Jamnagar
177 Kms from Veraval
Best time to visit - January,February,March,October,November,December
Examples of Rajput architecture and a prominent pearl fishing centre distinguish Gujarat’s lesser known gem, Jamnagar, from other cities. The age-old decaying buildings, narrow lanes and colourful bazaars make up for the lost charm inflicted by tall buildings and the brimming crowd.
The scenic Lakhota Fort stands in the middle of the lake and is a fort like palace that now houses a museum of old collectables. It looks beautiful at sundown when the lake glitters in the yellow light that reflects from the monument. The Darbargadh Fort, constructed with a mix of European and Rajput architectural styles, is mesmerising to explore. Other must visits here are the Pratap Vilas Palace and Bhujio Kotho, a five-floor monument believed to be constructed for protection during invasions. There are also many Jain temples around the Chandi Bazaar that grant the place an old world charm. With a coastline that stretches till Dwarka, Jamnagar also offers some unspoilt beaches with white and golden sand.
Shopping in Jamnagar is a treat and you must not forget to buy the world famous, multi-hued Bandhani fabric, which can be used as a dupatta or dress or even a sari. Taste the Gujarati delicacies of ghughra and dry fruit kachoris and consider the Express Residency or J R Avezika for a comfortable stay in the city.
Surat
278 Kms from Veraval
Best time to visit - January,February,March,October,November,December
An integration of historic monuments and modern skyscrapers, Surat is a quaint town located along the banks of river Tapi. The ISKCON temple here, standing on an area of around 13,000 km, is frequented by devotees from all across the world. The Dutch Cemetery, Shahjahan's Fort, Parsi neighbourhood and colonial building are beautiful symbols of the history of this city. Dandi is a popular destination among tourists visiting Surat and is a place made famous by the Indian independence movement.
When it comes to food, Surat offers lip-smacking Gujarati flavours, albeit only vegetarian. Popular eateries here include the Leonardo Ristorante Italiano, Jalaram Khichadi and Kansar Gujarati Thali. Accommodation here is easily available and sits well within in your budget.
If you want more, travel to the Dumas Beach, which is located about 18km from the city.
Junagadh
69 Kms from Veraval
Best time to visit - January,February,March,October,November,December
The city of Junagadh in Odisha, is a popular religious destination as well as an interesting tourist city. It is situated at the foothills of Mount Girnar with the Arabian Sea on its southwest, and fort walls surrounding the entire city.
It is not a surprise that the city is loaded with architectural remnants and a pleasure for history buffs to explore. The Uparkot Fort, Tomb of Nuri Shah and Junagadh Museum will arouse that historical shiver within you and tell you the story of the past.
Jama Masjid is worth visiting for an arresting panorama of Junagadh. Snippets of the Chudasama Rajputs are evident in the architectural styles of relics like Adi-Kadi Vav and Navghan Kuvo.
If you are an adventure seeker, the Holy Hill of Girnar offers a remarkable trek. The Jain temples, Amba Ji Mandir, and Dattatray Mandir are pit stops that you can use to catch a breath during this 5-6 hour steep trek. Once you are at the top of the hill, you will realise why the exhaustion is totally worth it.
Another wonderful opportunity that Junagadh offers you is close proximity to the stunning Gir National Park. If exploring the world is something you simply can't resist, then Gir definitely has to be on your list. Perhaps the only place where you can see the mighty, shy lions going about their daily business, Gir offers you an experience that is hard to forget.
Leo Resorts is a good choice if you prefer to stay a night, though there are other budget and luxury hotels depending on your preference. For shopaholics, there are gold and silver embroidered items and perfumes available in the local markets. Don’t forget to pick up a tin of Kesar Keri on your way back – the taste of the mango pulp will keep you wanting more.
Rajkot
163 Kms from Veraval
Best time to visit - January,October,November,December
Rajkot today may deceive you with its congested roads and new heights, but the soul of the city still screams Gandhi. The narrow lanes, marketplaces with farmers selling bottled ghee at corners keeps the ethos intact. At Alfred High School you will see the reminiscences of the cultural setting where Gandhi pursued his education and at Gandhi Smriti, the recollections of his childhood.
Founded in the colonial times, traces of the British Raj are still prevalent here. Prominent places to visit include the Watson Museum, Rotary Dolls Museum and Aaji Dam. Situated in the heart of Saurashtra, Rajkot is probably the centre with Gir Forest, Somnath Temple, Mount Girnar and even Diu all within a range of 200kms from it. If you want to spend the night, consider the Seasons Hotel or Marasa Sarovar Portico.
From a cultural point of view, Rajkot is not inadequate either. The Kathiawari is an inherent form of folk music and Dayro too is Rajkot’s very own native genre. And how can one possibly forget the Garba? That is what keeps the city lighted during the festival of Navratri, through the night till dawn. Try the mouth-watering cuisine, which includes dishes such as fafda, poha, jalebi, dabeli, spicy ghughra and chikki before leaving the city.
Bhuj
268 Kms from Veraval
Best time to visit - January,February,March,November,December
One of the most visited cities in Gujarat, Bhuj is home to a number of historical monuments, a lively culture and a historically rich past. Taking you back to a time of simple living, Bhuj is a traveller's delight.
From the enlightening Kutch Museum to the bedazzling Aina Mahal, this small city welcomes travellers with forgotten stories, intriguing escapades and numerous hidden corners. There are a number of popular temples here including the Shree Swaminayan Temple; the Swaminayan temples were actually first built in Bhuj. Enveloped in white, the temple is a must visit even if religious sites are not a part of your itinerary.
You should also visit one of the oldest museums in Gujarat, which is the Kutch museum. Taking you through Gujarat's exciting past, the museum is also home to Kshatrapa inscriptions and the now extinct Kutchi script. The museum is located along the beautiful Hamirsar Lake and is a must-visit.
Do also head to Aina Museum. One of the best examples of Indian architecture under the influence of European architecture, this one is fascinating to visit. True to its name, the best feature of the mahal is the Hall of Mirrors. The palace also houses a number of rare and stunning artefacts and paintings from around the world and is a treat to explore, especially if you are an art enthusiast. This small city packs in a lot for travellers and a couple of days here is enough to take back a beautiful experience unless, of course, you fall in love with the city's magic.
Reaching Bhuj from Ahmedabad is quite easy since it's a major town and buses, taxis ply almost throughout the day.
Diu
74 Kms from Veraval
Best time to visit - January,February,March,April,May,October,November,December
Part of the famous Daman and Diu islands, Diu is a lovely town for those who are looking for a quiet, laidback beach vacation. You will experience traces of Portuguese history and culture and it's quite a delight to discover. Do visit Ghoghla beach for the water sports and also the delicious local cuisine. Nagoa beach is another famous beach close to Diu. It's famous for its water sports and it is also perhaps one of the few beaches where you can enjoy swimming. The best way perhaps to discover Diu is on a scooty. The roads here are very well maintained and there isn't too much traffic so it's a delight to ride here. If you have a little time on your hands, do visit the wonderful Sea Shell Museum. Though you may feel the collection is a little repetitive, it is definitely worth a visit. The hotels and guesthouses here are exceptionally welcoming and warm. Do a thorough research before you decide on a place to stay since it can make all the difference!
Dwarka
215 Kms from Veraval
Best time to visit - January,February,March,October,November,December
The literal meaning of Dwarka is ‘gateway to heaven’ and for some tourists visiting this lovely city, this holds very true. This rocky coast on the western shore of the Okhamandal Peninsula nurtures major Hindu beliefs. More than half of ancient Dwarka is under water today and the remaining part known as Bet Dwarka or Shankhdhar is an island at the mouth of the Gulf of Kutch. Dwarka holds much importance in Hindu culture as it is said to be the place where Lord Krishna grew up.
The ride from Port Okha to Bet Dwarka is exhilarating and a wonderful experience; and the sea gulls make it extremely special. To admire the aerial view of the coast, you can head up to the lighthouse on the peninsula. Another historic site is the the Gopi Talav. It is where all the tales of Krishna’s Raas Leela with Gopikas have originated and a visit here opens up a bundle of such stories. The Hanuman Mandir and Nageshwar Mandir are other prominent temples of Hindu importance and a must-visit. Don't forget to indulge in a full platter at Chappan Bhog for the finest of Gujarati cuisine.
Dwarka comes to life during Janmashtami when people celebrate Lord Krishna with great splendour. Garba and Raas dances are performed and devotees indulge in exuberant merry making. The chants of ‘Jai Kanhaiya Laal Ki’ and plunges in the Gomti river will give you a spiritual high.
Hotel City Palace is possibly the best choice if you're to stay the night.
Palitana
177 Kms from Veraval
Best time to visit - February,October,November,December
Palitana has 900 marble temples sitting on top of a mountain. And the Jain community believes that every member must visit this city at least once in their lifetime to attain nirvana.
Situated in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat, Palitana is associated with the Jain history and legends. The Palitana temples, located on the Shatrunjaya hills, are perhaps the most important religious landmarks of all. A walk up on around 3500 steps will take you to the temples. The Shri Adishwara Temple is a fascinating structure consisting of beautifully complex carvings. The Chaumukha temple of this region, with its imposing gateway and sprawling confines, is a humbling sight indeed. The carvings on the marble within the temples is spellbinding. The Shri Vishal Jain Kala Sansthan Museum here houses an excellent collection of artefacts, excavated idols, ancient manuscripts and an exhibit on the history of Jainism and the life of Lord Mahavira. There are several eating places here, but be warned, all are strictly vegetarian.
Bhavnagar is about 56 km away and Ahmedabad. Private and ST buses travel to Palitana from both of these cities as well as from several others around Gujarat and even from Mumbai. A revered religious spot, visit Palitana and rediscover yourself.
