Gujarat proudly displays its remarkable heritage each day. Its captivating culture and remarkable history draw pilgrims and historians from across India to witness this majestic land’s wonders.
Rani Ki Vav, Ahmedabad and Dholavira are some of the most visited historical spots in Gujarat, each representing its own unique story and beauty. These iconic landmarks represent its rich past through tales and architecture that tell its own unique narrative.
Dwarkadhish Temple
Dwarkadhish Temple is both an architectural marvel and religious destination in India, as its famed seven-storied building sits upon 72 pillars. Atop its spire stands an emblem representing both Sun and Moon to indicate Dwarkadhish’s existence for as long as either exist. Dwarkadhish attracts devotees as well as tourists; for best experience visit during Krishna Janmashtami celebration when all decorations have been set out!
Dwarkadhish Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites in Hinduism. According to legend, its construction began by Krishna’s grandson Vajranabh at the junction between Gomti River and Arabian Sea by Krishna himself – one of 108 Divya Peethas of Vishnu around the globe and considered one of the must-visit destinations for all Hindus – it features beautiful architectural styles from Hindu, Jain and Islamic architectural styles all at once.
Vijay Vilas Palace
Mandvi Palace was constructed as Maharao Shri Khengarji III’s summer retreat by Maharao Shri Khengarji III and features Indo-Edwardian architecture with graceful curves that combine features from Rajasthan, Bengal and Kutch architectural styles.
Red sandstone was used in its construction and it sits amid lush gardens featuring water channels and marble fountains. Jalis, Jharokas, Chhatris, Chhajas as well as murals and artistic stone carvings remind one of various locations across India while colorful glass work windows and doors bring back memories from each location.
This heritage site stands as a testament to India’s cultural and historical past, having been inscribed onto UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites in 2004. It includes temples, tombs, mosques, archways and palaces dating back as far as the 8th century; in addition to museums and zoos for further exploring Gujarat’s vibrant past.
Uperkot Fort
Uperkot Fort was constructed by Chandragupta Maurya – founder of Mauryan Dynasty – in 319 BCE. It features walls which stand nearly 20 meters high in some spots and houses temples and Buddhist caves that hold great archaeological value.
A dhakka bari, used to punish offenders by throwing them from a tower into the valley, and two massive canons named Nilamtope and Manek (15 feet long each), which originated in Cairo before being brought back by Turks after Diu was sieged during the 16th century are both worth visiting.
Rani Ranakdevi Palace in Uperkot has since been converted to Jama Masjid and remains one of the most majestic structures. She was originally an abandoned child adopted and taken care of by potter families; eventually Solanki ruler Siddhraj Jaisinh noticed her beauty and attempted to invade Junagadh for her, only for its defenders to hold out and prolong the siege for twelve years!
Pandava Cave
Dholavira, one of the Harappan Civilization’s main sites, is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and represents one of its main archaeological discoveries. With evidences such as wide roads, citadel, dwellings and markets present within it – Dholavira offers visitors a chance to relive the glory of Gujarat’s past! It makes an ideal tourist spot.
Also referred to as Pandav Leni Caves, these caves are where legend holds that the Pandavas from Mahabharata resided during their exile. Each of the caves contains lingas that look like inscriptions while excavation of these caves revealed remnants from Gupta period copper rings and Gadhaiya coins.
Navlakha Temple was constructed by Jethwa rulers during the 12th century as an offering to Lord Surya and is one of the oldest sun temples in India, boasting architecture that echoes Solanki style architecture. It stands out from other temples with an entwining tusk as its trademark feature and provides a magnificent sight.
