Gujarat Travel Guide

Overview

Located on India’s western coast, Gujarat is a vibrant state known for its rich heritage, colorful festivals, architectural wonders, and natural beauty. It’s the land of Mahatma Gandhi, famous for its white desert, Asiatic lions, beaches, temples, and cuisine.

Top Places to Visit

1. Ahmedabad

  • Highlights: Sabarmati Ashram, Kankaria Lake, Adalaj Stepwell, Sidi Saiyyed Mosque.
  • Don’t Miss: Heritage walk through the old city (a UNESCO World Heritage City).
  • Best For: Culture, architecture, and history lovers.

2. Kutch (Rann of Kutch)

  • Highlights: White Salt Desert, Kalo Dungar, Mandvi Beach, Bhuj, Rann Utsav (Nov–Feb).
  • Don’t Miss: The spectacular Rann Utsav, where tents, folk dances, and moonlit nights on white sands create magic.
  • Best For: Photography, culture, and desert adventure.

3. Gir National Park

  • Highlights: Home to the Asiatic Lion, Jeep Safaris, Kamleshwar Dam.
  • Best Season: December to March (Park closed June–October).
  • Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

4. Dwarka

  • Highlights: Dwarkadhish Temple, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, Bet Dwarka Island.
  • Best For: Pilgrimage and spiritual tourism.

5. Somnath

  • Highlights: Somnath Temple (one of the 12 Jyotirlingas), Triveni Sangam, Prabhas Patan Museum.
  • Best For: Religious and cultural visits.

6. Statue of Unity (Kevadia)

  • Highlights: World’s tallest statue (182m), Sardar Sarovar Dam, Jungle Safari, Valley of Flowers, Laser Show.
  • Best For: Modern marvels and family trips.

7. Saputara

  • Highlights: Gujarat’s only hill station — lakes, gardens, and viewpoints.
  • Best For: Nature and relaxation.

8. Vadodara

  • Highlights: Laxmi Vilas Palace, Sayaji Gardens, Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park (UNESCO site).
  • Best For: Heritage and royal architecture.

Festivals of Gujarat

  • Navratri: 9 nights of Garba & Dandiya dance (Sept–Oct).
  • Rann Utsav: Cultural desert festival (Nov–Feb).
  • International Kite Festival (Uttarayan): 14th January.
  • Modhera Dance Festival: At Sun Temple (January).

Cuisine to Try

  • Dhokla, Khandvi, Fafda, Thepla, Handvo, Undhiyu, Khichdi, Jalebi, and Gujarati Thali.
  • Sweet Note: Try Basundi and Mohanthal.

Shopping

  • Bandhani sarees (from Kutch & Jamnagar)
  • Patola silk (Patan)
  • Embroidered handicrafts and mirror work textiles
  • Jewelry from Rajkot and Bhuj

Best Time to Visit

  • October to March — pleasant weather for sightseeing and festivals.
  • Avoid summer months (April–June) due to high temperatures.

How to Reach

  • By Air: Major airports at Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Rajkot, Bhavnagar, and Surat.
  • By Rail: Excellent connectivity across India.
  • By Road: Well-developed highways; ideal for road trips.

Suggested Itinerary (7 Days)

Day 1-2: Ahmedabad – Heritage walk, Sabarmati Ashram, Adalaj Stepwell
Day 3: Patan & Modhera – Sun Temple & Patola weaving
Day 4-5: Bhuj & Rann of Kutch – Desert, White Rann, Rann Utsav
Day 6: Dwarka – Temple visit & Bet Dwarka
Day 7: Somnath – Jyotirlinga Temple & beach sunset