23 things to do in Gujarat which would leave you bewitched

Gujarat lies on the western side of India and is often cited as “Jewel of Western India”. The terrain is somewhat dry but it does not stop this state from creating alluring memories for travelers. Be it the unique national park of Gir or enchanting landscapes of the White Rann, Gujarat can surely leave a traveler bewitched. Here is a list of things to do in Gujarat, from my personal experiences.

1. Spot Lions at Gir National Park

Gir Forest National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, set up in 1965 spreads across an area of 1412 square kilometer is actually a forest and wildlife sanctuary. It is situated near the Talala Gir in the state. The national park is rich in biodiversity and has a large variety of flora and fauna. It is home to the largest number of Asiatic lions. The park also has a large number of water bodies that are inhabited by different birds and crocodiles. The place is also home to other animals that include sambhar, antelopes, jackals, wild boar, hyenas, Indian porcupine, hare, fox, and others. The park is also known to organize Lion shows which are very famous among the visitors. You should definitely try to include in your things to do in Gujarat.

Things to do in Gujarat

2. Admire Kankaria Lake

Built by Sultan Qutb-ud-Din in 1951, Kankaria Lake is situated in Ahmedabad. It is one of the largest lakes in the city and is a major tourist attraction. The Kankaria Lake has a summer palace called Nagina Wadi that is situated at the center of the lake. This is a man-made island that is famous for garden and an evening light show.  The park is famous among the visitors because it has something for every individual irrespective of the age. The lake in houses other attractions such as recreational center, gardens for children, zoo, museum and a boat club that provides boat rides in the lake.  The zoo at the lake has different animals like elephants, tigers, python, anaconda, and others. The zoo is stretched over 21 acres. The garden is said to include attractive places like boat house, toy house, mirror house and planetarium for the children. Toy trains at the lake give you a ride around the lake. Balloon safari near the lake is also in huge demand by the tourists. Include this on your list of things to do in Gujarat if you can admire pompous gardens.

Things to do in Gujarat

3. Get bewitched at Rann of Kutch

The world’s biggest salt desert is definitely a place that you should not miss when you visit Gujarat. The mammoth area is spread over 16000 square km and is covered with white salt round the year except during the monsoon. The best time to visit the place is on a full moon day when the Rann of Kutch looks mesmerizingly beautiful in the moonlight. The place also offers outstanding views of sunset and sunrise that will leave you astonished. The place is famous for organizing cultural programs in December and the government provides a luxurious and comfortable stay in the tents during that period. Include this in your things to do in Gujarat list for the surreal landscapes.

Things to do in Gujarat

4. Visit Somnath Temple

This legendary temple is thronged by devotees as it is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in the country.  The Somnath Temple is said to be the first Jyotirlinga shrine that is situated in Prabhas Patan in Saurashtra which lies on the western coast of the state. The shrine is an important pilgrimage center and is constructed according to the Chalukya style. This place of worship is surrounded by the roaring Arabian Sea and has been reconstructed number of times. It is a great place where you can worship Lord Shiva and also has temples that are dedicated to other deities. A lovely inclusion in your things to do in Gujarat if you seek spiritual or religious sojourn.

Things to do in Gujarat

5. Admire architecture at Laxmi Vilas Palace

This magnificent palace situated in Vadodara, Gujarat is an excellent example of brilliant architecture from the past. The palace is spread over a land of 700 acres and was built by Maharaja Sayaji Rao, the Third during the period 1878-1890. The intricate interiors and splendid furnishings of the palace will leave you in awestruck. The palace also includes a museum which houses a precious collection of artworks, sculpture, armory etc. The museum also includes rare paintings of the renowned painter Raja Ravi Varma. The palace zoo is inhabited by crocodiles and peacocks. For an architecture fan in you, Laxmi Vilas is a must inclusion in your list of things to do in Gujarat.

Things to do in Gujarat

6. Offer prayers at Dwarkadish Temple

The Dwarkadish temple which is popular as Jagat Mandir is a Hindu shrine that is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The main temple is a 5 storeyed building that is also known as Nija Mandir. It is assisted by 72 pillars and is said to be more than 2000 years old. The temple is believed to be built in the 15th-16th century and is also known by the name of Pushtimarg temple. It is an essential part of the Char Dham yatra which is a sacred pilgrimage followed in the Hindu religion.  The temple is developed according to the rituals and guidelines that were created by Shree Vithesleshnathji and Shree Vallabhacharya. From here, you can also go to Bet Dwarka where allegedly the Golden city of Dwarka is submerged. This historic temple is a must inclusion in things to do in Gujarat.

Things to do in Gujarat

7. Soak in history at Sabarmati Ashram

Also popular as the Harijan Ashram, Satyagraha Ashram or Gandhi Ashram, Sabarmati Ashram is situated in Ahmedabad city of Gujarat. It is located on the banks of the Sabarmati River in Sabarmati district which is on the outliers of Ahmedabad. The Ashram is located about 4 miles from the town hall and was the residential place of Mahatma Gandhi and his wife Kasturba for a period of 12 years. This is the place that was the base for the Dandi March. Mahatma Gandhi took out a Salt Satyagraha in opposition to the tax levied on salt by the British on 12 March 1930 which was a significant movement towards liberating India. As a mark of respect, the Indian government has declared this Ashram as a national monument. To soak in the history, you should definitely include this in your things to do in Gujarat.

Things to do in Gujarat

8. Revel in adventure at Girnar

Also known as Revatak Pravata or Girinagar, this place comprises of a range of mountain that is lying in the Junagadh district. The district is situated near Junagadh, Gujarat. The mountains are considered as a holy pilgrimage site for Hindus and Jains. The place is also famous for Girnar Parikrama festival. There is a lot of adventure awaiting as you will hike to the top. The view from the top is just amazing! For the nature seeker in you, including this in your things to do in Gujarat is highly recommended.

Things to do in Gujarat

9. Step back in history at Rani ki vav

A UNESCO world heritage site, Rani ki Vav is a complex yet beautifully constructed step well that is located in Patan town of Gujarat. The popular tourist destination lies on the banks of the Sabarmati River. The monument was built as a memorial for the 11th century King Bhimdev 1. The monument was built according to the Maru-Gurjara architectural style. The historical monument is actually an inverted temple that has seven levels of stairs. The memorial is believed to have around 500 plus principle structures. Include this in your things to do in Gujarat for the historian in you.

Things to do in Gujarat

10. Visit Akshardham temple

Known by the name Swaminarayan Akshardham, this temple is situated in Gandhinagar. This is a massive Hindu temple that was built as a tribute to Swaminarayan, his life, and preachings. The temple took 13 years for construction. The Akshardham Mandir has been constructed using 6000 metric tons of pink sandstone that were imported from Rajasthan. The temple is said to include 8 balconies, 17 domes, 97 carved pillars, 220 stone beams and around 264 sculpted figures. The temple has been built according to the Vedic principles of architecture. Visit this temple to admire at the royal face given to the temple.

Things to do in Gujarat

11. Go bird watching at Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary

This bird sanctuary is located at around 10 km from Jamnagar. The sanctuary is spread over a massive 605 hectares of the land and is a prime destination for the migratory birds of more than 300 types. More than 300 species of the birds dwell in this sanctuary. The sanctuary has been converted into a safe haven for the birds since 1982.The sanctuary has an ample number of freshwater lakes, mangroves and salt beds which attract a large number of migratory birds of all kinds. There are also 3 watchtowers constructed that give the tourist a premium location to watch the birds. The area also provides paddle boats if you want to explore the place. If you love bird watching, you should definitely include this in your things to do in Gujarat.Things to do in Gujarat

12. Dholavira and Lothal

Step back in history by exploring the ancient civilizations of our country. The excavations at Dholavira and Lothal are believed to be the 5th largest sites of the Harappan excavations and are major architectural sites of our country. While Lothal is believed to be a trading center in the olden days, Dholavira is an old city that was spread over 100 hectares of land. This place is situated in the Khadir bet island in Great Rann of Kutch. It is said to a spectacular treat for the eyes and an individual visiting Gujarat must definitely not miss this place. Visit the twin towns to understand the ancient civilizations. If civilizations interest you, then you should definitely include them in your list of things to do in Gujarat.

Things to do in Gujarat

13. Admire the flora and fauna at Sayaji Baug

This pleasant garden is situated in Vadodara in Gujarat. Sayaji Baug is said to have been built by Maharaja Sayaji Rao Gaekwad III. It was built in 1879 and dedicated to the people residing in Vadodara. It is stretched over 113 acres of the land and is said to be as the biggest garden on the west side of India. The garden is believed to have 98 plus tree species and also includes a Baroda museum &Picture Gallery, the Sayaji Baug Zoo, and Sardar Patel Planetarium. It is one of the exquisite gardens of India that is also used for morning walks by the Vadodara citizens. The garden is full of various flora and fauna and you should definitely include visiting here in your things to do in Gujarat.

Things to do in Gujarat

14. Visit Jama Mosque

The literal meaning of this name is Friday Mosque. Jama Mosque has alternative names Jumma Mosque or Jami. It is located in Ahmedabad. The mosque was erected in 1424 when Ahmed Shah I was the Emperor. It lies in the old part of the city and is just outside Bhadra Fort. For the intricate detailing and architecture, include visiting here in your things to do in Gujarat.

Things to do in Gujarat

15. Admire the architecture at Sun Temple

This Hindu temple is devoted to the solar God Surya and is situated at Modhera village which lies in the Mehsana district of Gujarat. The shrine is located on the banks of the Pushpavati River. The temple is said to be built in 1026-27 AD. The temple was constructed when Bhima I was the monarch of the Chalukya dynasty. The temple has been closed for worship and now stands as a well-protected monument that is maintained by the Archeological Survey of India. Again, this is an inclusion in things to do in Gujarat if you love architecture.

Things to do in Gujarat

16. Get lost in Victoria Park

Victoria Park is located a few minutes away from Bhavnagar. This is a protected 2 square km forest that lies on the edges of the Gaurishankar Lake. The park was designed by Mr. Proctor Sins in 1888 for Maharaja Takhtasinhji. The area is full of diverse flora and fauna. One can easily spot many foxes, butterflies in abundance in this place. The park is said to have 15 mammalian species, 20 reptile species, 223 bird species and different types of plants. There are 2 water bodies inside the park – Krishna Kunj Lake and Gaurishankar Lake which are usually frequented by the migratory birds. The forest is home to creatures like Nilgais and birds like Common Peafowl, Shikra, Silverbills, Robins, Tailorbirds, Bulbuls, and others. For the wildlife lovers, you should include visiting Victoria Park on your list of things to do in Gujarat.

Things to do in Gujarat

17. Visit Teen Darwaja and the market around

Teen Darwaja lies to the eastern side of the Bhadra fort and is a famous historical gateway. The construction of this historical structure was finished in 1415. The central arch is 17 feet wide while the side arch is 13 feet wide each. The gateway comprises of three 25 feet arches that lead to a bigger enclosure. The arches used to open up towards the courtyard of the Maidan Shah palace in the olden days. Now the Teen Darwaja opens to a congested marketplace. Include this on your things to do in Gujarat.

Things to do in Gujarat

18. Dumas Beach

This is an urban beach. It is situated along the Arabian Sea and is located around 21 kilometers to the South West of Surat, Gujarat. This is a most favored and sought after tourist destination. The place also has Dariya Ganesh Temple which is located just next to the beach. The place also features in the top haunted spots in the country. This beach is not as great as South Goa maybe. But, it is worth a visit if you have time. Include it in your things to do in Gujarat.

Things to do in Gujarat

       19. Dine at the revolving restaurant

Famous as the revolving hotel, Patang restaurant is a significant landmark in the city of Ahmedabad. This restaurant is the tallest building in the city. The Patang Revolving restaurant offers an amazing view of the Sabarmati River and the surroundings of the city. You can view the riverfront, river bridge and the Ashram road from this hotel. The restaurant permits a load of 25 kg per square feet. The theme based restaurant has a seating capacity of 136 people and the rotating platform takes 90 minutes to complete one revolution. Dining here will be a lovely inclusion in your things to do in Gujarat.

Things to do in Gujarat

        20. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Memorial

This memorial is situated at the Moti Shahi Mahal and is located in Shahibaug, Ahmedabad. The memorial is a museum and includes an exhibition center. The museum was started in 1978.The Mahal was built by Shahjahan between 1618 and 1622 and has a garden surrounding it. The building was used as a residential place to house the British officials during that era. Renowned Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore is also said to have lived here when he was 17 years old and is said to have penned down the famous story, The Hungry Stone using this very place as an inspiration. For the history lover in you, this memorial goes right in your things to do in Gujarat.

Things to do in Gujarat

       21. Sight Blackbucks at Velavadar National Park

If you are a wildlife lover, you will just love the grasslands and blackbucks at Velavadar National park. The safari takes you in the deep forest and you can expect a bunch of blackbucks living their lives in peace. Along with black bucks, you might also get to spot other wildlife as Hyena or fox. You should definitely include this place on your list of things to do in Gujarat.

Things to do in Gujarat

       22. Go Bird Watching at Nalsarovar Lake

Nalsarovar lake is indeed a bird watcher’s paradise. The boat ride will take you through the dense forest and damp grasslands where you can spot a variety of birds. Early morning will be the best time to experience this waterbody and spot a variety of birds. You should visit Nalsarovar lake in winter as there would be a lot of migratory birds there.

Things to do in Gujarat

       23. Appreciate the green envelope at Saputara

Located in the Southern part of Gujarat, Saputara is plush with green surroundings and some waterfalls in the wilderness. The rainy season is the best time to visit here and feel free to go hiking in the woods. Munching corn by side of the lake is a very relaxing experience.

Things to do in Gujarat

Hope you like my recommendations about the things to do in Gujarat. If you have any suggestions, do share your thoughts in comment section below.

Also, read my post on Gujarat itinerary to plan your trip to this state with ease.