Patan Patola of Weaving
Patan is famous for Patola weaving. Salvi community of people is working with Patola. The queen of textiles is the Patola woven by only few families of Patan. The technique used to weave the patola is the rare double ikat style which involves dyeing both the wrap threads in the pattern of the final fabrics before setting them on the loom. Patan is also one of the centers for Mushroo, fabrics woven as a combination of silk & cotton with the latter forming the backing. While in Preparing Patola colouring and design pattern are evolved on each thread. Different colour and pattern are matched exactly on horizontal and vertical threads in weaving. The patola was traditionally woven in a sari length of 5 to 9 yards by 45" to 54" width. The range now extends to include tablecloth borders scarves, handkerchiefs.
Patan Patola Weaving
Patan
Timings 09:30 AM to 06:00
PM
Closed on special festival

Modhera Sun Temple is finest example of Hindu architecture in Gujarat. The Sun Temple at Modhera dates back to early 11th century CE and was built by King Bhimdev I in 1026 CE. The sanctum was designed to allow the sunlight to illuminate the main statue, no longer in the temple. The quality & quantity of carvings along its walls describing god, other figures & erotic positions are exceptional. In front of the temple is a colossal tank, which was once known as Surya Kund or Rama Kund. The tank has a series of carved steps leading to the bottom. Several miniature shrines adorn the steps of the tank - which is an art gallery in itself.

The Little Rann of Kutch Wildlife sanctuary can be from Dasada, 93 kms from Ahmedabad. This is one of the largest wildlife sanctuaries in India, spanning some 4950 sq ft in area, and comprising a range habitat from saline desert plains, arid grasslands, rocky and thorn scrub to lakes and marshes.

Wild sanctuary

The sanctuary is well known for its group of the stale joke brown Asiatic (Wild ass), which does not live elsewhere in Indian lowlands. We can see with Little Rann of Kutch blackbuck (Indian antelope), nilgai or blue bull (India’s largest antelope) and the graceful chinkara (Indian gazelle) are other mammals. The main carnivores of the Little Rann of Kutch are the endangered Indian wolf, desert fox, Indian fox, jackals, desert and jungle cats, and a few hyenas; also we can see during the visits flamingoes, pelicans, ducks, cranes and storks.

Village safari

We can do excursion safari tours of pastoral settlements and villages along the Rann of Kutch. The tours visit the rural Vadiara and Kharapat Rabaris of Dasada, known for their embroideries, the silk-weavers colony at Dasada, and Ambala village of the Bharward shepherds and goatherds. The weaving cooperative at Bajana and other artisans’ workshops can also be included in the tours. Other societies near Dasada are Padhars (primarily fishing people), the Siddis and the semi-nomadic Mirs, Jaths (Muslim herders), Bajanias.

It was built by the queen Udaymati, the wife of Bhimdev. It is the best example of such architecture for water wells that is peculiar to Gujarat. There are wonderful carved images in the niches of the walls of this multi storied step well. It was one of the largest and the most sumptuous structures of its type. It became silted up and much of it is not visible now, except for some rows of sculptured panels in the circular part of the well. Among its ruins one pillar still stands which is the proof not only of the elegance of its design, but also excellent example of this period. A part only of the west well is extant from which it appears that the wall had been built of brick and faced with stone.

The Sidi Sayed mosque, built in 1573, is one of the most famous mosques of Ahmedabad. The mosque is entirely arcuated. The mosque has ten screen windows (jalis) on the side and rear arches. The rear wall is filled with square stone pierced panels in geometrical designs. The two bays flanking the central aisle have reticulated stone slabs carved in designs of intertwined trees and foliage and a palm motif. This intricately carved stone window is called the Sidi Saiyyed Jali.

It was built by Seth Hate Singh in 1850. It is easily distinguished by its high carved column, visible from road. Built entirely of white marble embossed with smooth carvings of dancers, musicians, animals & flowers, this serene temple is dedicated to Dharamnath, whose statue stand in the main temple. It has a paved courtyard surrounded by an imposing row of cloisters containing 52 shrines, each with an image of a tirthankara, profusely decorated with rich carvings, one containing the marble image of the 15th tirthankara. The temple is a two-storied structure with elaborate porches on three sides and front porch crowned by a large dome.

The step well was built in 1499 A.D. by Queen Rudabai. The designs on its walls and pillars include leaves, flowers, birds, fish and other breathtaking ornamental designs. In the past, these step wells were frequented by travellers and caravans as stopovers along trade routes. The five-storied, step-well located in the sleepy village of Adlaj is a marvel of architecture. This unique water work is an excellent blend of Hindu and Islamic styles. The intricately carved monument served religious and utilitarian purposes of the people around though its origin is marred by tragedy. The Indo-Islamic style of architecture, which developed in India in the early centuries of the medieval period, is neither a local variant of Islamic art, nor a modification of Hindu art, but it is an assimilation of both the styles, though not always to an equal degree. The architecture of this well also shows the influence of the earlier Solanki rulers of Gujarat. Built entirely of sandstone, one can enter into this step-well from three sides, which consist of octagonal landings with huge carved colonnades and intricately carved niches. The step-well served both ritualistic as well as utilitarian needs.

It's located on the western bank of the Sabarmati River. Ashram was the residence of Mahatma Gandhi. From this Ashram Gandhi started the Dandi March in 1930. The ashram now has a museum, Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalay. The museum building was erected (designed by architect Charles Correa), and memorial activities were then started here. One of the important activities undertaken is the establishment of a Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya. Initially started in 'Hriday Kunj,' Gandhi's own cottage in the Ashram, the Sangrahalaya has now shifted to its own well-designed and well-furnished building. Exhibits at the museum includes: Gandhi quotations, letters, and life size oil painting gallery.

Garacia tribes are mainly found in Sasabkantha district of Gujarat that is located around the hills bordering of Gujarat and Rajasthan. These tribes are primarily farm labour or sheepherders, known for their unique culture & traditions. They have whitish faces, sharp nose and glittering eyes. The Gowala and Garacia tribes are second cousins to each other, differing only in the manner of living. Communities such as Garasia, Bhils and the pastoral Rabaris have settled in Poshina. The Garasia are known for their colorful clothes, the Rabaris for their silver ornaments. Pastoral people like the Rabaris who keep camels, sheep and goat. Poshina is home to a tribal shrine where you find the staggering scene of thousands of terracotta horses standing in rows as offerings to the local goddess. A visit to the homes of the potters who make these striking horses is an excellent glimpse into tribal culture. There are some other villages where we found these communities like Iqbalgadh, Balundra etc.

Aina Mahal means a mirror palace. It was built by the artists Ramsinh & Gaidhar Devshi during the rule of Rao Lakhpat Ji. The heritage of Kutch art and culture is displayed in the Aina Mahal. The great master piece of Ramsingh is the hall of Mirrors in the Aina Mahal. The walls are white marble covered with mirrors which are separated by gilded ornaments. The hall is lit by elaborate pendant candelabra with shades of Venetian glass. The hall of mirrors is on the second floor of the Aina Mahal.

Kutch Museum

The kutch museum at Bhuj initially formed part of the school of art established by Khengarji on 1st JULY 1877. At the time of Khengarji’s marriage in FEB – 1884, an exhibition of Kutch Arts & Crafts was exhibited. Exhibits worth Rs. 3300 were given to the Museum at the termination of exhibition. These exhibits necessitated the construction of a new building. The foundation stone for the present museum building was laid by the governor of Bombay, Sir James Fergusson. After independence the museum came to be known as the Kutch Museum. It also has a fine collection of Kutch silver, golden and enameling work, textiles wood work, Coins, cold utensils, arms & other archeological objects and a section on the communications of the district.

Bhujodi village is famous in traditional bandhani (tie-dying), block printing and weaving.  Here we can view live demonstrations from shawls to blankets from the artisans directly. 

PALITANA is one of the India’s most pilgrim centers. The 600-metre climb to Shatrunjaya is usually on foot. Lift chairs (Dolly’s) are also available. Mount Shatrunjaya hardly a kilometer away from the town, which on both sides by minor temples, include museums. The mountain is associated with Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankar, also known as Adinath. Palitana site is scared to Jains who believe to lord Adinath. There are superb views in all directions. The temple was built in different periods but most of them follow a similar architectural style of shikhara or towers on the rooftop and shrines open on four side. Temples are the Adishvara which is said to have been built in the 12th century but renovated twice since with a tall shikhara made up of many small towers. The three storey vimala sah temple built in the 14th century with the statue towering over all three floors and the motisah temple of the 19th century. On Shatrunjaya hill around 3500 steps are there. A photography permit is available in front of the main entrance. The museum located 400 meter before the start of the steps at the bottom of the hill, displays a collection of Jain arte facts.

Dwarka is one of the four dhams of Hinduism; Sri Krishna renounced war in Mathura for the greater good of the people living in the region (and was hence known by the name Ranchodrai') and founded the city of Dwarka. Dwarka was a planned city, on the banks of Gomti River. For the safety of the people, Krishna and the Yadavas decided to move the capital from Mathura to Dvaraka. Sightseeing in Dwarkas are Dwarkadish temple, Rukhmani temple, Gopi Talav (Pond), Nageshwara Jyotirling, Bet Dwarka.

Dwarkadish Temple:

The temple has a five storey tower which was built by Sambha, who is the grandson of Lord Sri Krishna. The temple is made of limestone and sand. There is a flag hoisted in the temple tower four times each day, which waves in the air beautifully welcoming the pilgrims. The structure of the temple is quite complicated. There are two gateways: Swarga Dwar, where pilgrims enter, and Moksha Dwar, where pilgrims exit.

Rukhmani Temple

Rukhmani Temple is located 2 KMS away from Dwarka There is a myth associated with it once Krishna and Rukhmani went to 'Durvasha rushi' to invite him at Dwarka. He was agreed on the condition that they (Krishna & Rukhmani) have to carry the cart instead of any animal. Krishna & Rukhmani happily agreed to do so. While driving the cart, Rukhmani became thirsty. Then Krishna stopped the cart and made water from Holy River Ganga by pressing leg thumb at land. 'Durvasha' upset by the action and nuisance Rukhmani to stay away from Shree Krishna Hence Rukhmani temple is located 2 kms. Away from Dwarka's Jagat Mandir.

This step well brings us to the early sixteenth century. Bai Harir was the supervisor of the royal harem and she had planned the step well along with her tomb and mosque amidst a sprawling garden mix together with fruit bearing trees. Bai Harir, whose tomb is adjacent to the step well, must be turning in her grave at the fate of her grand complex which has run out of water and the trees have disappeared since long. Her only consolation may be the muezzin’s call to prayer echoing from the mosque. The courtyard of the mosque is worth observing for few of the sealed passages that once gave way to the tunnel underneath were possibly connected to the step well as well with some spacious underground alcoves. The pool at the bottom leads to the shaft of the well, which is divided by an arched doorway. Besides, there is a narrow spiral stairway leading to the well. Being a Moslem monument, it is bereft of figurative decorations, which has been replaced with floral motifs. However Hindu hand or influences are evident from few of the animal figures. This well was built at a place where four roads meet, crowded with good men, who come from four quarters. As long as the moon and sun endure, may be sweet water of the well be drunk by all men."

Sasan Gir is well known as the remaining habitat of the Asiatic Lion. The 1412 SQ KM Gir wildlife reserve comprises deciduous forests, evergreen & semi evergreen vegetation, thorn scrub & grasslands. Sasan Gir also has a large leopard population. The sanctuary also has a booming population of Sambar and Spotted Deer, Chinkara gazelle, Nilgai and Chowsingha, the world’s only four-horned antelope. Birds can seen while visit to sanctuary. In Sasan Gir we can see attractive birds like the Asian Paradise Flycatcher, Painted Sand grouse, Tree pie, Hoopoe, etc. Crocodiles are seen at reservoir and at rivers flowing through the sanctuary. Asiatic Lions are less sociable than their African counterparts and differ in appearance by having shorter manes and a prominent fold of skin on the underside. Sasan Gir lions are purely predatory, never feeding off carrion as do African lions. As 350 lions and more than 300 leopards has been counted in Sasan Gir during the last census. The best time to visits the sanctuary is from November to April & it’s closed from mid June to mid October.

Somnath Temple – Lord shiva temple known as Jyotirling built by Moon God. Somnath is one of among 12 jyotirlings. The temple of somnath itself is believed to have appeared first in gold, at the request of the sun god, next in silver, created by the moon god, a third time in wood at the command of lord Krishna & finally in stone built by Bhimdeva. The temple to the tenth century when it become rich from follower donations, such wealth become to the attention of the Mahmud of Ghazni who destroyed the place of pilgrimage & carried its wealth off to Afghanistan. The current temple was built to traditional designs on the original costal site. Walking distance from the temple is the Prabhas Patan museum housing architectural fragments of the original temple of the somnath before they were destroyed by invaders. Photography is prohibited.

It’s a 65 KMS from Ahmedabad. Between October to March, the sanctuary is home of groups of native and migratory birds with as many as 250 species passing through the park. The lake is a paradise for birdwatchers; it’s especially in winter when it attracts more then 100 species of migratory birds. Around the lake are the habitats of the danger Saras crane & globally threatened predator are sometimes seen in the fields. Rafts of mostly ducks can be seen & the numerous islands on the lake are roosting sites for many birds. Flamingos, storks and spoonbills are frequently seen feeding in the swallows. There are chances of seeing raptors too like the Marsh Harrier, Grater Spotted Eagle & the threatened Pallas Fish Eagle. Ducks, geese, Pelicans and flamingos are best seen early in the morning (around 5 AM) & in the evening. Its best to hire a boat for a few hours.

Lothal is an important archaeological site was discovered in 1954. This site is 85 KMS from Ahmedabad towards to Bhavnagar. Lothal is one of the most significant sites of the Harappan or Indus valley Civilization excavated in INDIA. The city that stood here 4500 years ago is clearly related to Indus valley cities of Harappa and Mohenjodaro. The remarkable feature of this ancient city is the dockyard, (Complex lock gate system) which had channels through which ships could wash from the sea and offload their cargo when the gates were locked. The town beside the dockyard includes an upper residential area, probably an acropolis as it had private paved baths, and a lower township which also has remains of factories that produced the famous beads, earthenware and metal ware of the period. The archeological museum can be seen at the site displays further evidence of this well ordered civilization, such as intricate seals, weights and measures, games and jewellery.

Velavadar National Park is a 65 KMS from Bhavnagar. Park is open from mid OCT to mid JUNE. The 34 SQ kilometer Black Buck National Park covers the highest concentration of this Indian antelope anywhere in the country. It’s famous for its blackbucks, which support impressive spiraling horns- as long as 65 cm in mature males. NIlgai, jungle cat, and Indian fox are frequently seen while touring the park. Birdwatchers can spot rare species like the Stoicka’s Bushchat and a large root of harrier-hawks. We can go into park with our own car, as this car we can use it to explore the park. Velavadar is also one of the few national parks in India where the Indian wolf is proliferating successfully. There is a forest department run tourist accommodation complex in the park.

Champaner is 47 KMS northwest of Vadodara. The UNESCO listed world heritage site of Champaner is one of Gujarat’s most remarkable archaeological zones. Champaner is famous for its exquisite mosques, of which the Jama Masjid is the most impressive. The sculptural hill of Pavagadh with its ruined fort rises beside Champaner in three levels. The 16th century with mosques that is considered perfect example of the Gujarat Sultanate’s Indo- Saracenic architecture. The mosque with in the fortified city is called SharKiMasjid. It is noted for its slender minarets with intricately carved basis. The Jami Masjid has intricate latticework screens and a magnificent pavilion at the entrances to the spacious courtyard which is enclosed by domed galleries. The central dome is three storeys with an opening that allows light into the prayer hall. The similar Nagina Masjid has exquisite sculptures on the pillars. Pavagadh temple is the site for Kali temple.

Porbandar Sightseeing:

Porbandar is situated on the western coast of Saurashtra, Gujarat, lays the harbour city of Porbandar, better known as the birth-place of Gandhi - The Father of The Nation. Extremely poor but self-respected Sudama and Krishna’s friendship brings tears of joy, when remembered. The name Porbandar comes from the combination of two words Porai, the name of a local goddess and Bandar meaning port of harbor.

Kirti Mandir (Birth Place of Mahatma Gandhi)

Junagadh

Junagadh is an ancient fortified city at the foothills of Girnar.  Junagadh name it takes its name from old fort. The fourth century BC to the death of Ashoka, Junagadh was the capital of Gujarat under the Buddhist Mauryas then later Kashatrapas and Guptas etc. Junagadh is well known for Girnar as well as According to the architect. Please find the details for sightseeing places as per below.

Ashoka Edicts

Emperor Ashoka inscribed 14 rock edicts. The Buddhist edicts of Ashoka, Junagadh most famous monarch remains where it was placed in the third century BC. The impact of Ashoka edicts somewhat marred by a modern shelter and concrete platform. The inscriptions are in Brahmi script in Pali language & later added Sanskrit. The 14 edicts are moral lectures while the other inscriptions refer mainly to recurring floods destroying the embankment of a near by lake, the Sudershan, which no longer exists. Although its historic credentials are irrefutable, the admission charge seems a bit steep.

Uperkot Fort

This ancient fort is believed to have been built in 319 BC by Chandragupta. It has been rebuilt and extended many times. Uperkot fort is girdled by a wall that is, in some places, over 20m high and an ornate triple gateway forms the entrance. There are two step wells, Jami Masjid (Mosque) and Buddhist caves in the fort premises. The Jami Masjid (Mosque) inside the fort was built from a demolished Hindu temple. Other spot can be visit in side fort that is Tomb is Nuri Shah, Navaghan Kuva. Ancient Buddhist caves can be seen close hillside close to the mosque.

Durbar Hall Museum

Durbar hall museum takes up part of the former place of the nawabs. It has a usual display of weapons, silver chains, chandeliers, palanquins. Also it’s having a huge carpet that was woven in Jail of Junagadh. Surrounding rooms contain silver elephant seats and collections of different textiles. There is a portrait gallery of the nawabs. This is the hall where the nawabs of previous Junagadh used to hold their court. Durbar Hall museum also contain photo of last nawab with his various beloved dogs.

Mahabat Maqbara

Mahabat Maqbara is one of the popular examples of Indo – Islamic architecture of Gujarat. It’s built for Muslim rulers in the nineteenth century. This stunning mausoleum of a nawab of Junagadh seems to fizz up into the sky. The exclusivity of the wealth of silver at the portals teemed with intricate carvings and the winding staircase surrounding the four minarets attract a lot of tourist to its site. The onion fashioned dome also adds to the entire beauty of the sight.

Mount Girnar

Mount Girnar is a major pilgrimage center for both Jains and Hindus. The climb up 10000 stones steps to the peak of Girnar is best start at sunrise. The path of five thousand irregular steps climbs through eucalyptus forests. The steps were built betweens 1889 to 1908. The start of the climb is about 2KM beyond Damodar Kund. The largest & oldest is the 12th century temple of Neminath – go through the first left hand entrance after the first gate. There is a large black image of Neminath, the 22nd tirthankar. Carrying on up the steps you will reach various Hindu temples. First, the temple of Goraknath is perched on the highest peak at 600m. The next peak in pinnacle by the temple of goddess Amba Mata attracts both Hindu & Jain pilgrim. On the final projection is Dattatraya temple. There is a ready supply of tea & biscuits at stalls throughout the way.

Akshardham temple

Akshardham temple is located in the Gandhinagar; its distance from Ahmedabad is 30KMS. Spread over nine hectors it includes a huge temple built in pink stone & white marble. Akshardham complex, a delicate and beautiful architectural masterpiece - the Akshardham Monument - enshrines the golden murti (idol) of Lord Swaminarayan, the founder of the Swaminarayan Faith. There are some exhibitions will be there. From the exhibition ideals of Indian culture are brought to life through the most modern exhibition technology. Shows, walk-through dioramas, audio-visuals, light and sound programs, and surround experiences within the 45,000 sq. ft. of exhibition space, educate and enthrall visitors. The Sahajanand Hall depicts the life of Lord Swaminarayan.

Chhota Udepur

This place is well known for Rathwa tribes. History behind the Rathwa tribes is that they are migrated from Central India. 48 KMS away town called Alirajpur of Rathore Rajput rulers and as of Rathore the region called RATH region and from Rath the tribal are called Rathwa. Chhota Udepur is nearer to different villages of Rathwas, Bhils, Bhilalas & other tribes. A local tribal market known as “HAAT” occur at different villages in and around Chhota Udepur like Kol, Kharakwada, Timla, Devhat etc where we can visits to see traditional architecture, life style and handicraft of each original community. The village of Kavant is located in the heart of the Rathwa homeland near the town of Chhota Udepur. Later visits of Tribal Museum & some more villages to see the Pithora painting - Pithora Paintings are much more than colorful images on walls. They indicate the arrival of a good occasion in the family. A painting shape which is really expresses the joy and celebration of a community.

Ambaji Temple

Ambaji temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths of Hinduism. The shrine built of marble, has no idol but a place with a matrix of geometric shapes called the Vishvo Yantra. Ancient Gabbar temple is very near from this temple where lord Krishna’s had his tonsure ceremony. Lord Vishnu’s severed Sati’s body into 51 pieces to bring Shiva back to good sense. The places where the various part of Sati’s body fell down are known as Shakti Peeths. Her heart has fallen down where the Ambaji temple stands today.  For those interested in architecture, Ambaji’s highlight is the Kumbhariyaji temple complex. The five Jain temples in this complex, built between 1062AD and 1134 AD, have marble interiors with exquisite sculptures. Ambaji temple is flocked by millions of pilgrims every year.

Chitra – Vichitra Fair

One of the most popular rural fairs in Gujarat, this celebration is held a fortnight after Holi. It takes place near the confluence of three rivers situated amid the foothills of Aravalis nearby Gunbhakhari village. The name of fair is associated with two brothers, Chitra and Vichitra from the Mahabharata, whose diseases were cured by the water at this site. The festival begins on the eve of the new moon when the women gather at the river and mourn for their dead through the night. The site for this fair is linked to the Mahabharata as the site where Chitraveer and Vichitraveer repented for sins at the Shiva temple around which the fair is centered. The tribal men’s costume generally consists of a blue shirt, dhoti and a red or saffron fenta or turban. The woman don ghagharas which have a circumference of as much as 20 yards, and are covered from head to feet with ornate and heavy silver jewellery, and sometime also beautifully knitted raffia jewellery made from pale yellow or dyed crimson grass. The fair is one of the most important fairs of the Adivasis in the region, and attracts about 60,000 people, most of them hailing from the Garasia and Bhil communities. People from many far away and distant villages arrive on every imaginable mode of transport, ranging from jeeps to camel carts. The fair is so popular that in 25 to 30 surrounding villages all the houses are deserted for the duration of the fair as every able-bodied person visits it. People come a day or two in advance in large groups and encamp under the banyan trees on the riverside.