Gujarat is a state with an extremely rich cultural history. After all, the state has been India's landfall site, from Persians to Britishers. And as trade flourished, so did the rulers of the state and with time, left their mark through some of the most exquisite architecture, which even today leaves the most decorated architects of the world drop their jaws in awe. Here are 7 architectural gems of Gujarat that are just hiding in plain sight.
1. Champaner Archeological Park
Right under the nose of a very popular Hindu Pilgrimage spot of Pavagadh, stands this amazing citadel that dates back to the pre-Mughal era. The park spreads over 12 different areas and houses the remains of fortifications, palaces, religious buildings, and water storage installations.
The Seher ki Masjid & Jami Masjid are two notable structures that are preserved more or less in the same state as they were built in. These colossal mosques built in the early 1500s are classified as the finest mosques of Gujarat, showcasing a perfect blend of Indo-Islamic architecture.
Standing the test of times, these structures speak loads about the finesse and intricacy of the designers and artists who put thought into a reality, all those years back.
How to Reach:
Champaner is 50 km away from Vadodara and Vadodara is extremely well connected to all major cities of India by rail, road, and air.
2. Adalaj Step Well
Step-wells in India are mostly found in the arid regions of Rajasthan and Gujarat. The rulers definitely deserve an accolade for thinking of a way for conservation of water in a water-scarce land. A fine example of architectural finesse, Adalaj Stepwell was built in the memory of Rana Veer Singh of the Vaghela dynasty of Gujarat by his wife Queen Rudabai.
The intrinsic beauty and workmanship totally captivates you, charms you, and teleports you years back in history. Both literally and figuratively, it leaves you spellbound!
How to Reach:
The place is located around 20 km from Ahmedabad on Ahmedabad-Gandhinagar Highway. The best way to reach is through a private vehicle.
3. Vijay Vilas Palace
Nestled in the middle of extensive orchards along a private beach, Vijay Vilas Palace was the Summer Palace of the Maharaja of Bhuj. The palace with its grand darbar halls with jaded wooden furniture and animal taxidermy on the walls is worth taking a peek.
The sandstone structure has extensive jali work, coloured glass, domed bastions and murals, and the influence of the Kutch community of artisans and their unique style is evident. And while you take a stroll on the terrace and the gardens, you might feel as if you have moved straight into the sets of Lagaan or Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, for major parts of these two movies have been filmed at this very monument.
But the best part is the view from the terrace, which has panoramic views of the pristine Arabian sea and Mandavi beach at the horizon.
How to Reach:
Mandvi is 58 km from Bhuj. Bhuj is well connected by air, rail, and road. State and private bus services connect the city from all major parts of Gujarat.
4. Mahabat Maqbara
In the heart of Junagadh city lies one of India’s least-known, yet most jaw-dropping architectural marvel. A smashing blend of Gothic and Islamic ornamentation, the Mahabat Maqbara complex remains one of India’s best-kept secrets.
Taking inspiration from the Taj Mahal, the then Nawab of Junagadh built this mausoleum in memory of Wazir Bahaduddinbhai Hasainbhai, one of the chief nobles in the Court of Nawab Mahabat Khan II of Junagadh.
As you stand there and gaze at the intricacy and depth of the work the artisans have put in, you just say "Wow" and then go again in the trance state admiring the beauty of the monument.
How to Reach:
Junagadh is well connected to Ahmedabad and Rajkot through road. The earest airport is in Ahmedabad.
5. Prag Mahal
The little-known 19th-century Prag Mahal is in a forlorn state but is worth visiting for its grand Durbar Hall, with its glittering chandeliers, the Maharajah’s taxidermied collection, and gold-skirted classical statues.
The entire palace is made from Italian marble and sandstone, this exquisite property has its clock tower, the top of which offers the panoramic view of Bhuj. A portion of the palace is converted into a museum, exhibiting several remnants and a personal collection of the royal family.
6. Sidi Sayed Jali
Every time I see a magnum opus of architecture, I always wonder that all those years ago, without any modern technology at their disposal, with just a hammer and chisel, how did those artisans create such wonderful structures, that are standing firm 100s of years after its construction.
Sidi Sayed Mosque, famed for its exquisite jali windows, spider web fine, depicting the intricate intertwining branches of the ‘tree of life’ that is best seen from the road that runs along the back of the mosque. The central arch of the mosque is also bereft of the intricate latticework, making the eyes go straight to the main stunning work at the back wall. Such is the aura of this structure that the prestigious Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad has designed its logo taking inspiration from the Sidi Sayyed's Jali.
How to Reach:
The mosque is in the heart of the old Ahmedabad city and the best way to visit is either by private vehicle or hiring a cab or auto-rickshaw.
7. Lukshmi Vilas Palace
When you start to dig in the history of our country, you unearth gems so bright that are bound to dazzle you by their beauty! We encountered one such place, that too in the city we call our home, and were spellbound by its beauty! And why wouldn't be dazzled by it, after all the gorgeous palace is just 4 times bigger than Buckingham Palace!
The ruling seat of the Gaikwads of Vadodara, its architecture would simply astound you with its detailing and finesse. An amazing blend of Victorian, Gothic, and Islamic architecture, the palace just oozes elegance from every square inch of its place.
The audio-guided tour takes you back in time and describes each and every place aspect of the palace in great detail. And the panoramic view of the palace from the gardens is just too pretty to take just one picture.
How to Reach:
The Palace is 3 km from Vadodara Railway station and 10 km from the airport. Entry fee is ₹250/- per person, photography is not allowed inside the palace, you can take pictures from outside.
If you love photography, if you love history and if you want to dive deep into the culture of Gujarat, we strongly recommend that you do not miss out on these gems that are often overlooked by travelers. These monuments are elegant, and their walls narrate the tales every travel enthusiast would love to lend an ear.