Friday 7 June 2013

MODHERA ( Sun Temple) & PATAN ( Patola Silk Weaving and Step Well)


Modhera – The sun Temple of Modera is one of the finest example of Indian temple architecture of its period. Built in 1026 A.D. the temple is dedicated to the Sun Goa, Surya and stands high on a plinth overlooking a deep stone- steeped tank. Every inch of the edifice, both inside and outside is magnificently carved with Gods and Goddesses, birds, beasts and flower, the sun temple at Modhera is magnificent. The first view of the sun temple is breathtaking, with the pillared portico of the sabhamandap reflected in the massive tank.


Patan – The City contains many Hindu and Jain  temples as well as few mosques, dargahs and rojas. The city has many historical places also. Rani Ki Vav is the oldest and the grandest stepwell in the state of Gujarat. It is situated at Patan and is believed to have been built during 1022 to 1063 AD. The construction was completed by the widowed queen Udayamati. It is the centre for fine textiles particularly silk patola sarees produced by the characteristic 'ikat' technique.

DASADA - The Little Rann of Kutch


Dasada - Dasada is located on the edge of little Rann of Kutch which is an extension of the Rann of Kutch onto Saurashtra. “Little Rann of Kutch”

Enjoy a Jeep safari through the rann of Kutch to see the rare species of the “Indian Wild Ass”. It is visited for the Wild Ass, which is a rarely found in the wild and also for migratory birds that are spotted in nearby swamps and marshlands. The most famous wildlife of the region includes the Indian Wild Ass, as well as the chinkara, desert fox, jackal, desert cat, caracal, nilgai, wolf, blackbuck, and striped hyena.

Evening visit the nearby villages to see the local tribes such as Rabari, Koli and Bajania who still maintain their rich heritage of lifestyle, clothes, jeweler and dances. Their embroidery is exquisite. 

BALARAM - PALANPUR


Balaram is a holy place with considerable importance as a Hindu pilgrimage. Situated in scenic forest areas, Balaram is an ideal spot for a day picnic from Ahmedabad. Among the many temples here are the Gaumukh, with a natural stream flowing from the mouth of a cow.  An weekend retreat and hunting resort of the Lohani who rules from Jalore in Southwestern Rajasthan. A number of temples of religion importance are located along Balaram River. Balaram Ambaji wildlife Sanctuary also visit the tribal villages around Balaram explore some of the most picturesque tribal areas in all of India. (It is an centre to see Garasia tribal’s and also Rajasthani rabaris can be seen near Ambaji)

JAMNAGAR

Jamnagar:- is a city and a municipal corporation in Jamnagar district in the Indian state of Gujarat. The city was built up substantially by Maharaja Kumar Shri Ranjitsinhji in the 1920s, when the district was known as Nawanagar. The district lies just to the south of the Gulf of Kutch. Jamnagar has shot to prominence as Reliance Industries, India's largest private company, established the world's largest refinery near Moti Khavdi village. It is also home to Essar Oil, another important oil refinery of India. The city is also known for featuring India’s only Ayurvedic University.

The Bohra Hajira Built in the year 1540, by Jam Rawal, who belonged to one of the most respected Royal dynasties of Gujarat, the history of Jamnagar can be said to be one of the richest histories in the entirety of the province of Gujarat. It is after Jam Rawal, that the city of Jamnagar was renamed to its present name. The previous name for the city was Nawagarh, a name which can be literally translated to mean New City. The Bohra Hajira in Jamnagar in Gujarat in India is one such monument, which can add pleasure to your visit to Jamnagar.

The Lakhota Palace   in Gujarat in India was built by the Jam dynasty as a royal munitions store, which could come handy during the times of war.  The city of Jamnagar is built on the banks of the Lake Ranmal, which is one of the most pictorial lakes of Gujarat. The rulers of Nawangar constructed this palace and today it is regarded to be one of the most popular museum and an important Tourist Attractions in Jamnagar. It houses artifacts which date back to the early 8th century A.D. and one can also find artifacts which elaborate on the lives of the people around the region who lived there during the 18th century.

Lakhota Museum, The History of Jamnagar states that the city was built by Jam Rawal in the year 1540. He belonged to one of the most respected Royal dynasties of Gujarat. It is after Jam Rawal, that the city of Jamnagar gets its name. The previous name for the city was Nawagarh, which can be literally translated to mean "New City". The Lakhota Palace in Jamnagar in Gujarat in India was built by the Jam dynasty as a royal munitions store, which could come handy during the times of war.

Museum of Antiquities, According to the History of Jamnagar, as it is known today, it is said that the city was built in the year 1540, by Jam Rawal, who was born in one of the most respected Royal dynasties of Gujarat. It is after Jam Rawal, that the city of Jamnagar was renamed to its present name. The previous name for the city was Nawagarh, a name which can be literally translated to mean New City. The Museum of Antiquities in Jamnagar in Gujarat in India is today housed in the complex that was built by the Jam dynasty as a royal arsenal, which could come handy in times of war. Also known as the Lakhota Fort in Jamnagar, the complex was built as a royal arsenal that could be used by the soldiers during times of war or during times of need. It is this complex, which today houses the famous Museum of Antiquities, Jamnagar.

The Rangmati River in Jamnagar in India also helped in the various settlements in and around the city of Jamnagar, by helping to strengthen the modes of communication in and around the city of Jamnagar. Though the river has dried up in the region today, yet, the Rangmati River in Jamnagar still is one of the leading Tourist Attractions in Jamnagar, where large and colorful fairs are held during the auspicious Hindu month of Shravana.

Ranmal Lake  the most important tourist attractions of Jamnagar, a visit to the Ranmal Lake in Jamnagar is a definite must include if you are planning a tour itinerary to Jamnagar. One of the most impressive Lakes and Rivers in Jamnagar, the Ranmal Lake in Jamnagar greets you the moment you step into the city of Jamnagar. The Ranmal Lake in Jamnagar is also a haven for ornithologists and bird lovers who flock to its picturesque shores from all around the world. This is especially true during the winters in Jamnagar, when as high as around 75 species flock to the lake from several countries from around the globe. Tourists planning a trip to Jamnagar in winters can take the pleasure of watching these birds every morning when nature is at her peak.

AHMEDABAD


Ahmedabad - is the largest city in the state of Gujarat and one of the largest urban agglomerations in India with a population of approximately 52 lakhs (5.2 million). Located on the banks of the River Sabarmati the city is the administrative centre of Ahmedabad district and was the capital of Gujarat from 1960 to 1970; the capital was shifted to Gandhinagar thereafter. In colloquial Gujarati, it is commonly called Amdavad.

Ahmedabad has following monuments

1) Gandhi Ashram:- 
Sabarmati Ashram also known as Gandhi Ashram, Harijan Ashram, or Satyagraha Ashram) is located in the Ahmedabad suburb of Sabarmati adjoining to famous Ashram Road, at the bank of River Sabarmati.The ashram was originally established at the Kocharab Bungalow of Jivanlal Desai on 25 May 1915. The Ashram was then shifted on 17 June 1917 to a piece of open land on the banks of the river Sabarmati.

 2) Calico Museum
CALICO MUSEUM amongst the most celebrated institutions in the country, the Calico Textile museum is renowned for its comprehensive collection of textiles and artifacts. The museum offers visitors an insight into the Bronzes, Pichhwais, and Jain art objects. Over 50 years old the Calico Textile Museum houses an exemplar collection of fabrics that bring to light the handicraft textile and splendor of over 5 centuries. ( Calico Museum open time of day: - 10:30 am to 12:30 am Morning)

3) Mosques
The Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, built in 1573, is one of the most famous mosques of Ahmedabad. The mosque was built by Sidi Saiyyed, who was a slave of Sultan Ahmed Shah. The mosque was built in the last year of the Sultanate of Gujarat. The mosque is entirely arcuated. The mosque has ten screen windows (jalis) on the side and rear arches.

The Jama Mosque, is one of the most splendid mosques of India. Constructed in the year 1423 A.D, the Ahmedabad Jama Masjid was established by Sultan Ahmed Shah, the founder of the Ahmedabad. Made by using yellow sandstones, the architecture of this mosque is a blend of Hindu and Muslim styling.. Supported by 260 pillars, the Jama Masjid of Ahmedabad consists of 15 domes.

Rani Rupmati mosque is located on the Northern side of the Ahmedabad city, Rani Rupmati mosque was established by Sultan Mehmud Beghara. Named after Rani Rupmati, the wife of Sultan, the mosque was constructed during 1430-1440 AD. The dome that lies in the central position illuminates the mosque with natural light.


4)  Temples
Constructed in the year 1850 AD, Hathee Singh temple is a very famous Jain temple. It has been named after its founder Seth Hathee Singh, a prosperous Jain merchant. Hathee Singh Jain temple of Ahmedabad was built in the dedication of the 15th Jain Trithanakara named Dharmnath. The temple is known for its fabulous architectural styling and designing that consists of intricate carvings.

The first and foremost Swaminarayan temple was built at Kalupur in Ahmedabad. Being the most prominent temple, it is always thronged by people. People come from different parts of the country and congregate here in this temple to seek the blessings of the deity. Dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan

5) Adalaj Step Well
 The well was built in 1499 A.D. by Queen Rudabai. The step well or Vav, as it is called in Gujarati, is intricately carved and is several stories in depth. The designs on its walls and pillars include, leaves, flowers, birds, fish and other breathtaking ornamental designs.

6) To be held Heritage Walk in Ahmedabad:-Heritage walk begins from the picturesque Swaminarayan Mandir in Kalupur and ends in the most glorious architectural legacies the Jumma Masjid, covering in between the numerous pols, havelis, ornamental facades, workplaces of artisans and number of magnificent Hindu and Jain temples. Our walk effectively anchored by our volunteer Rajesh Gajjar, proceeded from Kavi Dalpatram Chowk - which housed the great 19th century Gujarati poet - in Lambeshwar ni Pole, to the classic reminisces of the city's textile era - the Calico Dome to the century old Kala Ramji Mandir in the Haja Patel ni Pole with a unique idol of Lord Rama in dark colour and in a sitting posture ( Heritage Walk Time will be around 07:30 am TO 09:30 am)

Gandhinagar - is the capital of Gujarat State. It is one of the three planned cities of India. Located on the banks of the River Sabarmati, the city is the administrative centre of Gandhinagar Distric. Gandhinagar the capital city of Gujarat stands on the bank of river Sabarmati is about 32 kms from Ahmedabad.
The city is famous among the tourist for the existence of Swaminarayan temple Akshardham temple a specimen of fine craftsmanship, the Akshardham temple in Gandhinagar is one of the largest and most prominent temples in the entire state of Gujarat. Gandhinagar, It measures 240 feet in length, 131 feet in width and 108 feet in height. This intricately carved imperial structure stands regally amid the green garden. Within the complex of Akshardham, lies a beautiful garden known as Sahajanand Van.