55 Places to Visit near Rajkot within 300 kms

Often called the Jaisalmer of Gujarat, Bhuj is one of the places to visit in Gujarat, and can be visited along with Kutch tour packages. It is situated about 78 km from Kutch, 232 km from Rajkot, and 334 km from Ahmedabad.

Located in the western part of India, Bhuj is the most important city in the Kutch region of Gujarat and also the capital of the former princely state of Kutch. Bhuj is a treat to the eyes of visitors as it offers everything from white desert to beautiful temples and from wildlife sanctuaries to the cultural landscape as part of Bhuj packages.

Shree Swaminarayan Temple, Bhujia Hill Fort, Aina Mahal, Prag Mahal Palace, Hiralakshmi Memorial Craft Park, Kutch Fossil Park, Tapkeshwari Temple, and Rudramata Dam are some of the top tourist places in Bhuj. It also has the oldest museum in the state of Gujarat. Apart from the tourist places, Bhuj is also very famous for its traditional handicrafts and embroidery.

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Patan is an ancient fortified city located on the banks of Saraswati River in Gujarat, India. It is one of the popular heritage destinations in India. Situated about 129 km from Ahmedabad, it can be visited along with Ahmedabad tour packages.

The city is shielded by the fort walls and gates, which prevents the ancestral aura and old-world charm from escaping. From medieval forts to an ancient Kali temple built in the Solanki dynasty, Patan has many attractions that lure tourists as part of Patan packages. Rani ki Vav or the Queen's stepwell has the unique most architectural attributes and is the must-visit place in Patan. Sahasralinga Sarovar, Panchasara Parshwanath Jain Derasar, Khan Sarovar, Shankeshwar Jain Thirth, etc. are the other popular tourist places in Patan.

Besides, Patan is also famous for Patola sarees, one of the finest hand-made textiles in the world. It has its origin in a very intricate and difficult technique of tie-dyeing and knot dyeing known as 'Bandhani'. It has gorgeous colors, designs, and durability and is one of a kind. Costs start from Rs. 20,000 which may go up to Rs. 20,00,000 depending on work done and thread used. Only two families are making Patola Sarees nowadays.

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Mandvi is a little town on the coast of the Arabian Sea in the Kutch district of Gujarat. Situated at the estuary where the river Rukmavati meets the Gulf of Kutch, it is one of the popular places to visit near Rajkot, especially for beach lovers. It is located about 64 km from Bhuj, 281 km from Rajkot, and 386 km from Ahmedabad.

Famous for its ship-building and cottage industries, the port town of Mandvi was founded in 1580 AD by Rao Khengarji, the first Jadeja ruler of Kutch. Being a seaside town, Mandvi has been blessed with a vast expanse of clean beaches that are the prime attractions of Mandvi packages.

Vijay Vilas Palace, Shyamji Krishna Varma Memorial, 72 Jainalaya, and Mazar-e-Noorani are the other famous tourist places in Mandvi. Mandvi is also a well-known center for the production of country crafts.

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Located on the banks of Vishwamitri River, Vadodara is a beautiful city in the western Indian state of Gujarat. Situated at a distance of 109 km from Ahmedabad, it is one of the popular places to visit in gujarat, and can be visited along with Ahmedabad tour packages.

Formerly called Baroda, Vadodara is the third-largest city in Gujarat, after Ahmedabad and Surat. The architectural brilliance of the city is the major highlight of Vadodara holiday packages. The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Lakshmi Vilas Palace, Baroda Museum, Kirti Mandir, and Sayajirao Gaekwad hospital are some of the notable architectural monuments in Vadodara. Besides, Sayaji Baug, Sursagar Lake, Nyay Mandir, EME Temple, Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, etc. are some of the prominent tourist places in Vadodara.

Often called the Cultural Capital of Gujarat, the city of Baroda comes alive during the Navratri celebrations. No city in India celebrates the festival of Navratri with as much zeal and energy as Vadodara does.

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With the Thar Desert on one side and the Arabian Sea on the other side, Rann of Kutch is a spellbinding marvel of sand and salt. About 80 km from Bhuj, and 413 km from Ahmedabad, it is one of the top places to visit in India, and among the must include places in Gujarat packages.

It lies between the Gulf of Kutch and the Indus River in Pakistan and comprises flatlands of salty clay located about 15 meters above sea level. A large part of the Kutch, commonly known as the Great Rann of Kutch, submerges in water during the rainy season and becomes dry during the winter season. Spread over an area of 7500 sq. km, the Great Rann of Kutch, formed of salt marshes, is considered one of the largest salt deserts in the world and among the most popular tourist places in Kutch.

Besides, one can also visit Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, Narayan Sarovar & Sanctuary, Kalo Dungar, Siyot Caves, Chhari Dandh Bird Sanctuary, Kutch Bustard Sanctuary, etc. as part of Kutch tour packages. It can be visited along with Bhuj tour packages.

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At a distance of 29 km from Ahmedabad Junction, Swaminarayan Akshardham is a Hindu temple located in Gandhinagar city of Gujarat State. It is one of the most magnificent temples in India, and among the top attractions in Ahmedabad.

Dedicated to Swaminarayan, Akshardham Temple was commissioned by Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) after initiation by its promoter, Pramukh Swami Maharaj in 1979. It took 13 years to complete and was inaugurated in 1992. It is a Hindu house of worship and a spiritual and cultural campus dedicated to devotion, education, and unification. A specimen of fine craftsmanship, the Akshardham Temple in Gandhinagar is one of the largest and most prominent temples in Gujarat state.

Sprawling across an area of 23 acres, the temple complex consists of a splendid shrine, large prayer halls, exhibition halls, verdant garden, and research center. Built by using tons of pink stones, this gigantic temple is 108 feet in height, 240 feet long, and 131 feet wide. The Akshardham mandir consists of 97 intricately carved pillars, 17 ornate domes, 220 stone beams, 57 stone screens, 3 porticos, and 256 statues of spiritual personalities. The temple is found amid the spacious garden called Sahajanand Van. It is one of the must-visit places during Ahmedabad trip.

The ...

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At a distance of 15 km from Dwarka, Nageshwar Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located at Nageshwar village in Gujarat. Also known as Nagnath Temple, it is one of the popular pilgrimage sites near Ahmedabad, and among the prominent places to visit as part of Dwarka sightseeing packages.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Nageshwar Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples of Lord Shiva, and among the oldest temples mentioned in the Shiva Purana. The Jyotirlinga has a special significance in Nageshwar as this is believed to be the first of all 12 Jyotirlingas. The swayambhu lingam enshrined in the underground chamber at Nageshwar Temple is known as Nageshwar Mahadev and attracts thousands of pilgrims all-round the year. This powerful Jyotirlinga symbolizes protection from all poisons and is believed that one who prays here obtains freedom from all kinds of poison including snake poison.

Nageshwar is referred to as 'Daarukaavane Naagesham' in the ancient slokas of Rudra Samhita. According to the legend, there once lived a demon called Daruka, who was extremely cruel and tortured the people. One day he captured a Shiva devotee called Supriya along with many others. The prisoners were held in an underwater city that swarmed with sea snakes. Supriya advised all prisoners to recite the Shiva mantra 'Aum Namaha Shivayay' to protect them. When Daruka came to know ...

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At a distance of 21 km from Ahmedabad Junction, Adalaj Stepwell, also called Adalaj ni Vav is a stepwell located in the village of Adalaj near Ahmedabad city of Gujarat. It is one of the famous places of heritage in Gujarat, and among the must-include places in Ahmedabad tour packages.

Also known as Rudabai Stepwell, Adalaj Stepwell was built in 1499 by Queen Rudabai, wife of Vaghela chief, Veer Singh. According to history, the construction of stepwell was started by King Rana Veer Singh and he died in a war with King Mahmud Begada unfortunately. Begada fell for the beauty of the widowed Queen Rudabai and asked her to marry him. The Queen agreed to marry Begada on the condition that he completes the construction of the stepwell that was started by her husband. He agreed and started the construction again. When the well got completed, Rani Rudabai jumped into the vav and committed suicide.

Regarded as one of the major Ahmedabad tourist places, the stepwell is built in the Solanki style of architecture with Islamic influence. It consists of five storeys, each of which is uniquely designed with beautiful carvings all over the walls and columns. The structure was built along the North-South axis with the entrance from the south. The stepwell is one of its kinds in Gujarat as it has three entrance ...

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At a distance of 13 km from Dwarka and 23 km from Okha, Shivrajpur Beach is a serene beach located near Shivrajpur village on the Arabian coast of Gujarat. Situated on Dwarka - Okha Highway, it is one of the famous beaches near Ahmedabad, and among the must-visit places as part of Dwarka holiday packages.

Shivrajpur Beach is a beautiful beach with clear waters and white sands. The beach offers stunning sunsets and picturesque views to tourists. Regarded as one of the best places of sightseeing in Dwarka, the beach is not much commercialized which makes it an ideal place to spend some peaceful time with family and friends. One can spot Dolphins and some beautiful birds on the sea here. For making it an ideal tourist destination, the beach management has introduced water sports, food, and shopping areas for the visitors. Be careful while venturing into the water as there is no rescue team available.

There is also a lighthouse near the beach. The ruler of Kachchh Maharao Deshalji built a small fort along with an 11m high black masonry unlit beacon known as Mojap beacon in 1720-21 here to provide shelter and safety to the Kachchhi vessels. A battery-operated flashing light was installed and operated on the top of the cabin since 1977 and was the first light in this region. This followed ...

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At a distance of 33 km from Dwarka Railway Station, Beyt Dwarka is an inhabited island located off the coast of Dwarka on Gulf of Kutch. Also known as Beyt Shankhodhar, it was one of the main ports of the town before the development of Okha and is among the popular places to visit in Dwarka.

Bet Dwarka or Beyt Dwarka is an extremely sacred pilgrimage destination as it is believed to be the original home of Lord Krishna during his ruling years at Dwarka. It is said that lord Krishna resided with his family at Bet Dwarka. The place derived its name from the word 'beyt' which means meeting and this is the place where Sudhama came to meet his friend Lord Krishna. Beyt Dwarka is also mentioned in the ancient epic, 'Mahabharata' as 'Antardvipa' to which people of the Yadava clan needed to travel by boat. The island is also known as Shankhodhar as the island is source of conch shells.

The ASI explorations revealed that the presence of certain settlements whose age can be traced back to the era of the Harappan civilization and that of the Mauryan rule. Dwarka is mentioned in the copper inscription dated 574 AD of Simhaditya, the minister of Vallabhi under Maitraka. The region was previously under the administration of the Gaekwad clan of the state of Baroda. During the revolt of 1857, Vaghers attacked the region and captured it. After independence of India in 1947, the region became part of the Saurashtra state which later merged with the state of Bombay. When the state ...

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At a distance of 28 km from Bhavnagar, Malnath Shiva Temple is a Hindu Temple located near Bhavnagar, Gujarat. Situated on Bhavnagar - Talaja Road, it is one of popular Shiva temples in Bhavnagar and among the best places to visit as part of Bhavnagar Tour Packages.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is beautifully positioned in the middle of green slopes and streaming waterways. The temple is built in the traditional Gujarati architecture and houses a rock-carved Shivalinga in the sanctum. The tranquility inside the temple along with the lush green environment is bound to take a visitor away from the routine life. A walk around the temple after paying respect to the Lord is quite refreshing. One can also find the idols of Goddess Durga, Lord Ganesh, Lord Krishna, and Lord Hanuman inside the temple.

Malnath Shiv Temple is surrounded by Nature. Lush verdant greenery, a waterfall, several windmills and wind farm make it an ideal place for a picnic with friends and family alike. The landscape is breathtaking and energizing to the mind. Dhavdi Mata Mandir is another temple in the neighborhood. Nag-dhaniba, a picnic point on a riverbank, is a favorite spot for the families. The adventurous lot can go on trekking over the hill slopes nearby.

The best time to visit Malnath Shiv Temple is between October and March when the weather is fairly cool and the surroundings are come alive with lush greenery and meandering streams. One can reach Malnath Temple by local buses ...

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At a distance of 24 km from Bhavnagar, Trambak Falls is a stunning waterfall located at Trambak village in Bhavnagar district of Gujarat. Situated near Malnath Mahadev Temple, it is one of the beautiful waterfalls in Gujarat, and among the best Bhavnagar places to visit.

Trambak Falls is situated on a small mountain surrounded by a little forest. It cascades down from a height of about 30 feet and creates a natural pool as it hit the ground. Serene ambiance, the roaring sound of gushing waters, lush greenery, rocky hills, and the secluded nature make it a popular picnic spot for the people of Bhavnagar as well as tourists during their Bhavnagar trip.

Trambak Falls is visited by many tourists daily. Children can spend time playing under the shade of trees while the elders can enjoy the beauty of nature. For the adventurous, there are trekking trails at Trambak from nearby Malnath Shiva Temple there is a 5 km trail to Trambak Falls.

The best time to visit and explore the verdant beauty of the waterfall is during the monsoon season. During this season, water splashes down at its full swing making the entire ambiance refreshing and rejuvenating. Be careful as the falls can be unpredictable and slippery. It is not a developed place so better to carry your own food and water.

Timings: ...

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At a distance of 28 km from Bhavnagar Railway Station, Nishkalank Mahadev Temple is a Hindu temple located at Koliyak near Bhavnagar, Gujarat. Situated in Koliyak Beach, it is one of the rarest sea temples in India you must include in your Gujarat trip and among the most visited places of pilgrimage in Bhavnagar.

Located about a kilometer into the sea, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple has 5 distinct swayambhu Shiva lingams on a square platform and each is having a Nandi statue facing it. This temple is submerged during high tides in the sea and emerges during low tides to reveal itself majestically, promising its devotees to wash away all sins. During the high tide, the idol of the lord is submerged and all that can be seen are the flag and a pillar. The temple was built with special care to withstand high tides and is truly remains an unsolved mystery to modern engineers and technology experts.

The temple is believed to be built by the Pandavas after the Kurukshetra War. Legend says that after killing all the Kauravas, Pandavas began to feel guilty for their sins. To discover reclamation for their sins, Pandavas consulted Krishna who handed them a black flag and a black cow and asked them to trail and said when both the flag and the cow turn white, they will all be forgiven. Lord Krishna also asked them to apologize to Lord Shiva after that. They followed the cow everywhere it took them and acknowledged ...

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At a distance of 26 km from Bhavnagar, Ghogha Beach is a stunning beach on the coast of Gulf of Kutch at Ghogha town in Bhavnagar district of Gujarat. It is one of the popular beaches in Gujarat, and among the most visited tourist attractions in Bhavnagar.

With golden sands, restless water waves hitting the sand every now and then, Ghogha Beach offers spectacular views of the Arabian Sea. The coastline at Ghogha that stretches for about a km is highly popular with the local people who visit the spot with family and friends to laze off and relax in the sun as part of Bhavnagar tour. The low tides gently hitting the rocky shore, the mesmerizing sunrise, and captivating sunset will surely make you fall in love with the place.

Ghogha Beach is a great place for long walks. As this beach is not very developed from the viewpoint of commercial tourism, you won't find too many tourists hanging around the place. So, if you are looking for an offbeat destination where you will be able to unwind in complete isolation, Ghogha beach is the location you should be heading to. One can also visit Hazrat Pir Dargah and Barwada Masjid while in Ghogha. The ancient Barwada Masjid was built in 623 AD and is one of the oldest mosques in India. This mosque, therefore, predates all the other mosques in India whose ...

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At a distance of 9 km from Ghogha and 30 km from Bhavnagar Railway Station, Kuda Beach is a stunning beach in the Gulf of Cambay at Kuda village near Bhavnagar. Situated between Ghogha and Koliyak, it is one of the famous beaches on Gujarat Coastline and is one of the best places to visit near Bhavnagar.

Kuda Beach is a soft sandy beach that stretches about 2 km long. The gentle waves, clear skies, and the sandy shores make this beach a superb place to spend some quality time with friends and family. The beach is suitable for swimming, sunbathing and long walks. The beach is best visited during the day time as the sea sands are all over which makes the exciting sunbathing experience. Besides, the beach offers mesmerizing views of the setting sun.

Usually, people visit the beach during the summers to ease the heat and enjoy the serene surroundings. Some kathiyawadi food outlets are available nearby. One can also visit the temple of Nishkalank Mahadev located close to the beach.

Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM

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At a distance of 6 km from Ghogha and 30 km from Bhavnagar, Piram Bet is a small island in the Gulf of Cambay, Gujarat. Also called Piram Island, it is one of the beautiful islands on the coastline of Gujarat and among the best places to visit during your Bhavnagar trip.

The Piram Bet Island is covering over an area of about 186 acres. History says that the island was under Muslim soldiers of Delhi Sultanate in the early 14th century and was captured by Mokhadaji Gohil, the Gohil chief of Umrala in 1325 CE. He made the island as his headquarters, built a fort and levied toll from all ships passing up the Gulf of Cambay. He became a noted pirate in Gulf. His demands came to the knowledge of the emperor Muhammad bin Tughlaq who was then quelling a revolt in Gujarat. He killed Mokhadaji in 1347 CE and destroyed the fort of Piram Island. The island fell into obscurity after the destruction of the fort. Later in 1729, Mulla Muhammad Ali, a merchant from Surat, built a fort on Piram Bet with an intention to establish himself as an independent chief. Subsequently, it falls under the royal family of Bhavnagar State who had built a bastion on the south west corner of the island to keep watch on the maritime activities.

The British built the 24m high circular masonry lighthouse tower on the bastion in 1864 CE. The lighthouse and quarters are now owned by Directorate General of Lighthouse and Lightships, Government of India which was the only settlement on the island and was ...

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At a distance of 45 km from Bhavnagar, Blackbuck National Park is a national park located at Velavadar in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat. Also known as Velavadar Blackbuck National Park, it is one of the famous places of wildlife in Gujarat, and among the must include places in Bhavnagar holiday packages.

Velavadar National Park was formerly the private hunting ground for the Maharajas of the princely state of Bhavnagar. With an area of about 18 sq. km, it was declared as a reserve forest and later notified as a National Park in 1976 CE. In 1980 the area was extended to cover about 34 Sq. km of grassland. The park has been classified as Gujarat-Rajwada biotic province of the semi-arid bio-geographical zone due to its unique ecosystem which consists of exclusive grassland habitat, shrublands, saline plains, and mudflats. The park lies between two rivers namely Parvalia and Alang, which drain into the Gulf of Cambay.

Among the major Bhavnagar tourist places, the park has been established for the protection of the blackbucks and has the highest number of blackbucks in India. More than 3, 000 blackbucks exist on the open grasslands of Velavadar. The sanctuary is also home to other animals like nilgai, jackal, wolf, jungle cat, and fox. Besides, one can also spot many bird species which include ...

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At a distance of 96 km from Bhavnagar, Mahuva is a town on the Arabian Sea coast in Bhavnagar district of Gujarat. It is one of the beautiful places to visit near Bhavnagar.

Often called the Kashmir of Saurashtra, Mahuva is known for its mild weather and lush green surroundings. Tourists are primarily attracted to the beach in the town. Mahuva Beach is well known for its tranquil waters and natural beauty. The beach is also called as Bhavani Beach owing to the ancient Bhavani Mata Temple located atop a dune in its sandy shores. The area surrounding the beach and the township is incredibly verdant and the countryside is dotted with coconut and palm trees offering the perfect ambiance for relaxation to visitors. One can take a dip in the cool waters of the Arabian Sea and go for a long walk along the shoreline in order to fully rejuvenate oneself.

Besides, Mahuva is home to a thriving agribusiness industry, with an emphasis on enterprises that dehydrate vegetables such as garlic and onions for use in processed foods. The place is also the residence of the Hindu preacher Morai Bapu. One can also visit Timbi Hanuman Temple and Pingleshwar village which is known for housing an ancient Shiv Linga submerged in the sea.

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At a distance of 41 km from Sanand and 69 km from Ahmedabad, Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is a protected bird sanctuary situated at Nalsarovar village in Gujarat. Nalsarovar is one of the largest wetland bird sanctuaries in India, and among the prime attractions of Ahmedabad sightseeing packages.

The Nalsarovar Lake and the wetlands around it were declared as a bird sanctuary in 1969. Covering an area of 120.82 Sq.km, it is a serene marshland with shallow waters which contains 36 small islands. It has been identified as one of the 15 important wetlands of India by the National Committee on Wetlands for intensive conservation. Lying in an area between Central Gujarat and East Saurashtra, it represents a sea link that once existed between the Little Rann and the Gulf of Khambat. The lake gets filled with water that drains from the adjoining Surendranagar and Ahmedabad districts in the monsoon.

Mainly inhabited by migratory birds as their wintering ground, Nalsarovar wetland is the largest wetland bird sanctuary in Gujarat, and one of the largest in India. Besides being one of the largest bird sanctuaries, Nalsarovar harbors one of the highest populations of waterfowl anywhere in India. One can find rosy pelicans, lesser and greater flamingos, crakes, brahminy ducks, purple moorhen, herons, white storks, various species of bitterns, grebes, etc. in the lake.

The best ...

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At a distance of 42 km from Nalsarovar and 79 km from Ahmedabad, Lothal is an excavated site situated Bhal region in Dholka of Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Lothal is one of the prominent cities of the ancient Indus valley civilization and among the best historical sites in Gujarat.

Literally called 'Mound of the Dead', this ancient and desolate ruined city of Lothal provides a fascinating insight into the life of the Harappan culture and the Indus Valley Civilization. The origin and history of Lothal can be dated back to 2400 BC. Discovered in the year 1954, Lothal is one of the primary sites of Archaeological Survey of India. The excavation work here began in 1955 and was continued till 1960.

Like other cities of the Indus Valley Civilization, Lothal too had an excellent architecture and town planning. Excavations have revealed that the town was divided into two parts. The upper part or the acropolis was where the ruler and other important people of the city lived while the lower part was meant for the common people. The entire city had a scientific drainage system, well laid-out, paved roads and a bath for every house, some of which were double storied and built on mud platforms.

The most architecturally sophisticated part of Lothal was its dockyard, which provided berthing facilities for the ships. Constructed from kiln-fired bricks, the dock comprised a basin 214 m long, 36 m wide, and 13 m deep. A 13 m wide channel on the northern side was included to facilitate ...

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At a distance of 40 km from Porbandar and 65 km from Dwarka, Harsiddhi Mata Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located atop Koylo Dungar hill at Gandhvi village near Porbandar, Gujarat. En route to Dwarka from Porbandar, it is one of the oldest temples in Gujarat, and among the popular places of sightseeing in Porbandar.

Also known as Harshal Mata Temple, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Harsiddhi, the Happy Mother. The goddess is considered one of the aspects of Amba and Kalika, the Hindu Devi. She is also known by the names like Harshal, Harshad, Harshat Shikotar, Sikotar Momai, and Vahanvati Mata. The original temple atop the hill is said to have been built by Krishna himself. Krishna wanted to defeat the demon Jarasandha, so he prayed to Amba Mata for more powers. With the blessings of the goddess, Krishna was able to defeat the Asuras. After his success in war Lord Krishna built this temple and celebrated the victory with his Yadav community, since then Yadav community worship Harsiddhi Mata as their Kuldevi. Also, she is worshiped as Kuldevi by many Kshatriya, Brahmin, Rajput, and Vaishya communities.

At present no puja is performed in the original temple while the puja is performed in a temple built in the market by a Jain merchant Jagdu Shah around 1300 AD. According to the legend, the temple of the goddess was on the hill overlooking ...

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At a distance of 17 km from Porbandar Railway Station, Jambavan Cave is an ancient cave located at Ranavav near Porbandar city of Gujarat. Situated near Saurashtra Cement Factory, it is one of the historical places in Gujarat and among the most visited tourist places in Porbandar.

Also known as Jambavant Cave or Jambuvant ki Gufa, this cave was the resting place of the warrior Jambuvan, who had his own special role in both the Hindu epics Ramayana and Mahabharata. It is believed that this is the place where Lord Krishna and Jambuvan fought for the Syamantaka jewel for 28 days. Legend says that Satrajit was the proud possessor of a precious gem named Syamantaka which had mystic powers. Once his brother Prasena went out in the forests for hunting wearing the jewel and was attacked by a lion to obtain Syamantaka. Later, the lion gets killed by Jambuvan who takes the precious stone from him and gives it to her daughter. On the other side, Satrajit accuses Lord Krishna for killing his brother just to gain the gem. On hearing this, Lord Krishna goes on the lookout of the actual killer and finally finds Jambuvan with whom he battles for 28 days. Recognizing Lord Krishna and his powers, Jambuvan withdraws from the fight and gives the gem and his daughter to the Lord.

Jambuvan Cave has over 50 Shivalingas which are formed naturally. The main shivalinga is inside a natural cave. Water drops from the ceiling of the cave trickle down over the linga in a continuous downpour, ...

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At a distance of 42 km from Porbandar, Ghumli is a small village located near Porbandar, Gujarat. Known for its archeological ruins, it is one of the popular places of heritage in Gujarat and among the prime tourist destinations to visit near Porbandar.

Earlier known as Bhumli, Ghumli was the capital of Saindhava dynasty which ruled western Saurashtra from the middle of the 8th century to the middle of the 10th century. Later in the 12th century, Ghumli was declared as the second capital by Rana Shiyaji of Jethwa dynasty, who took the title of Rana of Ghumli. Ghumli remained their capital till 1313 CE when Rana Bhanji Jethwa was defeated at a war with Barmaniyaji Jadeja attacked and defeated Rana Bhanji Jethwa. He completely destroyed Ghumli and turned it into ruins.

Being the prosperous capital of Saindhava and then the Jethwa dynasty of Saurashtra, Ghumli is now an important and preserved archaeological site due to its architectural ruins. The Archaeological Survey of India and Government of India have initiated a number of efforts to restore the lost glory of the town. Built-in the 12th century by the Jethwa rulers, Navlakha Temple is dedicated to Lord Surya and is considered to be the oldest Sun Temple of Gujarat. The temple is built in Solanki style of architecture with entwining tusk of three elephants as a trade mark of the temple. As the temple was constructed at a cost of nine lakh, it was named Navlakha Temple.

Just outside the main temple, there ...

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At a distance of 60 km from Porbandar, 74 km from Somnath, and 78 km from Junagadh, Madhavpur Beach is a stunning beach along the coast of Arabian Sea in Gujarat. Situated on Porbandar-Veraval Highway, it is one of the beautiful beaches in Gujarat and among the top places to visit near Porbandar.

Madhavpur Beach is indeed one of the loveliest sandy beaches in Gujarat as this stunning beach presents a visual that is hard to compare with anything else. Named after the ruler Madhav Rao, the beach has become popular amongst the other beaches because of its scheduled location. The beach is lined with coconut trees and the waters here are clear. It is home to a two-decade-long conservation project of Green Sea and Olive Ridley turtles.

Since the beach is less commercialized, it is very clean with azure blue waters that attract the people who want to spend some quality time with family and friends. Though the beach is not safe for swimming, one can try some activities like beach scooter, speed boating, parasailing, camel and horse rides here. The beach is well-endowed with the stalls of coconut water and snacks.

The town also hosts the beautiful Madhavraiji Haveli Temple and Rukmini no Choro. Legend has it that Lord Krishna married Rukmini right here in Madhavpur. This belief is kept alive through the holding of a fair every year. Madhavpur is also culturally significant due to one of the seats of Vallabhacharya who is the founder of Pushtimarg Vaishnava Hindu sect. ...

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At a distance of 5 km from Fulay village, 30 km from Nakhtrana and 61 km from Rann of Kutch, Chhari Dhand Bird Sanctuary is a wetland conservation reserve situated near Fulay village in Kutch district of Gujarat State in India. Located on the edge of arid Banni Grasslands and the marshy salt flats of the Rann of Kutch, it is one of the popular wetlands in Gujarat and among the best places to visit in Kutch.

The Chhari Dhand is a seasonal desert wetland and only gets swampy during a good monsoon, receiving water from the north flowing rivers as well as from the huge catchment areas of many surrounding big hills. Chhari means salt affected and Dhand means shallow wetland in local Kutchi language. The wetland was originally spread over 227 Sq. km, out of which 80 Sq. km was the water filled area. This place is a paradise for bird watchers and ornithologists as this seasonal desert wetland attracts nearly 200 species of migratory birds every year in the monsoon and winter seasons. Due to this rich biodiversity, the protected area of Chhari Dhand and some of its adjoining wetlands are under serious consideration for inclusion in the Ramsar Convention.

More than 50,000 waterfowls, 250 species of birds and 55 distinct species of animals have been recorded in and around Chhari Dhand. More than 30,000 common cranes have been reported during winter. Endangered species like Dalmatian Pelican, Oriental Darter, Black necked Stork and Indian Skimmer migrate through these wetlands ...

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At a distance of 25 km from Rapar, and 124 km from Bhuj, Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary is sanctuary located in the north eastern part of Kutch district in Gujarat. Situated in the Great Rann of Kutch, it is one of the famous places of wildlife in Gujarat, and among the popular places to visit as part of Rann of Kutch packages.

Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary was established in February 1986. Covering an area of about 7505 sq. km, this is the largest Wildlife Sanctuary in India area wise and one of the largest seasonal saline wetlands of Gujarat having an average water depth between 0.5 to 1.5 meters. But, after October-November, water dries up and the entire area turns into a saline desert where thousands of Flamingoes nest and breed. The sanctuary has four hilly and rocky islands ('bets') such as Pachchham, Khadir, Bela, and Chorar along with Kalo Dungar and Goro Dungar hills.

Considered among the most popular Rann of Kutch tourist places the sanctuary is mainly established to preserve the nesting ground of the flamingo or Greater Flamingo. The world-famous 'Flamingo City' is located in the mudflats of the Rann, at a distance of around 10 km from the Nir outpost on Kalo Dungar. Hundreds of greater flamingoes breed here, particularly ...

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At a distance of 92 km from Rapar, 222 km from Bhuj, and 300 km from Great Rann of Kutch, Dholavira is an archaeological site at Khadir Bet in the Kutch district of Gujarat. Managed by ASI, it is the most prominent archaeological site in India belonging to the Indus Valley Civilization and among the must-include places in Kutch packages.

Dholavira represents the ruins of an ancient city of the Harappan civilization that was inhabited over 1,200 years from 3000 BCE through 1800 BCE. It is the larger of the two most remarkable excavations of the Indus Valley Civilization or Harappan culture in India, the other being Lothal. Locally called Kotada, the 250-acre area of Dholavira sprawls across the Khadir Island of the Great Rann of Kutch and is part of the protected Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, among the top tourist places in Kutch.

The site was unearthed by the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) in 1967 but has been systematically excavated only since 1990. The excavated site of Dholavira demonstrates the ingenuity of Harappan people to evolve a highly organized system of town planning with perfected proportions, interrelation of functional areas, street-pattern, and an efficient water conservation system that supported life for more than 1200 years against harsh hot arid climate.

Lies between two seasonal streams, ...

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At a distance of 50 km from Surendranagar, 100 km from Ahmedabad, 238 km from Bhuj, and 320 km from Great Rann of Kutch, the Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary is a protected sanctuary located in the Little Rann of Kutch, Gujarat. Also known as the Wild Ass Wildlife Sanctuary, it is the largest wildlife sanctuary in Gujarat, and among the best places to visit near Ahmedabad for wildlife enthusiasts.

Spread over an area of 4954 sq. km, the Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary was established in 1972 and came under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. The Wild Ass Sanctuary of the Little Rann of Kutch is the only place on earth where the endangered Indian Wild Ass, known locally as the ghudkhar, still lives. One of the three surviving species of the Wild Ass in the world-the other two being found in Central Asia and in and around Tibet, the Khur is high on the list of endangered species. Known for its speed, the wild ass lives in herds led by stallions and survived by migrating between the grassy 'bets' through the season, in search of food. There are around 3000 wild asses in the sanctuary and can be best seen in and around October and November.

Apart from wild ass, the sanctuary is also home to 32 other species of mammals such as chinkara, two types of desert fox, jackals, caracals, nilgais, Indian wolves, blackbucks, and striped hyenas along with 350 different species of ...

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At a distance of 48 km from Mandvi, 51 km from Bhuj and 127 km from Rann of Kutch, Roha Fort is an ancient fort located on the outskirts of Roha village in Nakhatrana Taluk of Kutch, Gujarat. Also known as Roha Sumari Fort, it is one of the historical forts of Kutch and among the major Mandvi Tourist Places.

Located 800 feet above sea level on Roha Hill, Roha Fort is believed to have been built by Thakore Noganji. There are about 52 villages under this fort. Roha is also called Sumari Roha after the princesses from the Sumara state who took Samadhi here. After the British took control over the fort during the early 18th century several changes has been made in the fort through the approach of renovation. The British made two deep wells within the fort.

Covers an area of 16 acres, the fort appears like a temple and was mainly built with the use of stone and baked bricks. Over the years, most of the parts of the fort have destroyed from earthquake and lack of proper management. But one can see a temple at the bottom and another one at the top of a small hill. The famous poet of Gujarat, Kalapi, wrote romantic poems at Roha hill because atmosphere of Roha was peaceful and close to the nature with many peacocks and other birds which can be seen here even now.

Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM

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At a distance of 33 km from Gandhidham, 64 km from Bhuj, 66 km from Mandvi and 138 km from Gateway of Rann, Bhadreshwar Temple is a Jain temple situated at Bhadreshwar village in Kutch district of Gujarat. Also known as Vasai Jain Temple, it is one of the important Jain pilgrimage centers in Gujarat and among the famous places to visit in Bhuj.

Bhadreshwar Temple is believed to be one of the oldest Jain temples in India. According to legend, the foundation stone of this temple was laid down by a Jain layman named Devchandra, centuries ago, about 45 years after the death of Lord Mahavir, but there is no evidence to either support that claim. Although the temple have been renovated many times. The temple is said to be first renovated by King Sidhsen of Bhadrawati in 449 BC and then, the temple have been renovated and rehabilitated many times. The temple have been destroyed many times due to earthquakes of 1819, 1844, 1875, and 2001 but the chronicles of Mistris of Kutch renovated it every time.

Built in the line of Dilwara Temples, the temple complex has 53 shrines, a major central temple and 52 minor shrines around it, one of which reputedly holds the original Parshwanath idol from 500 BC. The main temple, facing east, is strikingly beautiful, in all white marble with majestic pillars. In the shrine are three white marble images. The central image of Lord Ajitnath, the second of the Tirthankars, is flanked by Lord Parshwanath with the snake hood in the right and Lord ...

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At a distance of 41 km from Junagadh and 66 km from Rajkot, Khambhalida Caves are the ancient rock-cut Buddhist caves situated at Khambhalida village in the Rajkot district of Gujarat. Also known as Rajkot Caves, it is one of the popular historical places to visit near Rajkot.

Dating back to the 4th or 5th century AD, the Khambhalida Caves are a group of three Buddhist caves situated at the foot of a small hill on the banks of a spring. These Caves were discovered in 1958 by P. P. Pandya, a prominent archeologist. It is said that they were carved in the limestone rocks by the Saint of Dinyan Branch of the Buddha tradition. It is also said that many Buddha Saints from Junagadh came to these caves for meditation and there is an inscription on a stone here that states Asoka might have come to this place for his meditation.

Among the three caves, the central one contains the stupa which is known as the chaitya cave. The entrance of the chaitya is flanked by two large sculptures of the Bodhisattvas. On the right is the figure of Padmapani under an Asoka-like tree with a female companion and five attendants. There is a yaksha-like dwarf on the left of it holding a basket. The figure on the left side of the entrance is probably Vajrapani and this sculpture is considered as one of the most ancient ones in India. The second such sculpture of Vajrapani came into existence 400-500 years thereafter at Cave No.2 of ...

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At a distance of 42 km from Rajkot Junction, the Rampara Wildlife Sanctuary is a dense woodland situated near Khijadiya village near Rajkot, Gujarat. It is one of the major places of wildlife in Gujarat, and among the best places to visit as part of Rajkot packages. It has been selected as an alternate place for the Asiatic lion breeding center in Gujarat.

A former shooting reserve owned by the erstwhile princely state of Wankaner, Rampara was acquired by the government in 1975, declared as a reserve forest in 1983, and notified as a Sanctuary in 1988 to protect the natural vegetation and the wildlife of the area. Covers over an area of around 15 sq. km, the sanctuary is located near the river of Machchhu, which is drained by two streams named Pat a gala vonklo and Vaghrigalo vonklo.

Among the best wildlife sanctuaries near Rajkot, the sanctuary has plain terrain in the middle with hillocks at the periphery and undulating terrain in between. The shrubby land spread with patches of grasses harbors a large number of species of plants, birds, and mammals. The Rampara Wildlife Sanctuary in Rajkot is renowned for housing an entire troop of mammoth antelopes, regarded as the Indian Blue Bulls, popularly addressed by the name 'Nilgai'. Other animals like wolf, jackal, hyena, common fox, and ...

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At a distance of 46 km from Junagadh and 60 km from Rajkot, Jalaram Bapa Mandir is a Hindu temple located in Virpur near Rajkot, Gujarat. Situated near Kodhaldham Temple, it is one of the popular places of pilgrimage in Gujarat and among the best places to visit in Rajkot.

Jalaram Bapa popularly known as Bapa was a Hindu saint born in 1799 to Pradhan Thakkar and Rajbai Thakkar in the village of Virpur, Gujarat. His mother Rajbai Thakkar was very fond of saints and sadhus and no saint could go from Virpur without receiving the hospitality of Rajbai. He was a devotee of the Hindu god Rama. At the age of 18, Jalaram Bapa became a disciple of Shri Bhojalram of Fatehpur. With blessings of his guru, he started 'Sadavrat', a feeding center for sadhus and saints as well as the needy. This tradition of feeding people continues to this day in Virpur.

The temple is an actual resident house of Jalaram Bapa where he lived till his last breath. The main attraction in the temple is the portrait picture of Jalaram Bapa and original photo of Bapa which has been taken before one year of his death. The idol of Bapa is in standing posture wearing a white turban and a dhoti- kurta and holding a stick in the left hand.

Jalaram Bapa's birthday is celebrated at the temple with great pomp every year on 7th day Shukla paksha of the Hindu month of Kartika. A huge fair is conducted at Virpur on the occasion and millions of devotees visit Virpur to pay their respect to the saint and have ...

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At a distance of 7 km from Virpur, 47 km from Junagadh and 67 km from Rajkot, Shree Kodhaldham Temple is a holy temple situated near Kavgad in Gujarat. Located on Virpur-Jetpur road, it is one of the popular religious places in Gujarat and among the must visit temples as part of Rajkot Packages.

Dedicated to Maa Khodiyar, the foundation stone for the temple was laid in the year 2012 and was opened for the public in 2017. Built by Shri Kodhaldham Trust of Leuva Patel community, Shree Khodaldham Temple is one of the largest comprehensive Hindu Temples, measures 299 feet long and 135 feet high. The temple houses the idols of Maa Khodiyar along with Maa Amba, Maa Bahuchar, Maa Verai, Maa Mahakali, Annapurna, Gaurtal, Randal, Butbhavani, Momai, Chamunda and Shihori.

Khodaldham has a distinctive architecture that displays the tradition of Leuva Patel community. Its unique architecture and spiritual aura make this temple a must visit for the devotees as well as tourists. Besides Khodaldham, one can also visit the temples of Shri Mahadeva, Shri Ram Darbar, Shri Radhakrishna, Shri Shrinathaji, Shri Ganesha and Shri Hanuman in Khodaldham temple complex. There is a big garden beside the temple maintained by the forest department, housed with many plants both medicinal, and flowering. The temple authorities also provide battery operated vehicles for senior citizens. Besides, refreshment stalls outside the temple provide snacks and local food items.

Timings: 6 AM - 9 ...

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At a distance of 25 km from Dwarka and 78 km from Porbandar, Okha Madhi Beach is a pristine beach on the Arabian Sea coast near Okha Madhi village in Gujarat. Located on Dwarka - Porbandar Highway, it is one of the secluded beaches in Gujarat and among the best places to visit in Dwarka.

Okha Madhi or Madhi is a beautiful coastal area located between Bhatiya and Dwarka and is very isolated marine site. If you are looking for the less crowded beach then Okha Madhi or Nexon Beach is the best place for you. The tidy, long beach with thunderous waves, golden sands, coral reefs and clean blue water is an ideal destination to have fun with family and friends in peace. Also known as Bechtel Beach, this beach is famous for turtle conservation.

Swimming is not safe at this location as tides are really huge at times. Being a secluded place, there is no shops so better to carry water and snacks. Hotels are available within a few kilometers.

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At a distance of 29 km from Una, 66 km from Sasan Gir, and 76 km from Amreli, Tulsi Shyam Temple is a Hindu temple situated at Tulsishyam in Gujarat. It is one of the revered temples in this region of Gujarat and among the must-visit places as part of Gir packages.

Dedicated to Lord Krishna, Tulsi Shyam Temple is a well-known temple located inside the Gir National Park. Legend says that Lord Krishna eliminated the demon called Tul and so the place is associated with his name along with that of Krishna as Shyam as Tulsishyam. The idol of Lord Tulsishyam is said to be 3000 years old made out of black stone. Visitors need to climb 100 steep steps to reach the temple from the parking. There is also a temple dedicated to Goddess Rukmini Devi on a small hillock near the main temple.

There are three hot sulphur springs that are believed to have healing powers. Of these, the 1st one is filled with hot water, the second one is filled with more hot water and the third water spring is having hot boiling water. Another attraction that draws people to this temple is the stretch of road near the temple famed for its Gravity Hill phenomenon. At the temple one will find boarding facilities at a nominal cost and food is provided by the trust at free of cost.

There are two approach routes to this place - one from Una is in a good state while the second one from Amreli is a bit longer and has a lot of potholes and ...

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At a distance of 10 km from Junagadh Junction, Girnar Hill is a sacred mountain situated in Junagadh, Gujarat. It is one of the popular Jain places of pilgrimage in Gujarat, and among the must-visit places as part of Junagadh Tour.

Spread over an area of about 70 miles, Mount Girnar is older than the Himalayas and the Jain temples upon it are amongst the most ancient in the country. It has five principal peaks Ambaji, Gorakhnath, Guru Dattatreya, Oghad Ansuya and Kalika. Out of these, Gorakhnath is situated at an altitude of 3672 feet and is the highest point in Gujarat. For centuries, Mount Girnar has been one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Gujarat and indeed in all of Western India, with 866 Hindu and Jain temples spread over its 5 summits. For Jains, this place is considered holy as this is the Nirvana Kshetra of 22nd Tirthankara Neminath and for Hindus, this place is considered holy as Dattatreya stayed here.

One will have to climb 10000 steps to reach the final summit. Trek to Girnar Hill starts from Girnar Talati, which is about 6 km from Junagadh Junction. While ascending the stone path that connects the temples along the 5 summits, one will pass temples of many different sects of Hinduism. Among the must-visit sightseeing places in Junagadh, the Bhavnath temple dedicated ...

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At a distance of 16 km from Jamnagar Railway Station, Khijadiya is a bird sanctuary located at Khijadiya Village in the Jamnagar district of Gujarat. Situated off the coast of Kutch, it is one of the popular bird sanctuaries in Gujarat, and among the must include places in Jamnagar sightseeing packages.

Covering an area of about 6 Sq.km, the Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary is unique having both freshwater lakes, salt, and freshwater marshlands. It was officially declared as a sanctuary in 1982. However, it became a natural habitat for local and migratory birds before India's independence when the then rulers constructed a small check dam on Ruparel River for storing the waters. This dam created a unique ecosphere with the freshwater lakes on one side and the salty water of the sea forming marshes on the other to support not only a variety of fauna but also flora. The main sanctuary covers the area around the Ruparel and Kalindi rivers towards the northeast of Jamnagar.

Among the major Jamnagar tourist places, the sanctuary is a true heaven for all bird lovers as it is home to more than 250 species of resident and migratory birds, including globally threatened species such as Dalmatian pelican, Asian openbill stork, Black-necked stork, Darter, Black-headed ibis, Eurasian spoonbill, and Indian skimmer. ...

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At a distance of 56 km from Jamnagar Railway Station, Narara Marine National Park is a marine wildlife sanctuary in the Gulf of Kutch near Jamnagar. Situated next to Vadinar Village, it is the first Marine national park in India, and among the top places of sightseeing in Jamnagar.

The Narara Marine National Park is one of the rare places in the world where one can look at corals without having to dive down into the water. About an area of 458 sq. km from Okha to Jodiya was declared as a Marine Sanctuary in 1980. Later, in 1982, about 163 Sq. km of core area was declared as a Marine National Park under the provisions of the Wildlife Act, 1972 of India.

There are 42 tropical islands on the Jamnagar coast in the Marine National Park, most of them surrounded by reefs. Out of which 33 islands have coral reefs. Some of the best-known islands are Pirotan, Karubhar, Narara, and Poshitra. There are islands with sandy beaches and mangrove swamps. Major ecosystem types available are coral reefs, mangroves, mudflats, creeks, Seagrass, & Seaweeds, estuaries, sandy strands to saline grasslands, marshy areas, and rocky shores. All ecosystems support rich marine life & birdlife in the marine park.

The sanctuary lies in the intertidal zone, so especially in low tide, visitors get to observe the rich diversity of marine life. One has to just walk in the ...

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At a distance of 10 km from Jamnagar Railway Station, Pirotan Island is an island situated in the Gulf of Kutch near Jamnagar. It is one of the beautiful islands in Gujarat and among the top places to visit in Jamnagar.

Spreads over an area of 3 Sq. km, Pirotan Island is one of the 42 islands which compose the first Marine National Park in India. It is one of the two islands in the Marine National Park opened for tourists, other one being Narara Island. Pirotan Island is a gem for the people who love nature and adventure as it gives an opportunity to witness the colourful coral reefs, mangroves, and incredible aquatic creatures like jelly fish, octopus, star fish, sea snakes, hermit crabs, sea horse, sea slugs, green sea turtles and dolphins. One can also spot some beautiful birds such as pelicans, herring gull, sea gull, and black-headed gull in the unruffled setting of nature.

Pirotan was originally known as 'Pir jo thaan' signifying the sacred place of Saint Khwaja Khizer Rahmatullahialaih. The holy shrine of the saint is also located on the island. The island also houses a lighthouse. The island is uninhabited except for the workers at Pirotan Island's lighthouse, the forest guard, and the Mujhavar (Server) at the Holy Saint Khwaja Khizer shrine. Most visitors come in the morning with the high tide and leave by evening. So, one can spend hours walking around the tidal flats at low tide, observing the fascinating marine life in solitude.

Pirotan Island ...

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At a distance of 28 km from Mehsana, 35 km from Patan and 100 km from Ahmedabad, Modhera Sun Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located at Modhera village near Patan in Gujarat. Situated on the banks of River Pushpavati, it is one of the popular places of heritage in India, and among the must include places in Patan packages.

Dedicated to the Sun God, the Sun Temple in Modhera was built by King Bhimdev I of the Solanki dynasty in 1026 AD, and is one of the prominent heritage sites near Ahmedabad. This temple not only reflects the architectural abilities of the Solanki rulers but also, speaks highly of the devotional zeal of the ruling dynasty at that time. As in the Sun Temple at Konark, this temple was also designed that the first rays of the Sun fall on the image of Lord Surya at the time equinoxes. The temple was plundered by Mahmud Ghazni but still the architectural grandeur does not vanish. At present, no worship is offered here and the temple is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India. It was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2014.

Built-in Maha-Gurjara style, the temple complex is divided into three parts - the main temple with a Garbha Griha and Guda Mandap, a detached Sabha Mandap, and Surya Kunda. Also known as Rama Kund, Surya Kund is a rectangular ...

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At a distance of 60 km from Patan Railway Station, Shankeshwar Jain Temple is an ancient Jain temple located in Shankeshwar town in Gujarat. It is one of the important Jain pilgrimage sies near Ahmedabad, and among the best places to visit as part of Patan sightseeing packages.

Built in the year 1098 CE by Sajjan Shah on the banks of the Rupen River, the temple is dedicated to Lord Parshwanath. Later, Vastupal Tejpal renovated this temple under the instructions of Vardhamansuri in the year 1229 CE. The temple was destroyed by Alauddin Khalji in the 14th century and later in the 16th century CE, a new temple with 52 idols was built under the inspiration of Vijaysensuri. But, the current temple was built in 1811 CE.

The Shankeshwar birth ranks next only to those on Shatrunjaya Hill in Palitana, in terms of importance to the Swetambara Jains, and among the most prominent places to visit in Patan. Besides the original sanctuary, the temple has an open square, a decorated square, a vast square, and two assembly halls. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple houses nearly 182 cm high white-colored idol of Bhagwan Shankeshwar Parshva in Padmasana posture. The sanctum of the presiding deity is flanked by two smaller sanctums dedicated to Lord Bhidbhanjan Parshwanath and Lord Ajitanatha. ...

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At a distance of 25 km from Palitana, Hastagiri Jain Tirth is a famous Jain temple located near Palitana in Gujarat. Situated on a hill on the bank of the Shetrunjaya River, it is one of the popular Jain pilgrimage places in Gujarat and among the must-visit places in Palitana.

Hastagiri Jain Tirth is dedicated to Bhagwan Rishabhdev or Shri Adishwar Bhagwan. This hilly land is also known as Hastisengiri. According to the history of the temple, the place is regarded as a sacred place of the times of Bhagawan Adishwar. The sacred place was established by Bharat Chakravartin, the eldest son of Bhagawan Adishwar. Even today one can see the foot images of Bhagawan in a small temple on the very ancient hill. Bharat Chakravartin had attained salvation here. He had observed fast unto death and attained moksha here. The elephant of the King also followed him, thus the teerth is called as Shri Hastagiri Tirth.

Now, there is a large and massive temple on this mount, which was built and consecrated in 1979. Spread over an area of 9 acres, the Hastagiri Jain Tirth is an octagonal shaped Jain temple, and among the major places to visit as part of Palitana tour. The main sanctum of the temple houses four idols of Vrishabhdev facing to four cardinal directions. The dome near the sanctum sanctorum has intricate carvings, similar to the carved domes of ...

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At a distance of 35 km from Palitana and 55 km from Bhavnagar, Talaja is a historical town situated near Palitana in Bhavnagar district of Gujarat. Located on the banks of Shatrunjaya River, it is one of the popular places to visit in Gujarat and among the must include places in Palitana Tour Packages.

Talaja is better known as the birthplace of the famous poet Narsinh Mehta. Also, it is home to some important sites for Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism. The main attraction here is the ancient Buddhist Rockcut Caves on Talaja hill. The rock-cut cave group includes 30 caves among which 15 are water tanks. The Ebhala Mandapa, a large hall with four octagonal pillars is the most impressive structure of all. These caves are adorned with fine carving of Boddhisatva. The caves are around 2000 years old and require about a 15-20 minutes walk up the hill to reach them. They are of the 4th stage of Buddhist cave architecture, noticeably earlier than the famous Buddhist caves of Maharashtra.

There is a Jain temple along with a Hindu temple of Khodiar Mata atop the hill near the Buddhist Caves. This Jain temple was established by King Kumarpala during the 12th century CE. This is a holy place of the Shri Shatrunjay Panchteerthi and is part of the Shatrunjay hills. The temple was last renovated in 1815 and belongs to Shwetambar sect. of Jainism. The sanctum of the temple house 79 cm tall black colored idol of Sacha Sumatinatha Bhagwan in padmasana posture. Besides this temple, ...

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At a distance of 57 km from Palitana and 74 km from Bhavnagar, Gopinath Beach is a beautiful beach situated near Gadhula village in Gujarat. Along the coast of the Gulf of Khambat, it is one of the popular beaches in Gujarat, and among the most scenic places to visit during Palitana trip.

Gopnath was the summer home of Maharaja Krishna Kumar Singhji of Bhavnagar. The beach offers awe-inspiring scenes with its stunning limestone cliffs and great views. The gentle breeze of the sea refreshes the spirit and soothes the soul. The beach has exquisite, firm sands for walking and shallow shore waters for wading. However, it is not an ideal place for swimming as it has a high tidal disparity of the coast which turns the water murky.

One can also visit 700 years old Gopnath Mahadev Temple situated near the beach, among the major Palitana tourist places. Set on the seashore, it is perhaps the only temple in India that hoists two color flags - a white flag denoting a Vishnu temple and a saffron flag representing a Shiva temple. This Shiva temple is the place where the devotional poet Narsinh Mehta supposedly had his spiritual experience almost 500 years ago.

The place is also home to a mansion built by the Maharaja for his comfortable stay. It was built in European colonial style in the 1940s ...

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