There is a huge list of famous tourist places in Gujarat as it is the westernmost state of India and dotted with varied terrains and sacred sites.
The vibrant and culturally-rich state of Gujarat has an exquisite charm, which makes it one of the best tourist destinations in India.
The list of places to visit in Gujarat has a myriad of options for the visitors. It has temple towns, beaches, exotic wildlife, splendid structures, colorful markets, rich art and crafts and more.
Due to its various allures, it is fairly termed as the ‘Jewel of Western India’. Gujarat tourism provides a lot of opportunities and facilities to explore the majestic beauty of the state.
Here is the list of Top 25 Places to Visit in Gujarat:
1. Dwarka – One of the Revered Char Dham Destinations
One of the highly revered Char Dham destinations of India, Dwarka is known to be the ancient kingdom of Lord Krishna. It is also one of the seven most ancient Sapta Puri religious cities in India. This sacred city needs no introduction and is visited by a huge number of devotees. Peaceful environment and the divine air sweeps you off your feet.
Dwarakadhish Temple and Bet Dwarka are the two most important attractions here. Go down towards the Gomti Ghat to enjoy a hot cup of tea, observe decorated camels and get your hands on seashell knick-knacks. Some other things that you can visit here are Jagat Mandir, Rukmini Devi temple, Okha and Shank Narayan temple.
Popular Attractions– Dwarakadhish Temple and Bet Dwarka
Also Read:
Famous Places to Visit in Dwarka for a Spiritual Experience
2. Gir National Park – Home of the Mighty Asiatic Lions in India
One of the most popular attractions in Gujarat, the Gir National Park is the only place in India where the mighty Asiatic Lion resides. Other wildlife species that can be spotted here include chinkara, spotted deer, sambar, wild boar, striped hyena, jackal, black knapped Indian, rusty-spotted car and porcupine, etc. Wildlife safaris are offered twice a day. With 250 species of birds, bird watching is a popular activity here.
The latest statistics state that the park has 300 leopards and 523 lions. This jungle is the former hunting grounds of the Nawabs of Junagadh. The national park is close to Somnath and Junagarh. Its wealth comprises of 200 insect species, 38 species of mammals, and 37 reptiles’ species.
- Best time to visit Gir– December to March
- Popular Activities– Wildlife Safari, Bird Watching, Temple visit to Somnath temple and Kamleshwar Dham, Visit to Girnar Mountain and Nalsarovar Lake.
3. Great Rann of Kutch – India’s Largest white Salt Desert
Superb art and craft and the expansive white salt desert are two prime features of the Great Rann of Kutch. Visiting this place is truly once in a lifetime experience. The nearby villages of Hodka and Dhordo offer eco-friendly accommodation. One of the best experiences here is camel safari under a moonlit sky at the time of Rann Utsav, organized from December to March. Do not miss savoring lip-smacking local savory and sugary delights.
A visit to this place is calming and relaxing. Get your hands on some wonderful handicrafts made by Kutchhi people. This seasonal salt marshy land gets filled with water during the monsoon. Measuring about 10,000 square kilometers, it covers regions of India as well as Pakistan.
Popular Attractions- Rann Utsav festival, Camel Safari, art and craft items, Wildlife safari and Bird watching in Little Rann of Kutch, Visits Bhuj and Dholavira, Viewing sunset at Kala Dungar, Leisure walk on Mandvi beach
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4. Laxmi Vilas Palace – The Magnificent Palace Museum
One of the most popular attractions of Vadodara, Laxmi Vilas Palace is a palace-cum-museum. Four times larger than the Buckingham Palace of England, it is still is the official residence of the Maharaja of Baroda and his family members. A part of it has been turned into a museum. The palace has an Indo-Saracenic Revival architecture, spreads in 700 acres and also has a golf course as well as a zoo.
It was commissioned by Maharaja Sayaji Rao III between 1878 and 1890. The interiors of the palace are splendid with ornate fountains, Mosaic flooring, mosaic decorations, and stained-glass windows. The other artifacts are stunning too.
- Timings– 10:00 AM to 04:30 PM (closed on Mondays and public holidays)
- Entry Fees: Museum (INR 60 per person) and the Palace (INR 170 per person)
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5. Somnath – A Holy City with Lord Shiva’s Jyotirlinga
One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, the beautiful holy city of Somnath enjoys a wonderful location of being near the seaside. Visited by devotees and tourists alike in huge numbers, this place has the magnificent Somnath temple. The temple with Chalukya style of architecture is known for its intricate carvings and the use of gemstones and gold. It also faced ransacking from Islamic invaders and has been reconstructed a number of times. However, its glory is absolutely intact.
The serene and peaceful scenery is another highlight of Somnath. This temple is the pride of Gujarat and is an important part of its tour and travel industry. It is believed that Soma or the Moon Lord had originally built the temple to appease Lord Shiva.
Popular Attractions– Somnath temple, Kamnath temple, Panch Pandav Gufa and Junagadh Gate, Suraj Mandir on Triveni Ghat
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6. Sun Temple, Modhera – An Architectural Masterpiece
Dedicated to the Sun God, the splendid Sun temple is one of the best attractions of Modhera village. The temple was constructed by the rulers of the Solanki Dynasty during the 11th century. Located on the banks of Pushpavati River, this magnificent piece of architecture comprises of the main shrine, an assembly hall and a beautifully carved flagged tank. Its architecture is known to be quite similar to the Sun temple of Konark.
One of the highlights of this temple is that the sanctum has built on such a position that the first rays of the sun fall at the equinox. The Modhera Sun Temple was commissioned by King Bhimdev way back in 1026. Modhera also finds its mention in holy books like Brahma Purana and Skanda Purana. It is believed to be blessed by Lord Rama and is also named as Dharmaranya, the forest of righteousness.
- Timings– 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee- Citizens of India and SAARC and BIMSTEC countries- INR 15 per head
- Others- INR 200 per head
- Entry for children up to 15 years is free
7. Patan – An Ancient Fortified Town
Located at a distance of 110 km from Gandhinagar, Patan is one of the top 15 places to visit in Gujarat. The traces of this ancient fortified town can be found from 746 AD when King Vanraj Chavda of Chavda kingdom founded it. Rani ki Vav, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit here. It is dotted with several other wonderful structures including lakes, step wells, and temples, which make it a special destination for history aficionados.
The local markets here sell some wonderful Patola saris. Take a walk through the busy bazaar and notice the locals busy in their daily work. Do not miss visiting the Hemachandracharya Jain Gnan library, housing ancient Hindu and Jain scripts.
Popular Attractions – Rani ki Vav (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Anand Sarovar or Gungadi Talav Sahastralinga Tank, Hingaraj Mandir, Panchasar Derasar, special Patola silk saris etc.
8. Gandhi’s Ashram, Ahmedabad – First Ashram by Mahatama Gandhi
Gandhi Ashram, also known as Kochrab Ashram in Ahmedabad was the first ashram that was founded by Mahatama Gandhi in the year 1915. This ashram is a chance for the visitors who want to experience the way of life of Gandhi. The ashram was open to visitors on 2nd October, 2013. The ashram is managed by Gujarat Vidyapeeth University. It is visited by a number of students who wish to study Gandhian philosophies and principles.
This ashram is a part of the Gandhi Tourism Circuit, and is named as “Live like Gandhi for a Few Days”. If you wish to visit this place then Ahmedabad takes you to Plaid where the ashram is located.
- Founded in – May 1915
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9. Saputara – The Only Hill Station in Gujarat
Probably the only hill station of Gujarat, the beautiful Saputara lies amid the Sahyadri hills, offering riddance from a humid and hot climate. The lush hills, cool air, and wonderful scenery are simply alluring.
The hill town is dotted with a number of attractions, which must be visited. It is located at a distance of 170 km from Surat. The monsoon rains make the place even more beautiful. If you are an adventurous soul, trek up to the Gandhi Shikhar for bird watching and enjoying stunning views.
Saputara is placed on the border of Maharashtra and Gujarat and is also quite popular amid the locals as a weekend getaway.
This place can be visited all around the year. Not even a single moment is boring here. This place is also known to have a mythological connection as it is said that Lord Rama had spent 11 years of his exile here.
Popular attractions – Vansda National Park, Artist Village, Sunrise and Sunset point, Botanical Garden, Gira falls, Purna Sanctuary, Hatgad Fort, Saputara Tribal Museum, the Ropeway, and Boating in Saputara Lake.
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10. Bhavnagar – Cultural Hub of Gujarat
Known to be the cultural hub of Gujarat, the city of Bhavnagar offers its visitors a chance to get a peek inside the state’s rich history and culture. It is quite popular in the art circles because of its wonderful pottery and silversmiths. It is located at a distance of around 198 km from Gandhinagar. The place has historical monuments, temples, palaces, and exotic wildlife. The city has something for the people of all age-groups.
Take a walk at the Gopinath beach and spend some free time here with your loved ones. Or, head towards Gaurishankar Lake for enjoying a picnic with friends and family. A day’s trip to Mahuva can also be planned. Due to its immensely beautiful scenery, this place is also known as ‘Kashmir of Saurashtra’.
Popular attractions – Nilambagh Palace, Velavadar Blackbuck National Park, Palitana Jain Temples, Takhteshwar Temple, Victoria Park, Gopinath Mahadev Temple, Mangalsinhji Mahal Palace and more.
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11. Bhuj – A Place of Several Wonders
Bhuj is that place where the rich heritage of the Gujarat state can be seen, imbibed with architecture and history. The capital of Kutch is a wonderful city, which strongly revived itself after it was destroyed during an earthquake in 2001.
The local bazaars here sell some wonderful Kutchhi handicraft items. The uncanny beauty of Aina Mahal and Prag Mahal must be observed. Visit Swaminarayan Temple and admire its architecture.
If you love wildlife, you can head towards Khavda Natural Park. Bhuj was made the capital of the Kutch region, 29 years after the Jadeja Rajputs took over the control of this place. Since then, it has been a significant town in this region. Do not miss visiting the surrounding villages. Bhuj is quite popular for its textile tourism too.
Popular Attractions – Aina Mahal, Swaminarayan Temple, Baug Palace, Prag Mahal, Kutch Museum, Khavda Natural Park, Ecotourism and bird watching at Chhari Dhandh.
12. Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary – For Bird Watchers and Nature Lovers
Located 60 km south-westwards of Ahmedabad, Nalsarovar bird sanctuary is one of the best bird sanctuaries in Gujarat. Nalsarovar is a shallow lake that is enveloped by marshy lands.
It is home to as many as 250 species of birds including black-tailed godwit, brown and white water, and Merops Orientalis.
It also attracts migratory birds such as flamingoes, herons, white storks, rosy pelicans, etc. from Europe, Central Asia, and Siberia. During winter months, the place is a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Endangered wild ass and the blackbuck are also spotted here occasionally. Nalsarovar is one of the largest bird sanctuaries in India and the largest one in the state.
In April month of 1969, this lake was declared a bird sanctuary. Rent a boat during sunrise to enjoy bird watching here. It is the only lake in the country, which has been declared as a Ramsar site in India.
- Timings – 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM
- Best time to visit the Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary – November to February
13. Palitana – Shatrunjaya – Splendid Jain Temples on Hills
A sacred city of the Jains, Palitana is located at a distance of just 51 km from Bhavnagar. One of the most important Jain pilgrimage sites in India, Palitana was originally capital of a small princely state, founded by Shahji, a Gohel Rajput. The place is also known for the horse-breeding. The temple site is around 3 km from the main city.
Shatrunjaya Hills here have one of Gujarat’s grandest structures. There is around 863 Jain temple made from white marble, which was built in a span of 900 years in two phases. In order to reach this temple, you need to climb up for around 600 m on a steep path of 3000 stars.
Lift chairs and doli are also available if you are not in a condition to walk. The temple is known for its architectural beauty with the Adishwar Temple, being the most popular. The views from the top are majestic.
Popular Attraction – Jain temples on Shatrunjaya Hills
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14. Mandvi – Offering an Unforgettable Beach Vacation
An hour’s drive away from Bhuj, Mandvi is one of the top places to visit in Gujarat. Once the summer retreat of the rulers of Kutch, Mandvi lets you enjoy a beach holiday. Earlier, it was also known to be a significant shipbuilding centre. However, you can still see locals making wooden ships with their hands on the banks of River Rukmavati. Enjoy a leisure walk at the clean Mandi beach, and admire the tranquil surroundings.
The beach town of Mandvi also offers activities like jet-skiing and boating. Visitors can catch a glimpse of Kutch culture here. Enjoy camel rides at the Kashivishvanath beach. You can also visit the Maharao’s private beach, which is behind Vijay Vilas Palace, just by paying a small fee.
Popular Attractions – Mandvi beach, Vijay Vilas Palace
15. Porbandar – A Coastal City with a Mix of Old and New Worlds
Porbandar is a serene coastal city, which offers its visitors an amalgamation of an ancient and new world, making it an interesting option. It is the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi. Visit Kirti Mandir, his birthplace that has now been turned into a museum. The city has a number of temples and stone buildings. River Asmavati merged into the Arabian Sea at Porbandar.
The city also finds its mention in the great Hindu epic of Mahabharata as the birthplace of Sudama, the friend of Lord Krishna. Touches of late Harappa civilization can also be seen here. Enjoy bird watching at the Porbandar Bird Sanctuary.
Popular Attractions– Porbandar Beach, Miyani Beach, Kirti Mandir, Barda Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, Sri Hari temple, Krishan –Sudama temple
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Wildlife Safari in Gujarat16. Pavagadh Mata Temple
Pavagadh Mata Temple at the peak of Pavagadh hill, 762 m above sea level, is one of the must-visit places in Gujarat. Dedicated to Mother Kali, the temple dates to the 10th-11th century. The temple enshrines the idol of Kalika Mata, only the head, the mukhwato, painted in red in the inner sanctum. Full idols of Mahakali and the yantras of Bahuchara are also worshipped here.
A 5 km walk along a jungle footpath otherwise a cable car ride is the only option to get to the temple. The temple is open for long hours to accommodate pilgrims for a visit. Resthouse is available for pilgrims in the Machi Haveli. Visit the ancient temple said to grant divine blessings.
Read More: Top Famous Temple in India
17. Champaner
A page from the interesting history of Gujarat, Champaner is a treat for travelers in Gujarat. Founded by Vanraj Chavda of the Chavda dynasty in the 8th century, Champaner is settled on the foothill of the Pavagah peak. It was the capital of the Gujarat province till the 16th century. The famous Champaner-Pavagadh archeological park, also a UNESCO world heritage site in India is worthy of your attention.
The pre-Mughal city presents an impressive wealth of architecture, culture, and history in an interesting mix of Hindu and Muslim styles. The historic park comprises 11 different types of buildings including mosques, temples, terraces, walls, wells and more. In fact, Champaner-Pavagadh is the only place in India which has preserved Islamic designs before the era of Mughals. Walk amid the remains of the golden days of the past.
18. Jhulta Minar
The classic example of superb craftsmanship, the swaying minarets, known as Jhulta Minar is one of the must-visit attractions in Gujarat. The Jhulta Minar is actually a part of the mosque Siddi Bashir. The construction is such, that, if even a little force is applied on its upper arc, the Minar tends to sway.
What leads to the vibration of the minarets has been the wonder for many travelers. But, the mystery behind is the mechanism of swaying has not been unrevealed. The fascinating thing about Jhulta Minar is that it stands quite close to the railway tracks and is quite swayed by the pressure of fast-moving trains’ quite frequently but has not yet suffered damage or wear or tear. Do check out the mysterious Minar on your visit to Ahmedabad.
19. Kirti Toran Vadnagar
Another one of the incredible attractions in Gujarat, we come to the Kirti Toran Vadnagar. Also known as the ‘Kirti Stambha’ (Temple Arch), it is said to have been built during the Solanki rule in Gujarat. At one time, the torans may have been connected with a temple, but now not even a trace of remains.
The Kirti Stambha rises over 40 feet. Supported by two massive and intricate columns over a wide cornice, is has an upper story or attic with a decorative cusped arch and engraving, which makes the effect of an archway apparent. The ‘toran’ has a design similar to the typical temple designs. Marvel at the impressive artwork and think of the olden times.
20. Ambaji Temple
Moving on to another impressive tourist attraction in Gujarat, the Ambaji Temple is definitely to be visited. Worshiped since the pre-Vedic period, the temple has no deity but worships an old-plated marble inscription of the Viso Yantra, a Vedic text on sacred geometry. It is decorated in a way that it looks like an idol of a goddess from a distance.
Settled in the Arasur hills, near the source of the Saraswati River, it is one of the most visited religious sites in Gujarat. Originally built by Nagar Brahmins, the temple is made of white marble with gold cones.
Navratri is celebrated extravagantly all over Gujarat in reverence of Ambaji. The temple gets the most attention as people dancing the Garba around the Holy Mother. Also, on these nine nights the Nayak and Bhojok communities also perform Bhavai Theater in the temple complex.
21. Ahmedabad City
On the banks of River Sabarmati, Ahmedabad City is one of the incredible attractions of Gujarat. It is the only city in India that has been granted the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The merge of the old and the new is the reason why you must not miss a visit to the city.
A holiday in Gujarat remains incomplete if you have not visited Ahmedabad. The city was founded by Sultan Ahmad Shah in the 15th century. Explore the rich architectural heritage from the sultanate period. The noteworthy sights are the Bhadra citadel, densely-packed traditional houses (pols), bird feeders, public wells, walls, gates, numerous mosques, tombs, and Hindu and Jain temples.
But that is not all, there is so much to delight in. The sacred Gandhi ashram on the banks of Sabarmati River, tombs of Ahmed Shah, Sidi Syed Mosque, Adalaj Stepwell, Hathee Singh Temple, Calico Museum of Textiles, Auto World Vintage Museum, Kankaria, and Vastrupur Lake are other well know attractions to check out. Not just sightseeing the pleasures of Ahmedabad also include shopping, delicious gastronomy, and entertainment.
22. Lothal
Gujarat is blessed with the treasure of prehistoric sites dating to the Indus Valley Civilization and Lothal is one of the must-visit sites. Lothal has revealed many ruins and remnants of the Indus Valley Civilization. It is named among the most well-preserved ones, therefore, attracting visitors from all over the world and not just India.
The Lothal museum is home to displays of cooking utensils, jewelry, apparel, gemstones, and scrolls, dating back to the civilization that flourished on the banks of the nourishing Indus River. Explore the ancient site for an in-depth insight into the lives of our ancestors. Take a look at the well-planned city, dockyard, and market area. It is not just a historic site but a place where you can relive history.
23. Muli
Counted among the incredible attractions of Gujarat, we have Muli. The erstwhile princely state in Kathiawar is unique. It is home to a story that truly makes you wonder. It is the land where a bloody battle was fought between the Parmars and the Chabad for a wounded partridge.
According to stories, the Parmar clan provides shelter to the wounded partridge whereas the Chabhhads clan demanded possession of it. In a bloody conquest, 500 Chabhads of Sayla lost their lives to 140 Parmars. Since then, the killing of partridge was banned and Muli became famous for its hospitality and generosity in providing shelter to anybody seeking it. Pay a visit to the town or stay at the royal places which have not been converted into heritage hotels where you can re-live the olden days.
24. Wild Ass Sanctuary, Little Rann of Kutch
Gujarat does not lack behind in wildlife and for that pursue we take you to one of the must-visit tourist attractions, the Wild Ass Sanctuary. Located in the harsh condition of the Little Run of Kutch, spread over an area of 5000 square kilometers, it is the only home to wild ass in India. Embark on safari and be in awe of nature’s bounty even in the harshest conditions of the desert landscape.
Apart from the wild ass in abundance, it is home to 32 other types of mammals including Chinkara (Indian gazelle), Nilgais (the largest antelope of Asia), Indian Wolves, Blackbucks, Striped Hyenas, etc. Pay a visit anytime between October to March.
25. Dholavira in Kutch
Dating back to 4500 years ago, Dholavira located in Bhachau Taluka of Kutch is a remarkable excavation site of the Indus Valley Civilization or Harappan culture. One of the must-visit places in Gujarat, the historic site lets you relive the days of the first civilization of India.
Discovered in 1967 by archeologist Mr. J.P. Joshi, Dholavira offers traces of one of the greatest civilizations of the world. Learn about the ancient era, sophisticated urban planning, the world’s earliest water conservation systems, architecture, and innovative technology. Spot the world’s first signboards written in ancient Indus script, antiquities, terracotta ornaments, and other relics. The excavation also hints that the Harappan people lead simple lives even with resources and technology of an ostentatious lifestyle.
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Geetika Handa
Geetika Handa is a travel writer who has an interest in sharing her experiences with all. She provides a detailed account of any travel topic she chooses to write on. You can get detailed information and tips about choosing the right kind of holiday packages in the country from her write-ups.
Really useful information. Thank you for sharing this. These places are my favorites in the travel journey.
Hi Chirali,
Thank you for your kind words! Keep on following our blogs for more such posts in the future.