Bardoli is not just a city, but a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and patriotism. It is the place where Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India, led the Bardoli Satyagraha, a non-violent protest against the British tax hike in 1928, that inspired other movements across India and earned him the title of “Sardar” or “Leader”.
Bardoli is also a place where you can experience the diverse and vibrant culture of Gujarat, with its temples, gardens, monuments, festivals, cuisine, and handicrafts. Whether you are a history buff, a culture lover, or a nature enthusiast, Bardoli has something for everyone.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive and detailed travel guide to Bardoli, covering its history, attractions, best time to visit, tips for visiting, and more.
Bardoli Satyagraha: A Landmark Movement in India’s Independence
The Bardoli Satyagraha was one of the most significant and successful movements in India’s independence struggle. It was a mass civil disobedience campaign against the British government’s decision to increase the land revenue by 30% in Bardoli taluka (subdivision) in 1928.
The movement was led by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who was then a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress. He mobilized thousands of farmers and villagers to boycott the payment of taxes and resist the British authorities. He also formed a parallel government in Bardoli, with committees for education, health, sanitation, security, and arbitration.
The Bardoli Satyagraha lasted for more than six months, during which the British government tried to suppress the movement by arresting and imprisoning the leaders, confiscating the lands and cattle of the protesters, imposing fines and penalties, and using force and violence. However, the people of Bardoli remained united and determined under Sardar Patel’s guidance and leadership.
The movement attracted national and international attention and support. Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Rabindranath Tagore, Sarojini Naidu, and other prominent figures praised and endorsed the Bardoli Satyagraha. The British government finally realized its mistake and agreed to negotiate with Sardar Patel. The revenue hike was withdrawn, the lands and cattle were returned, the fines and penalties were cancelled, and the prisoners were released.
The Bardoli Satyagraha was a historic victory for the Indian people. It boosted their confidence and morale and strengthened their resolve to fight for freedom. It also established Sardar Patel as one of the most influential and respected leaders of India. He was given the honorific title of “Sardar” by a women’s delegation from Bardoli.
Swaraj Ashram: A Memorial and Museum for the Freedom Fighters
The Swaraj Ashram is a must-visit attraction in Bardoli for anyone who wants to learn more about the Bardoli Satyagraha and pay tribute to the freedom fighters. It is located on the banks of the Mindhola river, about 2 km from Bardoli town.
The Swaraj Ashram was built in 1922 by Sardar Patel as his residence and headquarters for planning and executing the Bardoli Satyagraha. It was also used as a guest house for other leaders and activists who participated in the movement. The ashram has witnessed many historic events and meetings that shaped India’s destiny.
Today, the Swaraj Ashram is converted into a memorial and museum that showcases various artifacts, documents, photographs, paintings, sculptures, and audio-visuals related to the Bardoli Satyagraha and Sardar Patel’s life.
You can also visit the library and the auditorium that hosts cultural programs and events on special occasions such as Sardar Patel’s birth anniversary, Republic Day, Independence Day, etc.
The Swaraj Ashram is open from 9 am to 6 pm every day, except on Mondays. The entry fee is Rs. 10 per person. You can also book a guided tour for Rs. 50 per person. The ashram is easily accessible by road from Bardoli town. You can take a bus, an auto-rickshaw, or a taxi to reach the ashram.
Also read: A visit of Statue of Unity
Tourist Spots: Temples, Gardens, and Monuments
Bardoli is not only a place of historical importance, but also a place of cultural and religious significance. It has many tourist spots that reflect the diversity and beauty of Gujarat’s culture and heritage.
Some of the popular tourist spots in Bardoli are:
Kedareshwar Temple:
This is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the outskirts of Bardoli town. It is one of the oldest and most revered temples in the region, dating back to the 12th century. The temple is known for its ancient architecture and sacred pond, where devotees take a dip to wash away their sins. The temple also hosts an annual fair on the occasion of Mahashivaratri, which attracts thousands of pilgrims and visitors.
BAPS Swaminarayan Temple:
This is a modern temple of the Swaminarayan sect, located in the heart of Bardoli town. It is one of the most beautiful and majestic temples in Gujarat, built with white marble and adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. The temple has a spacious hall, a dome, a shrine, and a garden. The temple also conducts various social and spiritual activities for the welfare of the society.
Jain Temple:
This is a temple of the Jain faith, located near the Swaraj Ashram. It is one of the most exquisite and elegant temples in Bardoli, built with red sandstone and decorated with intricate carvings and paintings. The temple has a main idol of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara or enlightened teacher of Jainism, as well as idols of other Tirthankaras and deities. The temple also has a library that has rare manuscripts and books on Jainism.
Sardar Smriti Van:
This is a garden with statues of Sardar Patel and other freedom fighters, located near the Swaraj Ashram. It is one of the most serene and peaceful places in Bardoli, surrounded by greenery and tranquility. The garden has a statue of Sardar Patel in his characteristic pose, holding a walking stick and wearing a cap and coat. The garden also has statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Rabindranath Tagore, Sarojini Naidu, and other leaders who supported the Bardoli Satyagraha.
These tourist spots are open from 6 am to 8 pm every day.
There is no entry fee for any of these places. You can visit these places by taking a bus, an auto-rickshaw, or a taxi from Bardoli town.
Best Time to Visit Bardoli
The best time to visit Bardoli is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and dry. This is also the time when you can enjoy various festivals and events in Bardoli, such as Navratri, Diwali, Makar Sankranti, etc.
Tips for Visiting Bardoli: Transportation & Accommodation
Transportation:
Bardoli is well-connected by road, rail, and air to other parts of India.
By road:
Bardoli is about 35 km from Surat, the nearest major city in Gujarat. You can reach Bardoli by taking a state or private bus, an auto-rickshaw, or a taxi from Surat. The fare ranges from Rs. 50 to Rs. 500 depending on the mode of transport and distance.
By rail:
Bardoli has its own railway station, which is connected to Surat and other cities in Gujarat and India by regular trains. You can book your tickets online or at the station. The fare ranges from Rs. 20 to Rs. 500 depending on the class and distance.
By air:
Bardoli does not have an airport, but you can fly to Surat airport, which is about 45 km from Bardoli. Surat airport has domestic flights to Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and other cities in India. You can also take international flights to Dubai, Muscat, Sharjah, and other destinations from Surat airport. You can take a bus, an auto-rickshaw, or a taxi from Surat airport to Bardoli.
Accommodation:
Bardoli has a variety of accommodation options for different budgets and preferences. Some of the best hotels and resorts in Bardoli are Hotel Sardar Palace, Hotel Swaraj and Bardoli Farm Resort.
Bardoli is a city that offers a unique and memorable travel experience for anyone who wants to explore the history, culture, and heritage of Gujarat. It is a city that has witnessed and shaped the destiny of India. It is a city that has many attractions and highlights that appeal to different tastes and preferences.
Bardoli is a city that you should visit soon and discover its charm and beauty for yourself.