Gujarat Chronicles - Of Culture, Crafts and Tourism

Click Here to Take a Visual Tour of India’s Journey to Independence

From the birth of Mahatma Gandhi in Porbandar to the historic Dandi March of 1930, Gujarat holds a special place in the history of free India. Gandhiji, K.M Munshi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and a lot of other prominent nationalist leaders played an important role in India’s fight for freedom. The state’s traditional values combined with cultural and geographical diversity made it one of the most popular tourist places in the country. 

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Gujarat Then and Now

In 1614, European colonial powers set up their bases along the coastline of the state, ending the Maratha rule in Gujarat. This was the beginning of a new era for the state.

Later, during India’s struggle for independence, Ahmedabad and Sabarmati came to the forefront, and the principles of satyagraha, swadeshi and self-sufficiency, spread from Gujarat to the rest of the nation.

Today, Gujarat, with its clean roads, modern infrastructure and architectural wonders, has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Whether you want to relax on the beaches or spot Asiatic lions at the Gir National Park, Gujarat will not disappoint the traveller in you.

Things to Do in Gujarat

Gujarat offers a perfect mix of vast coastlines, intricate temples and exotic wildlife.

Don’t leave Gujarat before you:

Do: Take a trip to the Great Rann of Kutch, the popular seasonal salt marsh of Gujarat located at the border of India and Pakistan. Flocks of flamingos and herds of Indian wild ass inhabit the place during the monsoons. If you’re visiting in December, check out the Rann festival, which begins in Bhuj and ends with a grand celebration of Gujarati culture, values and tradition in the open deserts. It offers a variety of cultural events that showcases the country’s crafts, art, music and dance.

Gujarat also has over 25 national parks and wildlife sanctuaries to keep the nature lover in you alive. Don’t miss a visit to the Gir National Park, which is home to the last few prides of Asiatic lions in the world.

If you’re looking for a relaxing walk on a beach, Gujarat has that too! Tithal, the only black sand beach in India, is a treat for the eyes. You could also visit Somnath beach, Dwarka beach and Chorvad beach.

Whether you’re interested in architectural marvels or spirituality, the Jain temples in Girnar are a must-visit.

Eat: Gujarat is famous for its dhokla, khandvi, khakhra and khaman. Taste them before you proceed to the main dishes like meethi curry and undhiyun, eaten with thepala. Shrikhand and malpua will satisfy your sweet tooth after you’ve enjoyed your delicious meal.

Buy: Embroidered jackets and patola sarees—an ikkat woven sari, usually made from silk, made in Patan. Kutchi handicrafts, popular around the world, are found in abundance in Gujarat. From block printed fabric, luxurious quilts and mirror-work clothing to woodcarving and heavy jewellery, you will definitely find something to take back home with you.

Getting There: Gujarat is well connected to all major states in India via rail, air and roads.