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Gujarat, on the western coast of India, is a land of history, culture and landscape. Also, the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi is brimming with beautiful architecture, crystal-clear waters, lush wildlife reserves, and festive celebrations. With the help of this Gujarat travel guide, you will learn about popular places to visit, places to eat and the best hotels during your Gujarat tour.
About Gujarat
Photo: Shivam Mistry / Unsplash
Gujarat lies in western India, bounded by Rajasthan in the northeast, Maharashtra in the south and the Arabian Sea in the west. It also shares an international border with Pakistan. It is strategically placed and has more than 1,600km of coastline, which gives it one of the busiest ports in India, along with the most attractive beaches. Gujarat is accessible to all the major cities in India; it is a gateway for foreign tourists due to its proximity to the Middle East.
No matter if you are a history enthusiast, nature lover or foodie, Gujarat offers something different. From Rann of Kutch to the grandeur of Gir National Park, everything in this state is an adventure waiting for you.
How To Reach
Photo: Apurba Biswas / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: Gujarat has multiple airports, with Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad being the busiest. Other major airports include Vadodara, Surat, and Rajkot, all of which connect to major Indian cities.
By Road: The state has a well-maintained network of national and state highways. Regular buses, taxis, and private vehicles make it easy to travel from neighbouring states.
By Rail: Gujarat’s extensive railway network links it to the rest of India. Ahmedabad, Vadodara, and Surat are major railway hubs with frequent train services.
Top 7 Places To Visit In Gujarat
Gujarat boasts diverse attractions, explore these with the Gujarat travel guide. Here are the top 7 places to explore:
1. Rann Of Kutch
Photo: Prof Ranga Sai / Wikimedia Commons
The Rann of Kutch is an immense white salt desert that celebrates its existence in the Rann Utsav, an annual cultural festival. At more than 7,500 square kilometres, the arid environment affords psychedelic views of the white desert under the moon. Festival attendees can take camel rides, listen to traditional folk songs and stay in lux tents. For those who love adventure, hot air balloon rides and ATV drives are great. The surrounding villages of Hodka and Dhordo provide a glimpse of Kutchi arts and crafts, mud huts and food.
Location: Kutch District
Best Time To Visit: November to February (during Rann Utsav)
2. Gir National Park
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Gir National Park is 1,400 sq km of wildlife’s heaven. It is known throughout the world as the sole breeding ground for the Asiatic lions. In addition to lions, the park is inhabited by leopards, antelope, hyenas and more than 300 bird species, making it a biodiversity hotspot. A jeep safari in the morning will get you the best glimpse of the park and give you the best chance to view lions at their best. The park’s dense teak forests, grasslands and lakes add to its charm.
Location: Junagadh District
Best Time To Visit: October to March
3. Somnath Temple
Photo: B. SurajPatro1997 / Wikimedia Commons
The Somnath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, is a monument of antiquity and a Hindu pilgrimage site. The temple is located on the Arabian Sea, which provides panoramic ocean views. The temple’s carved figures and carvings tell a story of India’s past. It was torn down and rebuilt many times, and it is a testament to perseverance. The facility is serene, the perfect setting for meditation and prayer. A visitor can attend the evening aarti and witness a beautiful sound and light performance that reflects the history of the temple.
Location: Veraval, Gir Somnath District
Best Time To Visit: October to March
4. Statue Of Unity
Photo: Pradeep717 / Wikimedia Commons
The world’s tallest statue is the Statue of Unity, built in memory of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, which measures 182 metres. The marvel of engineering is surrounded by attractions like the Valley of Flowers, Sardar Sarovar Dam, and Statue of Unity Tent City. The viewing room provides a panoramic view of the Narmada River and its environs. You can visit the museum to see Patel’s role in the freedom struggle of India. River cruises, adventure sports and helicopter tours enhance the experience.
Location: Kevadia, Narmada District
Best Time To Visit: October to March
5. Dwarkadhish Temple
Photo: Kridha20 / Wikimedia Commons
Jagat Mandir or Dwarkadhish Temple is a famous temple of Lord Krishna. This 2,500-year-old temple is made of fine sandstone, with intricate carvings and a spire visible from a distance. They visit here to get into the spirit of things, particularly during Janmashtami festivals. The temple is near the junction of the Gomti river and the Arabian Sea, which is very quiet. Other places of interest in the area are Bet Dwarka Island, Gopi Talav, and Nageshwar Jyotirlinga.
Location: Dwarka, Devbhoomi Dwarka District
Best Time To Visit: October to March
6. Saputara Hill Station
Photo: ritesh169O / Wikimedia Commons
Saputara, Gujarat’s sole hill station, is situated in the luxuriant Western Ghats and is the ideal place to escape the heat. The hill station is brimming with green forests, waterfalls, and peaceful lakes. Trekking, paragliding, and boating can be enjoyed at Saputara Lake. If you are looking for a cultural experience, the Saputara Tribal Museum displays the tribal culture of the area. Nature lovers should not ignore sunrise and sunset points, where the valleys are stunningly seen. Gira Waterfalls and Vansda National Park are nearby, further cementing Saputara’s appeal as a whole-body travel experience for all ages.
Location: Dang District
Best Time To Visit: March to November
7. Ahmedabad
Photo: Pk Pratham ( Pratik Patel ) / Wikimedia Commons
Ahmedabad, Gujarat’s cultural capital, is both modern and old. For history enthusiasts, the historical Sabarmati Ashram gives a glimpse of Mahatma Gandhi’s life and teachings. Buildings such as the Adalaj Stepwell and the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque are tourist attractions. The city’s famous bazaar, Manek Chowk, turns into a foodie’s paradise at night, serving bhaji pav and kulfi. Ahmedabad is also famous for its exclusive places, such as the Auto World Vintage Car Museum and the Calico Museum of Textiles.
Location: Ahmedabad District
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Where To Eat
Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons
Gujarat is an amazing culinary journey that offers you delicious vegetarian food and activates your taste buds. This includes the Gujarati thali, dhokla, undhiyu, khandvi, thepla, and farsan. Agashiye in Ahmedabad and Sasumaa in Vadodara are two popular destinations to indulge in the traditional Gujarati cuisine. Street snacks such as fafda-jalebi, bhaji pav and dabeli are served at Manek Chowk in Ahmedabad and Chowpatty in Surat. Those who love sweets must visit local desserts, like shrikhand, basundi, and mohanthal, available in every sugar store.
Where To Stay
Photo: Mky Moody / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Whether you prefer high-end resorts or budget guesthouses, Gujarat can accommodate every kind of traveller. To indulge yourself, go for homes such as The Taj Skyline in Ahmedabad or Tent City in the Rann of Kutch. Saputara eco-resorts or Gir Forest lodges offer a distinctive experience in the natural environment. In towns such as Vadodara, Surat, and Rajkot, low-end tourists can stay in government guesthouses or middle-class hotels. For a more authentic experience, you can go for a homestay in Hodka village, where traditional hospitality is offered.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Aby Zachariah / Unsplash
Average Cost Of The Trip
The average cost of a trip to Gujarat can range between ₹15,000 to ₹30,000 per person for a week, depending on your travel style and activities. This includes expenses for transportation, accommodation, meals, and sightseeing. Budget travelers can find affordable stays and local eateries, while those seeking luxury experiences may spend ₹35,000 or more. Planning wisely can ensure a memorable trip while accommodating various budgets and interests.
Tips For Travellers
- While major cities accept digital payments, rural areas and small vendors may require cash.
- Autos and buses are budget-friendly and convenient for exploring cities.
- Plan your visit during festivals like Navratri or Rann Utsav for a convenient experience.
Gujarat is rich in history, culture and natural beauty. From ancient temples to modern architectural monuments, everything in this lively state has its own narrative. Using this Gujarat travel guide, you can visit the entire Gujarat, tasting its traditions and hospitality. So pack your bags and be ready for a journey in an epic fashion through the Jewel of Western India! Plan your Gujarat trip with TripXL now.
Cover Photo: Hardik Joshi / Unsplash
