Historical & Heritage

Udaipur is a historical city and also the administrative headquarters of the Udaipur district in the Indian state of Rajasthan. About 399 km from Jaipur, & 656 km from Delhi, it is one of the top heritage sites near Delhi, and among the must include places in Rajasthan tour packages.

The city has an abundance of natural beauty, mesmerizing temples, and breathtaking architecture which are the prime attractions of Udaipur packages. Udaipur is also referred to as the 'Venice of the East' and the 'City of Lakes'. The City Palace, Lake Palace, Bagore Ki Haveli, Pichola Lake, Fateh Sagar Lake, Lake Palace, Jag Mandir Palace, Jagdish Temple, Sajjan Garh, Saheliyon Ki Bari, and Eklingji Temple are some prominent Udaipur places to visit. Kumbhalgarh Fort, Chittorgarh Fort, Nathdwara, Sas-Bahu Temple, Ahar, and Ranakpur are the nearest attractions.

Mewar festival and Gangaur festival are the popular festivals celebrated in Udaipur and have a unique charm. The festival of Gangaur is very significant for the women of Rajasthan. This festival is a visual feast with Rajasthani songs, dances, processions, devotional music, and firework displays.

Distance from Ahmedabad: 249 Kms

Hill Station

Mount Abu is a hill station in the Aravalli Range in the Sirohi district of Rajasthan near the border with Gujarat. About 166 km from Udaipur, and 753 km from Delhi, it is one of the popular hill stations near Delhi, and among the must include places in Rajasthan packages, especially during the summer season.

Located at an altitude of 1220 m on the magnificent Aravalli Ranges, Mount Abu is the only hill station in Rajasthan state. Guru Shikhar is the highest peak of the range, at 1,722 m above sea level. This enchanting hill station is 22 km long and 9 km wide. It is referred to as an oasis in the desert due to several lakes and waterfalls situated in the hills. It can be visited along with Udaipur tour packages.

It has been a popular retreat from the heat of Rajasthan and neighboring Gujarat for centuries. Mount Abu tour packages includes temples, lakes, and forts. Dilwara Jain Temples, Guru Shikhar Peak, Adhar Devi Temple, Sri Raghunathji Temple, Achalgarh Fort, Nakki Lake, Gaumukh Temple, and Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary are the top places to visit in Mount Abu.

Distance from Ahmedabad: 235 Kms

Historical & Heritage | City

Located on the banks of Vishwamitri River, Vadodara is a beautiful city in the western Indian state of Gujarat. Situated at a distance of 109 km from Ahmedabad, it is one of the popular places to visit in gujarat, and can be visited along with Ahmedabad tour packages.

Formerly called Baroda, Vadodara is the third-largest city in Gujarat, after Ahmedabad and Surat. The architectural brilliance of the city is the major highlight of Vadodara holiday packages. The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Lakshmi Vilas Palace, Baroda Museum, Kirti Mandir, and Sayajirao Gaekwad hospital are some of the notable architectural monuments in Vadodara. Besides, Sayaji Baug, Sursagar Lake, Nyay Mandir, EME Temple, Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, etc. are some of the prominent tourist places in Vadodara.

Often called the Cultural Capital of Gujarat, the city of Baroda comes alive during the Navratri celebrations. No city in India celebrates the festival of Navratri with as much zeal and energy as Vadodara does.

Distance from Ahmedabad: 109 Kms

Historical & Heritage

Patan is an ancient fortified city located on the banks of Saraswati River in Gujarat, India. It is one of the popular heritage destinations in India. Situated about 129 km from Ahmedabad, it can be visited along with Ahmedabad tour packages.

The city is shielded by the fort walls and gates, which prevents the ancestral aura and old-world charm from escaping. From medieval forts to an ancient Kali temple built in the Solanki dynasty, Patan has many attractions that lure tourists as part of Patan packages. Rani ki Vav or the Queen's stepwell has the unique most architectural attributes and is the must-visit place in Patan. Sahasralinga Sarovar, Panchasara Parshwanath Jain Derasar, Khan Sarovar, Shankeshwar Jain Thirth, etc. are the other popular tourist places in Patan.

Besides, Patan is also famous for Patola sarees, one of the finest hand-made textiles in the world. It has its origin in a very intricate and difficult technique of tie-dyeing and knot dyeing known as 'Bandhani'. It has gorgeous colors, designs, and durability and is one of a kind. Costs start from Rs. 20,000 which may go up to Rs. 20,00,000 depending on work done and thread used. Only two families are making Patola Sarees nowadays.

Distance from Ahmedabad: 129 Kms

City

Rajkot, literally the City of Princes, is the former princely capital of the Saurashtra region and now an emerging tourism destination and business hub of Gujarat. Situated on the banks of the Aji and Nyari rivers, it is one of the stunning places to visit in Gujarat. It is situated about 90 km from Jamnagar, and 218 km from Ahmedabad.

Rajkot tour packages are a fusion of architectural and historical sites of great importance. Watson Museum, Kaba Gandhi No Delo, Aji Dam, Rotary Dolls Museum, Jagat Mandir, Nyari Dam, Prem Mandir, Khambhalida Caves, and Lal Pari Lake are some of the top tourist places in Rajkot. Aside from this, Rajkot holds a position in the top 10 cleanest cities of India while also being the 22nd fastest growing city in the world.

This place is renowned across the globe for its bandhani textiles, cotton textiles, woolen, jewelry, silk embroidery, handicrafts, and automobile industry. Often referred to as 'Rangilu Rajkot', Rajkot is famous for hosting several cultural events and festivals. The International Kite Festival and Navratri are the most popular festivals celebrated with great pomp and fervor.

Distance from Ahmedabad: 214 Kms

Historical & Heritage | Pilgrimage

Earlier known as Padliptapur, Palitana is one of the holiest places of pilgrimage in Gujarat, and among the best places to visit near Ahmedabad. It is about 171 km from Rajkot, and 214 km from Ahmedabad.

Palitana is a famous destination in Gujarat for being the base to the holy Shatrunjaya hill which is home to 863 exquisitely carved Jain temples built by devotees during a period spanning 900 years from the 11th century onwards. Along with Mount Abu, Girnar, and Chandragiri, Shatrunjaya hill is one of the most sacred places for the Jains, and among the most significant places to visit as part of Palitana packages.

Meticulously carved in marble, the temples in Palitana are famous for their architectural beauty. Out of all the temples here, the temple dedicated to the first Tirthankara, Sri Adishwar, is the most famous one. The architectural motifs of this temple are notable. Kumarpal temple, Chaumukh temple, Vimalshah temple, and Sampriti Raja temple are the other Palitana places to visit.

Distance from Ahmedabad: 214 Kms

Historical & Heritage

Kevadiya is a census town in the Narmada district of Gujarat. It is one of the top places to visit in Gujarat as the Statue of Unity is located here. It is about 85 km from Vadodara, and 189 km from Ahmedabad.

Nestled between the Satpura and Vindhyachal mountain ranges, the tribal village of Kevadia is home to a 182 m tall statue of the Ironman of India Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. This is the 'Tallest Statue in the World' and is the must-include place in Kevadiya packages.

Besides the Statue of Unity, Valley of Flowers, Jungle Safari, Cactus Garden, Butterfly Garden, Khalwani Eco-tourism, Zarwani Waterfall, the Narmada Dam, etc are some of the popular places to visit in Kevadiya. It can be visited along with Vadodara tour packages.

Distance from Ahmedabad: 193 Kms

Pilgrimage

At a distance of 29 km from Ahmedabad Junction, Swaminarayan Akshardham is a Hindu temple located in Gandhinagar city of Gujarat State. It is one of the most magnificent temples in India, and among the top attractions in Ahmedabad.

Dedicated to Swaminarayan, Akshardham Temple was commissioned by Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) after initiation by its promoter, Pramukh Swami Maharaj in 1979. It took 13 years to complete and was inaugurated in 1992. It is a Hindu house of worship and a spiritual and cultural campus dedicated to devotion, education, and unification. A specimen of fine craftsmanship, the Akshardham Temple in Gandhinagar is one of the largest and most prominent temples in Gujarat state.

Sprawling across an area of 23 acres, the temple complex consists of a splendid shrine, large prayer halls, exhibition halls, verdant garden, and research center. Built by using tons of pink stones, this gigantic temple is 108 feet in height, 240 feet long, and 131 feet wide. The Akshardham mandir consists of 97 intricately carved pillars, 17 ornate domes, 220 stone beams, 57 stone screens, 3 porticos, and 256 statues of spiritual personalities. The temple is found amid the spacious garden called Sahajanand Van. It is one of the must-visit places during Ahmedabad trip.

The ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 28 Kms

Historical & Heritage

At a distance of 21 km from Ahmedabad Junction, Adalaj Stepwell, also called Adalaj ni Vav is a stepwell located in the village of Adalaj near Ahmedabad city of Gujarat. It is one of the famous places of heritage in Gujarat, and among the must-include places in Ahmedabad tour packages.

Also known as Rudabai Stepwell, Adalaj Stepwell was built in 1499 by Queen Rudabai, wife of Vaghela chief, Veer Singh. According to history, the construction of stepwell was started by King Rana Veer Singh and he died in a war with King Mahmud Begada unfortunately. Begada fell for the beauty of the widowed Queen Rudabai and asked her to marry him. The Queen agreed to marry Begada on the condition that he completes the construction of the stepwell that was started by her husband. He agreed and started the construction again. When the well got completed, Rani Rudabai jumped into the vav and committed suicide.

Regarded as one of the major Ahmedabad tourist places, the stepwell is built in the Solanki style of architecture with Islamic influence. It consists of five storeys, each of which is uniquely designed with beautiful carvings all over the walls and columns. The structure was built along the North-South axis with the entrance from the south. The stepwell is one of its kinds in Gujarat as it has three entrance ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 20 Kms

Wildlife

At a distance of 41 km from Sanand and 69 km from Ahmedabad, Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is a protected bird sanctuary situated at Nalsarovar village in Gujarat. Nalsarovar is one of the largest wetland bird sanctuaries in India, and among the prime attractions of Ahmedabad sightseeing packages.

The Nalsarovar Lake and the wetlands around it were declared as a bird sanctuary in 1969. Covering an area of 120.82 Sq.km, it is a serene marshland with shallow waters which contains 36 small islands. It has been identified as one of the 15 important wetlands of India by the National Committee on Wetlands for intensive conservation. Lying in an area between Central Gujarat and East Saurashtra, it represents a sea link that once existed between the Little Rann and the Gulf of Khambat. The lake gets filled with water that drains from the adjoining Surendranagar and Ahmedabad districts in the monsoon.

Mainly inhabited by migratory birds as their wintering ground, Nalsarovar wetland is the largest wetland bird sanctuary in Gujarat, and one of the largest in India. Besides being one of the largest bird sanctuaries, Nalsarovar harbors one of the highest populations of waterfowl anywhere in India. One can find rosy pelicans, lesser and greater flamingos, crakes, brahminy ducks, purple moorhen, herons, white storks, various species of bitterns, grebes, etc. in the lake.

The best ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 66 Kms

Historical & Heritage

At a distance of 42 km from Nalsarovar and 79 km from Ahmedabad, Lothal is an excavated site situated Bhal region in Dholka of Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Lothal is one of the prominent cities of the ancient Indus valley civilization and among the best historical sites in Gujarat.

Literally called 'Mound of the Dead', this ancient and desolate ruined city of Lothal provides a fascinating insight into the life of the Harappan culture and the Indus Valley Civilization. The origin and history of Lothal can be dated back to 2400 BC. Discovered in the year 1954, Lothal is one of the primary sites of Archaeological Survey of India. The excavation work here began in 1955 and was continued till 1960.

Like other cities of the Indus Valley Civilization, Lothal too had an excellent architecture and town planning. Excavations have revealed that the town was divided into two parts. The upper part or the acropolis was where the ruler and other important people of the city lived while the lower part was meant for the common people. The entire city had a scientific drainage system, well laid-out, paved roads and a bath for every house, some of which were double storied and built on mud platforms.

The most architecturally sophisticated part of Lothal was its dockyard, which provided berthing facilities for the ships. Constructed from kiln-fired bricks, the dock comprised a basin 214 m long, 36 m wide, and 13 m deep. A 13 m wide channel on the northern side was included to facilitate ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 82 Kms

Wildlife

At a distance of 50 km from Surendranagar, 100 km from Ahmedabad, 238 km from Bhuj, and 320 km from Great Rann of Kutch, the Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary is a protected sanctuary located in the Little Rann of Kutch, Gujarat. Also known as the Wild Ass Wildlife Sanctuary, it is the largest wildlife sanctuary in Gujarat, and among the best places to visit near Ahmedabad for wildlife enthusiasts.

Spread over an area of 4954 sq. km, the Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary was established in 1972 and came under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. The Wild Ass Sanctuary of the Little Rann of Kutch is the only place on earth where the endangered Indian Wild Ass, known locally as the ghudkhar, still lives. One of the three surviving species of the Wild Ass in the world-the other two being found in Central Asia and in and around Tibet, the Khur is high on the list of endangered species. Known for its speed, the wild ass lives in herds led by stallions and survived by migrating between the grassy 'bets' through the season, in search of food. There are around 3000 wild asses in the sanctuary and can be best seen in and around October and November.

Apart from wild ass, the sanctuary is also home to 32 other species of mammals such as chinkara, two types of desert fox, jackals, caracals, nilgais, Indian wolves, blackbucks, and striped hyenas along with 350 different species of ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 100 Kms

Historical & Heritage

At a distance of 41 km from Junagadh and 66 km from Rajkot, Khambhalida Caves are the ancient rock-cut Buddhist caves situated at Khambhalida village in the Rajkot district of Gujarat. Also known as Rajkot Caves, it is one of the popular historical places to visit near Rajkot.

Dating back to the 4th or 5th century AD, the Khambhalida Caves are a group of three Buddhist caves situated at the foot of a small hill on the banks of a spring. These Caves were discovered in 1958 by P. P. Pandya, a prominent archeologist. It is said that they were carved in the limestone rocks by the Saint of Dinyan Branch of the Buddha tradition. It is also said that many Buddha Saints from Junagadh came to these caves for meditation and there is an inscription on a stone here that states Asoka might have come to this place for his meditation.

Among the three caves, the central one contains the stupa which is known as the chaitya cave. The entrance of the chaitya is flanked by two large sculptures of the Bodhisattvas. On the right is the figure of Padmapani under an Asoka-like tree with a female companion and five attendants. There is a yaksha-like dwarf on the left of it holding a basket. The figure on the left side of the entrance is probably Vajrapani and this sculpture is considered as one of the most ancient ones in India. The second such sculpture of Vajrapani came into existence 400-500 years thereafter at Cave No.2 of ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 283 Kms

Wildlife

At a distance of 42 km from Rajkot Junction, the Rampara Wildlife Sanctuary is a dense woodland situated near Khijadiya village near Rajkot, Gujarat. It is one of the major places of wildlife in Gujarat, and among the best places to visit as part of Rajkot packages. It has been selected as an alternate place for the Asiatic lion breeding center in Gujarat.

A former shooting reserve owned by the erstwhile princely state of Wankaner, Rampara was acquired by the government in 1975, declared as a reserve forest in 1983, and notified as a Sanctuary in 1988 to protect the natural vegetation and the wildlife of the area. Covers over an area of around 15 sq. km, the sanctuary is located near the river of Machchhu, which is drained by two streams named Pat a gala vonklo and Vaghrigalo vonklo.

Among the best wildlife sanctuaries near Rajkot, the sanctuary has plain terrain in the middle with hillocks at the periphery and undulating terrain in between. The shrubby land spread with patches of grasses harbors a large number of species of plants, birds, and mammals. The Rampara Wildlife Sanctuary in Rajkot is renowned for housing an entire troop of mammoth antelopes, regarded as the Indian Blue Bulls, popularly addressed by the name 'Nilgai'. Other animals like wolf, jackal, hyena, common fox, and ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 227 Kms

Pilgrimage

At a distance of 46 km from Junagadh and 60 km from Rajkot, Jalaram Bapa Mandir is a Hindu temple located in Virpur near Rajkot, Gujarat. Situated near Kodhaldham Temple, it is one of the popular places of pilgrimage in Gujarat and among the best places to visit in Rajkot.

Jalaram Bapa popularly known as Bapa was a Hindu saint born in 1799 to Pradhan Thakkar and Rajbai Thakkar in the village of Virpur, Gujarat. His mother Rajbai Thakkar was very fond of saints and sadhus and no saint could go from Virpur without receiving the hospitality of Rajbai. He was a devotee of the Hindu god Rama. At the age of 18, Jalaram Bapa became a disciple of Shri Bhojalram of Fatehpur. With blessings of his guru, he started 'Sadavrat', a feeding center for sadhus and saints as well as the needy. This tradition of feeding people continues to this day in Virpur.

The temple is an actual resident house of Jalaram Bapa where he lived till his last breath. The main attraction in the temple is the portrait picture of Jalaram Bapa and original photo of Bapa which has been taken before one year of his death. The idol of Bapa is in standing posture wearing a white turban and a dhoti- kurta and holding a stick in the left hand.

Jalaram Bapa's birthday is celebrated at the temple with great pomp every year on 7th day Shukla paksha of the Hindu month of Kartika. A huge fair is conducted at Virpur on the occasion and millions of devotees visit Virpur to pay their respect to the saint and have ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 273 Kms

Pilgrimage

At a distance of 7 km from Virpur, 47 km from Junagadh and 67 km from Rajkot, Shree Kodhaldham Temple is a holy temple situated near Kavgad in Gujarat. Located on Virpur-Jetpur road, it is one of the popular religious places in Gujarat and among the must visit temples as part of Rajkot Packages.

Dedicated to Maa Khodiyar, the foundation stone for the temple was laid in the year 2012 and was opened for the public in 2017. Built by Shri Kodhaldham Trust of Leuva Patel community, Shree Khodaldham Temple is one of the largest comprehensive Hindu Temples, measures 299 feet long and 135 feet high. The temple houses the idols of Maa Khodiyar along with Maa Amba, Maa Bahuchar, Maa Verai, Maa Mahakali, Annapurna, Gaurtal, Randal, Butbhavani, Momai, Chamunda and Shihori.

Khodaldham has a distinctive architecture that displays the tradition of Leuva Patel community. Its unique architecture and spiritual aura make this temple a must visit for the devotees as well as tourists. Besides Khodaldham, one can also visit the temples of Shri Mahadeva, Shri Ram Darbar, Shri Radhakrishna, Shri Shrinathaji, Shri Ganesha and Shri Hanuman in Khodaldham temple complex. There is a big garden beside the temple maintained by the forest department, housed with many plants both medicinal, and flowering. The temple authorities also provide battery operated vehicles for senior citizens. Besides, refreshment stalls outside the temple provide snacks and local food items.

Timings: 6 AM - 9 ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 280 Kms

Historical & Heritage

At a distance of 49 km from Vadodara, Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in the ancient city of Champaner. It is one of the popular places of heritage in Gujarat, and among the prime places to visit as part of Vadodara tour packages.

Covering over an area of 1,329 hectares, Champaner - Pavagadh Archeological Park is located around the historical city of Champaner, founded by the Rajput King Vanraj Chavda in the 8th century. Due to its strategic point on the trade routes, it lured many invaders including Khalji Dynasty, Chauhan Gurjars, Solanki kings, Khichi Chauhans. Later Mahmud Begada captured the city in 1484 and rebuilt Champaner into a splendid new capital. The region faced major devastation in 1535 CE when looted by Mughal Emperor, Humayun who made Ahmedabad the capital city again to control Gujarat. This marked the start of the decline of Champaner, which slowly fell into ruins. Later, ASI had rediscovered the city with 39 standing monuments that are a beautiful confluence of Hindu, Jain, and Islamic architectural styles.

Among the prominent heritage sites near Ahmedabad, it was inscribed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2004. The heritage site is studded with prehistoric (chalcolithic) sites, a hill fortress of the early Hindu capital, ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 145 Kms

Wildlife

At a distance of 70 km from Vadodara, Jambughoda is a wildlife sanctuary located in the Panchmahal district of Central Gujarat. Situated near Jambughoda, it is one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in Gujarat, and among the top places to visit as part of Vadodara tour packages.

Jambughoda Sanctuary was a part of the princely state of Jambughoda before independence. The sanctuary was established in 1990 at the behest of the late Prime Minister of India, Mr. Rajiv Gandhi. Sprawling over an area of 130 sq. km, Jambughoda is a magnificent forest of teak, bamboos, and other miscellaneous species. The area has two water reservoirs- one at Kada and the other at Targol. The most striking feature of the area is the undulating hills having a good forest cover, with the valleys having small tribal hamlets.

Among the prominent wildife sanctuaries near Ahmedabad, the sanctuary harbors several wild animals, birds, and flora, including plants and herbs of medicinal value. Leopard is the top predator here whose population has been increasing. The habitat is shared by other animals such as sloth bear, jackal, blue bull, wild boar, and four-horned antelopes. In addition, the sanctuary is also home to a wide variety of snakes including cobra, rat snake, Russell's viper, and python, and interesting ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 170 Kms

Pilgrimage

At a distance of 62 km from Vadodara, Nilkanthdham Swaminarayan Temple is a beautiful Hindu temple located at Poicha Village in Gujarat. Situated on the banks of the Narmada River, it is one of the amazing temples in Gujarat and among the popular places to visit near Vadodara.

Dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan, the temple was built in 2013 by Shri Vadtal Swaminarayan Temple. Built mainly out of sandstone, the main temple is encircled by an artificial pond with a Shivling and a beautiful fountain. The shivling in the artificial pond can be accessed via a peacock shaped boat. The temple walls are exquisitely carved with figures from Hindu mythological scriptures. Every mandap has its own flag that waves in the breeze and the stark blue water juxtaposed with the sand coloured stone come together in perfect harmony to offer a visual treat.

Also known as Poicha Temple, the area is so clean and well maintained. In the main temple there are idols of God Vishnu with Sheshnag, Lord Ganesha, Hanumanji, 108 gaumukh, Saptarishi and 12 Vishnu Avatars. One can also visit Sahjanand Universe situated just opposite to the main temple of Swaminarayan. Spread over an area of 24 acres, the place consists of a big Idol of Lord Swaminarayan with height of 151 feet, more than 1100 idols related to Indian culture and Hindu pilgrimage, science city, amusement park, Water Park, boat riding, bhul bhulaiya, horror house, yampuri darshan, lights and sound shows in 3D and theaters.

The evening ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 168 Kms

Waterfall

At a distance of 34 km from Champaner and 78 km from Vadodara, Hathni Mata Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall situated near Shivrajpur in Gujarat. It is one of the scenic waterfalls in Gujarat, and among the best places to visit near Vadodara.

Flanked by richly green hills, the Hathni Mata Waterfalls is a haven of divine beauty. This is a 100-meter long water body that falls beautifully along a cliff. The fresh waterfall flows at its best mainly during the monsoons. A small temple dedicated to Hathni Mata is located in the cave adjacent to the waterfalls. The name Hathni was derived by the local tribal community from the rock that looks like a baby elephant in the base of the waterfall.

Although Hathni Mata waterfall is popular among youngsters and local communities, due to its location and seasonal rush, it is one of many unspoiled jewels of Jambughoda, and among the must-visit places during Vadodara trip. The road leading to this site is good but very narrow. This place is crowded on weekends. This is a remote place so one needs to carry food and water.

Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM

Distance from Ahmedabad: 167 Kms

Pilgrimage

At a distance of 75 km from Vadodara and 160 km from Ahmedabad, Stambeshwar Mahadev Temple is a 150 years old Hindu temple located in the town of Kavi Kamboi near Vadodara in Gujarat. Situated between Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Cambay, it is one of the incredible places to visit in Gujarat and among the prime tourist places near Vadodara.

Stambeshwar Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The architecture of the temple is very simple and is built on pillars, but it is still a very unusual must visit religious sites of India. The temple is mainly supported on pillars, hence called 'Stambeshwar Mahadev.' Popularly known as the Disappearing Shiva Temple, the temple is unique because the temple submerges every day during high tide and as the tide starts to get low it again starts emerging out of the sea, unveiling the 4 feet high Shiva Linga.

According to the mythology, this Shiva Linga was installed by Lord Kartikeya himself. Legend says that, Lord Kartikeya feels guilty after killing the demon Tarakasura. On the advice of Lord Vishnu, Kartikeya installed Shiva Lingas at three places and offered his prayers in order to absolve his sin of killing a great devotee of Lord Shiva. And, Stambeshwar Shiva Linga is one among them.

Sea traverses through the area twice a day every morning and evening to do the jalabhishek of Lord Shiva. Due to this unique phenomenon, the place attracts millions of tourists from throughout the year to see this extravaganza of nature. ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 164 Kms

Wildlife

At a distance of 16 km from Jamnagar Railway Station, Khijadiya is a bird sanctuary located at Khijadiya Village in the Jamnagar district of Gujarat. Situated off the coast of Kutch, it is one of the popular bird sanctuaries in Gujarat, and among the must include places in Jamnagar sightseeing packages.

Covering an area of about 6 Sq.km, the Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary is unique having both freshwater lakes, salt, and freshwater marshlands. It was officially declared as a sanctuary in 1982. However, it became a natural habitat for local and migratory birds before India's independence when the then rulers constructed a small check dam on Ruparel River for storing the waters. This dam created a unique ecosphere with the freshwater lakes on one side and the salty water of the sea forming marshes on the other to support not only a variety of fauna but also flora. The main sanctuary covers the area around the Ruparel and Kalindi rivers towards the northeast of Jamnagar.

Among the major Jamnagar tourist places, the sanctuary is a true heaven for all bird lovers as it is home to more than 250 species of resident and migratory birds, including globally threatened species such as Dalmatian pelican, Asian openbill stork, Black-necked stork, Darter, Black-headed ibis, Eurasian spoonbill, and Indian skimmer. ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 299 Kms

Historical & Heritage

At a distance of 28 km from Mehsana, 35 km from Patan and 100 km from Ahmedabad, Modhera Sun Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located at Modhera village near Patan in Gujarat. Situated on the banks of River Pushpavati, it is one of the popular places of heritage in India, and among the must include places in Patan packages.

Dedicated to the Sun God, the Sun Temple in Modhera was built by King Bhimdev I of the Solanki dynasty in 1026 AD, and is one of the prominent heritage sites near Ahmedabad. This temple not only reflects the architectural abilities of the Solanki rulers but also, speaks highly of the devotional zeal of the ruling dynasty at that time. As in the Sun Temple at Konark, this temple was also designed that the first rays of the Sun fall on the image of Lord Surya at the time equinoxes. The temple was plundered by Mahmud Ghazni but still the architectural grandeur does not vanish. At present, no worship is offered here and the temple is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India. It was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2014.

Built-in Maha-Gurjara style, the temple complex is divided into three parts - the main temple with a Garbha Griha and Guda Mandap, a detached Sabha Mandap, and Surya Kunda. Also known as Rama Kund, Surya Kund is a rectangular ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 102 Kms

Pilgrimage

At a distance of 27 km from Patan and 36 km from Mehsana, Bindu Sarovar is a sacred pond located in Siddhpur town near Patan, Gujarat. Situated on the banks of Saraswati River, it is one of the holy places in Gujarat and among the most visited places near Patan.

Bindu Sarovar simply means a lake of drops. It is believed that Lord Mahavishnu's tears have fallen in this lake. Also known as Matru Gaya Kshetra, Bindu Sarovar is one among the five sacred theerthas of Hindu religion - Pancha Sarovar. The other four are Manas Sarovar in Tibet, Pushkar Sarovar in Rajasthan, Narayana Sarovar in Gujarat and Pampa Sarovar in Karnataka. Hindus normally go to Gaya in Bihar to offer pinda to their male ancestors but Bindu Sarovar is the only place in India where Matru Shradh is being carried out. It is also known as the Sri-sthal or a 'pious place' and finds a reference in the ancient Vedic text the Rig-Veda.

According to legend, Bindu Sarovar is the place where Sage Kardhama did severe penance for 10000 divine years and had the darshan of Lord Vishnu. It was on the banks of River Saraswati at this Bindu Sarovar, Sage Kapila had preached Moksha Gnana to his Mother Devhuti and performed the Matru Shradh of his mother salvation. It is said that at Bindu Sarovar Lord Parshuram also performed 'Matru Shradh' and his temple is also created here for darshan. Hence, Bindu Sarovar is considered as holy as Triveni Sangam at Allahabad.

Along the shore of the Bindu Sarovar, one can ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 117 Kms

Pilgrimage

At a distance of 60 km from Patan Railway Station, Shankeshwar Jain Temple is an ancient Jain temple located in Shankeshwar town in Gujarat. It is one of the important Jain pilgrimage sies near Ahmedabad, and among the best places to visit as part of Patan sightseeing packages.

Built in the year 1098 CE by Sajjan Shah on the banks of the Rupen River, the temple is dedicated to Lord Parshwanath. Later, Vastupal Tejpal renovated this temple under the instructions of Vardhamansuri in the year 1229 CE. The temple was destroyed by Alauddin Khalji in the 14th century and later in the 16th century CE, a new temple with 52 idols was built under the inspiration of Vijaysensuri. But, the current temple was built in 1811 CE.

The Shankeshwar birth ranks next only to those on Shatrunjaya Hill in Palitana, in terms of importance to the Swetambara Jains, and among the most prominent places to visit in Patan. Besides the original sanctuary, the temple has an open square, a decorated square, a vast square, and two assembly halls. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple houses nearly 182 cm high white-colored idol of Bhagwan Shankeshwar Parshva in Padmasana posture. The sanctum of the presiding deity is flanked by two smaller sanctums dedicated to Lord Bhidbhanjan Parshwanath and Lord Ajitanatha. ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 123 Kms

Pilgrimage

At a distance of 25 km from Palitana, Hastagiri Jain Tirth is a famous Jain temple located near Palitana in Gujarat. Situated on a hill on the bank of the Shetrunjaya River, it is one of the popular Jain pilgrimage places in Gujarat and among the must-visit places in Palitana.

Hastagiri Jain Tirth is dedicated to Bhagwan Rishabhdev or Shri Adishwar Bhagwan. This hilly land is also known as Hastisengiri. According to the history of the temple, the place is regarded as a sacred place of the times of Bhagawan Adishwar. The sacred place was established by Bharat Chakravartin, the eldest son of Bhagawan Adishwar. Even today one can see the foot images of Bhagawan in a small temple on the very ancient hill. Bharat Chakravartin had attained salvation here. He had observed fast unto death and attained moksha here. The elephant of the King also followed him, thus the teerth is called as Shri Hastagiri Tirth.

Now, there is a large and massive temple on this mount, which was built and consecrated in 1979. Spread over an area of 9 acres, the Hastagiri Jain Tirth is an octagonal shaped Jain temple, and among the major places to visit as part of Palitana tour. The main sanctum of the temple houses four idols of Vrishabhdev facing to four cardinal directions. The dome near the sanctum sanctorum has intricate carvings, similar to the carved domes of ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 239 Kms

Historical & Heritage | Pilgrimage

At a distance of 35 km from Palitana and 55 km from Bhavnagar, Talaja is a historical town situated near Palitana in Bhavnagar district of Gujarat. Located on the banks of Shatrunjaya River, it is one of the popular places to visit in Gujarat and among the must include places in Palitana Tour Packages.

Talaja is better known as the birthplace of the famous poet Narsinh Mehta. Also, it is home to some important sites for Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism. The main attraction here is the ancient Buddhist Rockcut Caves on Talaja hill. The rock-cut cave group includes 30 caves among which 15 are water tanks. The Ebhala Mandapa, a large hall with four octagonal pillars is the most impressive structure of all. These caves are adorned with fine carving of Boddhisatva. The caves are around 2000 years old and require about a 15-20 minutes walk up the hill to reach them. They are of the 4th stage of Buddhist cave architecture, noticeably earlier than the famous Buddhist caves of Maharashtra.

There is a Jain temple along with a Hindu temple of Khodiar Mata atop the hill near the Buddhist Caves. This Jain temple was established by King Kumarpala during the 12th century CE. This is a holy place of the Shri Shatrunjay Panchteerthi and is part of the Shatrunjay hills. The temple was last renovated in 1815 and belongs to Shwetambar sect. of Jainism. The sanctum of the temple house 79 cm tall black colored idol of Sacha Sumatinatha Bhagwan in padmasana posture. Besides this temple, ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 226 Kms

Beach

At a distance of 57 km from Palitana and 74 km from Bhavnagar, Gopinath Beach is a beautiful beach situated near Gadhula village in Gujarat. Along the coast of the Gulf of Khambat, it is one of the popular beaches in Gujarat, and among the most scenic places to visit during Palitana trip.

Gopnath was the summer home of Maharaja Krishna Kumar Singhji of Bhavnagar. The beach offers awe-inspiring scenes with its stunning limestone cliffs and great views. The gentle breeze of the sea refreshes the spirit and soothes the soul. The beach has exquisite, firm sands for walking and shallow shore waters for wading. However, it is not an ideal place for swimming as it has a high tidal disparity of the coast which turns the water murky.

One can also visit 700 years old Gopnath Mahadev Temple situated near the beach, among the major Palitana tourist places. Set on the seashore, it is perhaps the only temple in India that hoists two color flags - a white flag denoting a Vishnu temple and a saffron flag representing a Shiva temple. This Shiva temple is the place where the devotional poet Narsinh Mehta supposedly had his spiritual experience almost 500 years ago.

The place is also home to a mansion built by the Maharaja for his comfortable stay. It was built in European colonial style in the 1940s ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 246 Kms

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