If you\u2019re looking to learn more about Indian culture and heritage, to discover a destination that’s a little lower key than the hottest tourist destinations in India,\u00a0then we \u00a0recommend Gujarat. To help you get around this charismatic state, we have created one of our trusty travel guides.\u00a0We\u2019ll point out the best sights, destinations and food in Gujarat, whilst also giving you tips on how to navigate your way around and some ideas on where to stay.<\/p>\n
Best Time to Visit \/ Weather in Gujarat<\/strong><\/p>\n As with any Indian state, temperatures fluctuate dramatically. We recommend visiting in the winter (Nov-Feb) where average daily temperatures in Gujarat are around 29\u00b0C and the evenings cool down to around 12\u00b0C.<\/p>\n March to May daytime temperatures can average around 41\u00b0C and 29\u00b0C in the evening. Monsoon season sees things cool down a bit to 35\u00b0C during the day and 27\u00b0C at night, but it will be raining quite heavily.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Gujarat\u2019s rich history and copious number of leaders and rulers is reflected in the wondrous architecture of temples and palaces located throughout the state. But the quiet, inconspicuous nature of this state means that travellers have the rare opportunity to experience areas and communities who have resisted the influence of globalisation.<\/p>\n Ahmedabad<\/a> was Gujarat\u2019s capital until 1970, when the title was passed over to the newly built and pre-designed city of Gandhinagar<\/strong>, and its history is literally written on the walls, or rather in them. The buildings in the old quarter form a sort of maze of charm and intrigue; from old wooden colonial structures to looming stone temples, there are sights to see for days. The city is fairly vast and spread to its limits, thus getting around does take a bit of getting used to, but is well worth the extra bit of effort.<\/p>\n One of the most compelling reasons to visit this more peaceful Indian state is that it is the homeland of world-famous, human rights leader Mahatma Gandhi<\/strong>, whose teachings ebb and flow throughout the people and streets of Gujarat. Upon his return from South Africa in 1915, Gandhi set up his first Ashram in Ahmedabad; it served as a central hub of operations for his struggle for Indian Independence.<\/p>\n Luckily for us, the kind trustees of this establishment encourage visitors to come and visit the Ashram and participate in a guided tour, all for free. On top of that, the Ashram is open all year round, including public holidays, from 08.30 to 18.30, but we advise getting there as early as possible to avoid the heat of the afternoon.<\/p>\n In 1423 the Jama Masjid<\/strong> was built by Ahmed Shah I and is now considered to be one of the largest, most peaceful, mosques in India. Remnant of the religious patchwork that makes up Gujarat, this mosque used the parts of demolished Hindu and Jain temples to create its walls, thus is a perfect homage to Gujarat\u2019s multi-faceted history. Its main prayer hall comprises of around 260 columns, but in 1819 it lost two minarets that once accentuated the main entrance to this grand room, visitors can still see the remains of these spindle-like towers.<\/p>\n This huge manmade lake was created in the 15th<\/sup> century, but in 2008 it was completely renovated and turned into an amazing attraction, especially for families looking for something to do. There\u2019s a zoo, toy train, a water park with many rides and activities, food stalls and many more. If you find yourself in the area in the last week of December, then expect to stumble upon the Kankaria Carnival; <\/strong>this event celebrates the exciting renovations made in 2008 with cultural and artistic performances, lightshows and fireworks!<\/p>\n The Great Rann of Kutch<\/strong> is a sprawling, seasonal salt marsh deep within the Thar Desert; this incredible sight is believed to be the largest salt marsh in the world. But what exactly is it you may ask? Well, during monsoon season this vast area is nestled underwater, but for the rest of the year this water dries up leaving only its salty remnants behind.<\/p>\n The sheer wonder of this area is why it attracts so many visitors each year, but we recommend you go between October and March, either early in the morning or in the evening as the salt can be blindingly bright in the desert sun. Also, for the romantics out there, the salt marsh is magical in the moonlight, and will leave you awe-inspired and all warm on the inside.<\/p>\n Visitors should be aware though that owing to its proximity to Pakistan, you will need a permit to visit this sensational salt marsh. These can be obtained from the nearby village of Bhirandiyara<\/strong>, and cost 100 rupees per person and 50 rupees per vehicle.<\/p>\n While you\u2019re in the area, nearby is the Wild Ass Sanctuary<\/strong>, located in the Little Rann of Kutch<\/strong>; this wildlife sanctuary is home to a huge array of species that you can expect to hear galloping, scuttling or flying over the scratchy, sandy desert. It is the only remaining home of the Indian Wild Ass, as well as species of antelopes, jackals, wolves, hyenas and so many more, including birds, underwater creatures and crocodiles that linger around the wetlands.<\/p>\n “Spotting the Great Flamingos at the Great Rann of Kutch, exploring the vast plains of the salt flats, standing in awe of the mighty Jamma Masjid in Ahmedabad and visiting Mahatma Gandhi\u2019s Ashram, where he led the Dandi march, are just some of the incredible experiences Gujarat has to offer.”<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n –\u00a0Brian and Noelle, Founders of www.wanderingon.com<\/a><\/p>\n Delicately situated on the banks of the River Pushpavati <\/strong>in Mehsana<\/strong>, is the Sun Temple of Modhera<\/strong>, a structure dedicated to the Hindu Sun God, Surya. Gujarat\u2019s architecture varies throughout the state owing to its various rulers and religious leaders and this temple was built in 1026AD by King Bhimdev of the Hindu Solanki dynasty.<\/p>\n This astounding sight appears to be constructed so mathematically, but is really made up of intricate carvings of demons and deities of the Hindu religion. In January the temple transforms into a multi-coloured light stadium as it hosts the Modhera Dance Festival<\/strong>, a 3-day celebration of traditional dances.<\/p>\n India is famous for its tiger sanctuaries, but you will find no tigers at the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary<\/strong>. Disappointed? Fear not, what you will see are lions. Wild lions.<\/em><\/p>\n For animal lovers, Gir Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-do on your list of places to visit in Gujarat. This wildlife park located approximately 43km away from the city of Somnath,<\/strong> is final remaining natural home of the Asian Lion, not to mention a range of other animals such as hyenas, foxes, black bucks and many more.<\/p>\n There are a number of different tour options available when visiting the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary<\/strong>, including 3-day holiday packages or taking on an open-roof Jeep safari. We recommend you stay at least two days to make sure you spot every animal possible, and see as many majestic lions as you can muster.<\/p>\n [button style=’https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/Hotel-Search?#&destination=Gir National Park, India&startDate=&endDate=®ionId=602413&adults=2′ icon=’entypo-suitcase’ fullwidth=’true’] Hotels Near Gir National Park\u00a0[\/button]<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Jagat Mandir<\/strong>\u00a0is a\u00a0Dwarkadhish Temple, built to honour the\u00a0Hindu God Krishna. This structure was built\u00a0over 2,500\u00a0<\/em>years ago by the grandson of Lord Krishna himself; it has since been enlarged in the 14th and 15th century and remains one of the most exquisite pieces of architecture in Gujarat (and potentially all of India).<\/p>\n Situated on the banks of the River Gomti, in the region of\u00a0Dwarka<\/strong>, visitors are able to marvel at the intricate carvings that adorn this vast temple, and crane their necks looking up at its 51.8m tower. The temple is open from 7am-12.30pm and 5pm-9.30pm; and make sure you also go inside this sacred building and explore the lashings of colour and\u00a0bask in the sweet smell of incense.<\/p>\n The Marine National Park<\/strong> is located in the Gulf of Kutch<\/strong> if you\u2019re seeking a different sort of wildlife to get up close and familiar with. There\u2019s a range of quirky creatures to be discovered here, including octopuses that change colour! Gujarat is fairly large, so there are plenty of other cities for you to pilot your way through, including: Gandhinagar <\/strong>(the capital), Surat, Vadodara <\/strong>and Rajkot<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Or if you feel like dipping your toes in the water, why not try Mandvi<\/strong> a beachy area in the district of Kutch.<\/strong><\/p>\n We wish we could sit here and describe every wondrous spectacle there is to see or do in Gujarat, but we also appreciate the concept of a good surprise, so we\u2019ll just a list a few more must-sees and wait for your feedback!<\/p>\n “In a country known for its culture and diversity, Gujarat stands apart from the rest of India. From the beaches of Veraval and stunning beauty of Dwarkadhish Temple in the west, to the art and festivals of Vadodara in the east — Gujarat\u2019s cultural capital — one can easily spend a month traveling Gujarat and still remain captivated by new and impressive discoveries on a daily basis.”<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n – \u00a0Derek Freal, Founder of\u00a0www.theholidaze.com<\/a><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Gujarat is known for its famous Thalis<\/strong>, these are sharing platters usually made up of all sorts of goodness, including rotli, daal or kadhi, rice, vegetables and an assortment of spices! Usually, there\u2019s another curry to go with this exquisite dish, whose flavours are more subtle but no less distinct than other regional dishes.<\/p>\n There is\u00a0an insurmountable number of amazing food locations in Gujarat, but being that it is a whole state, we can only offer up our absolute favourites. If you\u2019re a foodie, we know these destinations will definitely mould your choice of locations to visit in Gujarat.<\/p>\n Seek out Manek Chowk<\/strong> in Ahmedabad<\/strong> a vegetable market by morning, a bullion market at midday and a street food market at night. This chameleon-like destination is overlooked by several historical buildings and also intermingled in-between all the tasty food are a number of jewellery and textiles stalls, selling all manner of bangles and vibrant materials.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re not looking to break the bank, Gujarat is a great place to find tantalising dishes at more than reasonable prices, such as Toran<\/strong> in Ahmedabad. <\/strong>This rustic and authentic restaurant, located down an alley off the Ashram Road, <\/strong>serves up one of the most delicious thalis you will ever experience in Gujarat. <\/strong>Well-reviewed and highly rated by pro-travellers, this dinner will only set you back 500 rupees for two people.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re looking to have a more magic in the moonlight<\/em> kind of experience, try Vishalla<\/strong>, where the atmosphere and d\u00e9cor will make you feel as though you\u2019ve been sent back in time to one of the quaint village of yester-years. Also prepare to be wined and dined, as whilst you tuck into your tasty thali under the open night\u2019s sky, you\u2019ll be entertained with folk music, dancing and puppet shows.<\/p>\n But, we\u2019ve saved the best until last. Gujjis are the inventors of some of the most lip-smacking delicious snacks about. Where best to find them? The streets! Head out after dinner and slurp your way through a delicious Malai Kulfi; <\/strong>a sweet, conical shaped ice cream in an array of flavours. Not a big ice cream lover? No sweat, try Baraf Gola<\/strong>: shaved ice layered with all different flavoured syrups and then wrapped round a wooden stick, just like an ice pop.<\/p>\n \u201cGujarat may not be known as the food capital of India, but it’s hard to beat a good Gujarati thali (plate) for exciting and delicious flavours put together in unexpected combinations. A series of small dishes and condiments are served on a large thali in flavours ranging from spicy to sweet.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n By Mariellen Ward, Founder of www.breathedreamgo.com<\/a><\/p>\n Gujarat is one of five dry states in India, so drinking is strictly prohibited. Visitors should bear in mind that the laws surrounding this include consumption and <\/em>possession of alcohol. However, Gujarat is a perfect example of not needing a drink to have a good time; the town is full of dynamic things to do once the sun goes down.<\/p>\n There are countless dining experiences to be had, with restaurants on every corner and sweet scent of street stalls filtering through the roads. Or if you are on the coast, then why not take a stroll along the shores, in the romantic moonlight under the twinkling stars? Look out for the camels! Or if you\u2019re a fan of movies and arts, then why not try a movie theatre or seek out some of the countless performance put on for tourists and the culturally intrigued around the state?<\/p>\n We think there\u2019s so much of Gujarat that falls into the \u2018must-see\u2019 category, that when you visit this beautiful state, you should travel around as much as possible. Hotels are in no short supply, and there\u2019s something to suit everyone\u2019s needs.\u00a0 To give an idea of what you can expect to find, we\u2019ve outlined a few of our favourites, each located in a different budget and some in different areas, you\u2019ll be pleasantly surprised by what is on offer.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re looking to spend your time in the lap of luxury, with massages, swimming pools and delicious cuisine on 24hr call, then the Hyatt Regency<\/strong> in Ahmedabad<\/strong><\/a> will tick all of those boxes. The five star hotel has all you can want and more after a long day of exploring, or even if you want to spend your time relaxing in the resort. Alternatively the Novotel Ahmedabad<\/a><\/strong> offers a sleek and sophisticated experience, without sacrificing any of the comfort; amenities include an outdoor pool, valet parking and a health and wellness spa.<\/p>\n Both of these hotels in Ahmedabad are family friendly, something you can expect across mostly all of the hotels in Gujarat, as they welcome travellers coming to explore their intriguing state. To live it up in this life of luxury, visitors should expect to be spending at least 5,000 rupees per night, dependent on time of year and how many of you there are.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n If you\u2019re looking to tighten the purse strings a little more, there are plenty of mid-range price hotels that offer great amenities and facilities, and will provide more than enough comfort on your excursion. Furthermore, Ahmedabad<\/strong> isn\u2019t the only place to do some exploring in Gujarat; why not try the OYO Premium Limda Chowk <\/strong>hotel in <\/a>Rajkot<\/a>, <\/strong>where you\u2019ll be close by to the tranquil Jubilee Gardens<\/strong> and the Watson Museum. \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n Or if you prefer, why not stay at somewhere like the Four Points by Sheraton hotel\u00a0<\/strong>in Vadodara <\/strong><\/a>where you can try and steal a glimpse of the lavish Laxmi Vilas Palace, <\/strong>where the Vadodara\u2019s<\/strong> Royal Family once resided. <\/strong>These hotels typically vary a lot in price, hugely dependent on time of year, but expect to be spending around 2,000-3,000 rupees for every night you stay.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Sometimes we\u2019re not feeling like a Maharaja, and a budget hotel is a better option, especially if we\u2019re looking to spend as much as we can on great experiences around Gujarat. If you stay at the 3 star OYO Rooms Gandhi Ashram Road<\/a><\/strong>, you\u2019ll not only find yourself only a short distance away from the Hathi Singh Temple <\/strong>and Gandhi Ashram, <\/strong>but you\u2019ll have access to a free continental breakfast and dry cleaning service!<\/p>\n Similarly, staying at the Hotel Ashish<\/a><\/strong> you\u2019ll only be a 15-minute walk away from the Jama Masjid <\/strong>and Manek Chowk<\/strong> and when you get back you\u2019ll be able to access the free Wi-Fi to tell all of your friends and families about your adventures.<\/p>\n [button style=’blue’ url=’https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/Destinations-In-Gujarat.d6049929.Hotel-Destinations’ icon=’entypo-suitcase’ fullwidth=’true’] Hotels in Gujarat\u00a0[\/button]<\/a><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n In order to visit all of the wonderful sights of Gujarat, you\u2019re going to need to know how to get around. There are several ways to navigate this vast city, including trains, buses, taxis and rickshaws! However, Gujarat\u2019s intercity bus service has excelled recently, and is fast becoming very popular as users are able to reserve seats in advance.<\/p>\n You can do this by either reserving seats online before your journey or alternatively, many of bus stands have reservation windows, so if it\u2019s a last minute decision there is no need to worry!<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Click below for a printable version of our Gujarat Tourism Guide.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\nGujarat Tourism Guide
![\"where\"](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/where.png\")
<\/h2>\nPlaces to Visit in Gujarat<\/a><\/h2>\n
Food in Gujarat<\/a><\/h2>\n
Nightlife in Gujarat<\/a><\/h2>\n
Where to stay in Gujarat<\/a><\/h2>\n
Getting Around Gujarat<\/a><\/h2>\n
<\/p>\nPlaces to Visit in\u00a0Gujarat: Tourist Attractions<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"Gujarat-Ahmedabad-India](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Gujarat-Ahmedabad-India-800x450-1.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nAhmedabad<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"Ahmedabad-Gujarat\"](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Ahmedabad-Gujarat-1.jpg\")
<\/p>\nGandhi\u2019s Ashram<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"Gandhi-Ashram-Gujarat](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Gandhi-Ashram-Gujarat-800x450-1.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nJama Masjid<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"Jama-Masjid-Gujarat](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Jama-Masjid-Gujarat-800x450-1.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nKankaria Lake<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"Kankaria-Lake-Gujarat-Ahmedabad](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Kankaria-Lake-Gujarat-Ahmedabad-800x533-1.jpg\")
<\/a>Source: Sagar Joshi<\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p>\nKutch District<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"Great-Rann-of-Kutch-Gujarat-India](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Great-Rann-of-Kutch-Gujarat-India-800x600-1.jpg\")
<\/a>Source: Superfast1111<\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n![\"Little-rann-of-Kutch-Gujarat-India-wild-ass-sanctuary](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Little-rann-of-Kutch-Gujarat-India-wild-ass-sanctuary-800x596-1.jpg\")
<\/a>Source: Sballal<\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p>\nSun Temple, Modhera<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"Sun-temple-Modhera-gujarat](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Sun-temple-Modhera-gujarat-800x449-1.jpg\")
<\/a>Source: Suman Wadhwa<\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p>\nGir Wildlife Sanctuary<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"Gir-national-park-gujarat](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Gir-national-park-gujarat-800x600-1.jpg\")
<\/a>Source: Nikunj Vasoya<\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p>\nDwarka – Jagat Mandir (Dwarkadhish Temple)<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"Dwarka-temple-Gujarat\"](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Dwarka-temple-Gujarat.jpg\")
<\/a>Source:\u00a0Vishnupranay.k<\/em><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n![\"food\"](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/food.png\")
Gujarat Tourism Guide:\u00a0Food\u00a0in Gujarat<\/strong><\/h2>\n![\"Gujarat-Thali-India](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Gujarat-Thali-India-800x450-1.jpg\")
<\/a>Source: GracinhaMarco Abundo<\/a><\/em><\/span><\/p>\nGujarat\u00a0street food market<\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"Manek-Chowk-Gujarat](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Manek-Chowk-Gujarat-800x450-1.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nCheap Eats<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Vishalla<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Gujarat Street Snacks<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n
![\"nightlife2\"](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/nightlife2.png\")
<\/p>\nGujarat Tourism Guide: Nightlife in Gujarat<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"Mandvi-beach-Gujarat](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Mandvi-beach-Gujarat-800x600-1.jpg\")
Source: Meena Kadri<\/a><\/i><\/span><\/p>\n![\"hotels2\"](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/hotels21.png\")
<\/p>\nWhere to Stay in Gujarat: Best Gujarat Hotels<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Luxury Hotels in Gujarat<\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"Ahmedabad-Street-Gujarat](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Ahmedabad-Street-Gujarat-800x566-1.jpg\")
Source: Vrajesh Jani<\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p>\nMid-Range Hotels in Gujarat<\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"Laxmi](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Laxmi-palace-Gujarat-800x532-1.jpg\")
<\/a>Source: Emmanuel DYAN<\/a><\/em><\/span><\/p>\nBudget Hotels in Gujarat<\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"Hathi-Jain-Singh-Temple](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Hathi-Jain-Singh-Temple-800x480-1.jpg\")
<\/a>Source: Sanyam Bahga<\/a><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n![\"auto\"](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/auto.png\")
Getting Around: Transport in Gujarat<\/strong><\/h2>\n![\"Gujarat-travel-rickshaws](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Gujarat-travel-rickshaws-800x450-1.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
![\"gujarat-pdf-guide-button\"](\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.in\/stories\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/gujarat-pdf-guide-button.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"