minglebox

Description

Gujarat forms an area that housed the regions of the Indus Valley civilization and Harappan sites. Around 50 Harappan sites are found in Gujarat. Lothal, Rangpur, Amri, Lakhabaval, Rozdi etc. are some of these sites. This makes it an important territory that reveals the history of India. The Dravidian tribes were said to be the original inhabitants of this region. Even before the Aryan occupation of Gujarat it is said to have had trade contracts with Sumer, the Persian Gulf in about 1000-750BC. Rock edicts in the Girnar hills indicate that Ashoka extended his domain into Gujarat. It was during the Mauryan rule that this region witnessed the influence of Buddhism. The Mauryans also promoted trade and helped in spread of its culture. In about 150BC the Bactarian Greeks under Meander is said to have instilled their rule. Till 40AD they are said to have had trade contracts with Rome. From about AD130-390 the Scythians ruled it. After 300AD the Guptas established their reign which lasted till 460AD. The Vallabhi established their sway in between (500-700AD). After the death of Harshvardhana, the Gujjars controlled it till 746AD. The Solankis ruled over Gujarat till 1143. Gujarat attained its greatest territorial extend under the Solanki dynasty, from the 9th century. Muhammud of Ghazni attacked Somnath in Gujarat leading to the downfall of the Solankis. The conquest of Ala-ud-din Khilji king of Delhi in 1288 also influenced the conditions in Gujarat. The Sultans of Delhi had their sway over Gujarat from 1298-1392AD. Ahmad Shah I, the first independent Muslim ruler of Gujarat founded Ahmadabad in 1411. Then the Mughals ruled for about 2 centuries till the Marathas terminated their rule in the mid 18th century. It was during the18th century that Gujarat was divided among number of chiefs. From 1803-1827 the British set up their administration. The British East India companies first head quarters in India was at Surat. It was later moved to Bombay. Finally in May1,1960, the state of Gujarat was formed from the north and west portions of Bombay state, the remainder being renamed the state of Maharashtra.
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Wildlife in Gujarat

Sasangir
Located in Kathiawad peninsula of Gujarat, Sasangir National Park is a dwelling place of Asiatic Lions. Besides the prowling Asiatic lions there are large number of chitals, chinkara, leopard, wild ass and other animals are found in Sasangir National Park. These species of endangered wild animals is properly conserved so that they may not become extinct. The Park arranges for Jeep Safaris and Photography expeditions for its tourists. There are three contiguous reserves that make up the park namely the Nalsarovar Lake (a bird sanctuary), Little Rann of Kutch (habitat of Indian Wild Ass and Flamingo Island.

Wild Ass Wildlife Sanctuary
Wild Ass Wildlife Sanctuary is the largest wildlife sanctuary in India. In the heart of the sanctuary there are islands known as Baits that form the base of this sanctuary as the birds and animals are always inhabited towards the core and do not want to want to be at periphery for the fear of humans. Wolf, jackal, fox, reptiles (snakes, tortoises, lizards etc.), jungle and desert cats are also found here. The sanctuary has constructed watchtowers to facilitate proper and easy view of the landscape and the inhabiting animals. To provide accommodation facilities to the tourists, a tourist complex is set up.

Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary
Chirping, Squawking, trilling and cheeping birds all over to win your heart play hide and seek in Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary. You can see kingfishers, egrets, darters, cormorants, grebes, storks, jacanas and many colorful birds inhabiting their quaint nests. Enjoy the sight of the birds engaged in fighting, nourishing their young ones and showing various animations. The waterhole covers an area of 115 square kilometer. Boating facilities are available for taking a stroll to see the birds meditating on the ocean to find their prey.

Marine National Park
Country's first Marine National Park was built in Gujarat. It spreads over an area of about 458 square kilometers in the Gulf of Kutch. Among dense deciduous forests you can see animals of different shapes and sizes like chowsingha, blackjacks, four-horned antelope, Indian bustard and birds like flamingos etc. The crystal clear water teems with the shoals of eels, sea urchins and corals.

Velavadar Blackbuck Sanctuary
Blackbuck Sanctuary is a conservatory opened primarily for endangering blackbucks. Blackbuck is a very beautiful animal. It has spiral horns that have three to four coils. Other animals found in this region are wolf, jackals, bustard and antelopes. The park has a rich variety of bird life as well.

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Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad is the largest city in Gujarat and also the sixth largest city in India with a population of about 5 million. The city is divided into old and new Ahmedabad for he haphazard construction of houses in old city. The city is a famous business hub. It is well known for chemical and textile industries. It is a very beautiful city. The famous places in Ahmedabad are Kankaria Lake, Law Garden, Jama Masjid, Sidi Saiyad's Mosque, Bhadra Fort and Teen Darwaja, Sabarmati Ashram, IMAX Theater, Guru Gobind Dham, Sarkhej-Gandhinagar Highway, Hussain-Doshi's Gufa and Bashirs mosque (Shaking minarets).

Vadodra
Vadodra is situated on the serene banks of tranquil river Vishwamitri. Vadodra means city of Banyan trees. It is famous for its museums and galleries. The interesting places in Vadodra are Champaner (known for Jama Masjid), Dakorhas a well known Temple of Ranchodrai, Dhumkal is a bear sanctuary (it also has a tiger and leopard), Kirti Mandir, Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, Makarpura Palace and Nazarbagh Palace.

Surat
Also known as the Green City, Surat is one of the neatest city of India. It has numerous industries. It is one of the leading exporters of diamond and texile products. Old Fort, the textile market, Dumas (a sea side health resort), Hajira and Dandi are some of interesting places in Surat.

Rajkot
There are many smallscale industries in Rajkot. Mirror-work, jewellery market, Bandhani Sarees, patch work, bead work, silk embroidery and watch parts are specialty of Rajkot. Jubillee Park, Watson Museum, Aaji Dam, Ishwariya, SwamiNarayan Temple and Dolls Museum are some of the places that you should visit.

Porbandar
Porbandar is a historical place set by seaside. It provides breath taking sights of landscaped grasslands, fields and valleys.it is known as Gandhiji's birthplace. Morvi town is wellknown for its clocks, tiles and ceramic manufacture.

Junagadh
A fort that has remained unconquered till date is an apple of eye for this city. This fort was built by one of the generals of Akbar, Raja Rai Singh.

Jamnagar
Located on the coast of Gulf of Kutch, Jamnagar is well known as the Jewel of Kathiawar. There are temples, palaces, forest, Bird and Marine Sanctuaries.

Palitana
Located on Shetrunjaya hills, Palitana temples are considered as most sacred pilgrimage place.

Bhavnagar
It is a beautiful coastal city associated with Gandhiji. Mahatma Gandhi went to university here. Chief works undertaken in Bhavnagar are salt works, shipbuilding and ship breaking yards along the Bhavnagar coast.

Gondal
Naulakha Palace, Riverside Palace and Suspension Bridge are some of the well-known places.

Taj Mahal Tourism provides information regarding Tourist Destinations in Gujarat and offers online reservation for Gujarat tour.

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Akshardham Temple
A blanket of tranquility and serenity hover over the famous Akshardham temple in Gujarat. It is not only a place where you pay homage to Gods by offering flowers and chanting mantras, it's a place where you attain higher knowledge-the knowledge of the spirit, the knowledge of your inner self. HSH Pramukh Maharaj fulfilled Akshardham, a dream of Brahmaswarup Yogiji Maharaj. For entertainment Akshardham temple screens a movie portraying life of an 11-year-old child who becomes a yogi. You can also enjoy 12-minute boat ride to see a glimpse of India's glorious heritage.

Somnath Temple
Somnath stands as a landmark in the Indian history. Many times this temple was invaded by the conquerors, but like a phoenix it rose again from its ashes. This amazingly splendorous building has a legend attached to it. It is said that Somraj, the moon god himself made this temple. The temple is also known by the name of Deo Pattan, Prabhas Pattan, or Pattan Somnath. The temple houses one of the twelve sacred jyotirlingas in Hindu religion.

Parsi Fire Temple
Parsi Fire Temples spread the message that fire is one of the important elements of our life. In Parsi religion it is believe that there is a ceaseless battle between good (Ahura Mazda) and evil (another God). The temple does not have complex structure yet its simplicity attracts many tourists.

Bhrigu Rishi Temple
Bhrigu Rishi Temple is located in Bharuch in Gujarat in India. The temple is located on the banks of river Narmada. Maharishi Bhrigu attained sainthood by reaching at a balance between wisdom and activity in his life.

Gangeshwar Temple
Gangeshwar Temple is dedicated to lord Shiva and lingam. Lulled by the crystal clear waves of the sea the five well-defined lingas are worshipped by the devotees. The people believe that Pandavas brought these lingas into existence during their anonymous stay in the jungle after they were banished.

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WelcomHotel
WelcomHotel is the only five star Hotel at Baroda in Gujarat. The Hotel has become one of the favorite spots among discerning business delegates. There is a unique blend of contemporary and traditional styles. The Hotel provides unsurpassed business facilities to its guests.

Address: R.C. Dutt Road, Alkapuri, Baroda 390 007, Gujarat, India.
Accessibility: It is at a distance of 9 kilometers from the airport and 2 kilometers from city centre.

Hotel Express
Hotel Express is a three star Budget Hotel. It has fully equipped air-conditioned conference hall that provides an accommodation for 50-150 guests. For accommodation the Hotel provides Shankheda Suites, Cane Suites and Standard Rooms. The Hotel serves palatable Gujarati cuisine in a traditional style.

Address: 18 / 19, Alkapuri, Baroda, Gujarat, India.
Accessibility: It is at a distance of 5 kilometers from the airport.

Surya Palace Hotel
Surya Palace Hotel provides world-class facilities to both leisure as well as business travelers. The Hotel has one of the largest conference rooms among all the Hotels in Gujarat namely The Royal Room. The Hotel also provides a separate Executive floor bestowed with the facilities of a five star hotel.

Address: Opposite Parsi Agiari, Sayajigunj Baroda Gujarat.
Accessibility: It is at a distance of 5 kilometers from the airport and only one kilometer from the railway station.

Taj Residency
Taj Residency is a three star Hotel distinguished from its class. Keeping the comfort of its guests in mind, the Hotel is furnished with rich tapestry. The rooms are divided in standard rooms, Residency Rooms, Executive Suites and Deluxe Suites. An array of luscious traditional and contemporary dishes is served at the Hotel.

Address: Akota Gardens, Baroda Gujarat, India.
Accessibility: It is at a distance of 9 kilometers from Vadodra airport


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Jami Masjid
Jami Masjid is located at Malan, Palanpur Taluka in Banaskantha (Gujarat). Built during the Sultanate period, the Mosque stands with its stately structure on a high pedestal with 260 pillars supporting 15 domes. Sultan Ahmed Shah built this majestic monument in 1423 A.D. The commingling of Hindu style of architecture with Islamic culture can be seen in the astounding intricate carvings on the walls.

Sidi Said Mosque
Sidi Said (a slave of Ahmed Shah) constructed Sidi Said Mosque in 1572-73. The mosque is a fine example of Indo-Islamic architecture. The mosque has ravishingly beautiful twin windows carved out from white stone. The stone is carved out in the shape of a tree with entangled boughs of palm leaves. Eight windows have squire grid pattern.

Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum
Initially constructed as a school for the Maharaja's childern Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum has become a centre of attraction for tourists these days. It is now converted into a museum and has an exquisite gallery of works of art collected by Maharaja Sir Sayajirao Gaekwad III during his visits out of India. The exhibits include paintings of European masters like Raphel, Titian and Murillo as well as contemporary paintings from various countries.

Buddhist Cave Monastery
In about 300 A.D. Buddhist Monastery was constructed in Uparkot. There is a meandering staircase to an upper chamber. The Khapara Kodhia cave and Baba Pyara Cave are complex yet fascinating structures with beautiful carvings of Buddhist sculptures.

Durbar Hall Museum
Durbar Hall Museum puts on display exhibits of weapons and armors from the Nawabi era. The Hall is well decorated with chandeliers, settees, thrones, palanquins, cushions and a hand knitted traditional carpet.

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Ahmedpur Mandvi: As one of the finest beaches in Gujarat, Ahmedpur Mandvi is indeed a beachcomber's delight. The sparkling water, sun kissed sand along with the interplay of wind and light makes the Ahmedpur Mandvi beach one of the must visit places in Gujarat. This beautiful beach is situated 298 km away from Ahmedabad and is an ideal place to indulge in a number of exciting water sports. From water skiing and speedboat rides to water scooter races - you can enjoy them all during your Ahmedpur Mandvi beach tour. Besides, the beach also offers ideal opportunities for swimming.

Beyt Dwarka Beach: Beyt Dwarka is a beautiful but lesser known beach that is located in Dwarka (an important Hindu pilgrimage center in Gujarat). The beach comprises of a small isolated island named Beyt Dwarka and is accessible by ferries and small boats. The Beyt Dwarka beach is a fine place to relax amidst the splendors of nature and adds up to a truly rejuvenating experience. Besides, the Beyt beach is also a great place to indulge in some exciting bird watching exercises.

Chorwad Beach: Chorwad is a small fishing village in Gujarat that boasts of a fine stretch of sand along the coast. Indeed, the Chorwad beach is simply perfect for a relaxed beach holiday. Complete with lush green surroundings and a wonderful resort, the Chorwad also offers great opportunities for enjoying long walks and romantic evenings. This beach holiday spot also serves as a wonderful base for those who would like to visit places like Somnath and Porbandar in Gujarat.

Gopnath Beach: One of the most beautiful beaches in Gujarat, the Gopnath beach was once the summer home of Maharaja Krishna Kumar Singhji of Bhavnagar. From lush green surroundings and fabulous limestone cliffs to bird watching exercises, visitors are assured of an experience to remember at the Gopnath beach in Gujarat.

Veraval Beach: Located near the religious city of Somnath in Gujarat, the Veraval Beach is known for its scenic beachfront. What makes the Veraval beach even more impressive is an old but grand fort that lies along the beach. The beach is safe for swimming and also has a jogging track lined with benches to rest. Besides, the Veraval beach is also ideal for rejuvenating walks or simply lazing under the sun. Visitors can also enjoy some amazing seafood as part of their Veraval beach tour in Gujarat.

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Experience dazzling Gujarat in all its brilliant hues while you celebrate local festivals with joy and enthusiasm.

January winters in Gujarat are sprinkled with happy colors of the Kite Festival that is celebrated on January 14 every year. Enjoy the Modhera Dance Festival that is a regular annual event and offers a forum for classical and folk dancers to showcase their talent.

February - March in Gujarat India brighten up with fairs and festivals like the Kutch Utsav and Mahasivaratri celebrations.

April heralds the Dangs Darbar tribal fair that showcases glittering panoramas of folk arts, dances and musical extravaganzas. Local tribal chiefs grace this occasion in all their finery. Holi the festival of colors is celebrated with great gusto in the month of April all over Gujarat, India. Locals come together and dance around bonfires and sprinkle each other with colorful power prepared from dried flower, herbs and other natural ingredients.

The Gunbhakheri Village Chitra-Vichitra fair is a captivating confluence of local Adivasi culture, traditions and customs.

July welcomes that time of the year when Ahmedabad glitters with ethnic traditions of the Jagdish Temple Rathayatra. Later in the month the people of Gujarat celebrate Janamashtami and Gokulashtami with great devotion and enthusiasm.

August is that time of the year when the Tarnetar Village in Gujarat India bursts with joyous celebration as young girls and boys choose their life partners and mates. The Ravechi Mata Temple Fair in Kutch, is another important Gujarat fair.

The Bhadra Purnima Fair that is celebrated in the Ambaji Village in Gujarat, India is a gala that transports you into a whole new world of cultural grandeur.

October brings with it the time for spiritual fasting, enjoyment and celebration of 'the victory of good over evil'. The nine day Navaratri festival cloaks entire Gujarat in festive fervor and pious prayers. Dussera is celebrated by one and all with festive joy all over Gujarat, India.

November is when the people of Gujarat flock in large numbers near River Meshwo and camp for 2 weeks, celebrating the Kalia Bhavji feast or the Shyamlaji Fair. Tribal communities such as Garasias and Bhils participate in the fair in great numbers. Also known as Kartik Purnima, the Shyamlaji Fair is of immense religious and ethnic significance in Gujarat, India.

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