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About Gujarat Tourism

There are many reasons why Gujarat finds a place among the top travel destinations in India. The places to visit in Gujarat include UNESCO sites, religious sites, wildlife sanctuaries with Asiatic lions, Jyotirlinga, Char Dham Temples, museums, the large white desert Rann of Kutch, Statue of Unity and Gandhian heritage sites. There are numerous opportunities for a sightseeing tour. The richness in history, heritage and culture will overwhelm you on your first visit!

Gujarat borders Pakistan to the north-west, the Arabian Sea to the south-west, Rajasthan to the north, Maharashtra to the south, Madhya Pradesh to the east; Gujarat is the seventh largest state of India by area. The state is an electric mixture of different cultures and traditions, showcasing the traditions of the real India.

Newly Launched Tourist Attractions

Added to the already rich treasure of tourist attractions in Gujarat are newer ones which enrich Gujarat tourism. One of these is the Statue of Unity. At 597 feet, it's the world's largest statue. Some of the attractions surrounding the statue are butterfly garden, cactus garden, handicraft stores and mirror maze.

Another one is the Sardar Patel Zoological Park, located just 3 kilometers from the Statue of Unity. It's popularly known as Jungle Safari Park. Unlike other parks, it's created in an open design. The park has animals which have been imported from across the world. There are more than 5 lakh plants in the zoo. The world's largest aviary is also found here. The aviary consists of around 500 birds belonging to 30 species. The birds are displayed in 2 sections: exotic and Indian.

There are around 500 birds belonging to 30 species in the aviary, in addition to 30 types of plants and grass for their food. Orientations will also be provided to children and adults when they enter the aviary. There are 2 sections displaying the birds: exotic and Indian.

Places Associated with Mahatma Gandhi!

Gujarat is the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, fondly called the Father of the Nation. There are several points of tourist interest in Gujarat connected with Mahatma Gandhi. These include statues, museums and ashrams. There's something called a Gandhi Tourism Circuit which lets you follow the life of the Mahatma. Some of the best places to see related to Gandhi's life are Sabarmati Ashram, National Salt Satyagraha Museum, Kochrab Ashram and Gandhi Smriti.

Ancient History and Rich Heritage!

Heritage lovers have a lot to look forward to in Gujarat sightseeing tour. There are so many heritage sites, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These range across palaces, forts, stepwells and monuments. You can also enjoy a heritage walk in Ahmedabad, Junagadh and Vadodara. Some of the most famous heritage tourism sites are Laxmi Vilas Palace, Rani ki Vav and Modhera Sun Temple. Of these, Rani ki Vav, Champaner & Pavagadh Archaeological Park & Ahmedabad World Heritage City are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Gujarat is also a haven for lovers of history and archaeology. It's fascinating to know that there are more than 200 Indus Valley Civilization sites spread across Gujarat. Three of these are Dholavira, Lothal and Surkotada Indus Valley Civilisation. Among these, Dholavira dates back 4500 years. It is surrounded by the Rann of Kutch. Here, you come across the world's earliest and best planned water conservation systems. The world's first signboards, written in ancient Indus script, are also found here.

Rich Wildlife: And the Asiatic Lion!

There are many things which Gujarat tourism prides itself on. One amongst them is the Asiatic lion. With its thick mane and royal gait, it commands respect. You can spot the Asiatic lions and other wildlife at Gir National Park. Besides, there are 4 National Parks & 21 Wildlife Sanctuaries of Gujarat. The rich biodiversity of wildlife reserves is characterised by scenic landscapes, dense forests, mountain streams, waterfalls and rivers. The landforms range from dry deciduous forests and wetlands to marine ecosystems. There are more than 500 varieties of mammals, 2000 species of birds and as many insects, fishes and reptiles.

Quiet, Lovely Beaches!

The beaches in Gujarat are as beautiful as any other in India. Its 1600 kilometers shoreline is dotted with really beautiful beaches. Many of these beaches have a temple located nearby. Tranquillity and spiritual aura pervade them in equal measure. Two famous temples located just beside the shore are Somnath Temple and Koteshwar Temple. Gujarat also houses the first national marine park of India on the Jamnagar coast. In the marine park, there are 53 species of coral. October to May is the best time to visit Gujarat for its fine beaches.

Bird Watching Sanctuaries!

Bird watching or birding can definitely be counted among the top things to do in Gujarat tour. It has some of India's most accessible wetlands which are hotspots for bird watching. Some of the best bird watching destinations in Gujarat are Rann of Kutch, Nakhatrana, Jamnagar, Velvadar and Sasan Gir. A few famous bird sanctuaries where you can enjoy birding are: Khijadiya Bird, Thol Lake, Nalsarovar, Porbandar, Velavadar and The Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary.

Enjoy Golfing!

Gujarat is also famous for golfing. The golf courses boast world class facilities, spectacular views of the sea & a variety of entertainment options. There are seven golf courses across the state. The famous golf clubs are Glade One Golf Club, Aalloa Hills Resort, Gulmohar Greens Golf Kensville Golf and Country Club & Kalhaar Blues and Greens Golf Club.

Wellness Tourism!

Ayurveda based wellness tourism is also gaining a rapid popularity in Gujarat. There are several spa and Ayurveda resorts. You can enjoy a relaxing Swedish massage, Panchkarma & other kinds of treatments. Some of the Ayurveda resorts where you can spend a wellness vacation are Bhavani Retreat, Khadi Veda, Yogashram Nature Cure Center and Indu Ayurveda Hospital.

Colourful Fairs & Festivals!

An unmissable experience while travelling to Gujarat is attending its fair and festivals. Beautifully choreographed dances, riot of colours and lively folk performances mark these celebrations. The famous fairs and festivals in Gujarat are Navratri Festival, Rann Utsav and Dang Darbar Fair.

Top 10 Most Visited Tourist Destinations of Gujarat

  • Ahmedabad : Ahmedabad, founded in 1411, is a UNESCO World Heritage City. The old city comprises pols, narrow streets, chabutaras for feeding birds & secret passages. Sabarmati Ashram is another attraction.

  • Junagadh : Visit the city of Junagadh to visit the Buddhist Cave groups, Gir National Park, Somnath Temple, Mahabat Maqbara Temple, Damodar Kund and Junagadh Museum.

  • Gandhinagar : Gandhinagar is a treasure trove of sightseeing attractions. Visit the Indroda Dinosaur & Fossil Park, Dandi Kutir Museum and Adalaj Trimandir.

  • Vadodara : Visit the 19th century Laxmi Vilas Palace, enjoy golfing, visit 140 years old Tambekar Wada and the 18th century Sursagar Lake & Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum.

  • Kutch : Kutch is a top tourist attraction for one of the world's largest salt deserts: Great Rann of Kutch. Watch how Nirona painting is done. There are heritage sites, beaches & famous Prag Mahal museum.

  • Jamnagar : Stretched out on the coast, Jamnagar is famous for the Ranmal Lake, Bhujiyo Kotho, Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary, Khambhalia Gate & European styled arcaded Willingdon Crescent.

  • Surat : Surat is a curious mix of Parsi agiaris, European tombs, carved mosques and colonial houses. Surat Castle, Sneh Rashmi Botanical Garden & Suvali Beach are top attractions.

  • Bhavnagar : Bhavnagar was once a princely state. The top tourist attractions in the city are Brahm Kund, Takhteshwar Temple, Gandhi Smriti, Mahuva Beach and Velavadar Blackbuck National Park.

  • Saputara : It is the only hill station in Gujarat. Some of the tourist attractions of Saputara are Lake Garden, Rose Garden, Honey Bees Center, Gira Waterfalls, Gandhi Shikhar and Sunrise Point.

  • Great Rann of Kutch : It is one of the world's largest white salt deserts. It's best visited during Rann Utsav, celebrated between November and March. The event is marked by camel safaris & traditional handicrafts.

Top 10 Most Visited Attractions in Gujarat

  • Gir National Park : Gir is a must visit attraction in Gujarat because of the Asiatic Lions. In fact, it's the only place in India with the largest population of Asiatic lions. There are more than 300 bird species too, and is great for birding.

  • Dwarkadhish Temple : What makes this temple a must visit is its extraordinary architecture! There are 5 storeys standing on 72 pillars. The walls & sandstone plinth are adorned with elephants, dancers, celestial beings and musicians.

  • Champaner Pavagadh Archaeological Park : History lovers will like this one! It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site & stretches on a rocky hilltop. The living cultural heritage of Gujarat is reflected in its mosques, temples and forts.

  • Sabarmati Ashram : Sabarmati Ashram is a must visit because Mahatma Gandhi stayed here between 1917 & 1930. It consists of his living quarters. There is also an open air museum which presents a record of his life & teachings.

  • Lothal : It is an important site of Harappan civilization, and hence, a must visit tourist attraction in Gujarat. This archaeological site dates back 4,500 years. There is a museum which showcases 5,089 products varying from ornaments to weights.

  • Sun Temple : The Sun Temple in Modhera was built in 1,027 AD. Inside the temples complex, there is a stepwell, prayer hall and another room which leads to Garbagriha.

  • Akshardham Temple : Akshardham Temple is dedicated to Lord Swwaminarayan. Its architecture is almost surreal, making it a must visit tourist place. It's built from 6,000 tons of pink sandstone without the use of cement or steel.

  • Laxmi Vilas Palace : It's 4 times the size of Buckingham Palace & easily the grandest structure in India. It sprawls over 700 acres. What's equally amazing is that its construction took almost 12 years.

  • Adalaj Stepwell : It was originally built as a stepwell in 1,555 AD on the outskirts of Ahmedabad. The series of platforms & galleries built on the sides of the stepwell are extremely impressive.

  • Statue of Unity : At 182 meters tall, the Statue of Unity is the world's tallest statue. It is dedicated to Sardar Vallabhai Patel, the famous freedom fighter in India.

Best Time to Visit Gujarat

Summer Season in Gujarat

Summer Season in Gujarat

Summers in Gujarat last from March to June. Temperature ranges between 35°C to 42°C.

Monsoon Season in Gujarat

Monsoon Season in Gujarat

Monsoon arrives in July and lasts till September. Temperature ranges between 27°C to 35°C.

Winter Season in Gujarat

Winter Season in Gujarat

Winters start from November and last till February. The temperature ranges between 12°C to 29°C. The weather during this time is extremely pleasant.

Best Places to Visit in Gujarat

Junagadh, Gujarat

Junagadh

You should absolutely visit the city of Junagadh to explore its Buddhist Cave groups, Somnath Temple, Gir National Park, Mahabat Maqbara Temple, Junagadh Museum and Damodar Kund.

Ahmedabad, Gujarat

Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad is a UNESCO World Heritage City which was founded in 1411. Explore this heritage city whose top attractions are pols, narrow streets, secret passages and chabutaras. Don't forget to visit Sabarmati Ashram.

Great Rann of Kutch, Gujarat

Great Rann of Kutch

The Great Rann of Kutch should be visited during the Rann Utsav, celebrated between November and March. It is one of the world's largest white salt deserts.

Gandhinagar, Gujarat

Gandhinagar

There are so many things to see in Gandhinagar. Some of the top tourist attractions which you should check out are Fossil Park, Dandi Kutir Museum, Indroda Dinosaur and Adalaj Trimandir.

Rajkot, Gujarat

Rajkot

Once a princely capital, Rajkot is now famous for being closely attached with the life of Mahatma Gandhi. Some of the top tourist places are Swamy Narayana Temple, Mahatma Gandhi House and Lady Wilson Museum.

Bhavnagar, Gujarat

Bhavnagar

You should visit Bhavnagar not just because it was once a princely state but also because of its incredible tourist places like Gandhi Smriti, Mahuva Beach, Brahma Kund and Velavadar Blackbuck National Park.

Vadodara, Gujarat

Vadodara

Vadodara will win you over with its superb architectural and historical sites like Laxmi Vilas Palace, Tambekar Wada, Sursagar Lake and Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum. You can also enjoy golfing.

Jamnagar, Gujarat

Jamnagar

Jamnagar is located on the coast and is famous for various tourist attractions like Lake Ranmal, Bhujiyo Kotho, Khambhalia Gate, European styled arcaded Willingdon Crescent and Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary.

Surat, Gujarat

Surat

Surat is a flourishing city of Gujarat which is dotted with European tombs, carved mosques, colonial houses and Surat Castle. Other attractions are Suvali Beach and Botanical Gardens.

Popular Tourist Attractions in Gujarat

Statue of Unity, Gujarat

Statue of Unity

Statue of Unity is one of the best places to visit in Gujarat. At 182 meters, it is the world's tallest statue. The area around it is dotted with tourist attractions like butterfly garden, cactus garden, valley of flowers and medicinal plant nursery.

Sardar Patel Zoological Park, Gujarat

Sardar Patel Zoological Park

What makes Sardar Patel Zoological Park a wonderful tourist attraction is the 170 species of animals from America, Asia, Australia and Africa that it's home to. It's created in an open design, giving you the feel of an open safari.

Girnar Ropeway, Gujarat

Girnar Ropeway

Taking a ride on Girnar Ropeway is the best experience you can have. It is Asia's longest ropeway. The cable car takes you almost 850 meters above the hill on Amba Temple.

Laxmi Vilas Palace, Gujarat

Laxmi Vilas Palace

Sprawling across 700 acres, Laxmi Vilas Palace is one of the grandest structures in India. It is 4 times the size of Buckingham Palace. The palace even has a small zoo, which is a resting place for crocodiles.

Modhera Sun Temple, Gujarat

Modhera Sun Temple

You should visit the Sun Temple in Modhera Gujarat because of its uniqueness. That's because it's one of the few surviving temples dedicated to the Sun God. It is the epitome of architectural excellence under the Solanki dynasty.

Rani Ki Vav, Gujarat

Rani Ki Vav

This stepwell is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built by Queen Rani of Bhimdeva, Udayamanti. The figurative motifs along with the primary sculptures are extremely impressive. Rani Ki Vav Festival is held here.

Champaner and Pavagadh Archaeological Park, Gujarat

Champaner and Pavagadh Archaeological Park

Both of these are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The rich heritage site is dotted with forts, monuments, mosques, arches and temples built from the 8th to 14th century.

Sabarmati Ashram

Sabarmati Ashram

Sabarmati Ashram is special because it was here that Gandhiji stayed from 1917 to 1930. The Satyagraha movement was started here.

Gir Nat,ional Park, Gujarat

Gir National Park

It is a famous tourist attraction because it's the only place in India with the largest population of Asiatic Lions. The park is also home to more than 300 species of birds.

Gira Waterfalls, Gujarat

Gira Waterfalls

The Gira Waterfalls are about 30 meters tall and drop into the River Ambica. Visit the waterfalls during the monsoon to watch them in all their glory.

Top Things to Do in Gujarat Tour

UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Gujarat

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Gujarat is a treasure trove of history, with 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These are Rani ki Vav, Champaner & Pavagadh Archaeological Park & Ahmedabad World Heritage City.

wildlife, Gujarat

Wildlife Safari

Observe the Asiatic Lions in Gir National Park. It's the only place in India with the highest number of Asiatic lions. Other famous wildlife spots are Wild Ass Sanctuary, Ratanmahal Sloth Bear Sanctuary & Ambardi Safari Park.

Waterfalls, Gujarat

Waterfalls

Gujarat has some beautiful waterfalls which you should check out. Some of these are Ninai, Zarwani, Gira and Girmal.

Boating, Gujarat

Boating

Go boating & enjoy the views on the lakes of Gujarat. Some of the famous lakes in Gujarat are Kankaria, Saputara, Ranmal, Sursagar and Hamirsar.

Gandhi Circuit, Gujarat

Gandhi Circuit

Get a deep insight into Gandhiji's life with the Gandhi circuit. The places covered are Sabarmati Ashram, Kochrab Ashram, National Salt Satyagraha Memorial, Dandi Kutir Museum, Gujarat Vidyapeeth, Kaba Gandhi No Delo, Gandhi Smriti & Mahatma Gandhi museum.

Heritage, Gujarat

Heritage

Gujarat boasts a rich heritage. These can be seen in its forts like Idar & Uparkot, palace like Laxmi Vilas, stepwells like Rani ki Vav & monuments like Modhera Sun Temple.

Golf, Gujarat

Golf

There's plenty of places to enjoy golf in Gujarat. The famous golf courses are Kensville Golf & Country Club, Kalhaar Blues & Greens Golf Club, the Gaekwad Baroda Golf Club & Glade One Golf Club.

Religious Sites, Gujarat

Religious Sites

Dwarkadhish, Ranchhodrai, Rukmini Devi, Shamlaji, Sudama and Bhalka Teerth are associated with Lord Krishna. Hutheesing Temple, Siddi Sayed Mosque & Ahmad Shah Mosque are other famous religious sites

Cuisine, Gujarat

Cuisine

Gujarat is a vegetarian's paradise. Don't' miss out its delicacies like farsan, handavo, dabeli, fafda, ganthiya and patra.

How to Reach Gujarat?

By Train

By Train

The major railway stations in Gujarat are Surat, Ahmedabad, Rajkot and Vadodara. Vadodara Railway Station is the busiest since it's a part of the Delhi-Mumbai railway line.

By Air

By Air

Gujarat has domestic as well as international airports. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport is the major airport. Surat, Rajkot and Bhavnagar are some domestic airports.

By Road

By Road

There are several national highways that connect Gujarat to the rest of India. The first Express highway number 1 connects Ahmedabad to Vadodara.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. When is the best time to visit Gujarat for Holidays?

Winters is the best time to visit Gujarat. The weather is pleasant and comfortable from November to March. It makes sightseeing so much easier.

Q. Where is the domestic/international airport in Gujarat?

There are 9 domestic airports and 1 international airport. The 9 domestic airports are: Bhavnagar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Kandla, Keshod, Porbandar, Rajkot, Surat and Vadodara. The two major international airports are Ahmedabad Airport (also known as Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, and Surat International Airport.

Q. Is Gujarat Safe for Female Solo Travellers?

Yes, Gujarat is safe for female solo travellers.

Q. What Gujarat is Famous for?

Gujarat is famous for its heritage sites, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, sites going back to the Indus Valley Civilisation, stepwells, palaces, attractions related to Mahatma Gandhi, the heritage city of Ahmedabad, Gir National Park with the largest number of Asiatic Lions, cuisine and museums.

Q. Is alcohol allowed in Gujarat?

No, alcohol is strictly prohibited in Gujarat.

Q. How many minimum days are required for a Gujarat Tour?

Gujarat is a big state with a lot of tourist attractions. You will need at least 8-10 days for a Gujarat tour.

Q. What are the major festivals of Gujarat Tourism?

Some of the major festivals of Gujarat Tourism are Rann Utsav, Navratri, Dang Darbar, International Kite Festival and Makar Sankranti.

Q. What are the top destinations for family holidays in Gujarat?

Some of the top destinations for family holidays in Gujarat are Great Rann of Kutch, Somnath, Dwarka, Marine National Park and Thol Lake Bird Sanctuary.

Q. What are the best destinations for a honeymoon tour in Gujarat?

The best destinations for a honeymoon tour in Gujarat are Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Gir National Park, Saputara, Junagadh, Ahmedabad, Somnath and Vadodara.

Q. What are the top must visit pilgrimage sites in Gujarat?

The top must visit pilgrimage sites in Gujarat are Dwarka, Somnath, Palitana, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple and Khodiyar Mata Temple.

Why Choose TMI for Gujarat?

  • Experienced

    Experienced

    An experienced Gujarat tour operator, with a team of an experienced travel enthusiast ensure to give our clients well - designed Gujarat tour packages

  • Certified

    Certified

    We are certified by major tour and travel associations in India and world like IATA, IATO, TAAI, IMF & MOT (Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India).

  • Happy Customers

    Happy Customers

    TMI has received numerous accolades from its happy customers for its excellent services and best Gujarat holidays.

  • Local Offices

    Local Offices

    We have local office in Gujarat for our customers to find assistance anytime and anywhere.

Gujarat Essential Information

Where to Stay in Gujarat?

There are plenty of accommodation options in Gujarat, depending on your budget & preferences. Ahmedabad, Balasinor, Banaskantha, Bhavnagar and Bhuj are destinations with famous heritage hotels in Gujarat. There are a range of luxury, mid range and budget hotels for you to choose from. You can enjoy camping at Polo Forest and Rann of Kutch (between November to March). View Gujarat hotels list here.

Major Activities for Tourists in Gujarat

Gujarat is one of the richest states in India when it comes to history, heritage & Asiatic lions. You should come here to explore the several heritage sites. These include 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. There are sites dating back to Indus Valley Civilisation. There are cities like Ahmedabad, a UNESCO World Heritage City. Stepwells, palaces, temples, mosques, pols and other structures bear testimony to its glorious past. You can enjoy a game of golf at one of the 7 seven golf courses. At Gir National Park, you can spot the Asiatic Lions. There are other wildlife sanctuaries where you can spot them as well, besides other wildlife. Attend the Rann Utsav held at the Rann of Kutch. It is one of the world's largest salt deserts. Try the spicy and sweet cuisine. Visit the waterfalls, go boating on the lakes. Know a great deal about Mahatma Gandhi's life with the Gandhi circuit. Go back in time & experience a spiritual revelation at Somnath Temple, along with other religious sites. Gujarat offers several experiences, all of which are unmissable!

A Few Tips Before Visiting Gujarat

  • Carry an identity proof with you at all times.
  • Carry items like sunscreen lotion and mosquito repellent creams.
  • You should remember that alcohol is banned in Gujarat.
  • Do not leave your goods unattended.
  • Pay attention to the rules & customs, especially while visiting a place of worship.
  • Drink bottled mineral water as far as possible.

Interesting Facts

  • Gujarat is the First State in India that started the concept of Ayurveda University.
  • Gujarat has the largest seashore in the country i.e. 1600 km.
  • Great Rann of Kutch is reputed to be reputed to be the largest salt desert in the world.
  • Kutch Museum is the oldest museum in Gujarat, founded in 1877 by Maharao Khengarji, it has the largest existing collection of Kshatrapa inscriptions, dating to the 1st century AD.
  • Gandhinagar is the greenest capital city in whole Asia.
  • The oil refinery at Jamnagar is the world's largest grass-roots refinery. It is operated by Reliance Petroleum Limited, which is one of the group companies of Reliance Industries Limited founded by Dhirubhai Ambani.
  • The Jari industry of Surat is one of the oldest handicrafts whose origin can be traced to the Mughal period
  • Gujarat is the largest milk producer in India
  • Amul in Gujarat has emerged as Asia's 2nd largest dairy union.
  • Palitana in Gujarat is the only place in the world with more than 900 temples.
  • Gujarat was the main centre of Indus Valley Civilisation with cities like Lothal, Dholavira and Dhoro. At Lothal, ancinet India's first port was established.
  • Gujarat is the largest producer of cotton and second largest producer of tobacco in India.
  • The first expressway of India was built between Ahmedabad and Vadodara.
  • Valsad in Gujarat is India's first integrated horticulture district.
  • World's third largest denim manufacturers are Ahmedabad's Arvind Mills
  • Alang (Bhavnagar district) in Gujarat is the largest ship-breaking yard in the world.
  • Surat, a district in Gujarat, is known as the diamond heart of the world as 90% of the world's total rough diamond cutting and polishing are done here.
  • Gujarat is known as the 'land of legends' as it is the birthplace of many freedom fighters like Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and many others who fought the freedom struggle
  • Marine National Park in Gujarat is the first marine park of India.