Kandla / Gandhidham – a modern city of Gujarat

57 km South East to Bhuj is Kandla. Maharao of Kutch founded the city to rehabilitate refugees from Sindh after the partition in 1947. At the Kandla Creek, the ashes of Gandhiji had been immersed. Since then the city was named Gandhidham.

Gandhidham is a planned city at Kandla Port. The blue print had been prepared by a team of architects from America. Gandhidham by virtue of being a planned city is attractive to the tourists. On 10 January 1952, former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru laid the foundation stone of this city and one of the most important modern ports in India. In the millennium year it has been renamed as Port of the New Millennium. The adjacent Kandla city is a trade free zone. Comprising of 15 dockyards, it is one of the chief export-import outlets of India. The 2001 earthquake had devastated the city. There are the Gandhi Samadhi and Shiva Temple. The deity in the Shiva Temple is not a phallus but in the form of Nirbasteswar Shiva.


Transport to and from Kandla / Gandhidham

Airport is 6 km from the city, Minibus, taxi, auto services are available.

2081 Jan Satabdi Express daily except Sunday at 16-40 leaves Ahmedabad reaches Gandhidham at 22-15

9031 Mumbai-Bhuj Kutch Express leaves Mumbai Central at 17-10, Ahmedabad at 2-20, reaches at 8-05 at Gandhidham reaching Bhuj at 10-05.

9601 Bandra-Bhuj Sayajinagari Express leaves Bandra at 14-50 reaching Ahmedabad at 23-45, next day Viramgam at 1-10, Gandhidham at 6-35 and reaches Bhuj at 8-15.

On day 2 3 4 7 - 4311 Berili-Bhuj Ala Hajrat Express leaves Berili at 5-30 reaches Delhi at 11-25, Jaipur at 17-35, Ahmedabad next day at 6-10, Dhrangadhra at 9-02 and Bhuj at 14-45 via Gandhidham.

9501 Anand Express daily from Rajkot leaves at 16-45 reaches Gandhidham at 21-30, Bhuj at 23-25.

1092 Pune-Bhuj Express leaves Pune at 19-40 on Tuesday reaches Ahmedabad next day at 8-55, Dhrangadhra at 11-35, Gandhidham at 16-05 and Bhuj at 17-15.

6336 Nagercoil-Gandhidham Express leaves Nagercoil at 11-45 reaches Kollam at 14-35, Ernakulam town at 18-25, Margaon next day at 9-35, Ahmedabad on the 3rd day at 7-20, Gandhidham at 14-45.

111 Pass train leaves Viramgam at 5-30 reaches Dhrangadhra at 8-02, Gandhidham at 14-20, Bhuj at 16-45.

From Ahmedabad, Viramgam is 65 km; Viramgam to Dhrangadhra is 65 km, Dhrangadhra to Gandhidham is 170 km, Gandhidham to Bhuj is 59 km. Mumbai to Gandhidham is 792 km.

From Gandhidham at 6-05 and 14-50 Pass train runs to Bhuj

From Palanpur Junction on Abu Road-Mahesana railway, at 10-00 and 18-55 Pass trains ply on Palanpur-Gandhidham meter gauge rail for Gandhidham,
2082 Jan Satabdi Express leaves Gandhidham at 5-00 daily, except Sunday, reaches-Ahmedabad at 10-25

9502 Anand Express leaves Bhuj at 5-35, from Gandhidham at 7-15, reaches Rajkot at 11-55

9602 Sayajinagari Express leaves Bhuj at 20-30, 22-20 from Gandhidham, reaches Mumbai Central next day at 13-45 via Dhrangadhra-Viramgam-Ahmedabad

Bus links have been established along NH 8-A from other cities of the state to Gandhidham, Bhuj and Kandla. Frequent bus and share taxis are available from Gandhidham to Bhuj and Kandla.

Share taxi is available en route from Bhuj to Rajkot. GSTC's buses have regular service to Ahmebadad, Palanpur, Jamnagar (8 buses in 7 hrs), Porbandar (3 buses 10 hrs), Mahesana (6 buses 8 hrs), Jaisalmir (1 bus 14 hrs) from Bhuj. Whole night journey by private deluxe buses with berth for sleeeping are on this route. Private deluxe buses also ply for Dwarka and Mumbai.

In Gandhidham the bus stand is located at three minutes walking distance from railway station.

Hotels at Kandla / Gandhidham

STD Code of Gandhidham: +91 2836
For lodging there are Railway Retiring Room, Kandla Port Trust Guest House, PWD Rest House, Dharamshala, Aram Guest House.

Hotel Chandan, Plot 18, Ward-12A, NH-1 Ph: 229096;
Hotel Madhuban, Plot-22, Sector-9, Tagore Road, opposite KPT Office, Gandhidham-370201 Ph: 222216.
Hotel Desert Palace, 98 Golpadar, near Airport-1 Ph: 223726,
Business Inn, 29-30, Sector-9 Ph: 221921,
Sayaji Hotel, plot 64, Sector 8, near Town Hall Ph: 255266,
Hotel Natraj, opposite bus stand;
Hotel Gokul, near-bus std and various other hotels.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Other places you can visit from Bhuj

Dholavira – Remnants of ancient civilization found here

255 km to the North East of Bhuj, at Great Runn close to Pak frontier, at Dholavira the remnants of Harappa-Mahenzodaro era have been found. Archaeological excavation is going on. However, as it is located at the frontier, restrictions are strictly maintained on free movements of people. Foreigners need permit to visit from Collector Office, Bhuj.

Buses run from Bhuj to Dholavira in 5 hours. Night halts may be arranged at an ordinary Guest House. On way from Bhuj by bus reach Lilpur and rest at Gandhi Ashram (food and lodging are available here), spend a night there and come to Dholavira next morning. From Dholavira avail bus at 3 pm to return to Bhuj.




Anjar – A place famous for Gujarat embroidery works

Enthusiasts may take a trip to Anjar, 22 km South West on Bhuj-Kandla route. This was the capital of Kutch till 1548. Anjar is famous for embroidery, bandhni and batique works. There is the musoleum of Pir baba shrouded with infinite lores and legends. One should taste the curd at Anjar. Raja Ajepal founded the city in 805 AD. Repeated earthquakes have rocked the city. 40 km from here, at Birendiara, Hodko, Gorewali villages folk crafts of Kutch are practiced. One can take a bus or a car to these destinations.
Those interested may visit the Jain pilgrimage of Bhadreswar. Restoration of the decayed past is on at full swing.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Koteshwar-Lakhpat-Narayan Sarovar - Mandvi - places to visit from Bhuj

From Bhuj, Koteshwar is 152 km by bus. It is the holiest Shiva Temple in Kutch, Koteshwar is famous for Kotilingeswar Mahadev Temple. The deity is on the dome-shaped main dais. Beside this there is Kalyaneswar Temple. Near to it there is a Kund. Pilgrims offer prayers for their fore-fathers with the holy water of Kund.

Down below flows the Arabian Sea, the beach is resplendent. On the way 2 km ahead at Narayan Sarovar is the walled up fort-like Temple Complex, which is highly decorated with Narayan, Gobardhannath, Dwarkadhish, Lakshmi-Narayan and other temples.

There are 4-holy Sarovars (lake) as mentioned in the Shrimad Bhagabat Gita : Manas, Bindu, Pampa and Narayan Sarovar. But due to change of Sindhu's course Narayan Sarovar was lost. The present one is beside the old Adi Narayan Temple.


There are also other deities. Although not in flocks but there are visitors at the sarovar. One can opt to stay at the Temple Guest House. During the festival of Kartick, the Bengali month, (November) pilgrims come from far and wide and participate in the festival.

Koteshwar is a military base and therefore military is active there. 2 km from Sarovar is the Narayan Sarovar Chinkara Sanctuary where one can see reddish antilopes or Chinkara.

On the way, 80 km from Bhuj at Matanomodh there is the temple of Ashapura Devi or Devi Ambika, the boon-bestower.

From Koteshwar to Garuli is 34 km via Narayan Sarovar and 19 km from Garuli is the old port city and Sikh pilgrimage Lakhpat. Guru Nanak, on his way to Mecca, spent a night here. A Gurdwara has been set up to commemorate. There are various temples and mosques is Lakhpat too.

The Darga of Ghaus Muhammed, died in 1850, is an important place to visit.

The walled fort city of Lakhpat is situated on the coastal beach of the Kori gulf. The name is derived from Rao Lakha. Arguably, millionaires were abound in Lakhpat, hence the name. But during partition the helpless trader communities moved away to other areas in search of safety. The mute past stands amid sandy expanse.

Buses ply on this route. There are only a few shops but no hotels are available. One should hire a jeep/ambassador and make a day's trip to Koteshwar-Lakhpat-Narayan Sarovar - Mandvi and come back to Bhuj.

Mandvi
Mandvi is yet another important spot of Bhuj 60 km to the South West. Since Kandala, the latest modem port of Kutch came into existence, the walled up old port city of Mandvi has been converted to a beach resort. The knitted sarees of various prints and styles are available in Mandvi shops and sales counters.
8 km west of city on the sea beach stands Kutch Maharao's Summer Retreat—Vijay Vilas Palace. Recently, the Palace has converted into a hotel.
Hourly bus services are there from Bhuj to Mandvi take 1 ½ hours to reach. Share taxi is also available.
Hotels at Mandvi:
To the west of bus stand Sahara Hotel, Vinayak Guest House, Shital Guest House
2 km from the city, Government Guest House.
At Mandvi, GTDC's Toran Beach Resort, Jahajwada Rd, Ph: (+912834) 230516 is nice place to stay.


This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Bhuj - a tourist attraction in Gujarat

Bhuj lies at the heart of Kutch peninsula. In the past Bhuj was the feudal state of Jadeja Kings and the capital of Kutch Island. Now it is the Head quarter of Kutch district. Previously, it was the capital of Khengarjir (1st) in 1548. In 1723 Rao 1st Deshalji walled up the city of Bhuj. Around 1948, the 35x4 ft wall was demolished following expansion of the city. And most of the ancient glories of the city had been washed away due to the 1819 British invasion and earthquake which led to raise 6 meter high 80 Kms long sea waves that marooned the city. Only a few houses were left. People of Bhuj rebuilt their homes and hearts fighting against a harsh nature. But natural calamity vandalized the area time again and again as the place is situated in an active seismic zone.

The topography of the area is like that of a turtle (a table land). Tourists come for expedition around October -March. But during February -March, people come from all over for the Kutch festival. One can have a glimpse of the culture and ethos of Kutch at the festival.


Another earthquake on 26th January 2001 devastated Bhuj once again killing 20,000 people and damaging properties worth billons. Bhuj is limping back to normalcy since then, with the help of national and international agencies.

Indian Air Force's biggest and busiest air base is in Bhuj.

Places to see in Bhuj:

Ancient story is the brother of Seshnag, Bhujanganag lived in the Bhujia Fort on 75 meter high Bhujia hill from 1718-41. There is the temple of Bhujanganag. Bhuj derives its name from Bhujanganag. Till very recently the entrance gate of the city used to remain closed from sunset to sunrise. During that time, the old city was in the core of the Alampanna Fortress. In the Fort, there is Rao Lakkha Palace, founded in 1752, with Durbar Hall, Aina Mahal, ivory-jewelled doors, Chinese-tiles basements, mirror fitted stone walls, paintings, gold and silver ornamentations, country made and foreign musical clocks besides several other articles of wonder. There is also red sandstone Durbar Garh Rajmahal Palace built by Mirza Maharao Pragmalji (2nd) in the year1860.

At the north of the city on the banks of the lake is Maharao Palace of Dutch and built in Kutch design and style Aina Mahal of the 18th century. The Tourist Office, is here at Aina Mahal. The name is justified by the fact that a million lights reflect a single source all over the 15meter long Aina Mahal.

The 2 million pound worth collections of Maharao Singh Madansinghji are found in the museum on the 1st floor of this Mahal. See the coin collections of a native state (1617-1948). The miracle watch of the Mahal is simply magical. On the 1st floor of the palace, the Fuvara Mahal and Hira Mahal are splendidly magnificent.

The hall of entertainment was called the Rangmahal was the leisure and pleasure court of Maharao. Several instrumentalists, maestros, dancers and lyricists used to present their performances for the Maharao. Fubara is the artificial fountain that sprayed water to maintain soothing temperature in the house. The private chambers of Maharao, the Hira Mahal is enriched with needle work, the orchestra of clocks, and the wood and ivory engraving on the doors.

On the 2nd floor, the marriage venue of Maharao Khengarji of 1884 full of gold cot with gold bed, gold utensils, shield and swords bejeweled with diamonds and gems, crystal plates, silver-plated articles will enthrall you in surprise. Except Sunday this is open from 9-00 am 12-00 pm and 3-00 pm to 6-00 pm.

To the east of Hamirasar Lake, amidst beautiful garden is Sarad Bag Palace founded in 1867 now converted to a museum, where the personal collections of Maharao is displayed. The coffin that brought the dead body of Late Maharao Madan Singhji from Europe in 1991 is now on display in the museum. Except Friday this is open from 9-00 am 12-00 noon 3-00 pm to 6-00 pm.

To the south of lake is the Mahadev Gate, to the west of College Road is
Ramkunda Tank, to the east Indian Folk Art and Crafts Museum, near market, are some places worth visiting.

Luxurious Swami-narayan Temple, park in the island of the lake as well as on the west of the lake, close to the island sandstone Chattish i.e. the memorial temple of Jadeja royal family are added attractions. The huge tomb, made of red sandstone in the memory Mirja Maharao was built by Ram Singh Malam in 1770, who also created the Aina Mahal. The statue had been installed on horseback. There are 15 plaques remembering 15 court maestros who on the death of Rana committed self-immolation or Jahar. Based on the well decorated pillars, there is a gallery encircling the central dome.

The new city is gradually expanding across the wall of the fort. Lanes and by-lanes are all around the city, making a veritable labyrinth. Cars and carriages loaded with merchandise are drawn by camel, in the old city. On either sides are walls with apertures. Decorated houses are in plenty. The Bhuj people don colorful and gorgeous dresses. More than 200 villages around are inhabited by tribal like Rabaris, Ahirs, Meghwals, Vankars. They are very hospitable.

In the past, Kutch maintained a close relation with Africans and Portuguese in the trade of spices and slave trafficking as well. While in 1834 the slave export and trade was banned, a small community of Africans permanently settled in the north of Kutch. In course of time, a new culture of Kutch developed on its own.

Bhuj deserves a special mention for gold and silver enameled meshwork and for Azrok print on cottons. You may also buy as mementos on Kutch tour the dazzling glass fitted embroidered needle work articles; stones, wood and leather products from Shroff Bazar of Bhuj.

To the north of bus stand, opposite Mahadev Gate on the South East bank of Haminasar take is the Pink-stone Kutch Museum. This museum is the oldest (1877) in Kutch (Ferguson museum of the past). The collections are multifarious and enthralling. The silver lock in the shape of the Indian map is unique. Except Wednesday, 2nd and 4th Saturday open from 9-00 am 11-30 am and 3-00 pm to 5-30 pm.

Prag Mahal Palace founded in 1865 with the sculptural assemblage of Mughal-British-Kutch-Italian combination is an example of exquisite ivory-jeweled wooden art. This palace founded by Rao Pragmalji, built by British technologist Col Wilkins. Today this houses government offices. However, the 25x12 meter Durbar Hall is open to all. The paintings of Maharao's family members are displayed in succession. There are stuffed trophies in the Hall hunted by the royal members. You can view the city and the desert as well from above the skyscraping Clock Tower close to the palace.

Jinalaya, the temple complex of 72 Jaina tenements is another important tourist attraction. The doors are plated with bronze and silver and the images of Tirthankaras covered with gold.

Hotels and accommodation at Bhuj

Opposite the railway station, Paradise Lodge; on the way to city at station Road Prince Hotel, Hotel Ratrani,

At bus stand Jay Bharat Lodging, Sagar Lodge, Hotel Ambassador.

At vegetable market, City Hotel, good at fair rate.

Sahara Palace, opposite bus stand; VRP Guest House, opposite taxi stand Ph: +91 2832 221388 .

Lake View Hotel, near Rajendra Park, it has swimming pool as well. Outsiders may enjoy and use swimming pool.
Hotel Park View, Hospital Rd, Ph: 223406

Hotel Annapurna, Bhid Gate

At New Station Rd—Janta Ghar, Neelkanth Guest House,

Hotel Anam Ph: 223397

Hotel Abha Ph: 254451

Garden View, Nityatwnda, Anand, hotels are also there.

TCGL's Toran Runn Resort, Mirzapur Road Ph: +91 02832

At a little distance of Museum, Government Guest Houses Umed Bhawan and Circuit House are situated.
Food: Almost all hotels cater food. Neelatm Hotel, opposite Prince Hotel, New Station Road deserves mention. Green Hotel, Shroff Bazar is famous for South Indian and Punjabi dishes; for non-vegetarian dishes there is Noorani at Dadia Bazar.

Conducted tours from Bhuj

Gujarat Paryatan arranges daily tour of Koteshwar-Narayan Sarovar-Mandvi from 8am to 8 pm.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Madhera and Mahesana and surroundings in North Gujarat

Madhera is the main attraction of North Gujarat.

Sun Temple of Madhera

Sun Temple of Madhera built by Solanki king Bhimdev-1 in the 8th century is a masterpiece. However, there is a second school of thought regarding the founders. Going past the wonderfully decorated entrance is the 15 sq meter wide podium for regal Assembly; on the left is the museum. At the end of the Assembly is the original Sun Temple. Between the main temple and kund is Ranga Mandap, with 4 sides 4 gates. At the entrance 50x20 meter rectangular kund, which has now dried up. In 1024, the invasion of Mahmood, the Sultan of Gazni and the 19th century tremor devastated the Sun Temple partly.

The Nagara Style 56x26 ft temple has such a geometric dimension that the rays of the rising sun used to fall straight on the temple deity, the Sun God. The original form of the deity is no more there. But, inside the palace, the alcoves house 12 images of the Sun God which symbolize changes in solar cycle in 12 months. The outer portion of the temple is well ornamented. Profiles of human beings in different poses, god and goddess, brutes and beasts, even erotica are there elaborately sculptured on the walls. On the right entrance, the images of a woman giving birth to her child are unique. The gate has caved in, but the pillars are still there. 15 sq meter Sabhamandap or pavilion is exquisitely sculpted. The pillars, arches, cornices, pyramid-shaped roof, high peak, everything is wrought with carvings. There are resemblances with the temple of Dilwara and Konark Sun Temple.


There are 108 tiny temples encircling the big square Suryakund in front of the temple. They are all the outstanding instances of architectural ornamentation. The gods are many and different. Puspabati river flows silently behind the temple. Enthusiasts may climb the hill and have a glimpse of the old fort nestled atop Madhera.

How to reach Madhera:

By Passenger train at 18-10 in 2 ½ hrs or by bus reach Mahesana (65 km) from Viramgam. Mahesana is situated on the Delhi-Ahmedabad Railway. From Mahesana trains ply towards various destinations. From Mahesana on two routes, buses ply regularly in 45 minutes for 26 km west Madhera. Passenger trains leaves at 6-15,6-50,15-10,20-25,23-15, at 6-05 and on Mondays,Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8-05,10-00,11-00,17-45,21-55,0-55 Express trains also reaching Madhera.

Madhera is 68 Km from Ahmedabad, South East to Mahesana. It is around a 2 hrs journey. Buses ply directly from Ahmedabad to Madhera via Mahesana. After reaching Mahesana you can hire jeep, auto rickshaws to reach Madhera. Buses are available from Mahesana to Abu Road, Ranakpur, Ajmer, Jodhpur, Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat.

Gujarat Tourism arranges package tour for Adalaz, Madhera, Patan, Shanku Water Park from Ahmedabad on a day's tour between 7-00Hrs to 20-15 Hrs.


Where to stay at Madhera

For lodging, PWD Rest house, Panchayat Rest house and Dharamshalas are there. Food is available at TCGL's Toran Restaurant. But you don't need to stay at Madhera, you may view Madhera from 8-00 am to 6-00 pm and come back to Mahesana and can board a train or a bus to reach Abu Road 118 km from here and from Abu Road visit Abu hill. You may chose to go to Delhi or Ahmedabad to take a home-bound train; or may even chose to visit Taranga/Ambaji/Abu Road from Madhera by bus.

Places to see around Madhera

17 km from Madhera by bus is the legendary Becharaji Temple. Seven days are symbolised by seven images of Devi Durga in this temple. A farmer had found an image of Durga, and the deity became popular as Becharaji. Childless women come to the Goddess for a child. Locals believe that, the Goddess herself go out in the night to help her distressed devotees.

29 km from Madhera and 25 km North West of Mahesana is Anhilawada Patan, the ruins of the capital of Hindu kings of Gujarat in the 8th century, devastated in 1024 by the Sultan Mahmood of Gajni. 108 Jain Temples are still remaining there.

Rani Ki Vav founded for Solanki Queen Udaimati in 1050 has been renovated in 1980. You can see thousand Yotirlinga Temple in Patan. Patola silk saree of Sadviwada of Patan is famous. Wood-carving of the residential houses of Patan and their ornamentation is praise-worthy.

Places to stay in Mahesana and Patan

At Patan Bus Stand: Hotel Neeauv, Hotel Ashis, Hotel Sarvodaya, Hotel Navjiban
At Mahesana there is Water World Resort, Amipura Ph: (+912762) 245504, and TCGL's Toran Tourist Centre Ph (+912766) 221515.
For lodging there are other hotels in Mahesana

Hotel Apsara at Janata Super Market,
AVON GUEST HOUSE, Gujarat Lodging and Boarding House, Nataraj and Satya Vijay, and Govt accommodation facility Bishranti Griha, Mahesana and Railway Retiring Room.

Dharamshalas are also available in Mahesana.


Places you can visit by bus or car from Mahesana:

From Mahesana by bus you may go to 57 km east to Taranga and from Taranga by another bus on the hill track to 3 km ahead of Taranga hill, the hill hosts the 2nd Jain Tirthankar Ajitnath's Jain Temple built during the rule of the Solanki Dynasty. You can plan to visit the temple next day. The name Taranga Hill derives its name from Buddhist Goddess Tara Devi. Amidst the natural beauty, even more beautiful is the sculptured temple of white marble with the image of Ajitnath. Mithun image are also there. After visiting the temple you either can come back to Mahesana or, you may chose to stay in Taranga Hill at Digainbar Dharmashala.


Amusement Park in Mahesana is also an interesting visiting spot. Government Departments are now housed at the old Rajmahal Palace.

Stationing at Mahesana visit Madhera/Becharajj on the 1 st day, Taranga on the 2nd and from Taranga on 3rd day by bus visit Ambaji 45 km from here.
After visiting Ambaji, travel to Abu Road( 23 km). Direct bus from Ambaji to Abu hill is available.

However, enthusiasts can take the alternative route from Mahesana to Abu to see the ruined Jain Temples at Sidhpur, on the bank of the Saraswati, 43 km to the north. This 10th century this ruined temple was built by king Mulraj at a cost of Rs 14 crore. The Rudramal temple was built in Solanki style and is now site the example of destruction by Alauddin Khilji in 1297. On the premises of temple a masjid had been installed during the Mughal period. However, today both the temple and the masjid are closed. 4 pillars still bear testimony of the glorious past. Sidhpur is situated the bank of Saraswati, is believed to be the birth place of Kapil Muni, one of the seven spiritual sons of Brahma. Parasuram offered Pinda here for the salvation of the soul of his mother. Since then the Ashram of Kapil Muni here became the holiest centre of offering pinda for the salvation of mothers and offering of Tarpana, in the Harshabindu Sarovar.

At the riverside Tapobhuni there is a Ram Mandir.
Opium is grown now in Sidhpur.
That is no hotel here. But there are two dharamshalas— Manika and Panchal.
Ordinary Ambaji Guest House is near Railway station.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Kutch – Where you can see the wild asses

To the North West of Gujarat, Kutch, the largest district in India (45652 Sq km). Bhuj is the district Head Quarter and the main centre of Kutch. The arid Kutch is the exquisite confluence of the desert and the sea coast. It is a part of the Thar desert. The Kutch gulf separates Bhuj from the Kathiawad peninsula. Earlier, the Sindh river used to flow through it. A quake caused the river to change course causing the whole area to be submerged by the salty sea. In time that too dried up leaving the desert behind, arid and ruthless. The bets or islands dot this barren land.

Run is sandy wasteland, a desolate wilderness. To the south is the Little Run of Kutch; and on the north beyond the village Khabra, 70 km from here, over 20700 sq km unfolds the Great Run of Kutch, which is nothing but saline swamps. Beyond Run or the saline sea lies the desert of Thar and further ahead is Pakistan.
Enthusiasts may take a trip to Kala Dungar or the Black Hill, 19 km from Khabra. One can take a bus till halfway and walk the rest or, choose to take a ride all the way, by car. On the hill you will see the Dattatreya Temple and a military camp.

The enchanting limitless expanse of Run is visible from the top of the hill. You should also make a trip to Flemingo Colony at Tengri Bay, 38 km from Khabra. On the same route buses ply to Tuga, 20 km from Bhuj, from Tuga a 2 day’s safari on camel can be arranged.

Climate of Kutch
The climate is harsh, with high temperature, but evenings are soothing and pleasant. When monsoon starts from May, Kutch gets flooded by rain, with the inflow of the sea, it assumes the shape of a turtle. In summer Kutch is usually muddy, without a trace of human habitation. In winter (Dec-Feb) white and pink flamingoes and pelicans flock to lay eggs in the gulf of little Run. In summer temperature goes up to 47° C and winter varies around 4° C. Average rainfall 25 mm.

The air is salty, the soil thick with salt. Kutch is not suited for cultivation. Now Run is the bedrock of incessant activity-chemicals are being extracted from natural salt Agricultural research is going on at the heart of the desert. But scarcity of drinking water is acute.

Wild ass sanctuary:
To the north of Kutch in the desert oasis spread over 4953 sq km from Bet to Bet. More than 2100 endangered Gorkher or wild asses (Scientific name: Equus Hemionus Khur) inhabit the Wild Ass Sanctuary, the only of its kind in the world. By the Act of 1973 they are protected from gaming and hunting. Each ass is 20 cm high, 210 cm long, weighing about 230 kg on an average. The animals are herbivore and almond-white in color.

When is the best time to visit wild ass sanctuary?
The best visiting time is from November to February but you can see them in October to May as well. They run very fast at a speed of km per hour . Besides the asses , there are black buck, nilgai, wild boar, chinkara, leopard, desert cat in the sanctum Pelican, flamingo, cranes and other species of bill. Birds are specially seen in the winter.

The process of Koli tribals of preparing salt from saline water is also interesting to observe.

How to reach the sanctuary and how to visit?

Dhrangadhra Junction is 130 km from Ahmedabad on the Viramgam-Bhuj broadgauge rail. 9601 Bandra-Bhri Sayajinagari Express, 9031 Mumbai-Bhuj Kutch Express 4311 Berili-Delhi-Jaipur-Bhuj Ala Hajral Express, 6506 Bangalore-Gandhidham weekly Express, 6335 Nagercoil-Gandhidham weekly Express, 1902 Pune-Bhuj weekly Express ply to Kutch via Ahmedabad/ Viramgam/ Dhrangadhra. 111 Viramgam-Bhuj Passeger train also plies to Kutch via Dhrangadhra / Gandhidham.

Reach by bus or train to Dharangadhra and from there the Sanctuary's is only 20 km.

From Ahmedabad (100 km) both bus and train are available. You may avail sleeping facility in the night bus services en route Ahmedabad-Bhoj. Buses also come from Dwarka in 9 hrs. The Forest Dept runs short of vehicle. You may privately arrange tour to the sanctuary by taxi or jeep for 5 hrs. Take a guide, you can save lot of your time and see more.

It requires permission to visit the sanctuary. For visiting, viewing and staying, contact: Deputy Conservator of Forest, Wild Ass Sanctuary, Morbi Rd, Dhrangadhra-363310, Gujarat. Ph: (02754) 223016.

Places to stay at sanctuary:
At Dhrangadhra there are 2 Rest Houses. At Dasada there is Camp Haubaro, For Booking contact: Sarfraz Malik, FatimaManzil, Dasada, Dist-Surendranagar, Ph: (02757) 240283. Ahmedabad Ph: (079) 26920105. Delhi Ph: (011) 28525014; Camp Jainabad, Advance booking : Mr Shabbir Malik, Desert Corns, Camp Jainabad, via Dasada, Pin: 382751. They have arrangement for food, lodging-touring and guide.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Dwarka – The Empire of Lord Krishna

Dwar stands for the door or gate and Ka stands for peace eternal—the whole Dwarka means door to transcend the terrestrial being and unity with Bramha or eternal truth. While in Dwarka, you may find the sense of Krishna conciousness at your heart. Dwarka is known more as Doarka to local people today. For better and effective communication with locals at Railway Station or bus stand, call it Doarka.

The ancient story is something like this: Pious Anarta incurred his father Saryati's wrath by protesting against his boasting. Anarta was driven out of the land and took refuge under the protective wing of Baikunthanath on the sea shore. In Satyayuga Brahma desired to measure his creation, the whole universe; but he was confused - where to start? In order to determine the starting point of measurement, he threw a kush towards the earth that dropped on the country ruled by Yadu, son of Yajati. Thus, the land became known as Kushasthali or Dwarabati. In Dwapara yuga, Sree Krishna,' being invited by Raibataka, the son of Anarta, founded the capital of Yadu Dynasty—Dwarkanagari here in Kushasthali.



Dwarka is the famous holy place of Hindus, one Puri of the famous Saptapuri (other six are: Baranasi, Hardwar, Ujjain, Mathura, Oudh and Kanchipuram). According to Mahabharata, killing Kangsa, Sree Krishna became the target of Jarasandha the dare devil King of Magadh. He was the father-in-law of Kangsa. However, suffering defeat successively for 18 times to Krishna, Jarasandha prepared to attack Krishna with help of Kalyabana. Despite being confident of his victory, Sree Krishna wanted to avoid unnecessary bloodshed, founded the city called Ananta city near Girnar. In course of time, he made friendship with the king of Kathiawad peninsula, Kushaditya and established the port city Kushasthali.


In 1960, an anchor of a ship weighing 250 kg from 1400 BC was found. Archaeologists found evidences of 120 ton ship's free movement to and from the port at that time. Archaeologists have even come to the conclusion that the porcelain pots found underground in 1979 to the north of Dwarka Temple belong to 1300 BC, i.e., Mahabharata era.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Sree Krishna renovated the old fort of 12 yojan area at the confluence of Gomoti and founded the new capital of Yadu dynasty. Sree Krishna also built up a huge dam and embankments around the fort to save it from the sea waves and created protection against flood. After Indraprastha, it flourished as the 2nd populated city in India during 36 years of reign of Sree Krishna. Being the 8th incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Sree Krishna left many memories and signs of his superhuman power at Dwarka. However, after the death of Sree Krishna, Arjuna left Dwarka for Indraprastha with his courtiers and friends and the sea swallowed the legendary Yadav capital. The lost world of Sree Krishna's era is still believed to be under the fathomless water.

A project has been undertaken to arrest the sea by erecting dam and retrieve the Golden Dwarkapuri. But there was a difference of opinion regarding the exact location of original Dwarkapuri. Experts and popular belief marked 11 locations out of which 4 locations deserve attention.

These 4 are: (1) Present Dwarka, 2) Bishwara, 40 km away from present Dwarka, (3) Madhabpur-Ged region, 56 km to the South East of Porbandar and (4) Kodinar.

The present Dwarka city had been founded by the King Gaikwad in the 19th century. Religion is the root of Karmayoga in Dwarka. However, Dwarka has developed into an industrial city today. The ashes of Gandhiji were also immersed at Dwarka. In memorium to that event, Gandhighat at the coastal beach had been founded.

What to see in Dwarka:

2 km from Railway Station on the bank of Gomoti stands the main attraction of Dwarka - Dwarkadhish or Ranachhodji's Temple. A war weary Sree Krishna left the theatre of bloody clashes and came to Dwarka. Hence the presiding deity is named after him to mark the occasion. The costly touch stone, bejewelled image is seated on silver throne—with the Panchajanya Sankha (counch), Sudarshan wheel, Kaunmdaki club, and budding lotus in the 4-arms of the Lord Krishna, depicting the protector of mortals. The original image is now in Dakore, the 2nd image was stolen and is now in Vet Dwarka. This image is the third image of Dwarkadhish.

170 ft high with monolithic pillars, on 72 columns the 7-storeyed chariot-like Temple was built with granite and sand-stone. The temple consists of the following segments: Garbhamandir, Bimanmandap and Natyamandap. On the peak there is a golden pitcher. The founder of this temple was King Jagat Singh Rathore in the 11th century and since then it had been more known as Jagat Mandir.

Some the stories about the temple:

Bajranava, the great grandson of Sree Krishna and son of Aniruddha founded Harigriha Temple in 600 BC. Of late the Harigriha has been converted to Sree Krishna temple.

In the 16th century the whole temple had been completed from start to finish in a night.

Krishna's great devotee Meerabai left Chittor (1546) and came to Dwarka and merged in Sree Krishna.

The gods and goddesses of Hindu Purana are all present in the assembly of Gods in the temple. Enter the temple by Swargadwar (gate of heaven) and exit by Mokshadwar (gate of liberty of soul).

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Mother Debaki's idol is being worshipped in front of the original temple. At the outset of entrance above resides Siddhidata Ganesh. further on the right is Kushewar Shiva. On the left Pradyumna made of black stone, Satyanarayan, Ambaji, Purushottomji, Aniruddhaji, Sage Durbasha, Jambobati, Sree Radhika, Lakshmi-Narayan, Gopal, Snake Incarnation, Baladevji, Satyavama, Lakshmi or Rukmini are in their own respective temples. Centering the temple complex developed the market and establishments and the city. The temple is open only to Hindus.
Temple remain open from 6-00 to 12-30 & 17-00 to 21-30. At 7-00 in the morning the rituals of the temple starts with Mangalarati. The costume of the deity undergoes changes at regular interval. Janmasthami, Basanta Panchomi, Dol Purnima (full moon) festival are held in grandeur and with great fanfare. At noon and in the evening you will get blessed food offered to God (Annaprasad) at the temple. Receive your coupon for the purpose from Dwarkadhish food store.

There is one Krishna Temple in the island of encircled Gomoti river flowing down the Dwarkadhish Temple. Going out of the south gate down below 56 flights of steps you have to reach Gomoti Devi's Temple, Below this temple flows the Gomoti river. The Ganga came flowing down from the Heaven on the invitation of the great sages in the name of Gomoti. From here Gomoti meets Arabian Sea, the name of the holy confluence is Gomoti-Narayan Sangam.

On the right side of the confluence in the temple, made of wood is 4-armed wooden deity of Sangam Narayan. From Sangam 32 miles area along banks of the Gomoti on either sides are called Chakratirtha. The wheel marked white Porus-type stone, called Dwarabati Shila, is still available at Chakratirtha.

On 7 Jan, 1963, a 156 ft high light house was built there. Every afternoon the door of the light house remains open for visitors for one hour. Going past the light house to north is Sunset Point. On the other side is Panchanad Tirtha - 5 wells of drinking water in the name of five Pandavas. Every well differs in taste of its water from the others. A little towards the south yhere is Lakshmi-Narayan Temple

On way to Okha 2 km from Dwarkadhish is 12th century Rukmini Temple. Devi Rukmini, the darling of Krishna in white marble is worshipped in the temple. The pictures and paintings from the episodes of Puranas are beautiful. The sunset view from the decorated temple on Arabian Sea is a life time experience. From Rukmini Devi Temple, on your way back to city yon will see Bhadrakali Temple.

Dwarka is called as Vishnu Tirtha or, the holy pilgrim but Yadavs also worship the 4-armed Goddess Mahakali till date. It is one major Pith among the 51 holy Piths. Durga Puja is also held at the temple with great fanfare. The Temple of Siddheswar Mahadeva is also there.

As per legend, the Rishitirtha of Siddheswar or Gnankunda and the Shiva Linga had been founded by Brahma himself. There is Brahmakumari Iswariya Vishavidyalaya here; beside there is Kabir Ashrama.

One more attraction in Dwarka is its Ved Bhawan—with 1250 priceless ancient manuscripts; 9 of which said to be the Lord Vishwakarma's creation!

Bharakeswar is on the coast. The coastal shore is beautifully visible from here. Chandra-Mouliswar Shiva is the presiding deity at the core of the temple. The deity form was found at the confluence of Gomati, Ganga and Arabian Sea by the Acharya Jagatguru Sankaracharya himself. Later the deities of Sarada Saraswati and Sree Krishna's eight wives were installed by the Acharya. In addition, there are 1200 Salgramshilas, 1300 Shiva Lingas, metal forms of 75 Sankaracharyas. The stone image of Adi Sankaracharya is also there. Sarada Math in Dwarka is one of the four Maths founded by Jagatguru Sankaracharya (788-820 AD).

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

On the way to Okha from Dwarka ar a distance of 17 km, Nageswar Mahadev Tirtha (some says in Maharashtra), one of the 12 Jotirlingas is situated. A little ahead, a new temple has been founded by Gulshankumar Charitable Trust.

Further towards Okha is Gopi Talao. Gopinees from Vrindavan first reached here on their mission to visit Sree Krishna. Devotees collect holy soil of Talao, known as Gopi Chandan. The Temple of Meerabai is also worth visiting there. Mithapur, another worth seeing site, is also on this route. Mithapur is much known for its Tata Salt Factory. Tata has built a model township for their employees. Drinking water is supplied from Mithapur to Okha.

How to reach Dwarka:

Daily 9005 Saurashtra Mail leaves Mumbai Central at 20-25 to reach Ahmedabad at 5-20, Viramgam at 6-58, Rajkot at 10-40, Hapa at 12-55, Jamnagar at 13-05, Dwarka at 16-25, Okha at 17-15.

Every Sunday 9266 Uttaranchal Express leaves Dehradun at 6-00 reaches Okha on Monday at 18-00 via New Delhi-Jaipur-Ajmer-Ahmedabad-Dwarka;

Sunday 8401 Puri-Okha Express leaves Puri at 8-45 runs via Vishakhapatnam/ Jalgaon/ Ahmedabad/ Dwarka;

On Wednesdays and Fridays, 6338 Ernakulam-Okha Express leaves Ernakulam at 18-20 reaches Okha on Fridays and Sundays at 18-00 via Margaon-Ahmedabad-Dwarka.

5636 Guwahati-Okha Express leaves Guwahati at 9-30 on Monday, reaches Okha at 6-35 on Thursday via NJP/ Katihar/Patna/Agra Fort/Godhra/Vadodara/Rajkot

5046 Express leaves Gorakhpur on Thursday at 4-00 reaches Okha at 6-35 on Saturday via FaijabauV Lucknow/Agra/Gwalior/Ahmedabad
Viramgam-Okha Fast Pass at 10-40, 14-25 from Viramgam reaches Dwarka at 23-45/4-05 and Okha at 0-45/5-05.

Dwarka is 2455 km from Kolkata, 1007 km from Mumbai. Nearest Airport is at Jamnagar.

From Somnath or Porbandar by bus go to Lord Krishna's kingdom Dwarka. The distance from Porbandar is 128 km, Somnath 250, Rajkot 217, Hapa 142, Jamnagar 137, Ahmedabad 365 km.

Buses come to Dwarka from different cities of the state and buses run from Dwarka to Ahmedabad at 7-00, 21-00; Dakore at 7-00; Mahesana (via Nathdwar) at 20-00; Somnath 6-15,7-00,10-15,13-30,15-45,22-00; Junagadh 8-00,11-00, 14-00; Porbandar 9-30, 14-15, 15-30 and hourly services to Okha.


Accommodation at Dwarka:

There is a shortage of drinking water at, Dwarka, rain water helps meet scarcity to some extent. Many hotels still make use of saline water. There are also dearth of western style hotels in Dwarka.


Dwarka Pin code: 361336, STD 02892,

Hotel Meera, Station Rd, Hotel Radhika, R2, Hotel Guru-Prerana, Ph: 234512, . Gokul Guest house, Holiday Managers Ph:22485829; Brishma Guest house, On way to temple around Teenbati there are a few ordinary hotels for lodging , Trimurti Guest house, Sri Vrindaban Guest house, Muralidluir Guest house, Chetna Guest house, Banshidlwr Lodge, Braja Bluiwan, Mahalaxmi Lodge, Janutna Lodge, Uiiam Guest house, Dwarapuri Guest house .

Railway retiring rooms are also good place to stay.
Hotel Gayatri Ph:234228, Hotel Sundar Palace Ph:234372Hotel Debang, Ph: 234071, Hotel Swastik, Hotel Rajdhani, Hotel Arti are other hotels here in Dwarka.

On the beach Panchayat Aram Griha, PWD Rest house-are good for staying. For Aram Griha Booking write to: District Development Officer, Jamnagar; for Rest house write to: Deputy Engineer, PWD, Khambalia, Jamnagar.

TCGL's Toran Ph: 234013

Dharamshalas at Dwarka:

On the beach there are Gayatri, Shaktipith, Atithi Niwas, Birla Dharamshala; near Gomoti—Bhadrakali Gelia, Rameram, Bikener, Vishwakarma, ShriRam, Patel Bhawan; near bus stand - Gokul Bluiwan, Janak Bluiwan, Vishwalia; near temple - Bangur Dharamshala, Rashbehari, Sugar Bhawan, Jairanachodji, Chandak; near Railway Station Toiadri Ashrama. Near Totadri, on the Station Road, Bharat Sevashram Sangha's Guest House Ph: 234157.


For your food at Dwarka:

Atithi Bhawan, Natraj, Tulsi, Guruprerana, Kanta Lodge, Lohana, Aradhana, Jamuna are decent.

Conducted Tour at Dwarka :

Dwarka, Bhet Dwarka, Nageswar and Gopitala are in the package of Nagar Panchayat bus from 8-00 to 13-00 & 14-00 to 19-00. Booking can be done from their office near Bangur Dharamshala on Bhadrakali Road.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Porbandar - The Port town at Western Coast, where Gandhiji was born

Porbandar was a free state of Kathiawad. Not only by name, it's really a port on the coast of Arabian Sea. The wharf of the port has been modernized today. In ancient past, it had trade and commercial transactions with Persian Gulf countries and African states. The sea beach is very charming. Roads and streets of the port city are simply beautiful. The town owes its development to its reputation as the birth place of the Father of the Nation and envoy of peace in the 20th century,Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi. In distant past, it was known as Sudamapuri in the name of Sudama, one of the intimates of Krishna. Cement, chemical and textile industries have flourished today in Porbandar. Dry fish industry has also flourished.

How to reach Porbandar:

Come to Porbandar, 122 km from Somnath by bus. It is just 4 hrs journey.


On Fridays and Saturdays ,2906 Howrah-Porbandar Express leaves Howrah at 23-15 arrives at Porbandar via Ahmedabad/Rajkot/Hapa/Jamnagar broad gauge and reaches on the 3rd day at 20-35; returns from Porbandar on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 6-30.


9215 Sourashtra Express from Mumbai Central at 7-55 reaches Ahmedabad at 19-25, Rajkot at 1-25, Hapa at 3-05, Jamnagar at 3-20 and Parbandar at 6-05.

211 Fast Pass from Hapa at 15-20 arrives at Porbandar via Jamnagar.

On day Mondays and Thursdays 9264 Express leaves at 8-25 from Delhi Sarai Rohila reaches Jaipur at 14-25,17-25 to Ajmer, and reaching Ahmedabad next day at 2-55 and then to Porbandar at 13-20 via Rajkot/Jamnagar.

Other than these trains, several State Transport buses go to Dwarka, Jamnagar, Rajkot, Junagadh, Verabal, Diu and various other cities of the state. Even Private bus services to all over western India are available from Porbandar.

Porbandar is 475 km from Ahmedabad, 107 km from Keshod and 2564 km from Kolkata.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Places of interest in Porbandar:

The building where Gandhiji was born in 1869 is kept intact and a Kirti Mandir has come up around the place. When he was 12 years old, Gandhi (1881) went to Rajkot. The place where Gandhiji was born (marked with the sign of Swastika), reading room, bed room still bear the memory of the great soul. On the 79th birthday of Gandhiji (1950), industrialist Nanji Kalidas founded a temple of 79 ft height that reminds Gandhiji's age at the time of his death. Every evening, 79 lamps are lit in Kirti (age) Temple.

Around the entrance are engraved on the walls, the episodes of his life is depicted. A library for Gandhian studies, a museum based on the collections of his uses, the Charkaghar or room where the spining wheel is kept, children's school, prayer hall, everything is open to visitors.

On the way to Kirti Mandir, you can see the Temple or Palace of Sudama, Sree Krishna's childhood friend. A girls' school, Kanya-Gurukul Girls' School, the school teaches according to Indian tradition which has earned world-wide appreciation. Gandhiji introduced this methodology of teaching.

To the north of the city crossing the Jybeeli (old Jubeeli) bridge is India Temple. In the big orchard, there is a huge relief map of India instead of deity. Gods of Ramayana-Mahabharata-Purana are depicted in Bass relief on the walls and pillars of the temple. The six mirrors in the veranda reflects distorted images of the onlooker.

Opposite to it, is the Nehru Planetarium, where whole day program in Gujarati are conducted. Also there is Hanuman Temple, Gayatri Temple besides others.

Porbardar Sea Beach, which was once pleasant and beautiful, is full of stench today. In the past it was known as Wellingdon Marina Beach. The old palace, more known as Huzur Palace is still there on the coastal beach.

The factory, making cigarette case and vanity bag made of gold & silver is a place of interest as well.


Towards Dwarka go 35 km to visit Koyela hill and view the Temple of Harsad Mata founded by Sree Krishna. The deity there is Devi Jagadamba. According to legend, the scion of the Yadav clan worshipped the Devi to appease the wrath of king Jarasandha.

65 km from Porbadar towards Somnath is the Marriage place of Sree Krishna or Madhabpur Temple, 35 km from here 7th century Bileswar Shiva Temple you may also see. Bileswar Ghumli Garj of Solanki era, 12th century Vikia Vav made in Gujarati style of architectural design are also worth visiting spots.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Attend folk dance at Degam (5 km) and Kuchdi village (9km) by arrangement with BDO, Porbandar. Similarly, you can visit the bird sanctuary spread over 1 sq km at the heart of the city, 5 kms from the Railway Station. There are Flemingo and other species of birds. Barda Lion Sanctuary (14 km) where you can see panther, neelgai, sambar etc. Permission for visiting this place to be taken from : Assistant Conservator of Forest, Porbandar WLS, Porbandar . Ph: (0286) 223368.

Please Note:

All places in the Porbandar can be seen in 3 – 4 hours. Covering Porbandar on the same day you may go to Dwarka. Dwarka and Somnath bound buses allow 1 hr lunch break in Porbandar. Keeping the bus conductor on alert, take auto or tonga and visit Kirti Mandir, Sudama Mandir, Sea beach and enjoy glimpses of the city life before availing the same bus you have come by. 4-hrs is the bus journey from Porbardar to Dwarka. Trains also reach Dwarka through a longer route. Bus is better for tourists.

Accommodation at Porbandar

On the beach a spectacular rest house is there called Villa.

The residence of Pandu Rangaji, the ex-Dewan of the state, is Bhojiwar Rest House Swami Vivekananda lived here as a state guest of Dewanji for nearly a year. To commemorate his stay, a memorial temple has been built on the 1st floor.

Circuit House, Advance booking: Deputy Engineer, PWD, Porbandar.

TCGL's Toran Tourist Bungalow, Chowpatty, Porbandar. Ph:(0286) 2245476, Advance booking : Regional Manager, TCGL, Rang Mahal, Dewan Chowk, Junagadh.

New Oceanic Guest house, Lai Palace Hotel, Neelam Guest house, S T Road, Dharaini Guest house, Moon, S T Road, Rajkatnal Guest house, MG Road, Flamingo Hotel, M G Road, Sheetal Hotel, Roopalee, Ghayal Lodge, Annapurna, Green Lodge, Evergreen, Ashoka, Everest Lodge, Dreamland, Gita Lodge, Himachal Guest house,. Hotel Indraprastha, near Swaminarayan Temple, Ph: 2242681Hotel Kuber, off ST Road Ph: 2241289, Hotel Hoast, Ph: 2241901, New Oasis Hotel Ph:242917 are few of the hotels at Porbandar.

Dharamshalas are there as well. Railway Retiring Room is also there in Porbandar.


Food : There are plenty of hotels for food in Porbandar. At M G Road, Adarsh is famous for vegetarian food, National for non-vegetarian, Swagat for Punjabi & South Indian dishes; at S T Road,Royal for non vegetarian are popular.


This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Somnath - The famous shore temple of Gujarat

Somnath was the most richly as well as revered and remembered holy pilgrimage of India in and around 6th century on the bank of Arabian sea.

History of Somnath:

Marco Polo spoke highly of Somnath in his voyage memoirs & records. Arabian historian Al Beruni expressed his appreciation regarding Somnath Temple. Puranic legend says that in Satyayug, Somnath temple was made of gold, by Somraj; in Treta, the period of Ramayana, the temple was made of silver by the King of Lanka, Ravana; in Dwapar Sree Krishna built the temple with sandal wood in the Mahabharata era and last of all in Kaliyug, Bhimdev built Somnath Temple in marble. Once upon a time, there were 300 maestros, 500 dancing girls in the temple to worship the deity. 2000 priests were to perform daily ritual of the deity and 300 barbers were employed to tonsure the Brahmins. Water from Ganges and flowers from Kashmir used to be brought for use in the prayer and worship.


This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Mahmood, the Sultan of Gazni first invaded Somnath in 1026 AD. The temple was devastated in 2 days of war and Mahmood ransacked the wealth of temple. Legend says that, the golden phallus or the sacred representation of Lord Shiva was split into pieces, one of which was sent to Mecca, one to Madina and the last two pieces were taken by the Sultan to Gazni. He also took the sandalwood doors of the temple away. The temple of Somnath was attacked 17 times by Muslim invaders from outside. The Temple had been devastated repeatedly (in 1026,1297,1394,1469,1530,1706 AD) and the deity was destroyed. Lured by the temple's fabled wealth of gold & precious gems, raiders came in hordes. In 1706, Aurangzeb destroyed the holy shrine for the 5th time. On 12 May, 1947 a proposal was made by Sardar Ballavbhai Patel to remake the temple and on 8 May, 1950, on the coastal belt of Arabian sea at the old original place of the temple, the present temple was built on Adi BrahmahshilaMahameruh. The temple was made of sandstone. The architect of the temple was C C Sompura. The temple is an example of sculptural beauty with silver gates. On 12 May, 1951 Dr Rajendra Prasad installed the deity - at the heart of the temple. With the biggest and one of the most important of the 12 Jyotirlingas (Swayambhu) the deity is of (in silver) Someswar Mahadeva. The king of snakes rears his hood as a canopy over the head of the deity There are many variations in performing prayers to the deity and related practices. The deity is beyond common people's reach as their entry in the sanctum of the temple is prohibited. One has to remain satisfied viewing the deity from a distance. The Arati ritual is held at 7-00 in the morning, 12 at noon and 7-00 in the evening.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

The Somnath Temple:
On the 1st and 2nd floor, the history of Somnath is exihibited in pictures. The temple remains open from 6-00 am to 9 -30 pm. The restless Arabian sea hisses below, the beach and the walls of the temple are awash with relentless waves.

The entrance is through the 51 ft high Digvijay Gate. A10 ton pot or holy kaloa has been installed atop the 155 ft summit. The ruins of old temples are no more there. However, some of the artifices & models of old sculpture & architecture are exhibited at Pravash Patan Museum. Collection of waters of Seven Seas (Danube, Nile, St Lawrence, Tigris, Muray, Hobart, Newzealand) are also kept there. The museum remains open from 9-00 am to 12-00 pm & 3-00 pm to 5-30 pm except Wednesdays and holidays.

The statue of Sardar Ballavbhai Patel (1875-1950) is installed at the side of the gate. Behind there is a comparatively new temple built in the memory of the temple built by Ahalyabai in 1783.

Down 23 flights of steps at the heart of the temple is situated huge Somnath on the seat of God—the jade black God against the backdrop of white cotton Gouripatta. In front of the deity is his carrier Nandi of white color. Above that resides Lord Shiva, the Ahalyeswar. Till today the holy deities are all being worshipped. Besides, there are 12th century Parvati Temple, Debi of Hameerji Lathia, Gajendra Puma Palace or Chandra Prabha Jain Temple and some other temples too around Somnath. Kartick Purnima and Mahashivaratri are the two most auspicious occasions at Somnath.

Mythological story of Somnath:

The whole place is replete with poetic association to Puranic mythology. The Purana says, Som or Moon God was cursed by his father-in-law Prajapati for showing favour to one of his wives, in spite of being married to Daksha's 27 daughters and thereby he lost his radiance. Daksha then advised him to bathe in the water of the confluence and sit in meditation seeking the blessings from Shiva. Thus Som acted accordingly & regained his glory. The Puranic imagery of the lunar cycle gave birth to a celestial myth. The popular belief turned it into a religious ritual and the place became a pilgrim centre and named Som Tirtha or, Pravash Patan. Lord Brahma ordered Som to build the temple of Somnath.

Close to the temple is Pandava Cave. It is told in the Srimad Bhagabat Geeta that Mahatma Vidura of Mahabharata ended his mortal journey in Pravash Tirtha. While in exile, Yudhistir visited Pravash Tirtha and offered his prayer Tarpan and sat in meditation.

At the end of the road there is Gita Bhawan.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Sri Krishna left the world from this place only. While Sree Krishna was at rest on an arm of a tree, Jara, a hunter mistook him for a deer and let loose his arrow which pierced through Sree Krishna's foot and caused his death. But the particular tree, believed to be the last refuge of Sri Krishna stands across the ages. The tree however, is encircled by a dais. The parallel second school of thought says Sree Krishna was pierced with the arrow in Bhaluka and he was brought here by the Gods of Heaven and he heaved his last breath here. At the Triveni ghat, Arjun performed funeral rituals of Sree Krishna and Balaram. A sacrificial dais has been erected commemorating the occasion.

In course of time, Gita Mandir had been built. A cave tunnel reached underneath the Gita Mandir from the seat of meditation of Parasuram. Legend says, by this cave tunnel the wealth of the temple had been taken to keep them safe from the invaders.

How to see around Somnath:

In 3 to 4 hrs, the whole area you can see by walking. Auto and tonga are also available on contract. It does not require one to stay at Somnath for more than a day. It is possible to go and come back the same day from Diu by taxi from Somnath. The distance is only 87 km.

Places to see near Somnath:

Kamyak forest

In between of Somnath and Verabal is situated the Kamyak forest (of the Mahabharata) or Bhaluka or Bhaluka Tirtha Mandir. By Town bus, auto or tonga, you may view this Krishna Temple. While the Jadu Dynasty was ruined, having been cursed by Kaurav-mother Gandhari and other sages, Krishna visited Pravash Tirtha to attain peace. However, he found his nemesis in Jara the hunter. If one takes a dip in the kund adjoining this temple on Sukla Dwadashi Tithi, surely he will find his place in heaven, as believed by the devotees. Sree Krishna had washed his bleeding foot here in this kund. It is thus known as Padam Kund ( padam means foot). The legendary 3 rivers as referred in Purana has become non existent in Bhaluka; but Pravash Tirtha is coherent with the reference to Purana is still there in its full glory.


How to reach Somnath

Verabal is one hour journey from Sasan Gir and the railway link station of Somnath. Direct buses run from Gir to Somnath. Leaving Ahmedabad at 21-45,9946 Girnar Exp, 9924 Somnath Mail at 23-00 reach Verabal next day at 8-20/ 11-05 respectively. Trains coming via Botad, Dhola, Jetalsar, Junagadh, Chorwad Rd. From Verabal Junction. Holy Somnath is only 6 km from the station. Frequent GSRTC buses, auto, tonga, taxi go to Somnath.

Reservation is also available at Somnath Mail. 9838 Rajkot-Verabal Mail at 10-55 coming from Rajkot via Junagadh, reaches Verabal in 5 hours.

Buses ply to different directions of the state via Verabal from Somnath. Buses ply— Ambaji ; Una , Diu, Jamnagar, Rajkot, Porbandar, Ahmedabad, Surat. The distance from Somnath to Diu is 84 km, Gir 46 km, Dwarka 250 km, Porbandar 122 km, Ahmedabad 416 km, Rajkot 200 km.



Accommodation at Somnath:

Adjoining the temple comples with more than 200 rooms Sri Somnath Temple Trust is there at a very cheap rate but comfortable for staying. Dharamshala is also there, run by the Temple Committee. Wide and big rooms, beds are available on hire. Mandir Committee also arranges food for tourists on extra payment.

You can make advance booking with the Temple Committee Rest House by writing to Manager, Somnath Temple Trust, Prabhas Patan-362268.


At District Panchayats Pathikashram, rooms are available.

There are also some private lodges at Somnath. Beside the temple:

Pravas Guest House - opposite the bus stand , Hotel Mayuratn, Triveni Road, are good for staying. There are Bhatia, Singhania, Gobardhan Bhawan, Satkar and many other dharamshalas.

Brahnmahsakti Hotel is very famous for catering sumptuous dishes. Equally good is Ram Bharosa.



Alternatively you can choose to stay at Veraval instead of Somnath

About Veraval:

Veraval is an industry based commercial city. Known as a pott city in the past, of late, it has become fishing city, a centre of sea fishing, fish trading and processing. For Mecca pilgrimage, Veraval was the main port before Surat. Cargo ships from Veraval visit Middle East countries. Dry fish processing has become a cottage industry. Similarly, Veraval has a large number of piggeries.

Accommodation at Veraval:

Circuit House at College Rd,
TCGL's Toran Holiday Home Ph: (02876) 245688, the view of sunset from Toran is beautiful.
Hotel Shivam, Hotel Park, Verabal-Junagadh Road, Ph: 222702, Satkar Hotel, Hotel Minakshi, Chetna, Aram Griha, Hotel Moon, Ajanta Guest House., Hotel Kasturi Ph: 222187.
At railway station, Chandrani Guest House, Sri Niwas Guest House; Hotel Supreme are few more private hotels.
There are also Dharamshalas and Railway Retiring Room at Veraval.

Non-vegetarian dishes are available in Veraval hotels. Satkar at bus stand, Swati and New Apsara near railway station, Ali Baba near Park Hotel is famous for sea fish.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Beaches of Gujarat – Chorwad and Ahmedpur Mandvi Coastal Beach

The sea beach at Chorwad is 5 km long. The blue sky melts into the blue sea making the horizon a dreamland. Foamy waves kiss and caress the rocky shore. The Summer Palace or Chorwad Hawa Mahal founded by Junagadh Nawab in 1928 is in the shade of rows of coconut and palm trees. To the north is the Shiva Temple. On the way there are several graveyards. But above all, the sunset at Chorwad is memorable.

How to reach Chorwad

On Ahmedabad-Junagadh-Verabal Railway, 19 km from Verabal is Chorwad Railway Station. All trains, to and fro from Verabal run via Chorwad. The calm charming coastal belt of Chorwad shaded with tamarisk and coconut trees is 8 km from railway station, 35 km from Keshode Airport and 36 km from Somnath. Direct buses ply from Verabal daily in the morning and evening. Both bus and train come from Junagadh (78 km) to coastal beach. Porbandar is at the distance of 110 km and Gir at 70 km. Buses from Somnath along Somnath-Porbandar-Dwarka national highway go to Verabal/Gunda and from there to Chorwad junction ( Mor). From Chorwad Mor to sea beach is only 5 km by auto rickshaw. Auto on share runs from Verabal Bus Stand to Chorwad seabeach (30 km). One should preferably visit Chorwad sea beach on a day's tour from Somnath.



Where to stay at Chorwad:

One can stay at Junagadh Nawab's summer resort, TCGL's Palace Beach Resort, Chorwad- Ph: (02870) 288567.

Ahmedpur Mandvi Coastal Beach

How to reach Ahmedpur Mandvi Coastal Beach

Enthusiasts may find pleasure to visit, 120 km from Chorwad and 10 km from Diu at Diu & Gujarat border, the romantic Ahmedpur Mandvi Coastal Beach. The border of Gujarat and Diu remain inseparable. People say, the location of Chorwad invites Kenyan-Ethiopian-Somalian air currents from Africa to blow over Mandvi coastal beach. The beach is full of palm shade, the color of sand is pinkish. Various aquatic sports are held from 15 Oct to 15 June on different occasions. Buses are available from 410 km away Ahmedabad to sea beach.

Where to stay at Ahmedpur Mandvi Coastal Beach

For night halt, prefer PWD Guest House , another palace of Junagadh Nawabs, GTDC's Samudra Beach Resort Ph: (02834) 230516

At Ghogla in centrally ruled Diu is Diu Tourism's Tourist Complex, Advance Booking : Diu Tourism, Marine House, Diu-362520.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Gir Forest – The Lion’s den in India

The 1516 sq km wide sanctuary came into being in 1969. Of late, the area has been enlarged and widened to 5000 sq km. However, the core area of the protected forest is 1432 sq km. For visiting core area of 258 sq km requires permission from Sink Sadan Forest Lodge Forest is almost barren, rocky with only 10% green area. Gir is the only forest in Asia that homes lions. The 1913 census said that there were only 18 lions, but 1995 (May 13 to 19) census surveyed lion population to more than 304 living their happy household on 157 meter high Gir forest. There are 268 leopards, 2262 shambars, 137 hyenas, 387 chinkaras, 1856 four-horn antilopes, panthers, wild boars all of them are free and in abundance. Parrots, peacocks, monkeys are also seen in the Gir forest. Hunting is prohibited in the forest. Visitors will come across the wild animals during the Safari.

How to reach Gir forest:

From Junagadh 6-15 in the morning you can board Delwada Passenger, and at 7-52 am reach Visavadhar and reach Sasan Gir at 9-05 am. The distance is 73 km from Junagadh to Gir via Keshode. Sasan Gir is a station on Verabal-Khijdia branch railway. From Verabal trains reach Gir in 11/2 hrs. Buses are also available frequently from Junagadh to Verabal via Sasan Gir. Share taxi is also available en route Gir. Nearest airport to Gir is at Rajkot.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel


Where to stay at Gir:
Near railway station there is Sink Sudan Forest Lodge, Ph:(02877) 285555, A special attraction of this lodge is a wild life film show daily at 7-00 pm in the evening.

On the same compound, Forest Dept's Economic Forest Guest House, Ph: 285540. For any help contact Deputy Conservator of Forest, Wild Life Division, Sasan Gir-362135, Ph: (02879) 285541.

Guest House-Sasan Gir, Gujarat;

Nearby along the river, TCGL's Lion Safari Lodge,

The posh The Taj Gir Lodge, Ph: 285521,

Ordinary hotels are also available on the bus route—H Annapurna, Ph: 285569; Rajashree Guest House, Ph: 285740; Hotel Umang

How to travel inside the Gir forest and surroundings
From March to May early morning or evening are the best times for viewing lions, but Gir forest remains open only from end of Oct to mid-May. It remains open daily from 6-30 am to 11-00 am & 3-00 pm to 5-00 pm. The temperature of Gir varies from 33-43° C in summer to 7-15° C in winter. It may abruptly change due to heavy rain at times. If you are fortunate enough to get booking in advance, the experience of spending the night at Dak bungalow in the forest will be memorable

Booking for forest safari usually starts from 7-00 am to 11-00 am & 3-00 pm to 5-00 pm. Both ticket and permit are issued at the same time. The Forest Department office is situated at Forest Bungalow. Individual journey begins between 7-00 to 10-00 am & 4-00 pm 6-30 pm for 6 heads group. Jeeps go to forest safari in 6 different routes. The longest of the routes is 31 km. A surcharge is levied on camera and car accompanying the tourists. In the morning, there is a scheduled jeep safari for 30 to 50 km round up, try to avail that.

Day's package for Gir starts at 8-30 am and comes to an end at 7-30 pm. Contact Assistant Director of Information, Rang-Mahal, Junagadh for the same.

Try also to visit Forest Lodge Complex Museum near reception centre. You may go through the history of the origin of Gir forest. The daily life of Gir lions, documented on film is a special attraction to tourists at the Orientation Centre. Crocodile Rearing Centre is yet another spot for tourists. The daily life of crocodiles may be seen at the centre as well.

Tourists can reach Delaliya is Interpretation Zone Safari Park 12 km from the forest by jeep or local bus from Gir. The wild members of Gir are visible in the 4 sq km area. Except Wednesday, visit any day you like paying very nominal fee. Ticket available at Debalia reception. You may go from Lion Safari Lodge to visit safari.

The Crocodile Project near Kamaleswar Dam is another tourist spot. Wild animals of Gir visit the crocodile infested reservoir to quench their thirst. On top of trees watch towers are there at Kamaleswar.

96 km from Sasan inside the Gir Forest is Tulsi Shyam Hot Spring. Take a dip and visit the temples of Krishna, Bhim and Kunti near by.

For staying at Tulsi Shyam there are TCGL's Toran Tourist Camp stay in the dormitory system; Private hotels and Dharamshalas are also there.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Visit Girnar Hill from Junagadh

Up to Junagadh see here

Girnar Hill is mentioned as the Raibatak in the Great epic, the Mahabharata. The hill is 1118 m high. It requires to ascend 9999 flights of steps and takes three hours to climb on the top. The whole route was built in 1889—1908 by raising money through lottery to cover the cost of construction. Crossing Damodar Kunda 2 km from here, the road goes up to Girnar hill. 3 or 4 route bus are available hourly from GPO Stand. Auto rickshaw is available as well. Tourists usually climb the hill early in the morning.

The hilly route has arrangements for rest from time to time on the way. Shops are there en route. Snacks with tea are available. By taxi you can reach up to half way. Dandi and chair are available fro those who are unable or unwilling to trek.

In the dharamshala of the temple arrangement of accommodation is available .


On the 5 peaks of the hill, there are 5 Jain temples of 12th century. To Jains, Girnar is one of the highly revered and sacred places. As for its divinity, it comes next to Parshanath.

It is said that Lord Neminath left for heavenly abode while on meditation for 700 years here. Both Hindu and Jain people come here after marriage to ask for blessing at the temple of Hindu Goddess Amba (Parvati). In 1891-92 Swami Vivekananda visited this sacred land. There are foot prints of Guru Gorakhnath on the 4th peak and Guru Dattatreya on the 5th peak.

The largest and the oldest Jain Temple of 1128 AD is the seat of 22nd Tirthankar Neminath whose image is made of black stone at the core of the temple. There are 70 chambers on the temple premises. Close to it, the 19th Tirthankar Mallinath's bejewelled temple, was built in 1231 AD in Solanki style by Bastupal and Tejpal, creators of Dilwara. Founded in 1453 by the king of Samprat, the temple of Abhinandan Prabhu, founded by Raja Kumar Paul the Parshanath Temple of thousand snake-hoods are also there and worth viewing.

During the festival of Kartick Purnima saints and sages pay visit from all places.

There is a Shiva Temple at the top of the hill called the Bhabanath Temple where, on the eve of Maha Shivaratri a festival is held for 5 days. People throng from all over. The grandeur of the processions of Sadhus holding images of Deities are impressive. In the month of Magh of Bengali calendar (December) , Bhavanath Fair is an auspicious occasion that draws tourists. Gujarati folk song with folk dance is an essential part of this festival.


This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Junagadh – Fort town of Gujarat, Gateway to Gir Forest.

The main attraction of Junagadh is Jain pilgrimage at Girnar hill. However, Junagadh is more known to tourists as the link Railway Station to Gir Forest.

History of Junagadh

Juna stands for old and Gadh stands for fort. In 1472-73 the Sultan of Gujarat Mahmmed Begra defeated Rajput king and took possession of Junagadh. In the Mughal era, the Mughal General Sher Khan Bari ousted Mughal ruler of Junagadh and became the Nawab of Junnagadh. The last ruler of free Junagadh, who was the direct descendent of Sher Khan, Nawab Mahbbat Khan Rosul Khanji joined Pakistan during the partition of undivided India. The Pakistani national flag was hoisted In Junagadh. But defying the atrocities of the Nawab, Junagadh joined Indian Union as an integral part of Saurastra. Nawab Mahabbat Khan took political asylum in Pakistan. After the reorganization of states, in 1960 Junagadh became part of Gujarat province. The history of Junagadh is quite. The stone inscriptions of 250 BC have been discovered in Junagadh. From 400 BC to 400 AD Junagadh was the capital of Gujarat in Buddhist-Maurya era.




This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Junagadh Fort – The main attraction of Junagadh

To the North East of the city Junagadh Fort is the prime attraction of Junagadh. It was founded by Rajput kings in the 9th century on Uparkote hill. Historians, however, believe that it was built by Chandragupta Maurya in 319 BC. However, it had undergone repair in 976 AD. Later the fort underwent repeated renovation in 1472, 1683 and 1880. The area of the fort became larger with the renovations.

Crossing past three well built and decorated gates through the 20 meter high enclosing wall, visitors enter the fort. The fort faced siege by raiders at least for 16 times, once for 12 long years. From 7 to 10th century, the fort was left condemned.

There are legends about the Fort:

“Adi Baudi Naogaud Kua Jo Ma dekha Jinda Mua.”

Means - while one is here in Junagadh but did not see Naogaud Kua is living dead!

Adhi Chadhi Bauri or the Vav is yet another attraction of the fort. It is said, there were two maid servants named Adhi and Chadhi. They were slaves who spent their lives in carrying water from the well. 127 steps down were the source of water or, well!

The Buddhist Vikshus (monk) caves inside the fort are most interesting. Possibly, some 1500 years ago, there was a well decorated beautifully carved Buddhist Vihara at Uperkote. However, caves of Ashoka's era were there as well. On the wall, petite images of Buddha are still there. The fort itself is destroyed. However, the Jami Masjid built by Nawabs on the Ranakdevi Mahal (Hindu temple) founded by Rajputs is still intact. The wartime store of the fort has now become the supplier of water in the city.

Another attraction of the fort is 5.2 m long Nilam Cannon with 25 cm diameter of barrel made in Egypt in 1531. A little smaller though, there is another cannon named Kadanal. Both the cannons had been used against Portuguese on 1538 war in Diu in favour of the Nawab by Turkish Admiral Sulaiman Pasha. From above the fort, the temples of Girnar are well visible by telescope. Guide is available to visit the fort and it remain open from 7-00 am to 7-00 pm.

Other places to see at Junagadh:


Solapuri:
The second attraction of Junagadh is, on the way to Girnar, Solapuri. This is a beautifully enclosed huge cremation-ground in a sprawling garden. The environment is so heavenly that even Gods feel attracted to it. There are many beautiful marble statues. A little ahead on the right is the Stone Inscription of Ashoka. 14 commandments by emperor Ashoka to his subjects in Pali are inscribed on the block of stone 20 ft high in 250 BC. The Sanskrit inscription of Rudramma of 150 AD and the last Maurya king Skandagupta of 450 AD are also there. However, they are hardly decipherable. Visiting hrs 9-00 am to 12-00 pm and 3-00 pm to 6-00 pm.

Bajeswari Temple

On the hill the original image of the goddess is there and the Goddess is said to be responsive to devotees. The flights of steps go up to the door of the temple; at the foot, there is similarly another temple, a new one.

Damodar Kunda

Wayside, there is sacred Damodar Kunda—the holy shrine of Lord Vishnu, who is known to be equally responsive to believers. Centering the main temple, there is a cluster of small temples. Some entrances of temples are so low that you have to crawl inside. The springs are there close to the temple. Legend goes that the kund was created by the Lord Brahma himself at the time of Yajna and all the sacred streams of the universe run into this kund so that one will attain salvation by taking a holy dip here. Locals sacrifice the bones of the deads in the kund water after cremation. Beside kunda is Muchkunda Gumfa.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Rang Mahal

At the centre of the city at Dewan Chowk is situated the 19th century Nawab's palace, Rang Mahal. The Nawab was fond of dogs and had a pack of 800 with their separate rooms for living. The museum of the Nawab's Durbar Hall is full of wealth and treasure of antiques like armours and weapons, shields, dresses, ornaments, seats on elephant back (called hawdo), throne, luxury, articles, a store house of war materials and weapons. The Nawab's painting gallery is full of painted images of the members of the family. It was the Nawab who created history by hosting marriage ceremonies of his pet dogs with pomp and grandeur. He is portrayed with his pets and the portraits are all on display.

Visiting hrs 9-00 am to 12-15 pm and 3-00 pm to 06 -00 pm except Wednesdays, 2nd and 4th Saturdays. However, the palace now has been converted to Government offices. Clock Tower of the palace is also worth seeing. To the right of the palace is the Tourist Office.


At a little distance from the Railway Station, opposite High Court at M G Rd, the graveyard of the Junagadh Nawabs the Mahabbat Mokbara built in the 19lh century. The doors are all made of silver and the lattice works are outstanding. Visitors may go up to the top of the minaret by spiral flights of steps. Caretaker will help you with the key of the Mokbara available at the the adjoining mosque.

Sakher Bagh

At Rajkot Rd is situated Sakher Bagh, the charming garden created by the Nawab in 1863. There is a museum with paintings, archaeological collections, natural historical collections. The zoo garden of Junagadh is here in the Sakher Bagh housing the lion from Gir forest, tiger, leopard.

Except Wednesday, 2nd and 4th Saturdays, the garden is open from 9-00 am to 06-00 pm.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Other places worth visiting in Junagadh are 15th century tomb of great scholar Narshi Mehta, 259 meter long Willingdon Dam built in 1936, Vivekananda Udyan or the storehouse of medicinal plants and trees, a national park, the Muslim sacred place on Datar hill or the Darga of Maulavi Jamail Shah, famous for curing leprosy, Museum or Ayurvedic College at the Nawab palace at Sadar Bagh, Rupayatan Handicrafts Institute. There are Ranachhorji Temple, Swaminarayan Temple and Krishna Temple in Junagadh.

Visit Girnar Hill from Junagadh


How to reach Junagadh

From Ahmedabad, avail 9946 Girnar Express or 9924 Somnath Mail to reach Junagadh, Rajkot-Verabal Passenger reaches Verabal or Somnath in 2 hrs from Junagadh; there is also the Jetalsar-Verabal Passenger. Day and night bus service from Ahmedabad Bus Stand for Junagadh is available every hour; Deluxe buses also ply from Ahmedabad to Junagadh. The distance is 337 km.

From Rajkot at 10-55, 9838 Rajkot-Verabal Mail runs via Jetalsar/Junagadh. It's a 3 hrs journey, distance being 131 km from Rajkot to Junagadh. Passenger trains also ply from Rajkot at and reach in 4 hours to Junagadh.

Trains and buses come to Junagadh from Jetalsar, Delwada, Sasan Gir. From Somnath (79 km) buses and trains go to Junagadh via Verabal.

Buses ply towards different directions of the state from Junagadh—in every hour to Rajkot; Somnath-bound via Verabal hourly service; Sasan Gir at 8-45 am, 10-00 am, 12-30 pm, 13-30 pm; taking the tourists and visitors of Diu, Una-bound bus at 5-00 am, 6-00 am, 7-00 am; Palitana at 5-30 am, Bhuj at 5-45 am,7-15 am.

Share taxis are also available from Junagadh to Rajkot. Deluxe minibus of Raviraj Travels from Baibhab Hotel run for Rajkot, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Porbandar, Jamnagar. Besides, there are private buses/mini buses from Central Bus Stand west of Chittakhana Chawk at Junagadh towards all directions.

Route-4 goes Girnar from south of Chittakhana Chowk. Nearest airport is at Rajkot. Tonga, taxi, auto, rickshaw plies in the city. Junagar can be toured by these vehicles.

Where to stay at Junagadh:

Pin Code:362001, STD code: +91 285



Sarada Lodge, Muralidhar Lodge, Muralidhar Guest House, Gila Lodge, Tourist Guest House, Sarkar Rest House, Monoranjan Rest House.

Though not so well linked, there is at Kalwa Chowk—Lake Guest House, Capital Guest House with common bath facilities.

Hotel National, Kalwa Chawk, Hotel Vishala, Ph:2633106, Hotel Vaibhav, 31 State Highway, Junagadh-1, Hotel Anand Ph:2630657, Hotel Relief, Dhal Rd, Ph: 2320280, they have a good reputation for their dishes.

Dilantin Guest House, Panchayat Rest House, Circuit House , Advance Booking: EE, PWD, Junagadh.

TCGL's Hotel Girnar, Majewadi Darwaja-1, Tele Fax 2621201,
Picnic Ph: 2630365
Hotel Raj, Dhal Rd, Chitta Khana Chawk, Majico Do Mar,

But one should first try to get accommodation at the Railway Retiring Room, it is decent.

Food : Near Railway station Geeta and Sharda; close by Relief are the reputed places where you can safely bet.. Don't forget to taste fruit product Keshwar Mango and Cheeku at Milk Shake.