Gujarat Tourism And Travel Guide

Gujarat is one of the most prominent states in India. A state well-known as the birthplace of the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, derives its name from Gujaratta, which means the land of Gurjars who ruled the western parts of India during the 8th and 9th centuries.

Gujarat is famous for its vibrant colors, culture, and tradition. It enjoys a rich history, dated back to 2000 BC. It is surrounded by the Arabian Sea on the west, Rajasthan and some parts of Pakistan on the north, Madhya Pradesh on the east, and Maharashtra on the south.

Gujarat has a coastline of about 1290 km which is the longest in India. Famous for its classical temples, sublime beaches, and breathtaking structures, wildlife sanctuaries, and resorts, Gujarat is one of the most visited tourist places in India. As a traveler, you will fall in love with its fascinating artwork, delectable cuisine, festivals, historic structures, and colorful lifestyle. To know more about tourism in Gujarat, read the travel guide below.

Being one of the most industrially advanced states of the country, Gujarat is well connected with other states and cities by rail, road, sea, and air. Let’s discuss them in detail.

By Rail:

Gujarat has some of the biggest railway stations in India. You can start your trip by getting down at Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Vadodara, Surat, Jamnagar, or Junagadh Junction. You can get direct or connecting trains to these cities from Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, and from other metropolis of the country.

By Road:

The state of Gujarat has the best road network in India. You can travel by private buses or by government-operated bus services. There are direct or indirect bus services available from almost all major cities within and outside of Gujarat.

By Air:

It is the fastest way to reach Gujarat. There are many airports in Gujarat, the biggest being the Sardar Vallabhbhai Airport in Ahmedabad. There are domestic airports at Vadodara, Surat, Rajkot, Gandhinagar, and Junagadh. You can check ticket costing at any authorized ticket booking website.

By Sea:

Being the coastal state of India, another convenient option to reach Gujarat is by Sea. The Kandla port is the largest port in Gujarat and it connects all western coastal regions of India. The port of Porbandar and Veraval are some of the important, historic ports in Gujarat. 

Getting Around:

Gujarat is the sixth largest state in India. You can use mail passenger trains, buses, and airways to travel to different cities within the state. You can hire a local auto rickshaw, take city buses, and even book a private cab to visit the amazing places the state has to offer within a city.

Generally, Gujarat is one of the hottest states in India during the summer season. Some parts of Gujarat receive decent rainfall while some face shortage. Winters are generally pleasant and the recommended time to visit the state. The best time to visit Gujarat is between November and February.

Summer (March - June):

Summers in Gujarat are generally very hot. The temperature crosses 35◦C and occasionally even rises to 41◦C in extreme conditions. The minimum temperature lingers near 29◦C.

Monsoon (July - September):

Monsoon offers one of the most pleasant weather conditions to Gujarat and is also a recommended time to visit this place. The temperature ranges between 27◦C and 35◦C. 

Winter (October - February):

Winter is the best time to travel to Gujarat and the climate is at its most pleasant during this time, with a minimum temperature of 12◦C and maximum reaching 29◦C maximum.

Experience Rann of Kutch:

The Rann of Kutch is the world’s biggest salt desert that spreads over 16,000 square km and it is the best thing that you can witness in Gujarat. Covered with white salt (not in monsoon), the Rann of Kutch is something that you cannot miss, especially if you are here anytime between November and January.

Visit the Exotic Temples:

Gujarat is one of the most devotional states in India. It has many exotic temples all over the state, but the Somnath Temple is the most beautiful of them all. The Akshardham temple in Gandhinagar, Dwarkadhish Temple in Dwarka, Bal Hanuman Mandir in Jamnagar, Sun Temple in Modhera, and Balkha Tirth are some of the finest temples which will mesmerize you with their beauty.

Witness the Architectural Splendor:

The rich history of Gujarat comes to light when you witness its archeological marvels. Numerous monuments will just blow your mind away with their history and magnificence. The Lukshmi Villa Palace, Makarpura Palace, Rani ki Vav (Queen’s stepwell), Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, Dholavira, Mahabat Maqbara, Adalaj Stepwell, Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, Sarkhej Roza, Sun Temple and Sabarmati Ashram are some of the best places that you can visit.

Step Inside the Lion’s Kingdom:

Jeep Safari in Gir National Park is something that you cannot miss. Come face-to-face with the most brutal force in the animal kingdom, Lion, and witness the marvelous creature. The wildlife sanctuary is well protected and preserved, and it has some of the largest collection of Asiatic Lions. Also, you can visit the Indroda Nature Park in Gandhinagar, Sakkarbaug Zoological Gardens in Junagarh, Pradyuman Park in Rajkot, Kamla Nehru Zoo in Ahmedabad to see some of the endangered wildlife species.

Fall in Love with the Beaches:

The state of Gujarat has the longest coastline in India so there are numerous beaches where you can enjoy your time with your loved ones. The Ahmedpur Mandvi Beach, Somnath Chorwad Beach, Gopnath Beach near Bhavnagar, Dwarka Beach, Nagoa Beach in Diu, Kutch Mandvi Beach, Tithal Beach near Valsad, and the Somnath Beach are the famous and most visited beaches by travellers.

Bird Sighting:

The Nalsarovar lake is a paradise for all bird lovers. Enjoy the boat ride into the dense forest and damp grasslands to see some great varieties of birds. The best time to reach the place is early morning and you can spot different species of birds. November-December is the best time for you to witness the migratory birds.

Gujarat is famous for its special spice mixes and there are different traditional items with those mixes that you can try. Foodies will love gorging on the traditional Gujarati cuisine. Gujarati Kadhi, Undhiyu, Aam Shrikhand with Mango Salad, Khandvi, Gujarati Samosa, Bardoli ki Khichdi, Dhokla, Methi ka Thepla, Dal Dhokli, Handvo, Fafda with Jalebi, Patra, and khichu will just blow your mind away. End any meal with a yummy ice gola and your tummy will bless you. Can’t wait to try out these items, pack your bags quickly and get on the trip.

Gujarat has many things to offer for those who love shopping. The traditional Gujarati items and clothes are full of colors and remind you of its rich and varied culture. Things can be purchased from the local bazaar or from the shopping malls. Patola silk sarees, Bandhni materials, jewellery, embroidered silks, appliquéd quilts, bangles, khadi, and so much more for you to shop.