Initially known as the Kathiawar peninsula, present-day Saurashtra was a collection of 200 princely states and is the place where the father of our nation, Mahatma Gandhi, was born and raised. Currently, along with being one of the crucial parts in Gujarat Tour and Travel destinations in India, it also houses a number of industrial cities. This place is a beautiful conglomeration of vast forests, lush green fields and age-old, untouched lifestyle of Maldhari herders and farmers, keeping the feel of the olden days still alive. Saurashtra also has some sacred centres perched on hilltops like, Shatrunjaya and Girnar which are frequented by devotees. The entire peninsular has been blessed with a magnificent wildlife culture including the Gir National Park. The Portuguese feel can still be felt in the Southern coast with island enclaves of Diu. Saurashtra is known for its impressive architectural structures, beautiful and vibrant beaches and its ancient temples. All these features attract tourists not only from within India but also from across the globe. The perfect choice for a family vacation or a trip with your loved ones, away from the maddening crowds and stress of the city life, Saurashtra is truly an oasis.
Here are some of the top places to see in Saurashtra, which will encourage you to book your ticket to Gujarat right away:
01. Girnar Hill (Junagadh)
Located at an elevation of 3,383 feet, this sacred mountain is dotted with Jain and Hindu temples. The summit can be reached by climbing up 10,000 stone steps, which is advised to be commenced at dawn. Your whole day will be spent in reaching up to the uppermost temples which is a cluster of elaborate Stupas. The largest and the oldest temple here is a 12th century temple of Neminath. The hill gives a stunning and panoramic view of the city below.
Best Time to Visit – March to June
Visitation Timings – 6:00 am to 5:00 pm
02. Mahabat Maqbara (Junagadh)
Considered as one of the most stunning architectural creations in Gujarat, Mahabat Maqbara (mausoleum) celebrates the impressive mingling of the Euro-Indo-Islamic style of design. The wide French windows, detailed gothic columns and the silver inner doors give off a royal and opulent vibe. Constructed in the memory of Nawab Mahabat Khan 2 (1851-52) of Junagadh, this mausoleum is one of the most marvelous structures present in Junagadh. This mausoleum is a splendid representation of the creativity and dedication of the people of Saurashtra.
Best time to Visit – September to May
Visitation Timings – open 24 hours
03. Blackbuck National Park (Velavadar)
Established in 1976, this grassland park is named after the most commonly sighted animal, Blackbuck. Visitors are promised sightings of wolves, antelopes and cheetas who are securely protected in this park, which in recent times had become endangered due to poaching. It is a quiet place for nature and animal lovers and even avid photographers. The jeep safaris here will freshen up your mood and make you feel refreshed.
Best Time to Visit – mid – June to end – March
Visitation Timings – 10:00 am to 7:00 pm (on Saturdays 10:00 am to 4:00 pm)
04. Vazir’s Mausoleum (Junagadh)
Considered as one of the most historical landmark in Junagadh, this mausoleum stands right next to to Mahabat Maqbara. The main mausoleum structure is flanked by two minarets on either side with spiraling staircases making the entire mausoleum look like it has been brought to life right out of a fantasy story book. This dream-like structure was built in 1896 for Vazir Sahib Baka – ud -din Bhar.
Best Time to Visit – September to May
Visitation Timings – open 24 hours
05. Ranmal Lake (Jamnagar)
The city of Jamnagar is famed for being the home for one of the prettiest lakes in India, Ranmal Lake. With tree lined neatly along the edges of the lake, the shimmering blue water is also the water source for various birds and is a heaven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The picturesque site is worth a visit, if you want to have a peaceful time away from the maddening crowd and the bustle of the city life.
Best Time to Visit – March – June
Visitation Timings – 7:00 am to 10:00 pm
06. Naulakha Palace (Gondal)
Dating back to the 18th century, the name ‘naulakha’ suggests nine lakhs, which is the exact cost that went into constructing this magnificent palace during that day. There are impressive and detailed stone carvings with elaborate ‘jharokhas’ or balconies. The arches are delicately carved and one of the main features of the palace is a unique spiral staircase and an array of silver caskets. Do visit this place if you want to look back at the rich and elegant history of Saurashtra.
Best Time to Visit – October – February
Visitation Timings – 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
07. Vanakbara (Diu)
A fascinating, quaint and small fishing village set in the extreme west end of the Island, Vanakbara is one of the best tourist attractions in Saurashtra. The entire village is filled with brightly coloured fishing boats and packed with bustling village life. If you want to feel more included with the locals then, do make sure to wander around one of the most vibrant spots in Saurashtra.
Best Time to Visit – October – February
Visitation Timings – 7:00 am to 8:00 am (when the boats are returning)
08. Adinath Mandir Jain Temple (Jamnagar)
A sacred spot for Jains this holy spot was built in the memory of the first Jain Tirthankara ‘Adinath’. The entire temple is adorned with murals depicting the life of Adinath. These murals and images pan across the ceilings, pillars and walls to the temple. The marble flooring present here are decorated with elaborate and typical Jain designs and patterns making the entire temple look even prettier.
Best Time to Visit – October – March
Visitation Timings – 5:30 am to 1:00 pm and 3:30 pm to 9:00 pm
