Gujarat is a fascinating state with colorful culture, vibrant festivals and an incredible historical account. Gujarat’s history is extremely rich while its present is thriving. Dotted all over with national parks, wildlife sanctuaries and temples, Gujarat graces the banks of the Grand Arabian sea with long standing Valour. It is one place in India that has been continuously invaded, plundered and looted by various invaders from all over the world and it has always managed to resuscitate itself like a phoenix.
There are many things about Gujarat that continue to fascinate everyone. Here are the Top 10 Interesting facts about Gujarat that will leave you astounded:
Several Airports:
Did you know that Gujarat has 14 airports? This allows tourists and Travellers from all over India to travel to Gujarat without any problem.
Largest Coastline:
Gujarat is located on the western most coast of India. Spanning out to a length of 1215 kilometers, Gujarati coastline is the largest one in India! Imagine the number of beaches you and your family go for a fun filled beachy summer holiday!
Asiatic Lions:
Gujarat is home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. It is also home to the last and final home of the endangered Asiatic Lions. They live in the famous Gir National Park and cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
Cradle for Civilization:
Gujarat is home to the first locations where civilization had developed. These include places like Lothal and Dholavira. These ancient ruins give people an insight into the life and times of an era gone by. A must visit for history buffs and kids.
Home of Amul:
Amul is one of the largest producers of dairy products in India that was started in Gujarat. The company was started in 1946 and it has grown into the largest producer for dairy items in India.
Greenest City:
The capital of Ahmedabad i.e. Gandhinagar is famous for being the greenest city in Asia. Located at a distance of 23 kms from Ahmedabad, this place is covered 50% in greenery and a visit here will definitely rejuvenate your soul.
One of The Safest States in India:
If you are thinking about going on a solo trip or on a trip with your family and friends then know that Gujarat is by far one of the safest states in India.
Home to Char Dham Temple:
Char Dham Yatra is the most sacred pilgrimage for Hindus all over the world. Gujarat is home to the iconic Dwarkadhish Temple which is the westernmost corner or the holy yatra that includes Badrinath in North, Rameshwaram Temple in South and Jagannath temple in East.
Home of Mahatma Gandhi:
Mahatma Gandhi is the father of the nation. It is in Gujarat that he was born and commenced his struggle for freedom. You can visit Gandhi Ashram, Porbandar and other places associated with his greatness that has made him a world-famous icon.
India’s Largest Marshland:
The great Rann of Kutch that spans out to an area of 7,505 sq. km. is the largest marshland or salt desert in India and one of the largest in the world. It spreads out from Kutch district in Gujarat to Sindh province of Punjab.
One of The Richest Cities in India:
Surat is one of the richest cities in India. According to the National Council of Applied Economic Research, Surat is also one of the most prosperous cities in India along with Bangalore and Mumbai.
Biggest Oil Refinery on The Planet:
Owned by reliance industries, Jamnagar oil refinery is the largest on the planet. It gives an output of around 1.2 billion barrels of oil on a daily basis.
India’s First Port City:
As mentioned already, Indus valley civilization is the first one to have developed in Gujarat. There are remains of a port city that gives an insight into the remarkable port city that Gujarat had developed once.
Record Number of Jain Temples:
Gujarat is a hub for religious and spiritual experiences for a variety of followers ranging from Hindus to Jains. Palitana in Gujarat is famous for being home to over 900 Jain temples. This has earned Palitana a spot in the world for being home to a record number of Jain temples.
Tallest Statue in The World:
Gujarat is home to the tallest statue in the world that goes by the name of ‘statue of unity’. This is a statue that is dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel – India’s first home minister. Facing Narmada Dam, it is the tallest statue in the world standing tall at a height of 597 feet.
A Hub for Cotton Production:
1/3rd of the total cotton production in the world is done in Gujarat. Cotton is also an extremely sought-after material for clothing in India as well as abroad.
Diamond Refinement:
Surat is not only one of the wealthiest cities of Gujarat but it is also one of the major centers for diamond refinement in the world. It is a hub for diamond merchants involved in trading diamonds to all over the world.
The Underwater Lost City:
We all know Dwarka is the place that was once ruled by Lord Krishna himself. Currently submerged in water along the coast of Gujarat, divers and underwater expeditions have proven the city’s existence.
Vegan Population:
India is one of the leading countries in terms of vegan diet along with Israel. Gujarat is one of the states in India that has the largest number of vegans along with being a state where alcohol is banned.
Largest District in India:
The district of Kutch in Gujarat spreads up to an area of about 45,674 sq. km. it is the largest district of India.
Frequently Asked Questions for Gujarat
What Is the Best Way of Reaching Gujarat?
The fastest and the most convenient way of reaching Gujarat is via a flight trip. Being one of the most connected states in India, it can be reached through railways and even by road. It is very well connected to various states of India and enables smooth travel for people.
What Is Famous in Gujarat?
Gujarat is famous for several cultural and traditional values. It is famous for the Statue of unity, Narmada Dam, Gandhi Ashram and of course the great Rann Of Kutch. Apart from that you can go check out the wonderful stepwells and local market places here.
Which One Must Try Food in Gujarat?
Gujarati food is lip smacking and famous all over the world for its sweet and savoury taste and a variety of textures. Some of the foods that you must try in Gujarat are Dhokla, Khandvi, Undhiyu, Methi Ka Thepla, Gujarati Samosa, Dal Dhokli and many more. Be sure to go on a food trail of Gujarat to get the real taste of the state.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Gujarat?
Gujarat is one destination that can be visited all year round. Sure, you should be careful during the monsoon season, but the best time would be during the autumn winter months, when the weather is pleasant, Rann Utsav is hosted and you can go on as much sightseeing as possible. The months of September to April.
What Are Some Must Visit Places in Gujarat With Family?
Gujarat is a colorful state with numerous sightseeing destinations. Some of them include places like ‘Statue of Unity’, Gandhi Ashram, Narmada Dam, Daman and Diu island, Dwarkadhish Temple, Beyt Dwarka, Somnath Mahadev Mandir and more! It is the perfect place that represents the combination of spirituality with religion and even adventure. from peace seekers and group travelers to people looking to explore and learn more about the culture, traditions and ethnicity of India, this place will be perfect.
Is Gujarat Safe?
It goes without saying that Gujarat is one of the safest places to explore in India for groups of people and even solo female travelers. the people are humble and down to earth who respect women. It doesn’t matter if you plan to visit some ethnic village or check out the city life, either way you will encounter nice, humble people who deeply respect their culture and tourists alike. It is also very well connected through net and phone connections so you can never be disconnected from your loved ones and let them know about your plans.
What Souvenirs Can I Buy from Gujarat?
Being a culturally and traditionally rich state, there are numerous things you can buy in Gujarat for yourself and your family and friends back home. You can buy snacks, traditional clothing like Chaniya Choli, woodwork, souvenirs related to gods, temples and goddesses. you can even shop for the ethnic and authentically created wall hangings, show pieces, trinkets and jewelry by the locals of Hodka village in the great Rann Of Kutch.
How to Reach the Statue of Unity?
The largest statue in the world – statue of unity – is located at least 100 kms away from Vadodara and around 200 kms from Ahmedabad. driving on the state highway 1 and 63 will make you reach the location in no time. you will also have no problem finding transportation service that will lead you up to the site. Kevadia will be the nearest town located in Narmada district from where the statue is just 3.5 kms away. it is a must visit in Gujarat if you want your trip to be a wholesome well rounded one.
What Are Some Offbeat Places to Visit in Gujarat For Some Quiet Peaceful Time?
There are several places for a peace lover and spiritual seeker at heart. These include places like daman and Diu Islands, Dunny Point, Palitana Group of Jain Temples and more! it would be best if you plan your holiday during the off season for tourism in Gujarat. not only will you get lesser crowd but you will also be able to avail some good deals in hotel, accommodation and transportation options.
