54 Places to Visit near Ahmedabad within 400 kms

Often called the Jaisalmer of Gujarat, Bhuj is one of the places to visit in Gujarat, and can be visited along with Kutch tour packages. It is situated about 78 km from Kutch, 232 km from Rajkot, and 334 km from Ahmedabad.

Located in the western part of India, Bhuj is the most important city in the Kutch region of Gujarat and also the capital of the former princely state of Kutch. Bhuj is a treat to the eyes of visitors as it offers everything from white desert to beautiful temples and from wildlife sanctuaries to the cultural landscape as part of Bhuj packages.

Shree Swaminarayan Temple, Bhujia Hill Fort, Aina Mahal, Prag Mahal Palace, Hiralakshmi Memorial Craft Park, Kutch Fossil Park, Tapkeshwari Temple, and Rudramata Dam are some of the top tourist places in Bhuj. It also has the oldest museum in the state of Gujarat. Apart from the tourist places, Bhuj is also very famous for its traditional handicrafts and embroidery.

Distance from Ahmedabad: 334 Kms

Ideally located at the confluence of Nagamati River and Rangmati River, Jamnagar is a city on the coast of the Gulf of Kutch in Gujarat. About 92 km from Rajkot, and 310 km from Ahmedabad, it one of the famous Gujarat tourist places.

Often called the Jewel of Kathiawar, Jamnagar is an industrial city of Gujarat brimming with exquisite Rajput architecture and a pristine coastline. Ranjit Singh reconstructed the city on European town planning principles, under the guidance of Sir Edward Lutyens - architect of New Delhi. Jamnagar is also known as the Chhoti Kashi as the whole town is dotted with several Hindu and Jain temples, which are the must-visit attractions as part of Jamnagar holiday packages.

Known as one of the stunning destinations of Gujarat, Jamnagar is home to the first marine sanctuary in India and the largest oil refinery in the world. Pratap Vilas Palace, Ranmal Lake, Lakhota Palace and Museum, Bala Hanuman Temple, Darbar Gadh, Adinath Jain Temple, and Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary are some of the top tourist places in Jamnagar.

Distance from Ahmedabad: 310 Kms

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

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

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

Situated on the Malwa plateau, Indore is the largest and the most populous city of Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the popular places to visit in Madhya Pradesh, and among the must include places in India tour packages. It is about 56 km from Ujjain, and 191 km from Bhopal.

Indore city presents a happy blend of historical past and promises of rapid future modernization. The city of Indore gets its name from Indreshwar Mahadev temple, among the must-include places in Indore packages. Rajwada Palace, Lal Bagh Palace, Chhatris Bagh, Chokhi Dhani, Kanch Mandir, Central Museum, Mahatma Gandhi Hall, Nehru Park, Chhapan Dukaan, Patalpani Waterfalls, Tincha Waterfalls, Bijasan Mata, and Bada Ganpati Temple are some of the prominent tourist places in Indore.

Indore is one of the educational hubs in the country and is also the cleanest city in India. Indore is also known for its wide variety of Namkeens. Indore can be visited as part of Bhopal tour packages.

Distance from Ahmedabad: 390 Kms

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

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

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

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

At a distance of 10 km from Bhuj, Vande Mataram Memorial is a museum situated at Bhujodi village near Bhuj in Kutch district of Gujarat. It is one of the popular monuments in Gujarat and among the best place to visit in Gujarat.

The Vande Mataram Memorial is a humble and yet the most ambitious offering of the Ashapura Foundation to the country. Built over an area of 12 acre, the Memorial is a non-profit institution that seeks to immortalize the most important episodes in India's freedom struggle from the revolt of 1857 right up to the country's Independence in 1947. The purpose of this museum is to create a respect for freedom fighters of the country. It is a once-in-lifetime experience for every Indian who is keen to reconnect with his roots and who seeks to renew and restore his sense of national pride.

The primary structure of the museum, measuring over 100,000 square feet, is modeled on the likeness of the Indian Parliament Building. It cost about 60 crores and it takes four years to build with a mélange of inputs from prominent historians, architects, sculptors and artists. The main museum is situated inside the Parliament House, where one will get a glimpse of the peaceful movement of the Swaraj movement, with the slogan of revolution. In the 17 rooms of Parliament House, visitors can see history from 1600 to 1947 through 4D technique in 17 episodes. There is also a magnificent and spacious image of Bharat Mata created ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 328 Kms

At a distance of 15 km from Bhuj, Living and Learning Design Centre (LLDC) is a textile museum situated at Ajrakhpur near Bhuj in Kutch district of Gujarat. Situated on Bhuj-Bhachau highway, it is one of the popular tourist places in Bhuj.

Started by Shrujan Trust in 2016, the Living and Learning Design Centre (LLDC) is a multi-dimensional crafts education and resource center dedicated to preserving and promoting the crafts of Kutch. The main aim of LLDC is to train, educate and support crafts persons to practice their traditional crafts for contemporary markets so that they can earn a dignified and prosperous livelihood. Over three thousand five hundred craftswomen are part of Shrujan's family now.

Situated in a sprawling eight-acre campus, the Living and Learning Design Centre has a Crafts Museum, Crafts School and the residential enclaves. The museum comprises, four galleries including a temporary exhibit area. The main gallery is devoted to the permanent collection of the 'Design Center on Wheels' (DCOW) program run by the NGO Shrujan in Bhujodi. The collection includes 1150 exquisite demonstrative embroidery panels that have been painfully documented over the years. The other galleries house traditional artifacts highlighting the textile arts related to everyday life of the indigenous people of Kutch. There is also a library for visual and textual resources, instructional auditorium space and conference room, classrooms for artisans and public orientation and ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 320 Kms

At a distance of 25 km from Bhuj Railway Station, Kera Shiva Temple is an old Hindu temple situated in Kera village near Bhuj city in Gujarat. Also known as Lakheshwara temple of Kerakot, it is one of the ancient temples in Kutch and among the popular Bhuj Tourist Places.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kera Shiva Temple was built during the reign of the Solanki dynasty in the later part of the 10th century. The Solankis, referred to as the 'Chalukyas of Gujarat' were patrons of many important temples in the area. Shiva Temple at Kera is one of the many temples built by the Solanki rulers. The major part of the temple got destroyed in the earthquake of 1819 and the Bhuj earthquake of 2001 but the temple's spire, inner sanctum and the sculptures are still in an attractive condition.

The shrine is built of red stones in Solanki architectural style. The interior of the temple is square in shape and the walls of the temple are around 3 feet thick. The presiding deity is in the form of Linga at the sanctum. The shrine has a pradakshina path with two open cut-stone perforated windows. The spire of the temple has eight triangle-shaped sculptures in the form of chaitya windows on each face of the spire. There are miniature spires at the corners of the temple. The external portions of the spires are well-adorned with elegantly carved images. Only the northern part of the original hall or Mandapa is there as of now which has few well-carved sculptures. Several stone sculptures of ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 355 Kms

At a distance of 15 km from Bhuj Railway Station, Rudramata Dam is an earthen dam situated at Nokhania village in Bhuj Taluk of Gujarat. Built on the Khari River, this is the biggest in the Kutch district, and among the famous Bhuj tourist places.

Also known as Rudrani Dam, the construction of the dam was started in 1959 and was completed in 1970. The catchment area of the dam is 572 Sq.km and the gross storage capacity is 65 cubic millimeters. This artificial reservoir supplies water to deserted areas around Bhuj.

Considered as biggest Dam of Kutch, the view from the top of the dam is breathtaking. There is one beautiful temple near the Dam called Rudra Mata temple. The temple complex houses the 400 years old Rudramata Temple with smaller temples devoted to other Gods and Goddesses. One can also visit Rakshak Van on the banks of the dam.

Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM

Distance from Ahmedabad: 348 Kms

At a distance of 25 km from Rapar, and 124 km from Bhuj, Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary is sanctuary located in the north eastern part of Kutch district in Gujarat. Situated in the Great Rann of Kutch, it is one of the famous places of wildlife in Gujarat, and among the popular places to visit as part of Rann of Kutch packages.

Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary was established in February 1986. Covering an area of about 7505 sq. km, this is the largest Wildlife Sanctuary in India area wise and one of the largest seasonal saline wetlands of Gujarat having an average water depth between 0.5 to 1.5 meters. But, after October-November, water dries up and the entire area turns into a saline desert where thousands of Flamingoes nest and breed. The sanctuary has four hilly and rocky islands ('bets') such as Pachchham, Khadir, Bela, and Chorar along with Kalo Dungar and Goro Dungar hills.

Considered among the most popular Rann of Kutch tourist places the sanctuary is mainly established to preserve the nesting ground of the flamingo or Greater Flamingo. The world-famous 'Flamingo City' is located in the mudflats of the Rann, at a distance of around 10 km from the Nir outpost on Kalo Dungar. Hundreds of greater flamingoes breed here, particularly ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 385 Kms

At a distance of 92 km from Rapar, 222 km from Bhuj, and 300 km from Great Rann of Kutch, Dholavira is an archaeological site at Khadir Bet in the Kutch district of Gujarat. Managed by ASI, it is the most prominent archaeological site in India belonging to the Indus Valley Civilization and among the must-include places in Kutch packages.

Dholavira represents the ruins of an ancient city of the Harappan civilization that was inhabited over 1,200 years from 3000 BCE through 1800 BCE. It is the larger of the two most remarkable excavations of the Indus Valley Civilization or Harappan culture in India, the other being Lothal. Locally called Kotada, the 250-acre area of Dholavira sprawls across the Khadir Island of the Great Rann of Kutch and is part of the protected Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, among the top tourist places in Kutch.

The site was unearthed by the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) in 1967 but has been systematically excavated only since 1990. The excavated site of Dholavira demonstrates the ingenuity of Harappan people to evolve a highly organized system of town planning with perfected proportions, interrelation of functional areas, street-pattern, and an efficient water conservation system that supported life for more than 1200 years against harsh hot arid climate.

Lies between two seasonal streams, ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 362 Kms

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

At a distance of 48 km from Mandvi, 51 km from Bhuj and 127 km from Rann of Kutch, Roha Fort is an ancient fort located on the outskirts of Roha village in Nakhatrana Taluk of Kutch, Gujarat. Also known as Roha Sumari Fort, it is one of the historical forts of Kutch and among the major Mandvi Tourist Places.

Located 800 feet above sea level on Roha Hill, Roha Fort is believed to have been built by Thakore Noganji. There are about 52 villages under this fort. Roha is also called Sumari Roha after the princesses from the Sumara state who took Samadhi here. After the British took control over the fort during the early 18th century several changes has been made in the fort through the approach of renovation. The British made two deep wells within the fort.

Covers an area of 16 acres, the fort appears like a temple and was mainly built with the use of stone and baked bricks. Over the years, most of the parts of the fort have destroyed from earthquake and lack of proper management. But one can see a temple at the bottom and another one at the top of a small hill. The famous poet of Gujarat, Kalapi, wrote romantic poems at Roha hill because atmosphere of Roha was peaceful and close to the nature with many peacocks and other birds which can be seen here even now.

Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM

Distance from Ahmedabad: 379 Kms

At a distance of 33 km from Gandhidham, 64 km from Bhuj, 66 km from Mandvi and 138 km from Gateway of Rann, Bhadreshwar Temple is a Jain temple situated at Bhadreshwar village in Kutch district of Gujarat. Also known as Vasai Jain Temple, it is one of the important Jain pilgrimage centers in Gujarat and among the famous places to visit in Bhuj.

Bhadreshwar Temple is believed to be one of the oldest Jain temples in India. According to legend, the foundation stone of this temple was laid down by a Jain layman named Devchandra, centuries ago, about 45 years after the death of Lord Mahavir, but there is no evidence to either support that claim. Although the temple have been renovated many times. The temple is said to be first renovated by King Sidhsen of Bhadrawati in 449 BC and then, the temple have been renovated and rehabilitated many times. The temple have been destroyed many times due to earthquakes of 1819, 1844, 1875, and 2001 but the chronicles of Mistris of Kutch renovated it every time.

Built in the line of Dilwara Temples, the temple complex has 53 shrines, a major central temple and 52 minor shrines around it, one of which reputedly holds the original Parshwanath idol from 500 BC. The main temple, facing east, is strikingly beautiful, in all white marble with majestic pillars. In the shrine are three white marble images. The central image of Lord Ajitnath, the second of the Tirthankars, is flanked by Lord Parshwanath with the snake hood in the right and Lord ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 324 Kms

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

At a distance of 29 km from Una, 66 km from Sasan Gir, and 76 km from Amreli, Tulsi Shyam Temple is a Hindu temple situated at Tulsishyam in Gujarat. It is one of the revered temples in this region of Gujarat and among the must-visit places as part of Gir packages.

Dedicated to Lord Krishna, Tulsi Shyam Temple is a well-known temple located inside the Gir National Park. Legend says that Lord Krishna eliminated the demon called Tul and so the place is associated with his name along with that of Krishna as Shyam as Tulsishyam. The idol of Lord Tulsishyam is said to be 3000 years old made out of black stone. Visitors need to climb 100 steep steps to reach the temple from the parking. There is also a temple dedicated to Goddess Rukmini Devi on a small hillock near the main temple.

There are three hot sulphur springs that are believed to have healing powers. Of these, the 1st one is filled with hot water, the second one is filled with more hot water and the third water spring is having hot boiling water. Another attraction that draws people to this temple is the stretch of road near the temple famed for its Gravity Hill phenomenon. At the temple one will find boarding facilities at a nominal cost and food is provided by the trust at free of cost.

There are two approach routes to this place - one from Una is in a good state while the second one from Amreli is a bit longer and has a lot of potholes and ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 330 Kms

At a distance of 10 km from Junagadh Junction, Girnar Hill is a sacred mountain situated in Junagadh, Gujarat. It is one of the popular Jain places of pilgrimage in Gujarat, and among the must-visit places as part of Junagadh Tour.

Spread over an area of about 70 miles, Mount Girnar is older than the Himalayas and the Jain temples upon it are amongst the most ancient in the country. It has five principal peaks Ambaji, Gorakhnath, Guru Dattatreya, Oghad Ansuya and Kalika. Out of these, Gorakhnath is situated at an altitude of 3672 feet and is the highest point in Gujarat. For centuries, Mount Girnar has been one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Gujarat and indeed in all of Western India, with 866 Hindu and Jain temples spread over its 5 summits. For Jains, this place is considered holy as this is the Nirvana Kshetra of 22nd Tirthankara Neminath and for Hindus, this place is considered holy as Dattatreya stayed here.

One will have to climb 10000 steps to reach the final summit. Trek to Girnar Hill starts from Girnar Talati, which is about 6 km from Junagadh Junction. While ascending the stone path that connects the temples along the 5 summits, one will pass temples of many different sects of Hinduism. Among the must-visit sightseeing places in Junagadh, the Bhavnath temple dedicated ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 323 Kms

At a distance of 8 km from Junagadh Junction, Datar Hill is holy site in Junagadh city of Gujarat. Situated opposite to Girnar Hills, it is one of the popular places of pilgrimage in Gujarat and amongst the most visited sites in Junagadh.

Situated at an altitude of 2,779 feet, Datar Hill is one of the five principle peaks of Mount Girnar. Also known as Guru Dattatray or Dattatri, it is a popular religious place in Saurashtra region as it houses the shrine of Jamiyal Shah Datar. The dargah at the bottom of the hill is the tomb of a Muslim saint Jamal Shah Datar. It is ornately carved and crowned with a large onion dome and small minarets in a style similar to maqbara, the mausoleums of Nawabs of Junagadh. The shrine is visited by sufferers of leprosy in hope of a cure.

There is also a small shrine on the summit of the hill associated with the saint. One has to climb 3,000 steps to reach the shrine from Wellington Dam, which was built over the Kalwa River by the British. The place is truly scenic during monsoon as tiny waterfalls cascade down the hills. Visitor can also visit Koyala Vajir Temple and Digambar Jain Bhagwan Neminath Temple while on their way to the summit. From summit, one can have a spectacular view of the town below.

Also known as Upla Datar, the shrine is popular for its 5 days Urs festival celebrated here every year with great pomp and show. At least 3 lakh devotees of both Muslim and Hindus visit the Datar shrine during these five days, ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 327 Kms

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

At a distance of 56 km from Jamnagar Railway Station, Narara Marine National Park is a marine wildlife sanctuary in the Gulf of Kutch near Jamnagar. Situated next to Vadinar Village, it is the first Marine national park in India, and among the top places of sightseeing in Jamnagar.

The Narara Marine National Park is one of the rare places in the world where one can look at corals without having to dive down into the water. About an area of 458 sq. km from Okha to Jodiya was declared as a Marine Sanctuary in 1980. Later, in 1982, about 163 Sq. km of core area was declared as a Marine National Park under the provisions of the Wildlife Act, 1972 of India.

There are 42 tropical islands on the Jamnagar coast in the Marine National Park, most of them surrounded by reefs. Out of which 33 islands have coral reefs. Some of the best-known islands are Pirotan, Karubhar, Narara, and Poshitra. There are islands with sandy beaches and mangrove swamps. Major ecosystem types available are coral reefs, mangroves, mudflats, creeks, Seagrass, & Seaweeds, estuaries, sandy strands to saline grasslands, marshy areas, and rocky shores. All ecosystems support rich marine life & birdlife in the marine park.

The sanctuary lies in the intertidal zone, so especially in low tide, visitors get to observe the rich diversity of marine life. One has to just walk in the ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 366 Kms

At a distance of 10 km from Jamnagar Railway Station, Pirotan Island is an island situated in the Gulf of Kutch near Jamnagar. It is one of the beautiful islands in Gujarat and among the top places to visit in Jamnagar.

Spreads over an area of 3 Sq. km, Pirotan Island is one of the 42 islands which compose the first Marine National Park in India. It is one of the two islands in the Marine National Park opened for tourists, other one being Narara Island. Pirotan Island is a gem for the people who love nature and adventure as it gives an opportunity to witness the colourful coral reefs, mangroves, and incredible aquatic creatures like jelly fish, octopus, star fish, sea snakes, hermit crabs, sea horse, sea slugs, green sea turtles and dolphins. One can also spot some beautiful birds such as pelicans, herring gull, sea gull, and black-headed gull in the unruffled setting of nature.

Pirotan was originally known as 'Pir jo thaan' signifying the sacred place of Saint Khwaja Khizer Rahmatullahialaih. The holy shrine of the saint is also located on the island. The island also houses a lighthouse. The island is uninhabited except for the workers at Pirotan Island's lighthouse, the forest guard, and the Mujhavar (Server) at the Holy Saint Khwaja Khizer shrine. Most visitors come in the morning with the high tide and leave by evening. So, one can spend hours walking around the tidal flats at low tide, observing the fascinating marine life in solitude.

Pirotan Island ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 313 Kms

At a distance of 5 km from Waghai and 49 km from Saputara, Gira Falls is a seasonal waterfall located at Wanarchod village near Saputara. Situated on the Saputara-Waghai Road, it is one of the picturesque waterfalls in Gujarat, and among the major places to visit near Saputara.

Also known as Giradudh, Gira Waterfall is formed over the Kapri River and eventually drops into the Ambika River. The height of the falls is about 75 feet and the speed of the water plunging into the river creates a foggy look giving it a charming feel. The Gira Falls is a favorite among the tourists who visit this area as part of Saputara tour. The place has now developed into a great picnic spot.

The waterfall is a great stopover for those travelling from Saputara towards Surat. The falls can only be reached by 1 km trekking from the parking place. There are many picnic huts in the vicinity of Gira Falls, along with various small tea and snack stalls. Tourists also visit the beautiful Waghai Botanical Garden nearby which has a variety of plants and trees, providing a marvelous view of different varieties of bamboo groves

The best season to visit the waterfalls is the post-monsoon season.

Timings: 8 AM - 5 PM

Entry: Free, Rs. 50 for Parking

Distance from Ahmedabad: 352 Kms

At a distance of 42 km from Waghai and 68 km from Saputara Bus Station, Purna Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary in the Western Ghats between the states of Gujarat and Maharashtra, India. It is one of the most popular hotspots for bird watchers and among the best places to visit near Saputara.

Situated in the predominantly tribal district of Dangs, Purna Wildlife Sanctuary was declared as a sanctuary in July 1990 which spread over an area of 160 Sq. km. The sanctuary derives its name from the Purna River, which flows through it. Managed by the North Dangs Forest Division, Purna is one of the last remaining patches of moist deciduous forest in Gujarat which supports huge range of flora and fauna. Purna, along with Vansda National Park, is the only Protected Area in South Gujarat for conserving diverse biological resources.

Known for its thick forest cover, Purna receives the highest average rainfall in the state. The landscape is completely lush green along with thick forests, interspersed with rivers and small tribal villages leaving visitors absolutely enchanted. There are about 700 species of plants and trees in Purna Wildlife Sanctuary. Leopard is the top predator here whose population has been increasing. Wild bulls, elephants, rhesus macaque, bonnet macaque, common mongoose, Indian civet cat, Indian porcupine, four-horned antelope, barking deer, sambar, chital, hyena, and jungle cat are among the other prominent animals found in the forest. The forest ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 356 Kms

At a distance of 3 km from Waghai and 52 km from Saputara Bus Station, Vansda National Park is a protected area located near Waghai in the Navsari district of Gujarat. Situated on the Vansda-Waghai State Highway, Vansda is one of the major places of wildlife in Gujarat, and among the popular places to visit as part of Saputara sightseeing tour.

Spread over an area of 24 sq. km, the area was established as a National park in the year of 1979. The park got its name as Vansda because it was once privately owned by the Maharaja of Vansda. As per the official records, not a single tree has been cut since 1952. Owing to this, in some places, the canopies are so thick that sunlight does not pass through. Maintained by the South Dangs Forest Division, the landscape of the park is breathtaking with beautiful rolling hills, sweeping valleys and the beautiful river Ambika flows through the northeastern boundary of the park. The park also has a fairly large number of tribes living in and around such as the Bhil, Gamit, Warli, Kokni, Kunbi, and Dangi tribes.

Nestled in the Western Ghats of the Sahyadri range, it has a unique flavor of flora and fauna population. The vegetation includes 440 species of plants out of which the most prominent ones are the moist and dry deciduous forest cover, bamboos, tall teak trees, orchids, mango groves, and gigantic creepers. This national park ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 346 Kms

At a distance of 35 km from Mahal, 50 km from Ahwa, 78 km from Waghai, and 89 km from Saputara, Girmal is a breathtaking waterfall situated at Girmal village near Saputara in Gujarat. Situated inside Purna Wildlife Sanctuary, it is the highest waterfall in Gujarat and among the prime places to visit near Saputara.

Girmal Waterfall is formed over Girmal River. It cascades down from a height of more than 100 feet. Hidden inside dense forests of Dangs, Girmal Falls has picturesque beauty in monsoon season. The water fluently crashes from great height, forming clouds of fog, through which one can often experience rainbows.

Enroute to Girmal near village Gavdahad, the river Gira takes a complete U-turn. Forest department has developed a beautiful viewpoint exactly above the U-turn. Watching a massive green patch of Purna Sanctuary surrounded by U-shaped Gira is a spectacular experience. Eco-Development Committee (EDC) of the Forest department runs a restaurant named as 'U-turn restaurant' at this juncture. With four Girli Lodges with attached bathrooms and an Interpretation Centre, the place is a nice refreshing spot.

As the fall gets dried up during the summer, the best time to visit the Girmal Falls is in between July and December. Forest department has made reasonably good sitting arrangements and viewpoints and a paved pathway leading towards the tip of the falls. There are some make shift stalls selling tea and snacks during the season.

Timings: 8 ...

Distance from Ahmedabad: 381 Kms

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

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

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

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

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

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