7 Most Beautiful Cities In Gujarat

Gujarat in western India is perhaps best known for the Asiatic lions and massive salt deserts it harbours. However, there is much more to Gujarat than just those. There are many cities and towns dotting the state that are brimming with historical, cultural, and natural attractions waiting to be explored by the intrepid traveller. From Asia's longest ropeway in Junagadh to crocodiles in Vadodara to ancient forts and temples of Bhuj, here are seven places in Gujarat you must visit on your next vacation to this state.

Junagadh

Damodar Kund at the foothills of Girnar hills near Junagadh in Gujarat. Image credit: Snehrashmi via Wikimedia Commons.

Junagadh has borne witness to thousands of years of rich Indian history. It came to prominence during the rule of the Mauryan dynasty, with the great king Chandragupta Maurya building the Uperkot Fort in 319 BC. The city gets its name Junagadh, meaning "old fort" from the ancient Uperkot Fort. Later, the grandson of Chandragupta, King Ashoka, also left his mark by inscribing edicts on a boulder near the fort. During the Muslim rule in the area centuries later, the rulers built many magnificent mosques. Many of these historical and architectural wonders survived the test of time and can be visited today. Another famous attraction in Junagadh is Girnar, a sacred hill that can be reached by the longest ropeway system in Asia. Numerous beautiful Hindu and Jain temples are sprinkled along the slopes of this hill and attract pilgrims from far and wide. Junagadh is well connected by roads to major Gujarat cities. The nearest airports are in Rajkot and Porbandar.

Surat

Tapi River in Surat. Image credit: Pravega, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Did you know that 90% of the world's diamonds are cut and processed in this city? Not only that, Surat is also famous for its thriving textile industry. The city's prosperity is not just a new phenomenon but has been so for centuries. Surat's strategic location on the banks of the Tapi River near its confluence with the Arabian Sea allowed it to develop as a thriving seaport for the export-import industry. No wonder the city was invaded many times by different ruling powers who wanted to control its trade.

Today, Surat is known for its many attractions and, above all, its food. Try out traditional dishes like locho, ponk, kavsa, dhokla, ghari, and more made here. Also, visit the New Textile Market area of the city to witness its textile industry at work. The Surat Castle is a major historical attraction that was built in the 1500s to protect the city from invading Portuguese colonists. The Heritage Square and British and Dutch cemeteries are other attractions that speak volumes about the various colonial powers that once ruled over the city. For those who want to be close to nature, Surat offers beaches like Dumas Beach and the Ukai Dam, where you can enjoy the fresh breeze and soothing sites. Other attractions like the Tapi Riverfront, several temples, libraries, etc., will also keep you busy when visiting Surat, which is also one of the country's cleanest cities.

Ahmedabad

Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad. Image credit: Tarun802 via Wikimedia Commons

Of course, this list is incomplete without the mention of Gujarat's most known city and most populous one, Ahmedabad. It is a bustling industrial and commercial hub of the state, with the world's largest stadium, the Narendra Modi Stadium. While Ahmedabad's present seems to be quite a happening one, its past is no less glorious. The seat of many dynasties, the city has a layered history that is visible in its many historical and cultural attractions. The many gates, poles, mosques, tombs, museums, step-wells, and temples in the city that were built over thousands of years are ready to charm you with their impressive architecture and breathtaking designs. Outdoor lovers will also not be disappointed. There is the Sabarmati River Waterfront and Kankaria Lake, as well as the nearby Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary and Indroda Dinosaur and Fossil Park. 

You must also try out the delectable Gujarati cuisine, including the famous thali of Ahmedabad. Many festivals are celebrated here with great pomp, and if you are visiting during Navratri celebrations, join a Garba performance and dance away to the tune of Gujarati folk songs. 

Vadodara

Laxmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara. Image credit: Mocha drrd via Wikimedia Commons.

Vadodara is not just dotted with numerous banyan trees (from where it gets its name with "Vad" meaning banyan) but also with many historical and cultural attractions. Prominent among them is the gorgeous Laxmi Vilas Palace, which was once the abode of the royals of the Gaekwad Dynasty who ruled over the state of Baroda. The Sayaji Baug is another beautiful historical attraction. It is Western India's largest garden and is great for evening strolls. The city also has many ancient temples and museums, such as the Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery and the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, which tell the story of the Baroda state and its royal history. Then there is the mugger crocodile-loaded Vishwamitri River flowing through the city, which gives the city the nickname of "Crocodile City." During heavy rains, crocodiles can be seen popping up at different locations in the city as the river overflows its banks!

Saputara

Aerial view of Saputara, Gujarat. Image credit: Sumeet photography via Wikimedia Commons.

A gem of a hill station, Saputara is nestled in the Western Ghats ranges as they extend to their northernmost limits in Gujarat. The town is full of natural and cultural sites that will keep you busy during your visit. Boating in the Saputara Lake while enjoying the view of the surrounding mountains is a relaxing activity. The nearby Vansda National Park is a perfect place for those who love wildlife-watching. The park is home to many species like dholes, leopards, pythons, Indian giant squirrels, and more. There are many scenic viewpoints in Saputara, such as Table Point, Echo Point, Sunset and Sunrise Points, and stunning waterfalls like the Gira Falls.

Bhuj

Bhujang Naga Temple in Bhuj, Gujarat. Image credit: Nizil Shah via Wikimedia Commons.

The capital of Kutch District, Bhuj, has a history that dates back to 1510 when a local chieftain, Rao Hamir, founded it at the base of the Bhujia Hills. The city has a tumultuous past of invasions and earthquakes. As a visitor to Bhuj, you must take a tour of the Bhujia Fort on the Bhujia Hills, the walls of which tell the story of British invasions and the capture of the fort. The Prag Mahal and Aina Mahal are two beautiful palaces that can also be visited, although large parts of these places are in ruins today due to the devastating earthquake that rocked the city in 2001. The Kutch Museum is where you can learn about the rich history of Bhuj. Nature lovers can flock to the Hamirsar Lake, especially in winter, to watch the many bird species there. The Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is a popular pilgrimage site in the city. Of course, Bhuj also has the nearest airport to Gujarat's major attraction, the Rann of Kutch.

Dwarka

 The Dwarka lighthouse is a 43 meter tower constructed in 1962. Image credit: Venkygrams via Wikimedia Commons.

If you are a Krishna devotee or one who wants a peek into rich Indian culture and religion associated with Lord Krishna, Dwarka is the place to be. It is one of India's seven ancient religious cities and the Dwarkadhish Temple in the city is considered to be extremely holy and is part of the Chardham yatra, a Hindu pilgrimage journey. The temple itself is extremely beautiful, with intricate designs that inspire awe. Dwarka is also located on the right bank of the Gomti River at the mouth of the Gulf of Kutch. As such, the city comes with coastal attractions like beaches, islands, and even a lighthouse. The Bet Dwarka is an island off the coast of the city, which is believed to have been the abode of Lord Krishna himself. Another great news. The Gujarat government will soon launch submarine tourism in Dwarka, where tourists can go down several metres below the sea to witness the marine environment from within a submarine.

Dholavira

 Circular houses with central support are characteristic of Dholavira. Image credit: Prof Ranga Sai via Wikimedia Commons.

For the last entry on this list, let us travel from the 21st century to around 2650 BC to an Indus Valley Civilisation-era city - Dholavira. Located in the Kutch district, this archaeological site is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Named after the nearest village of Dholavira, this ancient city was discovered in the 1960s by a resident of the village. The journey to Dholavira itself is full of pleasant sites of massive salt plains with wildlife like chinkaras, nilgais, many species of birds, and others roaming about. Flamingo watching is a particularly popular activity here. Once at the site, prepare to be awed by the remarkable city planning of ancient times, with the city divided into layers with reservoirs, good drainage facilities and rain harvesting systems. The plant fossils of the nearby Dholavira Fossil Park are another major tourist attraction in the area.

7 Best Cities To Visit In Uttar Pradesh

Varanasi. Image credit: Narvikk via Wikimedia Commons

The vast north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh covers a large part of the Ganga-Yamuna river basin, making its land highly fertile for agriculture to flourish and human settlements to grow. So, no wonder the region's history goes back 4,000 years to when the earliest Vedic-era settlements grew up here. Today, the state is the most populous one in the country. Scattered throughout Uttar Pradesh are many cities whose historical and cultural attractions draw visitors from far and wide. If you are visiting the state and thinking of which cities to choose from, here is a list of the seven best.

Varanasi

The Holy city of Varanasi. Image credit: Dennis Jarvi via Wikimedia Commons.

Varanasi, of course! India's holiest city on the banks of the Holy Ganges, with its hundreds of temples, ghats, and historical buildings, must be on this coveted list. While Varanasi might not be really neat and tidy, it is the culture and chaos of the city that wins all hearts. There is something in that city that makes every visitor feel attached to it forever. Maybe it is the spirituality that this city evokes that casts such a spell. Here, people can spend hours strolling along the banks of the river, watching life happen all around. It is the place where people come to celebrate both life and death. Here, people from all walks of life, and bearing a range of emotions in their hearts, come to find solace. Watching the ethereal evening rituals along the river's banks in the evening while seated on a boat is a must-do for all visitors. Also, exploring this ancient city's numerous lanes and bylanes has its own charm. Varanasi is a city that surely must not be missed by any avid globetrotter!

Lucknow

A beautiful mosque in Lucknow. Image credit: Tushar Dayal via Flickr.com.

Talk about regal Nawabs and good etiquette, and Lucknow's name comes up first. This city, the capital of the state, is steeped in history. Be prepared to have your jaws drop at the sight of stunning Mughal-era art and architecture here. The gorgeous Imambaras and the Rumi Darwaza are all waiting for you. Then, there is the lip-smacking Mughlai cuisine that is an absolute must-try in the city. What more? Here, you also have the opportunity to book a tour to enjoy a meal with the royals themselves. Once satisfied with the blended dose of history and culture in Lucknow, head off to the next destination on this list, a five-and-a-half hours' drive away - Pilibhit.

Pilibhit

I Love Pilbhit sign with nature pained below in Pilbhit. Image credit: Voiceofpilibhit via Wikimedia Commons.

Nature lovers are welcome to the town of Pilibhit, surrounded by lush forests, quite close to the Himalayan foothills. The Pilibhit Tiger Reserve is only around 40 minutes' drive away from town. The district Pilibhit that shares its name with the town is among the state's most forested regions. The Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, established in 2014, serves as a safe home for many species, including the Indian tiger. Jeep safaris are available for visitors to explore the region's spectacular landscapes, flora, and fauna. The many rivers, sal forests, grasslands, and swamps that characterise the landscape of Pilibhit make the place really worth a visit for wildlife enthusiasts.

Jhansi

The Jhansi Fort in Jhansi. Image credit: WikiAffy via Wikimedia Commons.

The historical city of Jhansi is, of course, synonymous with Jhansi ki Rani Laxmibai, the legendary female warrior queen who bravely fought the British forces to protect her kingdom from being seized by them and lost her life fighting the battle. Today, Jhansi's historical sights related to the queen remind visitors of the valour and might of Rani Laxmibai and other rulers who ruled the region for centuries. Some of the chief attractions in and around this city include the 1613-build Jhansi Fort, the Raja Gangadhar Rao ki Chattri, which is the cenotaph built by Rani Laxmibai in memory of her husband in 1853, other historical buildings and ancient temples, and more. Another major attraction is the nearby historical site of Orchha, which has many gorgeous temples and palaces. The nearby Baru Sagar Dam is a great place to unwind after a day full of activities.

Prayagraj

The Kumbh Mela being held in Prayagraj. Image credit: Ninara via Flickr.com.

Parayagraj, formerly known as Allahabad, is the second most visited city in Uttar Pradesh after Varanasi, primarily because it is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus. Near this city is the holy Triveni Sangam, or confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. Parayagraj, formerly known as Allahabad, has a history stretching thousands of years. It has witnessed the rise and fall of many kingdoms and rulers and served as the capital of many ancient empires. Today, this city is the judicial capital of Uttar Pradesh. Like Varanasi, visitors to this city will get an insight into the Indian culture and religion at the many temples, along the banks of the Ganges, and at the Triveni Sangam. In addition, Prayagraj also offers many historical and architectural attractions like the Allahabad Fort, Khusro Bagh, Anand Bhavan, and more. 

Agra

The Taj Mahal in Agra. Image credit: Joel Godwin via Wikimedia Commons.

Both Agra and Varanasi are the state's most internationally renowned cities. Agra is synonymous with its monument of love, the Taj Mahal. Almost every foreign tourist to India visits this city at least once. Agra is not just about the Taj Mahal, however, as many other historical attractions from the Mughal period that inspire awe with their architectural and artistic beauty also dot the city. Visitors must also walk through the streets of Agra with a reliable guide to taste its local delicacies and shop from the many handicraft stores where ancient art and craft forms come to life. Also, a trip to Agra can be or must be combined with visiting the nearby historical site of Fatehpur Sikri to explore some jaw-dropping architecture and Bharatpur to enjoy the sight of beautiful birds at the Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary.

Ayodhya

Sarayu River in Ayodhya. Image credit: रूही via Wikimedia Commons.

The name of this place must be familiar to all those acquainted with the ancient Indian epic of Ramayana. It is believed that Lord Rama, the ancient Indian hero of Ramayana who is also worshipped as a deity by Hindus, was born here. Ayodhya is also associated with many dynasties that ruled the area and built various palaces, temples, monuments, and mosques over the years to render the city a magnet for history and culture lovers. Besides its beautiful temples, some other attractions in the city include Sita ki Rasoi, an ancient kitchen site believed to be used by Goddess Sita, the wife of Rama; the Tulsi Smarak Bhavan Museum, which is believed to be the place where the ancient Hindu saint and poet Tulsidas composed the Ramcharitmanas; and the ghats along the Sarayu River.

Uttar Pradesh's cities and towns are thus brimming with history and culture and waiting to be explored by all those who take the journey of a lifetime through this state that has borne witness to over 4,000 years of rich Indian history.

7 Best Towns To Visit In Odisha

The eastern Indian state of Odisha is packed with destinations for the avid traveller. From the gorgeous sun, sand, and sea of Puri to the jaw-dropping temple architecture of Konark to the misty mornings of the Daringbadi hill station to the magnificent palaces of Badipada, Odisha has it all. So, come explore these seven amazing towns of Odisha.

Bhubaneshwar

Image credit: Debashis Pradhan via Wikimedia Commons.

Odisha's capital city is a gateway to many destinations. So, if you put up base here with plenty of accommodation options being available, you can explore many places in and around this city. However, if you are an ardent nature lover, you can stay around an hour outside the main city at the Svanir Wilderness Homestay, close to the Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary. Bhubaneshwar is famous for its many temples. The entire city is dotted with ancient temples, but the most famous one is, of course, the 11th-century Lingaraja Temple. There is much to see in this Hindu temple complex, including beautiful ancient architecture, local culture, and elaborate rituals. Just a few kilometres from the city, you will find the ancient cave dwellings of Buddhist monks, the Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, which are great to explore and photograph. After doing all the sightseeing in Bhubaneshwar, you can pack your bags for Puri or Konark or other nearby destinations.

Baripada

The Rath Yatra in Badipada, Odisha. Image credit: Government of Odisha, via Wikimedia Commons

If you want to experience royalty in Odisha, then Baripada is the ideal place to be. The spectacular Belgadia Palace in Baripada awaits you with all its glory. A former palace of the Bhanja dynasty of the former princely state of Mayurbhanj, the Belgadia Palace is now a heritage stay for those wanting to experience the best Odiya hospitality, culture, and history. This stately mansion is itself a place to explore, with historical exhibits throughout the property. With this royal address as your base, you can explore the town and its many attractions, like watching the evening rituals at an ancient temple, exploring the historical ruins of Haripuda Gada, and interacting with the lovely ladies of the Sabai crafts cluster and even do some shopping of exquisite handicrafts made of the sabai grass. Outdoor lovers will enjoy visiting the nearby Simlipal National Park, famous for its ethereal scenery and wildlife.

Chandipur

The Chandipur Beach. Image credit: Nihar.race via Wikimedia Commons.

In Chandipur, be ready to meet the "Hide and Seek" sea. Yes, the sea disappears here during low tide, leaving behind a massive stretch of beach! Here, you must walk on the beach for around 2 km during low tide to meet the sea. However, the beach almost disappears at high tide as the sea rushes in, engulfing it. It is essential to get guidance from the locals regarding the tide timings as water rushes in quite fast during high tide, leaving little time to retreat to safety if caught in the middle of the vast beach. The unique nature of the beach in Chandipur makes it an excellent habitat for intertidal coastal wildlife. So, look for marine life as you walk along the beach, but ensure you do not remove anything, including shells. Everything has its own place in nature, and empty shells contribute to the beach-building process and also serve as shelter for animals like hermit crabs.

Daringbadi

A waterfall near Daringbadi, Odisha. Image credit: MKar via Wikimedia Commons.

Odisha is primarily known for its coastal cities and their gorgeous beaches, but tucked away in the Kandhmal District of the state, you will find a serene hill station where occasional snowfall in the winter is not unheard of. Although only around 915 m in elevation, Daringbadi has all the features to make it a fantastic destination for those who love the hills. There is natural beauty all around, with streams and waterfalls abounding in the misty forests surrounding the tiny town. Here, you can explore the wildlife of the Belghar Sanctuary, meet the Bonda tribe people living in the forest, and learn about their culture. There are also coffee plantations in Daringbadi that you must visit. In addition to nature trails and hikes, you can simply spend some leisure time with loved ones at a quaint homestay in the hill station, away from the noise and chaos of the big cities and towns.

Dhenkanal

A temple in Dhenkanal, Odisha. Image credit: MKar via Wikimedia Commons.

Another great destination to enjoy the rich heritage of Odisha is the town of Dhenkanal. Here, you can stay in the spectacular Dhenkanal Palace in town or the Gajlaxmi Palace, a former hunting lodge of the region's royals in the Dhenkanal Forest. These places are steeped in history and royalty, making for a highly memorable experience. There are plenty of sightseeing options as well. You can visit an ancient Shiva temple on the hills to have a great time in quietitude. Then there is the Mahima Gadi, a place as unique as can be because of the sadhus/monks here who follow a unique form of Hinduism. They believe in a formless God called Alekha and strictly reject the caste system. You must visit the Mahima Gadi in the evening to enjoy the evening worship ritual of these sadhus, which is nothing like you have ever seen before. While in Dhenkanal, you must also visit the dokra village. Here, you can buy beautiful dokra metallic handicrafts from the artisans and watch them being made in the village homes.

Puri

Puri Beach in Puri, Odisha. Image credit: Pinakpani via Wikimedia Commons

Of course, this list will never be complete without mentioning the seaside town of Puri, which is a magnet for both pilgrims and tourists. Puri's Jagannath Temple has drawn Hindu pilgrims since time immemorial to the place. However, the gorgeous sandy beaches of the town are also popular among travellers. If you love a family-friendly beach atmosphere, Puri is the place to be. Here, there are hotels for every type of traveller, from backpackers to luxury seekers. If you are visiting the Jagannath Temple in Puri, ensure you take a proper local guide with you, as the temple is heavily crowded, and you need someone to guide you through it. Also, remember to visit the nearby artisans' village of Raghurajpur. This village will introduce you to the local art and handicrafts of Odisha. Here, every home in the village serves as an art studio where cloth paintings called patachitra, palmyra palm paintings, paper mache masks, etc., are on display. The beauty of the artwork will surely make your jaws drop. Do carry sufficient cash with you as you will invariably buy more than one artwork from Raghurajpur. They are that beautiful!

Konark

The beautiful Konark Sun Temple in Konark. Image credit: Andrew Moore via Flickr.com.

A short drive of around an hour from Puri will take you to a small town with a big attraction - the Konark Sun Temple. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 13th-century temple is associated with rich Indian history. Although much of the temple complex is in ruins, whatever remains is enough to inspire awe. The design and architecture of the temple continue to intrigue modern architects as to how ancient workers created such an engineering marvel so many centuries ago. There are photographic opportunities amid the beautiful ancient walls, stairs, and columns of the Konark Sun Temple. So, wear the right kind of clothes that give you good contrast for photographs against the brick-like colour of the temple. Also, take a government-certified guide with you to learn about the temple's history and the significance of the various carvings decorating the walls of the temple. After the temple tour, you can also take a stroll on Chandrabhaga Beach nearby to enjoy some cool sea breeze and refresh yourself.