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Often reckoned as the “Jewel of Western India” is an Indian State named Gujarat. Gujarat also spelt as Gujrat was once the prime centre of Indus Valley Civilization. With Gandinagar as its capital city, Gujarat is the 6th largest state in India. Home of the Father of the Nation, Gujarat is known for its historical importance. Enclosed by the silvery sand in one side Gujarat is thriving with scenic beauty which has captivated the mind of many travelers. Gujarat is endowed with unique flora and fauna and is one of the few places where the endangered Asiatic Lion roam freely.
Gone through many changes and ruled by many brave Kings the history of Gujarat date backs to early 1st Century. There are many tourist attractions in Gujarat which still holds the remnant of those ancient eras. The vibrant culture of Gujarat is reflected in their food and dress.
Located in the south eastern part of the Ahmedabad is a serene lake called Kankaria. The Kankaria Lake was built in 15th century by Sultan Qutbuddin. Formerly known as Hauj-E-Kutub, Kankaria Lake is the second largest lake of Ahmedabad. It was once the bathing place of regal family now it is a famous for its island garden with a summer palace called Nagina Wadi. Serving as a popular picnic spot there are many facilities in Kankaria Lake like tethered balloon safari, train ride, ultra modern-high speed rides for visitors. There is special section in the island for kids known as Kidscity. Visitors can either leisurely relish the colorful lights reflecting in the water or take the thrilling rides while visiting Kankaria Lake.
Formed in 1965 is a forest and wild sanctuary near Talala Gir in Gujarat called Gir Forest National Park and Wild Sanctuary. It is the only place in India where Asiatic Lions are found in their natural habitat. The dry and deciduous forest of Gir house many exotic flora and fauna. There are four dam within the premises of Gir Forest National Park. The marshy land around the dams is ideal for spotting mugger crocodile and different species of avifauna. Visitors can learn about the vast flora and fauna of Gir National Park in the nature interpretation at Devalia.
Laxmi Vilas Palace also spelt as Lukshmi Villas Palace is one of the favored tourist destinations in Vadodara of Gujarat. It was built in 1890 under the commandment of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. Adorned with intricate design and featuring the Rajas Throne, the Darbar Hall of Laxmi Vilas Palace is sometimes the venue of music concerts and other cultural events. The indo-saracenic architecturing style, Venetian mosaic floor and Belgium stained glass window of Darbar Hall has captivated the minds of many travelers.
Reckoned as world’s largest salt desert is a seasonal salt march called Rann of Kutch. It is located in Gujarat and divided into two parts Great Rann of Kutch and Little Rann of Kutch. The name “Rann” has come from the Hindi word ran meaning “desert”. The silvery desert of Great Rann of Kutch is one place which shouldn’t be missed out while visiting Gujarat. The best time to relish the pristine beauty of Rann of Kutch is during the night of full moon in November and December. During this time Rann of Kutch festival is organized by the government which attracts travelers from far and wide.
Founded in 1982 is a unique nature reserve called Marine National Park. Situated in the southern shore of Gulf of Kutch in Gujarat, Marine National Park preserve and showcase the vibrant ecology of sea creature. It is surrounded with coral reef and mangrove forest. The fragile ecosystem of Marine National Park consists of many endangered species like whale sharks, soft corals, puffer fish, sting ray, and green sea turtle. Although there is no accommodation facility in Marine National Park, visitors can still enjoy the astounding marine life on a full day trip.
Porbandar Beach is one of the favored tourist destinations of Gujarat. It is situated towards the southwest coast of the state of Gujarat. Cuddled between the Veraval and Dwarka Porbandar Beach is the birth place of Mahatma Gandhi. The unspoiled beach has become the ideal place to spend a peaceful weekend for both localities and tourists.
Best time to visit Gujarat: Winter season from November to February is the best time to visit Gujarat. During these times although weather can get bit chilly but it is considerable the best season to relish the beauty of Gujarat.
