Fantastic old townOne of the serene and oldest towns of India is Gujarat’s Ahmedabad. It is also the 6th largest city of India and is definitely the key economic hub of country. The historic old city, monuments, narrow cities and havelis are definitely the most important places to see.
World famous textilesThe textiles of Gujarat are known across the nation. It has a rich tradition of hand-block printing, quality weaving and unique Kutch embroidery. Most important of these is the tie-and-dye fabrics. The hand painted clothes of Gujarat are available in an array of colors like red, maroon, black and ochre colors. Shopping for the Patola silk sarees is a must in Gujarat. You can plan a visit to Surat that is largely known for the zari or the gold thread embroidery as well as silk sarees. Other important things to buy include rugs, woolen shawls and the blankets that are created in Jamnagar. Ahmedabad also has a textile museum that has a major calico collection.
CuisinesEvery state in India has a distinct flavor and fantastic dishes that draws tourists from across the country. Some of the best dishes of Gujarat are jalebi, khaman dhokla, fafda, bajri no rotlo, kadhi, puran poli, khandvi, sukhadi, and more. When in Gujarat, do try some of these dishes.
FestivalsGujarat is incredible popular for its festivals. Anyone can fall in love with the festivals of Gujarat especially when are celebrated here. Some of the most celebrated events and festivals of Gujarat are - Modhera dance festival, Navratri festival and International kite festival. In the Navratri festival there is dandiya and garga dance done in full fervor which is a festivity in itself. Fairs like tarnetar and bhavnath fair are also organized in Gujarat.
Ethnic diversityPeople in Gujarat are definitely the most diverse in India. Gujarat has a number of ethnic groups residing in tribal villages like Bharad, Adivacyi and Garacia that are all co existing with each other. Women of these region are known for producing some of the most remarkable textiles in the country.
Splendid isolationGujarat is relatively away from the tourist radar. This is one important reason why it sees a farily less amount of tourists as compared to the other states of India. For anyone planning to explore a place that is not marred by frequent tourism, this is your go to place.
India in one stateIf you have to see India in one state, you have to spend some holidays in Gujarat. Royal palaces of Gujarat are as impressive as the ones you find in Rajasthan. There are also some that offer great accommodation facilities for the tourists. You can find old forts, amazing temples, colorfully dressed locals, palaces and extraordinary geological formations like the salt flats seen at the Rann of Kutch.
Scenic landscapesThe splendid landscape of the Rann of Kutch is widely known for its wildlife. It seasonal salf marsh of the Thar Desert has a lot on offer. The radically arid area that borders Pakistan is also a home to different tribal groups and the wildlife sanctuaries.
Extensive coastlineGujarat has a vast coastline of 1600 km. This provides you a number of opportunities to stay in tented camps on the private beaches.
WildlifeRann of Kutch has a wildlife that is beautiful. Some of the incredible beings found here include wild asses, flamingos and a range of exotic birds. When here, do plan a visit to the Gir Forest (known for the Asiatic lions) and Jessore Sanctuary (known for its sloth bears).
Palitana templesPalitana’s Jain temples are important places to see in Gujarat. You can find more than 3000 temples that have been carved exquisitely using marble. This also is the largest temple complex of earth.
Laxmi Vilas PalaceThe huge palace of Baroda is known for being the largest private dwelling ever built. In addition to Hyderabad, Mysore, Gwalior and Kashmir, Baroda was also the ‘21 gun salute’ state during the British times. Extravagant and exquisite Laxmi Vilas Palace brings forth the status and wealth of Baroda.
