This extreme western end of the Indian
subcontinent is located along the beautiful coast of the grand Arabian Sea. Also
popularly known as the Kathiawar peninsula this region is replete with
magnificent beauty, thriving biodiversity along with a number of scenic
destinations for travel lovers and peace seekers. The unique landmass is
surrounded by water from three sides and on one side from the Gulf of Kutch. Ever
since the ancient and Vedic ages Saurashtra region has been recognized for
being a treasure trove for naturally occurring resources and to this very day
this place is a tourist hub. However, currently this place represents a
beautiful amalgamation of age old culture, heritage and the ever growing
digital age. There are a number of Gujarat travel tour packages which will take
you to these interesting parts of the magnificent state of Gujarat and allow
you to explore this unique and stunning piece of land. This region is a
flourishing hub for various natural resources and represents the natural beauty
that is has to offer.
If you are planning on a visit to Saurashtra
region then here are a few places that you cannot miss out on visiting:
Diu
Popularly nicknamed as ‘mini Goa’ and linked to the main landmass of Gujarat on the southern end with the help of a bridge the island of Diu displays rich influences of the Portuguese history. Popular as one of the most preferred weekend holiday getaway destination in Gujarat Diu is the only place in this dry state which serves alcohol. This island is filled with a number of colorful attractions and unmistakable signs of the bygone era. Rich in heritage and replete with charming tourist destinations, Diu is a every vacation goers’ dream come true. The limited amount of traffic, clean surroundings and neatly drawn lanes allows this island to be a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of the city life.
Jamnagar
Spreading over an area of almost 1,412
sq. km. this national park ranks among one of the largest national parks in
India. Popular as the last refuge of the endangered Asiatic lions, Gir national
park is a thick and undisturbed haven for animals as well as its visitors. A
jeep safari of Gir national park will earn you the opportunity to explore this
exciting and thrilling sanctuary which is replete with thriving greenery, rich
biodiversity and a mesmerizing landscape. This place is an oasis for nature
lovers, photography enthusiasts, bird watchers and people looking to spend
their holiday in an adventurous manner. Apart from the lions other animal
sightings include leopards, crocodiles, pythons, antelopes among a range of
others. Feel closer to nature and discover the beauty of mother earth at Gir.
Somnath Temple
Literally
translating into ‘Lord of Soma (night)’, this legendary temple is situated at a
distance of 6 kms from Veraval the majestic and is one of the most iconic
pilgrimage destinations for devout Hindus. Located in Prabhas Patan this
opulent temple is built using the Indian Chalukya style of architecture which
is definite through its pyramidical structure. Sitting against the glimmering blue
sea the temple radiates unmatched spirituality and an overall positive feeling.
The temple has seen a tumultuous past with foreign invaders continuously
invading, looting, raiding and destroying the temple. The current standing
structure was completed in the year 1951 by the ‘iron man of India’, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The place remains completely flocked with devotees of Lord
Shiva throughout the year.
Palitana
Located at a
distance of 50 kms from the city of Bhavnagar and is a major and extremely
important pilgrimage destination for the Jain population. Popular for being one
of the two vegetarian cities in the world, Palitana witnesses a massive Jain
turnout who makes it a point to visit this legendary holy destination. This
place displays a vibrant collection of 900 different temples and has gained the
honor for being the world’s largest temple complex. Believed to be the place
where the first Jain Tirthankara, Adinath, this cluster of temples can be
reached after climbing up 3,800 steps. No matter how long the journey is the
resulting picturesque view which you will be witnessing is worth it. Each
temple present here is ornate and exquisitely created in its own manner.
Mahabat Maqbara
Popular for its
opulent and magnificent looking architecture this palace mausoleum complex
looks like a fairytale come true. With intricate carvings, fragile designs,
elegant elements and vibe of serenity this Maqbara is truly a jaw dropping work
of art. This gem of a tourist attraction is a glorious blend of gothic
architectural style with heavy Islamic influences. The stunning feature of the
mausoleum is every architectural lover’s dream come true. This mausoleum and
highly detailed carvings represents decades of hard work and persistence that
went into its making. This grand representation of the cultural heritage of the
bygone era has its doors wide open for everyone.
Blackbuck National Park
Stretching
between two seasonal rivers at an area of 34 sq. km. as the name suggests, this
national park is popular for its blackbuck population. Located in Velavadar and
established in the year 1976 this park lies on the coast of Gulf of Khambhat towards
the southern end. The landscape of this national park is covered in brownish
yellow grasslands with majestic blackbucks and antelopes sprinting in between.
This is an ideal place for witnessing some of the most endangered and popular
animals like wolf, fox, bustard, striped hyena and many more. Taking a jeep
ride in this national park will bring you closer to nature and open up a whole
new horizon of sightseeing during your holiday in Gujarat.
Naulakha Palace
Dating back to
the 18th century this ornate palace is popular for being one of the
oldest surviving palaces of Gondal. This palace is an important part of the Darbargarh
fort complex and displays magnificent works of architectural wonder. The name Naulakha
or 9 lakhs is derived from the fact that this building was constructed using 9
lakh rupees during that age. Every walls and feature of the palace is covered
in elaborate carvings and fine engravings along with highly detailed balconies
or Jharokhas, spiral staircases, richly adorned pillars and arches. The interior
of the palace is decorated with unique, eccentric decorations like stuffed
panthers and antique mirrors. This impressively sculpted façade is a uniquely
mesmerizing palace with interesting things to explore.
Uparkot Fort
Situated in
Junagadh district and built in 319 BC by the legendary Mauryan empire,
Chandragupta Maurya this ancient fort is an iconic sight for historical sieges.
Nestled peacefully on the foothills of the holy Girnar Hills, upon reaching the
fort you will be able to savor some glorious views of the scenic surroundings. There
are a number of interesting architectural creations inside the fort which
includes a mosque, Buddhist caves dating back to millennia old, two perfectly
defined step wells as a water source along with a number of other features
which makes this fort a must visit during your visit to Saurashtra. This fort
will take one day to cover and witness each step has a fascinating view.
Diu Fort
Built during the
year 1535 by the iconic ruler, Bahadur shah, this fort is located on the
western end of the coast of Diu. Representing some heavy influences of
Portuguese rule the fort has a wholesome history which was utilized by rulers
and dynasties from various different eras and ages. When it was constructed the
fort was impregnable and thus served as a great defense against enemy forces. The
place offers some of the most stunning views of the surrounding glimmering blue
ocean from where you can gaze peacefully at the horizon and some ships passing
by. The fort holds some interesting features like a lighthouse and a number of
brass cannons along with various different eclectic elements.
Marine National Park
Situated on the
southern end of the Gulf of Kutch, an area of 270 sq. km. was separated in 1980
that extended from Okha to Jodiya, with an aim of conserving the marine life of
Gujarat. There are almost 42 different big and small islands on the coast of
Jamnagar among which is home to a rich and thriving diversity of marine animals
like reefs and other plants. One can witness some of the most fascinating
marine creatures and flora collection like sponges, coral, mollusks,
jellyfishes, lobsters, crabs, sea cucumbers, sea urchins and so much more. This
is an ideal vacation option for wildlife and nature enthusiasts who are looking
for a soulful journey. The marshlands of this national park can be reached via
a boat ride journey and you will be able to take some time off from the chaotic
city life and spend some time in close proximity with nature. The diverse and
unending list of aquatic life here remains unmatched an unparalleled to
anywhere else in India. If you want to have a unique experience then this is
the place to be.
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