Top 10 Places to Visit as a Student in Gujarat 2019

Gujarat is a state wherein people value cultural diversity and religious traditions. Known for its temples, Gujarat witnesses a large number of tourists every year, students being a major part of this population. The best time to visit Gujarat is during the winters, mainly from November to February. As a student, one wishes to explore and experience unforgettable adventures. Here is a carefully curated list of places you must see while visiting Gujarat which promises to give you an adventure of a lifetime- 

Top 10 Places to Visit as a Student in Gujarat 2019

First Place you must visit in Gujarat

Gir National Park

Located in the Junaghad district of Gujarat, Gir National Park is one of most famous wildlife conservation areas in India. It is spread over an area of 1412 km in a hilly region of a dry scrubland. Founded in the year 1965, it consists of a remarkably rich biodiversity with over 2375 range of fauna species. Numerous perennial river courses in this area provide an adaptable environment to the flora and fauna, which ensures a highly enriched biodiversity. It was accorded the status of a sanctuary as its main agenda was to protect the surviving groups of the Asiatic Lion, and their numbers have multiplied since its inception. Gir National Park is also known for its Indian wild asses, Nilgai, four horned Chinkara and Sambar. 

Second Place you must visit in Gujarat

Somnath Temple

Somnath Temple is situated in the Prabhas Kshetra, which is located 79 km from Junagadh and 25 km from Chorwad. This temple depicts the story of a city which survived through the ravages of time and withstood many attacks. It is believed that the Somnath Temple was built by the moon God himself, and it is considered to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Its architecture consists of inscriptions and pillar carvings of the Chalukya style. This pilgrimage site is one of the most revered holy places in India. If you are in Gujarat, you would not want to miss this legendary temple because of the piousness associated with it. 

Third Place you must visit in Gujarat

The Great Rann of Kutch

Rann of Kutch is a salt desert located in the Kutch district of Gujarat. It comprises of about 30,000 sq. km of land, lying between Gujarat and Sindh province of Pakistan. It is one of the largest salt deserts of the world. This desert is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Bhuj. The White Rann exhibits a different colour at different times during the day. During the winter season, the government organises the “Rann Utsav” in Dhordo village. From November to February, hundreds of luxury tents are set up at Dhordo for tourists. At the Utsav, several cultural events are organised for the visitors. If you seek adventure, the experience of stargazing under the blue sky is an unforgettable experience which you must try when you visit Gujarat.

Fourth Place you must visit in Gujarat

Lal Darwaja Market

Located in Ahmedabad, Lal Darwaja market is one of the most famous and busiest markets in all of Gujarat. It offers a variety of products, ranging from cloth material to electronic devices. One can bring out their bargaining skills as the sellers quote prices higher than the actual price. Thus, you can buy these products at very low rates. Lal Darwaja also offers a wide range of Gujarati street food, such as Pani Puri, Samosa, Dhokla and many other varieties of food. You must also be aware of your surroundings as this market has encountered many pickpocketing and chain snatching incidents. The quality of products is sold here is not very good, but these goods complement the prices at which they are sold. If you are in Ahmedabad, don’t forget to head to Lal Darwaja market for an economical and fulfilling shopping spree. 

Fifth Place you must visit in Gujarat

Sardar Sarovar Dam

Sardar Sarovar Dam is the largest dam on the river Narmada. It is 128 metres high and 1163 km away up the river from the sea. This dam serves the purpose of providing water for irrigation and drinking  to the remotest areas of Gujarat. It is considered as the lifeline of Gujarat, and this dam attracts a large number of tourists each year. This dam has been controversial since its beginning and it was a result of the Narmada river water dispute. You can witness the splendor of the overflowing dam from the Kevadia Colony. Places like Saputara near the dam has seen an increase in the number of tourists in recent years. Situated amidst nature, Sardar Sarovar dam and its surrounding areas provide a captivating view which you must add to your bucket list. 

Sixth Place you must visit in Gujarat

Sabarmati Ashram

The Sabarmati Ashram is situated on the banks of river Sabarmati. The reason why this ashram is so important is because of the man who lived in it for over a decade. That man was Mahatma Gandhi, and he launched the famous Dandi march on 12 March 1930 from the ashram itself. It was also the centre of various Indian freedom struggles. The ashram also comprises of a museum which provides a detailed history of the freedom struggle and the achievements of Mahatma Gandhi. The Sabarmati Ashram is now seen as a representative of one man’s dedication and his desire to liberate India from injustice.The ashram attracts a number of tourists because of the importance it holds in the heart of every Indian. When in Gujarat, don’t forget to add the Sabarmati Ashram to your itinerary.

Seventh Place you must visit in Gujarat

Lakshmi Vilas Palace

Situated in Vadodara, Lakshmi Vilas Palace was constructed by the Gaekwad, who were the rulers of Baroda. It was built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III which took 12 years to complete from 1878 to 1890 and it consists of 170 rooms. For this palace, Indo-Saracenic Revival style of architecture has been used. The darbar hall at the entrance is adorned with mosaic floors, furniture, venetian chandeliers and Belgian stained glass window. Apart from the unique interior, the lush green gardens also contribute to the beauty of the palace. It is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Vadodara, which you should definitely have a look at. 

Eighth Place you must visit in Gujarat

Kankaria Lake

Kankaria Lake is an artificial lake with 34 sides, located in the south eastern side of Ahmedabad. It is the largest lake in Ahmedabad, and it was built by Sultan Qutub-ud-Din in 1451 A.D. It is a famous picnic spot of Ahmedabad, because of the mesmerising view the lake provides. The lake also consists of a zoo, aquarium, butterfly park and many other interesting things to see. Nagina Wadi is the island situated in the middle of the lake. In the evening, a musical fountain and laser show is organised at the island. The lake has many fun activities such as a mirror maze, bowling alley and also a bull ride. Kankaria Lake is a must visit place in Ahmedabad with a beautiful view and many fun activities. 

Ninth Place you must visit in Gujarat

Girnar

Girnar Hills are close to the city of Junagadh. It has been mentioned in the Vedas, and it is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus and Jainas. Girnar has as many as 866 Hindu and Jain temples. Those who are looking for a little adventure and fun can take a morning walk to the Girnar hills and enjoy the break taking view of the scenery. These hills are a special place for Hindu devotees, because the temples here are considered very holy.

Tenth Place you must visit in Gujarat

Rani Ki Vav

Rani Ki Vav became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014, which was constructed by Rani Udayamati of the Solanki Dynasty as a memorial to her deceased husband. This architectural site can be found on the new 100 rupee currency note. It has been awarded the status of the cleanest heritage site in 2016. Rani Ki Vav is an inverted structure which serves the purpose of paying homage to water. It is divided into seven levels of stairs and panels. It is located in Patan, and is considered to be an important lesser known heritage site in the western part of India.