Friday, December 12, 2008

Gujarat (Western India) - Rich, Vibrant and Varied


The state of Gujarat is rich with cultural heritage. It is vibrant with a number of festivals. And in terms of wildlife, it is varied. Located in the western India, Gujarat has now become a great holiday destination. A variety of tourist attractions awaits travellers in the state. The Champaner Pavagadh Archaeological Park is a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site located here. Major crowd pullers in the state of Gujarat include Hindu temples, fairs and festivals, national parks and historical sites.

Popular Fairs and Festivals in Gujarat
There are hundreds of festivals celebrated in Gujarat. These include dance festivals, religious festivals and tribal fairs. The Navratri Festival, popular for dance, continues for nine consecutive nights. The International Kite Festival in Gujarat attracts a good number of visitors from all over. Apart from these, there are a number of temple festivals that provide a window to the religious rituals in the state. Other popular festivals in Gujarat are Bhavnath Mahadev Mela, Chitra Vichitra Mela, Dhrang Fair, Makar Sankranti, Kutch Festival, Vautha Fair etc.

National Parks in Gujarat
Gujarat in western India features 4 national parks and 21 sanctuaries. The major wildlife attractions at these national parks are the Wild Ass and the Asiatic Lion. Gujarat also has the privilege of being the only shelter to the Asiatic Lion. Travellers can enjoy watching these lions at the world famous Gir National Park, located in the south-western part of the state. Other wildlife parks in Gujarat include Kachchh Desert, Nal Sarovar, Ratanmahal, Anjal, Barda, Rampura etc.

Historical Sites in Gujarat
There are a number of ancient sites in the state to invite tourists. Dholavia, with a history dating back to the Indus Valley Civilisation, is an important archaeological site in India. Another important historical site is Lothal, visited for the ancient ruins of the first Indian port. Gola Dhoro has been recently excavated. Its history dates back between 2500 and 2000 BCE.

A visit to Gujarat in western India can really prove to be a rewarding experience. The people of the state are a hospitable race, always eager to welcome you. To top it all is the delectable cuisine that is sure to tickle your taste buds. Explore the rich culture, interact with locals and be a part of the many fairs and festivals. But, do remember to visit the villages in Gujarat and stuff your bags with some of the most beautifully embroidered fabrics and other intricate handicrafts.
Official site of Gujarat Tourism : http://www.gujarattourism.com/

No comments: