An assortment of scenic nature, historical monuments, architectural assets, enchanting wildlife, holy temples, delectable cuisine and a lot more, Gujarat is a hidden treasure trove for all the Indophiles. The West Indian state makes for a perfect place to be at. Most tourists scurry between Mumbai, Goa, Kerala and Delhi when in India, but often miss out on Gujarat – the state of vibrant diversity. If you haven’t visited here yet, then wait no further as Gujarat awaits you to charm its way through your heart for the many reasons mentioned below. So, read on and get inspired.
Warm Hospitality
Gujaratis are best known for the way they welcome their guests. Their lovable and welcoming nature wins the heart of any guests visiting this place.
Mouth-watering Cuisine
Every Indian state has their own unique flavor and appetizing cuisine, but when it comes to Gujarati food it has no comparison at all. Gujarat mainly serves vegetarian food that is less spicy, lighter and sweeter compared to a thali in Punjab. Their food are one of the most delicious foods ever and will definitely increase anyone’s hunger.
Amazing Handicrafts
The handicrafts in Gujarat mostly consists of textile based items, which includes, artistic weaving, hand block printing, exquisite embroideries. Highly skilled artisans of Gujarat weave magic with threads.
Colourful Textiles
Gujarat’s people are some of the most diverse in India, and it very well reflects in their textiles. Gujarat has a rich tradition of high-quality weaving, the uniquely vibrant Kutch embroidery and hand-block printing (the most common being tie-and-dye fabrics. The Patola silk sarees of Pataan are another famous item of Gujarat. You must know that Gujarat also houses the world’s finest textile museum. Visit the region of Kutch for instance and you’ll be mesmerized to see the rainbow of colourful and heavily embroidered attires of its people.
Scenic Landscapes
Gujarat always has one or the other things to amaze its visitors. In this case, it’s the Rann of Kutch, a seasonal salt marsh land turns into a surreal white desert in winter, which will definitely leave one gaping in awe when once viewed. Where else on earth do you see one of nature’s fascinating gift which is the Rann of Kutch.
Enchanting Wildlife
Wildlife found in Gujarat is simply amazing. Flamingos can be spotted in the little Rann of Kutch amongs other interesting wildlife. While Gir Forest is home to the world’s only Asiatic Lion population.
Architectural Delights
Gujarat state has a great number of heritage sites to boast of. From royal palaces to historic forts to amazing temples and mosques. Highly recommended, you need to see the exquisite marble carved Jain Temples at Palitana. The Palitana Temples is dotted with 3000 temples making it the largest temple complex on earth. You must also see the the Laxmi Vilas Palace (four times the size of Buckingham Palace in London). Ruins of ancient Indus Valley civilization is also visible here.
Untouched beaches
The beaches of Gujarat boasts of 1600 km of coastline, making it the longest in the country. The state is home to some of the country’s finest beach stretches and is dotted with enthralling beach resorts, shore temples and blue lagoons. Surely a refreshing break to indulge in.
Fairs and Festivals
Gujarat is culturally rich and the people here celebrate fairs and festivals with greatest zeal. Anyone will easily fall in love with their festivals and especially the way they celebrate it; a riot of colors, love and laughter. Some of the popular festivals of Gujarat are Modhera dance festival, International kite festival, Rann Utsav, and probably the best one – Navratri festival, and a lot more.
Popular Festivals to Enjoy in Gujarat:
Kite Festival (Uttarayan) – Held on 14th and 15th January in Ahmedabad.
Modhera Dance Festival – Held on 20th January in Modhera.
Navratri (Nine nights of festive fervor) – Takes place in September and October according to the Indian Calendar.
Kartik Purnima at Shatrunjaya hills in Somnath – Held during the months of November and December.
Best Time to Visit Gujarat:
Between November to February
Don’t forget this beautiful and diverse Indian state the next time you plan your travel itinerary.