Fast Facts:
Area:              196,024 sq km
Population:    50.6 million
Capital:         

Gandhinagar
Climate:
Summer
(March to June) - Warm
Monsoon
(July to August) - Warm
Winter
(November to February) -
Cool and Pleasant
Clothing:
Summer -       Cottons
Winter -          Cottons or light Woollens
Languages spoken
Gujarati
Best Time to visit
October to March

INTRODUCTION:

Situated on the west coast of India, the state of Gujarat is one of India's wealthier states with a number of important industries, particularly textiles and electronics. It has the largest petrochemical complex in the country. Gujarat was the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation. Gujarat is the former home of a majority of India's emigrants, particularly to Africa, the UK and USA. Around 40% of the Indians in New York area are estimated to be Gujaratis.

Geographically, Gujarat can be divided into three areas. The eastern (mainland) region includes the major cities of Ahmedabad, Surat and Vadodara (formerly Baroda). The Gulf of Cambay divides the mainland strip from the flat, often barren, plain of the Kathiawar peninsula, also known as Saurashtra.

Along the south coast are sites where many of the great events in Lord Krishna's life took place. Gujarat is also a major centre for the Jains, and some of its most interesting sights are Jain temple centers.

Though not a major tourist centre, the state is known for its rich masonry work, delicious cuisine, and handicrafts like mirrorwork and silver jewellery.

Cities

Gandhinagar

The capital city of Gujarat is famous for the Akshardham Temple which has been built in the memory of Lord Swaminarayan.

Ahmedabad

The most convenient entry point into Gujarat is through the metropolis of Ahmedabad. Also known as the "Manchester of India'", the city is a busy textile centre. Old Ahmedabad has mosques with inspired workmanship, wooden Jain temples, unique stone stepwells and houses with ornately carved wooden balconies and window screens. Modern Ahmedabad, just across the River Sabarmati, is a showpiece of contemporary architecture, with designs by Le Corbusier, Louis Kahn and India's best architects. Ahmedabad is a convenient base for a number of excursions. Visit:

·          Kankaria Lake, a popular picnic spot constructed by Sultan Qutub-ud-Din

·          Teen Darwaja, a triple-arched gateway originally meant to serve as the royal entrance to the Maidan Shahi or Royal Square

·          The Calico Museum of Textiles

·          Hathee Singh's Temple, a white-marbled temple dedicated to the 15th Jain apostle, Dharamnath

·          Sarkhej Roza, an elegant architectural complexe whose buildings are remarkable for the complete absence of arches and the use of pierced stone trellises

·          Mosque of Sidi Saiyad, built in 1571 AD, and acclaimed for its splendid filigree screen, framed in the ten semi-circular windows

·          Dada Hari Vava, a step-well, which is a unique architectural feature of Gujarat - step-wells were built to provide travellers with water and cool resting place

·          Jumma Masjid, considered to be one of the most beautiful mosques in western India

·          Rani Sipri Mosque, a small, exquisite mosque built in 1514 by a queen of Mehmud Shah Begda

·          Shaking Minarets, at Sidi Bashir's Mosque, designed such that if one of them is shaken, the other trembles too

·          Gandhi Ashram, along the Sabarmati river, once the nerve centre for the Indian freedom movement Surat

This city is known for its textiles, zari work, and diamond cutting and polishing industry.

Rajkot

This city is known mainly for its handicrafts: bead and mirror work, bandhani tie and dye fabric, silk embroidery and applique work. Mahatma Gandhi studied at the Alfred High School here.

Vadodara (formerly Baroda)

Once the capital of the princely Gaekwads, this is today a graceful city of palaces, parks, temples and museums

BEACHES OF GUJARAT

1600km. long coastline, the longest in India, binds the state of Gujarat from the west. It is dotted with some really fine beaches like those of Ahmedpur-Mandvi, Kutch-Mandvi, Chorwad and Gopnath. The coast was also a historical centre with interesting Portugese forts, shore temples, princely port cities and beach palaces.

Gopnath Beach

A beautiful hamlet on the coast of the Gulf of Khambhat and at a distance of 10 Kms from Talaja, the taluka headquarter of Bhavnagar district is Gopnath. Vying for eminence on the tourist circuit with development of a heritage hotel- Gopnath Bungalow, it was a pleasant sea-shore retreat of Gohil rulers of Bhavnagar. The bungalow built in a European colonial style with cottages and mansions surrounding the courtyard faces the sea and offers a beautiful view of the gulf . It attracts marine life and birdwatching enthusiasts to the rocky shores on the coast. It is also renowed for the temple of Gopnath Mahadev, where Narsinh Mehta is believed to have performed penance.

Bet Dwarka

A ferry ride from Dwarka to the Island of Bet, near Okha, makes for a good picnic. About 30 km. from Dwarka is the famous pilgrim-centre of Vaishnavas. Here we have Rancchodrai Temple, Devki Temple and Temples of Chief Queens of Krishna, Mahaprabhuji Bethak, Bala Hanuman and Shankh Talav are other attractions. Situated about 35 kms. from Dwarka and 150 kms. from Jamnagar.
 

Ahmedpur Mandvi

 Ahmedpur Mandvi is one of the finest beaches on the Gujarat shoreline. The sea water is white and very perfect for swimming. Various water sports are offered like water scooters, skiing, surfing, para sailing, speed boat trips. Cottage Resort Magico Do Mar is one of the highlight of this beach offering airconditioned rooms, pleasant lawns, palm groves. The resort bungalow facing garden towards sea offers wonderful sights which should not be missed.

Diu island is a real pleasant surprise across the bridge from Ahmedpur Mandvi. Lying on the offshore of Gujarat mainland, minutes offshore from the mainland of Gujarat, yet has the feel of being like on a mediterranean island. Nothing can quite prepare you for the treasure-trove of Diu. Diu reflects the Portugese colonial period architecture like the churches, public buildings, bungalows with pastel shaded walls, truss roofs, terraces, galleries, clean wide road, neat clean beaches etc. Nagoa Beach is one of the most beautiful, white sanded, crescent shaped of quiet blue water and is perfect for swimming, wading, relaxing, water sports like jetskiing, knee board surfing, pony and camel riding. Other beaches here include Jalandhar a pleasant and quiet beach, Chakratirth Beach with sunset point, a Shiv Temple and a summer bungalow, Goghla Beach on the Diu union territory section, Simmer Beach promoting water sports, fishing, sailing etc., Gahirmata beach being made a resort soon.

Chorwad

Built in 1928 by the erstwhile Nawab of Junagadh, Chorwad was a summer Palace retreat. It is 66 kms. from Junagadh and 23 kms. from the fishing centre of Veraval. It is a holiday resort with an isolated beach and is away from bazaars, crowds etc.

The sea here is not always calm but the pleasant climate invites a host of tourists every year.

Chorwad is perfect for long beach walks and a quiet holiday.

Diu

Across Ahmedpur Mandvi lies the island of Diu, a sensuous blend of sun, sand and deep blue sea. Diu is situated 125 kms. from Junagadh.It is one of the country's finest beaches, and tourists who keep falling in love with it have spread its name all over the world.

The island is also dotted by three Portuguese churches one which has been converted into a museum housing some rare Portuguese artifacts.Another cynosure at Diu is the Fort of Diu, an imposing statement of power.

Diu is a quiet secluded island measuring less than 40 sq.km. Off the west coast of India, it is connected to the mainland of Gujarat by a causeway. The total length of the coastline of Diu does not exceed 21 km.

This beautiful island in the Arabian Sea has the river Chasi running along its northern frontier. It's neat golden beaches run along merrily providing blissful solitude in blue waters beneath blu skies.

A former Portuguese enclave, Diu is perhaps the most exotic destination on the West Coast of India. Gently rocked by the winds and waves of the Arabian Sea, Diu is an ideal retreat. It offers the most desirable blend of sun, sand and sea. The climate is pleasant throughout the year. Nobody and nothing is in a hurry. Here you will find undisturbed peace and a unique holiday.

Mandvi

Mandvi

Mandvi, founded in 1581 A.D. is an ancient seaport. It is well known for its production of handicraft items particularly its relief, filigree and enamel work and its virtually unspoilt sea beaches. The Rukmavati bridge is the longest stone bridge, built in 1883 A.D. and the Vijay Vilas palace are the major tourist spots in this destination.

Mandvi is situated about 75 kms. from Bhuj.
 

Hazira and Tithal

The industrial capital of South Gujarat, Hajira is situated 28 kms. from Surat. The pleasant Hajira beach is fringed by feathery casurina trees and has a comfortable holiday home for the visitors. This place is home to the biggest industrial powerhouses in the nation. Tithal is situated 108 kms. from Surat and 5 kms. from Valsad. It is a beautiful sandy beach with palm-sheltered cottages. Ubharat is another fine sandy beach situated 42 kms from Surat.

NATIONAL PARKS & WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES

Gujarat is a unique state that has many kinds of habitats. These varied landforms include dry deciduous forests, majestic grasslands, wetlands, marine ecosystems and rich moist deciduous forests. These habitats are home to some extremely rare wildlife. The Asiatic Lion is found only in Gir. The Wild Ass in the Rann of Kutch, the rare great Indian bustard in the bird reserves, the world's only four-horned antelope and the Black Buck are some other valued species protected in Gujarat. The dugong and the rare boralia species also find a safe haven here.

GIR WILDLIFE SANCTUARY:The Only Abode of Asiatic Lion

Sprawling in an area of 1424 sq. kms., Gir with its dry deciduous forest is a luxuriantly rich ecosystem-endowed with floral and faunal plentitude. Thirty species of mammals, twenty species of reptiles, several species of insects and birds are found here. The forest is the only place in the world, outside Africa, where the lion can be seen in its natural habitat. Gir, the last refuge of the king of the jungle, is one of the largest and most important wildlife sanctuaries in India

   The number of lions in Gir had dwindled to a mere 15 by the turn of the century, due to extensive trophy hunting. In the early 1900s the Nawab of Junagadh was advised by Lord Curzon to protect the remaining lions. The lion was declared a protected animal, although concerted conservation efforts started much later.

     In India the Lion population is spread across the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. But Gir is not just about Lions, the second most commonly found predator in the Gir is Leopard. Infact, Gir national park is also home to one of the largest Leopard populations in any park in India, and especially in the hotter season they can sometimes be seen at night close to the lodges.

Other animal residents of the Gir national park are Sambar Deer, Chital Spotted Deer, Nilgai Antelope, Chowsingha Four-Horned Antelope, Chinkara Gazelle, Wild Boar, Langur Monkey, Jackal, and Hyena and numerous birds like Paradise Flycatcher, Bonneli's Eagle, Crested Serpent Eagle, Woodpeckers Flamingo etc.

Gir has tropical monsoon climate, which is very hot during the summer. Three seasons' summer, winter and monsoon are distinct. Late November to early March is cool and dry followed by theperiod and bulk of precipitation is received during July and August. Rainfall data of the past 28 years received at Kamleshwar in the Western part of Gir and Raval Dam in the Eastern part of the Gir show that the average r and hot dry season. The temperature drops down to about 100 C in winters and rises to about 430 C in summer. Mid June to September is the monsoon ainfall ranges between is 600 mm and 1000 mm. Due to irregular monsoon and uneven distribution of rainfall, drought years are not uncommon.

Gir forms the catchments of seven perennial rivers viz. Hiran, Saraswati, Datardi, Shingoda, Machhundri, Ghodavadi and Raval. Northern aspect of northern ridges form the catchments of Shetrunji river flowing outside the sanctuary area. All these major rivers of Gir have perennial water supply except during severe draught. During peak summer, summer, surface water for wild animals is available at only about 300 water points. In order to tap water resources 4 dams have been constructed along Hiran, Machhundri, Raval and Shingoda respectively. The total catchments area of these 4 reservoirs is 820 sq. km. while water from rest of the areas remain untapped.

During droughts, surface water is not available in a majority of these points. Water scarcity is a serious problem in Eastern part of the Gir during droughts. To ensure the availability of water during peak summer is one of the major tasks of the Forest Department staff.

Samtapau & Raizada (1955) have recorded more than 400 plant species where as Botany Department of M.S. University of Baroda has recorded 507 plant species in Gir forest. According to Champion and Sheth's classification of forest types (1964), the Gir forest falls under 5A/C-1a very dry teak forest. Teak occurs mixed with dry deciduous species. The degradation stages of this sub type area also met within this tract are as under.

1.       Sub-type 5/DS1-Dry deciduous scrub forest

2.       Sub-type 5/DS1-Dry savannah forests (Locally known as vidis).

Teak bearing areas are mainly confined to the Western portion of the Gir forests, which constitute nearly half of area. In the remaining half of the area, there is predominance of miscellaneous species (Gir East).

The unique ecosystem of Gir harbours about 38 species of mammals, around 300 species of birds, 37 species of reptiles and more than 2000 species of insects. A list of mammals and reptiles found in the Gir is given in Annexure-II.

The main carnivores of the Gir are the Asiatic lion, leopard, jungle cat, hyaena, jackal, mongoose, civet cat, and ratel. Desert cats & rusty spotted cats are very rare. The main herbivores of the Gir are Chital, Nilgai, Sambar, Four horned antelope, Chinkara & Wild boar. In the adjoining Gir forest there is a small population of blackbuck.

Among the smaller mammals, porcupine and hare are common but the pangolin is rare. The reptilian fauna is represented by crocodile, the star tortoise, the monitor lizard and a number of species of snakes. Python is also found sometimes along the stream banks. It is worth mentioning that the highest population of Marsh crocodiles in anyone PA is found in Gir forests.

The avifauna is represented in plenty by more than 300 species of birds most of which are resident. The Main scavnger bird is the vulture of which about 6 species have been recorded. Some of the typical birds of Gir are Crested serpent eagle, Bonnali's eagle, crested hawk eagle, King vulture, Brown fish Owl, Great Horned Owl, Bush Quail, Pygmy Woodpecker, Black headed Oriole, Crested swift and Indian Pitta. Grey Hornbill is now extinct from the area. The census data of previous years is appended at Annexure-III.

• Largest compact tract of dry deciduous forests in the semi-arid western part of the country.

• Last home of "Asiatic Lions" Panthera leo persica, last surviving 'gene pool' in nature on the earth.

• Rich biodiversity area supporting large number of species including several endangered species.

• Highest concentration of top carnivores-lions and leopards (over 500), and possibly the single largest population of marsh crocodiles in the country

• Catchments area of seven major rivers, which sustains economic prosperity of this drought prone region

• Ecological security and environmental amelioration for the region; climate water, salinity prevention and pollution absorption

• Important biological research area with considerable scientific, educational, aesthetic and recreational values

• Mother of cultural and religious evolution in Saurashtra

Earlier lion shows were being arranged for the benefits of tourists visiting Gir. However, this practice was found be cumbersome and deleterious for the lions andstaff. Therefore, no lion shows are being arranged now. At present, Gir Sanctuary and National Park is not divided into various zones and there is no definite tourism zone. However to reduce disturbance from tourism in the main sanctuary and National Park area and to facilitate understanding of tourist about Gir and its wildlife, an Interpretation Zone has been created at Devalia. The Interpretative Zone comprises of 412 ha. Of chain link fenced lion area which is Gir in a nutshell covering all habitat types and wildlife of Gir. It also provided with a feeding cum living cage for carnivores and double gate entry point. The basic aim of creating this facility is to provide an opportunity to viewing lions and other animals in their natural habitats within a short period and to reduce tourist pressure in the tourism zone. At present there are about 90 to 100 spotted deer, 100 to 110 bluebull, 10 to 15 wildboar, 5 sambar, 5 blackbuck along with other mammals and reptilians in the zone. A good variety of avifauna is also spotted in the area. Introduction of a few more wild species is under consideration.

It is public opinion that helps the conservation movement in the long run. Therefore several public awareness programmes have been taken up by the Forest Department of which organizing Forest Youth clubs and their activities and education camps and the town prominent activities. First NEC in Gujarat state was started in Gir in 1976 at Sasan. Public comprising of diverse groups with diverse interest have their role in wildlife management. It is necessary to gain widespread supports at all levels of the people, Maldharis, local villagers, students, urban population and professionals are selected as target groups for NEC. There are about 125 Forest Youth Clubs in the Junagadh district. Approximately 90 nature education camps are organized in a year for imparting awareness among about 4800 participants. Advanced trainers camps are also conducted with an objective to train nature conservation enthusiasts for developing capabilities Nature Education Camps.

Gir is only the home for pure Asiatic Lion. A breeding centre has been established in the Sakkarbaug Zoo with an objective to study the Asiatic lion and supply of pure Asiatic lion to various zoos in the country and abroad. It has bread 180 lions in captivity. Sp far 126 lions were given to various zoos both in India and abroad. Continuously observation about biological behavior of lions is of immense help for enhancing knowledge and improving management practices for the species.

Recognizing the historic, current and potential importance of Gir PA, the GEF & World Bank have identified it as one of the seven sites for eco development.

Eco development has two main thrusts: Improvement of PA management and involvement of local people. It improves the capacity of PA management to effectively conserve biodiversity, involvement of local in PA planning and protection develops incentives for conservation and supports sustainable alternatives to harmful use of resources. Under the Gir eco development project, activities like pasture development, soil & moisture conservation, popularizing of non-conventional energy sources, scientific animal husbandry, employment generation and community development programmes have been proposed. The project is implemented in eco development zone covering 58 revenue villages within 2 km, From boundaries of the PA, 14 forest settlement villages and 54 Maldhari nesses.

• Nearly 50 lakh kg. Of grass are harvested every year for scarcity.

• More than 10,000 livestock of maldharies and 4,200 livestock’s of forest settlers entirely dependent on forest.

• Nearly 1 lakh livestock of peripheral villagers are partially dependent on forest.

• From non-reserve vidis, grass is provided to Panchayats and Panjarapoles.

• In sum, therefore, grass worth Rs. 50 crores (approx.) is provided annually to different target groups.

• Nearly 15,000 MT fuel wood is collected by the villagers, Maldharis and in forest settlers from Gir forest annually.

• Approximately 1 lakh mandays are generated annually through different works being carried out in Gir ecological unit.

• A major wildlife tourist center, neared by 60,000 tourists visits Gir annually.

• Approximately 106 MCM of water through 3 reservoirs of Gir are provided annually for irrigation and drinking.

• Besides departmental infrastructure facilities for tourism, approx. 100 families are earning their means of livelihood directly from tourism industry.

• Dam outside Gir on rivers originating from Gir like Shetrunji, is providing drinking water upto Palitana and Bhavnagar

Hill Stations of Gujarat:

SAPUTARA:

General Information

Location : 160 kms from Surat, Gujarat.

Altitude : 1000m Above Sea Level.

Best Time : April To Early July

Perched on the Sahyadri hills, surrounded by forests and inhabited by ancient tribes... Saputara is picture postcard perfect with lakes, streams, woodlands and hills.

At the heart of Saputara is a lake, with boating facilities. A climbing road takes you up to the Chimney ropeway, from where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the hills. The Dangs, in which Saputara lies, rises from 50 to 1083 m above sea level offering a vista of paradise.

On the Maharashtra and Gujarat border in the Dang district is Saputara a picturesque hill resort.

Saputara is surrounded with breathtaking view of nature and is becoming a favourite getaway for the urban man. The climate here is cool and bracing throughout the year. The monsoon being pleasant with small flittering waterfalls all around and the hill resort looking beautifully green.

Natural beauty, Sunrise and Sunset points, beautifully maintained Gardens, and a Museum are some of the attractions here. There is a placid lake surrounded with mountains where one can do boating and enjoy the picturesque view. One favourite attraction here is the ropeway. The 'Pushpak Ropeway' is nearly one km long and is usually busy in the evenings. Children and young couples eagerly await their turn on the countries longest ropeway. To welcome the tourists the Gujarat Tourism office is situated here. Saputara can be reached by private cars, taxis and State Transport buses. Many tourists trek their way here also.

THE UNIQUE GUJARAT

INTERNATIONAL KITE FESTIVAL

In the year 1989, a new festival was born in India. Called the International Kite Festival, this event sought to take kite flying to the tourist by inviting participants from all over the world to competitions and displays of kites and kite-flying skills. January 13 was the day of the inauguration of the first International Kite Festival. A special Patang Nagar was created for the three-day festival and the 'city of kites' opened its doors to bazaars displaying hundreds of thousands of kites and 'reels' of infinite variety. Gifted craftsmen demonstrated age-old kite-making skills and how to prepare the thread used for kite flying. Little red paper-kites vied with those of the masters from Japan, USA, UK and other countries. As participants tied threads to their 'toys', excited spectators watched shapes such as eagles and snakes soar into the skies. Cloth, paper, fiberglass et al, are now being used to make kites.

For those who needed food for sustenance, delectable dishes such as surati jaman, udhiyu, kathiawadi bhanu and others, typical of Gujarat, were served. Garba, a famous dance was also performed. The musicians and dancers regaled the winners of competitions and uplifted the spirits of those who had lost.

A LEGEND

The harassed mother said "go fly a kite" to an over-energetic son who needed to be kept occupied during the holidays. And the little boy happily picked up his guddi and ran out into the field.

That of course, was many years ago. Kite flying has come a long way since then with the invention of motorized and even fiberglass kites-to compete with kite-paper, which was universally accepted as the only material that could fly. However, the tradition of kite flying in India has not changed. Be it during Basant or Makar Sankranti, people of all ages go out into the open to try their luck with their patangs. In towns and cities, where fields are difficult to find, terraces and rooftops are often used for this traditional sport.

In Gujarat, Makar Sankranti is kite-flying day. Traditionally celebrated on January 13 or 14, it is a holiday when every family can be meet outdoors 'cutting' each other's kites. This immensely popular kite flying festival is held in all the important cities of Gujarat. The festival lures expert kite-makers and fliers not only from major cities of India but also from around the world. A plethora of designer kites are also put on display.

The International Kite Festival is always held at Ahmedabad on January 14, to coincide with the festival of Uttarayan or Makar Sankranti. The people of Gujarat celebrate Uttarayan with a lot of enthusiasm and all business comes to a grinding halt for a couple of days. It is also a celebration to mark the end of winter.

CELEBRATIONS

Kite flying begins at dawn and continues without a pause throughout the day. Friends, neighbors and total strangers battle one another for supremacy and cries of triumph rend the air when someone cuts the line of a rival. A tremendous variety of kites are seen and the connoisseur can choose precisely what he wants. Experts specially prepare the lines with which the kites are flown on the great day.

People of all ages gather on terraces or rooftops and engage in kite flying. There is music in the air and traditional delicacies are especially prepared for this day. The Gujarat State Tourism Corporation organizes an International Kite Festival every year and the venue of the event is either the Sardar Patel Stadium or the Police Stadium in Ahmedabad. This festival attracts international kite flyers and local champions as well, who demonstrate their skills in flying exotic kites. Come night and the illuminated kites known as tukals soar into the sky to compete with the stars.

One of the sidelights of the festival is the Patang Bazaar, which is open 24 hours a day in the heart of Ahmedabad during the Makar Sankranti week. A visit to this bazaar in the middle of the night proves beyond all doubt that the entire population of the city is obsessed with patangs and they crowd the streets and buy their stocks while haggling and enjoying through the night.

RITUALS

Special mixtures of glue and ground glass cover the lines, which are dried and rolled onto rears known as firkees. So sharp are these lines that, carelessly used, they can cut a finger.

The excitement does not end with nightfall, which is the time for illuminated box kites, often in a series strung on one line, to be launched into the sky. Called tukals, they add a touch of splendor to the dark sky.

Special traditional food is eaten, usually in the open field or a park, or in the garden of one's home. Even for the religious, it is a time to rejoice, for it marks the movement of the sun into the Northern Hemisphere. The gods who are believed to have slumbered for six long months are now awake and the portals of heaven are thrown open. Devotees throng the temples of the city and distribute alms freely

NAVARATRI FESTIVAL:

Gujarat is the story of a land where the contours and geographical features play a pivotal role in moulding the behaviour of the people, charting their outlook towards life. It is the land of the Mahatma. The place where the sons of soil like Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi and Sardar VallabhBhai Patel left their footprints.

Situated on the mid-west of the Indian sub-continent, the people of Gujarat are hardy and balmy, enterprising and hospitable. There is romanticism, adventure, devotion and perseverance that perhaps makes the Goddess of wealth, Lakshmi, shower her affection on the people.

Navratri. Dance, Devotion, Drumbeats.
 

An inseparable part of the identity of Gujarat, Navratri is an auspicious occasion that commemorates the worship of Divine Mother Goddess and her numerous manifestations. It is the time of the year when one fasts all day and dances non-stop the night through; an opportunity to savour the state in her finest best.

The mood, the attire and the music are so upbeat and vibrant that every year, the festival attracts tourists from India and abroad. This year, the Government of Gujarat has arranged a grand Navratri extravaganza. The visiting tourists would have the first-hand experience of staying with a host family. The guests would get to enjoy the state's vast repertoire of heritage, the Asiatic lions and the numerous temples and beaches that dot the 1600-km coastline. With architectural models through slide shows and ancient food festival, the Government will take the visitors to the era where Indus Valley Civilization was at its zenith.

While dinosaur fossils attest to the region's Jurassic beginnings, the dolphins play in wanton in the waters of Bet Dwarka. While the archaeological sites of Dholavira and Lothal connect the history of India with ancient civilization, the I-Max theater offers you a look into contemporary Gujarat. From natural herbs and Ayurveda to social infrastructure and modern hospitals, Gujarat is a cultural prism, maintaining a fine balance of tradition and modernity. "Bhale Padharya." That's Gujarati for welcome.

ADVENTURE SPORTS IN GUJARAT:

TREKKING:

Saputara to Ahwa: This is an interesting four day trek with possible stopovers at villages of Bhils, Kunbis and other tribes. After Ahwa, it is possible to continue through the Mahal Bardipada forests to Gamit and Varli villages near the Gira waterfalls. There are climbing trails to Shivaji forts in the Sahyadhris, Bangs district. Dasada to Dhrangadra.This is an interesting four day walking tour along the Little Rann of Kutch with opportunities to view wildlife, watch birds, visit villages, meet nomadic people and see historic sites like Jhinjhwada fort.

Banni:An interesting four day walking tour in the Banni grasslands can include visits to the famous craft villages of the area. Idar-Vijaynagar:This is an attractive four day trek through wooded hills, with the historic Polo ruins as an added bonus. Poshina-AburThis is a four day hill trek along rivers, passing Garasia and Bhil hamlets, crossing the Rajasthan border to Abu. Others:There are some good trekking areas in the Panchmahals, nature walks in Jambughoda and Ratanmahal sanctuaries, and rock climbing possibilities at Pawagadh, Junagadh and Taranga. 

Gujarat Tribal Tour

Unparalleled opportunities to photograph ten separate tribal groups in their villages, at their markets, and as they work: the Bharwad, Gowala, Garacia, Banjara, Megwar, Samma, Jat, Mutwa, Ahir, and Rabari Watch (and photograph) tribal women as they stitch their intricately patterned embroidery pieces, Rogan artists creating their distinctive paintings on cloth, and the Patola weavers of Patan weaving their intricate designs
Shining eyes rimmed by smudges of kohl. Slender arms encircled by bracelets from wrists to shoulder. Elaborate rings hang from female noses; some anchored by dainty chains, others by colorful ribbons. Around necks lay elaborate necklaces and from ears hang concoctions created from jewels and junk! Flared skirts made from two or three different fabrics – and in a dozen colors! Blouses embroidered in primary colors, the circles, triangles, squares and rectangles of the design making a dramatic statement. Most tribal women, except for the Rabari, whose somber black garments frame expressive faces, adore glitter. Outfits are trimmed with strands of silver and gold piping, rows of tinsel and rickrack. Robust tribal men have twinkling eyes and smiles that are punctuated by gleaming teeth. Sun-tanned from long days tending their herds and flocks, they stand tall and proud. Some tribal men dress in short, elaborately embroidered white jackets and loose trousers, others prefer a dhoti; most wear a vibrantly colored turban and gold ear studs. These and many others are some of the images you will capture on this tour of Gujarat’s tribal regions