What is a lighthouse? Wait, there is something called ‘lighthouse tourism’? Well yes, it does exist.
I am sure many of you were not aware of this. So, here is your chance to explore and discover one of these tall and fancy looking monuments. Unknown and unexplored, this historical structures continue to stand strong in the eye of the storm.
Gujarat state has the longest coastline in India. There are many beautiful beaches in Gujarat. This coastline has some popular lighthouses which offers the best possible view of the ocean. Jegri light is one such place. This light house is situated near the Mahuva Beach, popularly known as Bhavani Beach in Bhavnagar district of Gujarat.
Jegri Light House:
Tucked away in a small coastal village in Gujarat, the Bhavani beach is one of the lesser explored beaches of India. Known for the Bhavani Mata Temple, this place is located almost 10 km away from Mahuva, the nearest city. A beautiful vision in white and Black, the lighthouse here is a must visit; if only for the amazing view and the love for some quiet.
The lighthouse was built in the year 1961. It provides signals to ships 24 hours and helps them to sail in the Arabian sea safely.
There is an entry fees which costs around 20/- rs. Camera charges are separate for professional camera.
This tall beauty has a staircase winding to the top from where you get a breath taking view of the Arabian Sea and surrounding vistas. Currently visitors are not allowed to go to the top floor of the lighthouse, but one can get to the other side of the lighthouse premise which leads straight to the ocean. One can sit there and relax. The cold breeze of the waves makes a pleasant atmosphere. This place offers panoramic view of the infinite Arabian sea and has some unique landscapes.
The striking blue waters add to the mesmerizing and mysterious picture that the structure paints. It looks out of the world after the sun goes down! It is a best place to enjoy sunset.
From lighthouse the Bhavani beach is connected through Katpar village. The road is in average condition and one can also walk from Lighthouse on the seashore to reach directly to Bhavani beach.
Bhavani Beach:
This serene beach is situated near the ancient Bhavani Temple which is frequented by Gujarati pilgrims. It is well known for its beautiful sunset and circle shaped seashore. It is a popular picnic spot in Bhavnagar. Many visitors enjoy their weekend with family and kids at this beautiful beach. For locals it's a weekend getaway. From the main city area it is hardly a half an hour drive. One can easily travel just 10 km to reach at this beach away from the city. The road leading to the beach is even more beautiful. You will find farms of coconut trees everywhere on both the side of road. A bridge is built over a large water body in between where many birds can be spotted. The road ends near the Bhavani Mata temple which at a higher location. From there one can get down to the beach.
During the evening time many food stalls and vendors set up their tents and sell delicious snacks to the visitors. Horse riding is also available.
Five reason to visit these places:
1. Climate: Mahuva is known as the 'Kashmir of Saurashtra' because of it' sbeautiful weather throughout the year.
2. Coconut farms: There are many coconut farms in the mahuva city and near the beach. Peacock can be spotted easily there.
3. Peaceful Beach: The beach is less crowded except the sunday evening. A walk on the seashore is refreshing for both mind and body.
4. Sunset: This place offers one of the best sunset views.
5. Landscape: The beach and the lighthouse has different landscapes to offer best opportunity to capture different moods and colors of nature.
How to get there:
By road: State transport buses and private luxury coaches gives an easy connectivity to Bhavnagar. It is situated 791 kms. from Mumbai via Ahmedabad and 200 kms. from Ahmedabad via the State Highway.
By rail: It is on the Western Railway Line. It is 777 kms. from Mumbai via Ahmedabad.
By air: Various domestic airlines connect Bhavnagar with Mumbai and Ahmedabad.