Sun Temple Photo by Walter P. Berry

Tucked away on the western coast of India, Gujarat is a state famous for its globetrotting people and their warm-hearted spirit. The Karma-Puni of Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel Gujarat is known for its rich historical and cultural heritage that dates back several centuries to the time of the Harrapan civilization.

Today, Gujarat is one of India’s most prosperous and industrialized states, and is well connected by air, road and rail to all major cities of India. Using a recently commissioned international airport at Ahmedabad, visitors can fly into Gujarat from any corner of the world, and can travel across the entire state within hours, owing to its superb internal infrastructure.

In Gujarat it is possible to visit many archaeological sites and relive moments of history, stroll on sunny beaches on one day and retire back to the hills the next. Visitors can unwind body and mind in an ayurvedic spa or cleanse their souls at the many pilgrimage centers.

There is something in Gujarat for everyone, whether young or old, hiker or a sea lover, the spiritually inclined or history enthusiast, solitude seeker or fun lover.

Step Well Photo by Walter P. Berry

Gujarat is a land of religious minded people who have an intense faith in the God almighty. This state is also a land of temples; Somnath, the temple of Lord Shiva, and Dwarka, the holy abode of Lord Krishna, draw millions of devotees and visitors. Hilltop shrines like Ambaji, Palitana, Girnar, and Pavagadh offer a rich spiritual fare to pilgrims, while the Sun Temple at Modhera, a magnificent specimen of superb artistry, leaves them spellbound and filled with reverence.

Gujarat has a 1,600 km coastline that is dotted with sunny beaches, beach palaces, and princely port cities. Chorwad is perfect for long beach walks and a quiet holiday, and the white waters of Mandvi are bound to leave visitors wanting more.

And for those who wish to experience breathtaking views from the top, Saputara is an enchanting destination, with picture-perfect hills, lakes, waterfalls, and abundant green.

For wildlife enthusiasts, Gujarat is a paradise with many national parks and sanctuaries. The Asiatic Lion is found only in Gir, the Wild Ass in the Rann of Kutch, and the rare Indian Bustards in the bird reserves. The world’s only four-horned antelope and the Black Buck are some of the valued species that have made Gujarat their home.

The arts and crafts of Gujarat have carved a distinct identity for themselves the world over, whether it is the famous Patola of Patan or the famous embroidery of Kutch or the Bandhani.

The land of fun and folly is evident from the sheer number of splendid and evocative festivals celebrated during a year.

Photo Courtesy Gujarat Tourism

Gujarat has a rich history of over 4,500 years which is alive even today in its historical and archaeological monuments. Champaner, the world heritage site, offers a glimpse of the rich Mogul architecture. Lothal offers an unparalleled insight into the Harrapan civilization. Ahmedebad has specimens of Indo-Sarcenic architecture as well as the step well of Adalaj, which is world renowned for its magnificent architectural form. Sardar Patel Smarak Bhavan, Jumma Masjid, Siddi Syyed Mosque, the Pols and Havelis, Sarkhej Roza, Rani Ki Vav, Sahastralinga Talav, Laxmi Vilas Palace, Dholavira, the list of must see sights of Gujarat is almost endless.

Gujarat is also the home of the Sabarmati Ashram where the legend of Mohandas Gandhi, the Mahatma (Great Soul), continues to live on.

Photo by Walter P. Berry

One of the latest offerings of Gujarat to the international community is “medical tourism.” Gujarat today boasts of some of the best medical facilities that modern technology can offer, combined with world class service and affordable rates.

Gujarat is a land of immense diversity blending tradition with modernity; it is unique in the way it creates harmony in everything it offers. Visitors can dance for nine nights, or bring out the child inside as kites soar high during enchanting festivals.

Here tourists can shop for handicrafts, block prints and embroidered fabrics and take home unforgettable memories. They can live like kings in the palaces now converted into heritage hotels, enjoy a wholesome Gujarati Thali or have a favorite burger.

Gujarat has a unique way of bidding farewell “Aav Jo” which literally means an invitation to “come back.”

For more information on Gujarat you can visit: www.gujarattourism.com.