Gujarat is a state of India and also the home state of the father of this Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. It lies on the western coast, on the Arabian Sea. By area, it is the fifth-largest state and by population, it is the ninth-largest state. Gujarat is bordered by Rajasthan at the northeast, at the south by Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman &Diu, and then it has Maharashtra at the southeast, Madhya Pradesh at the east and the Arabian Sea and the Pakistani province of Sindh at the west. Thus, the state does not only offers you varieties of places to cover inside but also worthwhile states around it. Perfectly giving the tints of deserts, beaches, coastlines, historic capitals, wildlife sanctuaries, hilly and natural greatness with rich heritage and culture. So here is the list of the best places to cover in and around Gujarat. Make sure you add them to your Gujarat Tour Packages
Table of Contents
Gir National Park
It is also considered one of the most prominent forest parks in India as it is the only place home to the Asiatic Lions where they can roam freely. This park was established in 1965 covering a wide area of 1,412 km². Apart from lions, it is also home to several plants, birds, and animals like leopards and antelopes. Around 200 species of birds are found in this park and 40 species of reptiles and amphibians. For a wildlife lover, this place is the absolute choice fulfilling all of the wildlife fantasies. From 16th October to 15th June every year, the sanctuary is open for all kinds of tourists and tourism. The railway station of Junagarh is considered the best route to reach here. It receives trains from various major cities like Rajkot and Ahmedabad. For Indians, it may cost up to Rs. 5,300 for 6 persons while for foreigners; it may cost up to Rs. 12,800 for 6 persons.
Rann of Kutch
Rann of Kutch National Park stretches between India and Pakistan. Most of its part is located in Gujarat, India while some parts are in Sindh, Pakistan. The place is segregated into two divisions, Great Rann and Little Rann. What exactly is special about this place is that one part of it has desert and the other has sea. As the name suggests the Great Rann is the larger portion extending from east to west with Thar Desert and Hills of Kutch on north and south respectively. On its west side lays the Indus River Delta. Now that Little Rann is situated in the southeast of Great Rann extending towards south to Gulf of Kutch. Because of its peculiar segregation as mentioned above this place is one the best sightseeing spots with pleasant weather and a soothing abode.
Sun Temple, Modhera
The Modhera Sun Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the Lord Surya (Sun) and was built under the kingdom of King Bhīma I of the Chalukya dynasty in the early 1026-27 CE. It is located on the bank of river Pushpavati of Mehsana district. The detailing carvings and splendid structure has made it quite popular in the list of historical architecture. And this temple has amazingly grown 995 years old. As you enter, you will find the magnificent Ramakund which contains 108 shrines dedicated to different gods. Among which the three main shrines are dedicated to Ganesha, Vishnu, and the dancing Lord Shiva. After walking further you will find ‘Sabha Mandap’ which again is dedicated to twelve different gods with twelve different representations for each. Make sure you find a priest to narrate versatile and interesting stories and descriptions about this place.
Velavadar Blackbuck National Park
It was established in1976and covers a very small area of around 34.08 km2. It has a grassland ecosystem with successful conservation programs for the Blackbucks and also local wolves. If you are found of deers, this place is meant for you only. Apart from antelopes this place also comprises 120 species of birds which includes Siberia from wintering harriers. And, among the group of antelopes, you may also get to see blue bulls, India’s largest antelope.
Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary
Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is the biggest wetland sanctuary of birds in the state of Gujarat. A total of 200 different species of birds can be viewed here. A Ramsar site is an international recognition for wetland sites asserted by the Ramsar Convention. With its soothing atmosphere, one can enjoy things like picnics, horse rides, boat rides, and foodie rides in specialized huts where kathiyawadi thali is offered. While the entry fee for a foreigner is $10 on weekdays and $12.50 on weekends.
Statue of Unity
The statue of unity is a gigantic statue of Vallabhbhai Patel who was the first deputy Prime Minister home minister of Independent India from 1947 to 1950. He was an Indian statesman and an independence activist. This tremendous statue is divided into 5 zones, out of which only the first 3 are made accessible to the public. To travel easily inside it the government has built high-speed elevators that take people to the chest level of the statue which is up to 400 feet high from the ground. The entry ticket for an adult is Rs.120 and for children above 3 years is Rs.60.
Conclusion
Hence, Gujarat is certainly a must-visit place that has a lot to offer with endless attractive destinations. I hope you will surely visit the above-mentioned places during your Gujarat Tour. Apart from these attractions, the state also holds a pristine culture and heritage of India. It is an awesome location to plan a holiday for. Not to forget the food and embroidery items of Gujarat are also extraordinary. Appliquéd Quilts, Khadi, traditional Gagra-Cholis, and Patola Silk Sarees, Bandhnis also the exceptional handlooms and handicrafts.
Author Bio
Mrs. Meeta Shah
Leading female entrepreneur in the Travel Industry, “Mrs. Meeta Shah”, graduated in commerce from Bombay University. She has been awarded as the “Best Female Entrepreneur of India” in Tourism awards Gujarat. She is actively involved in key decisions and itinerary staff management in the travel industry. Progress of Flamingo Transworld Pvt. Ltd. is honored by her efforts and passion. Her contribution to India travel Guide is worth watching for travel lovers.
