Snacks and Coffee. People spend as much time as they want and have a great time with food and friends. This café is expensive but reasonable and the food served is really great and so is the staff. People come here with friends and family as well and spend their time playing.
2. Creamoholic Cafe Gandhinagar
Creamoholic Cafe is a pocket-friendly cafe located in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. The Cafe is recommended by many people and the rates are very reasonable according to the taste of the food. It serves Coffee, Ice-cream and Snacks. It is famous for its Chocolate items. It is the most famous Cafe in Gandhinagar.
3. Coffee Culture Surat
Coffee Culture is a Cafe restaurant which is located in Surat, Gujarat. The ambience is great with comfortable seating. It is pocket-friendly café and people spend their time with friends and family. It is famous for Snacks, Ice-creams and Shakes and is available at a reasonable price.
4. Canara Coffee House Baroda
Canara Coffee House is an old and antique vibed Cafe house in Baroda, Gujarat. This Cafe is famous for its unique South-Indian and Maharashtrian menu. Many people enjoy their food as a breakfast and has been in Baroda for more than ten years. It is famous for the taste of the food and is also very pocket-friendly.
5. Zen Cafe Ahmedabad
Zen Cafe is one of the most famous spot for evening snacks. It is really old and located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. It is an open cafe and is also known as “AmdavadniGufa” and the place is crowded all the time. People come here for Snacks and Coffee and enjoy for as long as they want. It is a pocket-friendly cafe and is a must-try place.
6. Cafe Bistro Baroda
Cafe Bistro is one of the best Cafes in Baroda. The ambience of this place is great. It serves Pizza, Coffee and Snacks. It is famous for Cakes, Coffee and Pizza. This place is like an all-in-one. The staff service is really good and the place is big and hygienic. Many people in Baroda recommend this place for a gathering and is also reasonable. It is one of the most rated cafe in Baroda.
7. Tea Post Gandhinagar
Tea Post is another pocket-friendly and a cozy Cafe in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. The place is not very big but very cozy and decorated appropriately. The prices are very reasonable and seating area is only as needed. This place serves cookies also and is a famous spot for Tea near the airport. The ambience is cozy and good.
8. Cafe Soho Ahmedabad
Cafe Soho is one of the best Cafes in Ahmedabad. It is a small place but is very cozy and classy. It is mainly famous for its Pizza. There are different sizes and toppings and flavors to choose from Pizza. The price is reasonable according to the food available and also serves Burgers and Wraps.
9. Coffee King Surat
Coffee King is a Cafe located in Surat. It serves fast food, Mexican and Italian food and is famous for it. The place serves good Beverages and has a good staff service. The ambience is great and is located in a good place. It has its unique menu and the food tastes great. Also, it is a pocket-friendly cafe.
10. Bali’s Cafe Baroda
Bali’s Cafe is a cafe most talked about in Baroda, Gujarat. It is famous for its Coffee and Shakes. People usually spend a lot of time here because of its service. The ambience is really great, and so is the staff service. This cafe is known for its Beverages, and a lot of people recommend it. It is also very pocket-friendly.
1. Eastin Residences Vadodara
Eastin Residences Vadodara- A First-class Boutique Hotel offers accommodation in Vadodara. The hotel has a terrace and views of the city, and guests can enjoy a meal at the restaurant. Good location. Clean and decent rooms. Excellent staff members. Love to stay at this hotel again and again whenever I visit Vadodara. Recommend all NRI to stay this hotel.
2. HOTEL LE GRAND Surat
Situated in Surat, Gujarat region, HOTEL LE GRAND is located 10 km from Mayank Aquaculture. The service of the is amazing.
3. HOTEL CARREFOUR Pātan
Set 6 km from Rani Ki Vav, HOTEL CARREFOUR offers rooms with air conditioning in Pātan. A fantastic hotel in Patan which was badly needed. Now you can stay in Patan and make it a hub to visit various excellent heritage sites around. Excellent food in the restaurant, courteous staff, clean rooms and bathrooms. Hope you keep it up in the future.
4. Hotel Leisure Koba
Hotel Leisure in Koba features 3-star accommodation with a terrace. With a shared lounge, the 3-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom.
5. The Square Somnath Somnath
Situated in Somnath, The Square Somnath has a shared lounge and a garden. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi. Brilliant hotel. Wonderful and courteous staff. The rooms are clean and spacious. One of the best hotels i have stayed in. bathroom clean nice location restaurant food very nice. room interior excellent room view very good
6. Ramada by Wyndham Gandhidham
Ramada by Wyndham Gandhidham Shinay has a restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre and shared lounge in Gandhidham. This 4-star hotel offers water sports facilities and room service. Rooms are clean and comfortable. Food is exceptionally good and the buffet spread is humungous.
7. Blackbuck Safari Lodge Velavadar
Blackbuck Safari Lodge Velavadar offers air-conditioned accommodation in Velavadar. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi.... Brand new, beautiful rooms, comfortable A delight to stay here Very friendly and attentive staff
8. Bellevue Sarovar Portico Junagadh
Featuring a terrace, Bellevue Sarovar Portico is set in Junagadh. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi throughout the... The hotel is fantastic, the staff is very friendly and helpful, the rooms very nice, comfortable and clean. We felt well taken care off. The breakfast is very good with a lot of choice and the dinner buffet is excellent.
9. Hotel Avalon Surat
Situated in Surat, 11 km from Mayank Aquaculture, Hotel Avalon provides accommodation with a terrace and free private parking. 1.good location , it’s nearby railway station, just walk distance! 2.clean room, on street is too much Crowdy, but in the room is very quiet 3. You can pay the bill by cash and cards depending on you 4.good service and staffs
10. Hotel The Pramukh Mansingh Shanor
Located in Shanor, Gujarat region, Hotel The Pramukh Mansingh Inn is set 46 km from Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary. Very clean and good amenities for a one night stay. The best part was by far the restaurant. The food and service were exceptional. We were lucky to get a tour of the kitchen and store room, which were both immaculate!
1. Rani Ki Vav, Patan
Rani ki Vav- as the name says this step well was built by Queen (Rani) of Bhimdeva, Udayamanti. Constructed in the 11th century to preserve ground water, Rani ki Vav came into limelight in 1972 when the area was fully earthed. The main highlight of the stepwell is that its walls that are profusely ornamented with figurative motifs and showcases images of various god and goddesses and their consorts from the Hindu Pantheon. The central part of each storey contains the primary sculpture. Winter is the best season to visit Rani ki Vav as you can enjoy the light shows, cultural events and exhibition at the Rani ki Vav Festival.
2. Gir National Park, Junagadh
One of the largest domains of the ferocious Asiatic animals, Gir National Park is a sparkling diamond in the jewels of Gujarat. Along with lions, this dry deciduous forest is home to more than 300 avian species like great horned own, crested serpent eagle and other members of the cat family like leopards. Going by the records of the forest department, there are 29 species of reptiles, 33 species of mammals, 93 species of invertebrates, 96 trees, and 448 flowering plants. Also, the national park is notable for its silk cotton trees; whose bright orange flowers add dashes of color to this dusty brown landscape. Best time to go for jeep safari at Gir National Park is between March and May.
3. Dwarkadhish Temple
One of the four Dhams (divine abodes of India) and Sapata Turis (seven sacred cities), Dwarkadhish Jagat Mandir doesn’t need any introduction. The word ‘Dwarka; is made of two words- ‘dwara’ meaning road, and ‘ka’ implying eternal significance. Going by the mythological records, Dwarka was the kingdom of Lord Krishna, and he stayed there for quite an extended period. This five storey temple stands on 72 pillars, which according to the science of archeo-astronomy, is some immense significance. The sandstone plinth and walls of the temples are embellished with panels depicting dancers, elephants, musicians and celestial beings. Along with Jagat Mandir, you can also visit the nearby temples like Bet Dwarka, Okha, and shrines dedicated to Rukmini (Lord Krishna’s Wife), Mirabai, Narsinh Mehta and Shank Narayan.
4. White Desert – Great Rann of Kutch
A must visit on a trip to Gujarat, Great Rann of Kutch is reputed to be the world’s largest white salt desert. Spanning over an area of 7505 sq km in the western fringes of Gujarat, the desert looks like a diamond under the scorching sun and appears like an eerie under the bluish glow during the night hours. To witness the best of the white desert, one should visit there during the Rann Utsav, which happens between November and March. On a visit to the white desert, make a point to enjoy the camel safari. Many villages nearby Kutch like Hodko, Nirona, Mandvi and Bhujodi, has hotels and resorts where you can book a stay when on a trip to Kutch. Apart from the white desert, you can all visit Narayan Sarovar, Koteshwar temple and Bahuchara Mata temple.
5. Somnath Temple
A primary shrine amongst the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, Somnath temple is located in the small town of Gujarat’s Junagadh district. One of the most expensive aartis, costing approximately 15 lakhs is carried out here. The shivling at the temple is believed to be ‘swayambhu’ or self-born, manifested in the temple. Locals call this temple as ‘shrine eternal’ because it has withstood the test of time; it was destroyed six times and every time it was rebuilt. The current structure of the temple, seventh reconstruction, is a magnificent edifice built in the Chalukya style of architecture by the master masons of Gujarat, known as Sompuras. You can also visit the beach, and the museum, close to the temple, which exhibits 1638 pieces from 7th to 15th century.
6. Polo Monument and Vijaynagar Forest
The temples of Polo, located near Vijaynagar, were built between 10th and 15th centuries under the Gurjara-Pratiharas and later the Rathores as a hiding place from enemies, citizens, angry wives, and even from the sun. While there are number of medieval temples in the polo region of this period, the most notable ones are Sarneshwar temple (still in use), Lakha Dera Jain temple and Shiv Shakti Mandir. Structure and design of the temples reveal Islamic traces in the use of domes and lattice screens; it also follows the layout of Traditional Hindu temples. To reach the temples, you can take a bus or private taxi from Ahmedabad, which is hardly 160 kilometers away. Jeeps are also available from Idar, a town in Sabarkantha, which is 56 km from Vijaynagar. Jeeps would take you till the Polo campsite only, thereupon you will have to trek in the forest to explore the temple. There is only one homestay available at the Vijaynagar.
7. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, Gujarat
The deserted city of Champaner, a UNESCO world heritage site, is located in the foothills of Pavagadh. With some area perched on a rocky hilltop and bristling with forts, mosques, temples and palaces, Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park looks like something out of a children’s storybook when it’s seen from afar. A major part of Champaner lies in ruins today, with the remains of many old mosques and palaces reflecting a blend of Islamic and Jain tradition. Here one can find eleven different types of heritage monuments belonging to 16th century like tombs, gateways, mosques, temples, fortresses and walls, palaces, and pavilions, helical wells, custom houses. Kevda Masjid and Cenotaph, Jami Masjid, Lila Gumbaj Ki Masjid, Pavagadh fort, Lakulisa temple, and Helica Step-well, are some of the famous places to visit in Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park. Also here you can find many Chalcolithic Indian Sites from the stone age era. The Champaner complex is hardly 50 km away from Vadodara, thus, can be a good option for a weekend gateway.
8. Sabarmati Ashram, Ahmedabad
Originally called Satyagraha Ashram, Sabarmati is Mahatma Gandhi’s second ashram (first being the Kochrab Ashram) where he planned a significant number of freedom movements between 1917 to 1930. One can find a special mention of Sabarmati Ashram in the archives of India as here Mahatma Gandhi trained activist to join his movements like Swadeshi movements, non-violent and civil disobedience. Gandhi’s poignant, spartan living quarters are preserved in Sabarmati Ashram, and there’s an open-air museum that presents an informative and moving record of his life and teachings.
9. Marine National Park, Jamnagar
Western edges of Gujarat are flanked by 1600 km long coastline, which is perhaps the largest in India. In this long coastline, there is a tiny reserve called Marine National Park, which is one of its kinds in India, on the Gulf of Kutch. It’s the only place in India where one can see the coral reefs of different shapes and sizes without diving in the water. Some of the finest marine species that can be found in the national park are sponges, starfishes, sea cucumbers, puffer fishes, sea horses, huge green sea turtles, etc. Also, you can see many sea birds like cranes, flamingos, sea gulls, etc. To reach the marine national park, you will have to hire a boat from the Bedi Port or Sikka Port. The local boat takes one and a half hours to reach the main park. Dreamy beaches, picturesque coastline, clear water, and a dash of history-all can be found and experienced on a trip to Marine National Park.
10. Saputara
If you think Gujarat is all about forts, palaces, temples and jungles, think again, as this fine state also has a hill station within its vicinity, Saputara. Tucked in the Sahyadri hills amidst the dang forest, Saputara is an uber cool retreat that offers people of Gujarat respite from its humid weather. Honey bees Center, Rose Garden, Lake Garden, Step Garden, Gira Waterfalls, Mahal Forest, Gandhi Shikhar and Sunrise Point are most visited tourist attractions in Saputara.
1. Law Garden Market, Ahmedabad:
one of the best places to buy Gujarati traditional wear. The market sells a wide variety of the famous mirror work clothing and textiles that Gujarat is famous for. Most of the clothes are made in Rann of Kutch area. The Bead & mirror-work is all done by hand, and is quite exquisite.
2. Lal Darwaja, Ahmedabad:
Lal Darwaza is the much crowded place with lots of hawkers selling various items, such as from clothes to electronics. It is the most popular and busiest shopping hub in the city. One can buy sarees, gents and children garments, shoes, Chaniya choli, books, wallets and many more.
3. Dhalgarward /Teen Darwaja, Ahemdabad:
Dhalgarwad is famous for its traditional garments, sarees, dress material, Chaniya choli and others at very reasonable rates. One must be aware of the low quality materials. One can find a diverse variety of clothing at Dhalgarwad. Woodcraft of Surat, Kutch and Saurashtra is quite popular and easily available at Teen Darwaza.
4. Sindhi Market, Ahemedabad:
Sindhi Market is another very famous place for shopping sarees, bed sheets, dresses, dress materials and traditional items. Revdi Bazaar is a famous textile market place nearby for shopping lovers.
5. Rander Road, Surat:
Rander Road is known for its clothes in Surat. The market is always found bustling with both tourists and locals day in and day out.
6. Ring Road, Surat:
Ring Road Market is frequently visited by not only the locals, but also visitors and tourists. You can get fashionable clothes, along with the traditional ones here.
7. New Textiles, Surat:
The textile market in Surat exports its beautifully ornamented saris to the Middle East countries. The international market demands more improvisations in the designs of the saris. New trends in the design of Zari embroidered, kinari work, gold or silver brocade. Saris are being introduced to capture the increasing demand of the saris in the international markets.
8. Rajkot:
Rajkot is the 4th largest urban city of Gujarat. It is the fastest growing cities of the world with its impending industries and trade sector. The city is famous for its embellishing mirror and bead work, patch work, silk embroidery, Meenakari furniture, jewelry, bangles and watch parts. Traditional community gold and silver smiths displaying their wares can be seen here in Bangadi bazaar.
9. Bangadi Bazaar, Rajkot:
Bangadi Bazaar a unique experience to shop in here taking you in narrow lanes, hundreds of tiny shops which are indistinguishable from each other. You will find glass bangles of every color and price range here in Komal Handicraft on main road. Beautiful peacock, lotuses and fish head enameled with Moti designed at super cheap rate.
10. Jamnagar:
Apart from the tie and dyes saris, shopping in Jamnagar will divert your attention towards manufactured articles such as paperweights made from agate, bangles decked out in brass, beetle nut crackers, Kajal, Kumkum, Surma, and brass enclosed wooden torsos whose prettiness will blow your mind. In short, shopping in Jamnagar is an out of the world experience in itself and the hurly-burly enclosing the studded shops augments the spirit of buying.
