Since the beginning of time Gujarat has been the witness to the march of civilization. From the early river valley civilizations, to the golden age of Indian history Gujarat has been home to a multitude of cultures. At the cross roads of the 21st century the land of Krishna and Gandhi continues its unrelenting march into newer areas like technology, infrastructure development and a system of open governance.

Where azure seas meet sparkling sands, blushing sunsets embrace rosy dawns. The jungles are verdant, lush and green, where lions prowl and flamingoes preen. Marble temples white and pure, reflect the glory of the days of yore. Age-old palaces browned in the sun and water parks for a day of fun. Here tribal life is a celebration, of music, dance and multicolored traditions. This land that promises to capture the canvas of your imagination invites you to discover its many colors and revel in them.
 

Ahmedabad

Named after Sultan Ahmad Shah who founded it in 1411 AD, this city has developed into a leading industrial centre. The monuments are a synthesis of Muslim and Hindu brought about by the joint endeavors of Muslim Kings and Hindu artisans.


Places of Interest
Jama Masjid - Built of yellow sandstone, this mosque stands on 260 pillars which support 15 domes at varying elevations, is situated in the centre of the old city.

Shaking Minarets - These minarets are a part of the mosque of Siddi Bashir and can be swayed by applying a little force at the topmost arch. One of the minarets was partly demolished by an Englishman in his endeavors to unravel the mystery of the swaying minarets.

Hathising Jain Temple - This Jain temple built of white marble and profusely carved is dedicated to Dharmanath - the 15th Jina or Jain Apostle.
Bhadra Fort - Once housing royal palaces and beautiful gardens. It has the temple of Bhadrakali and was built in 1411 during the Maratha rule.

Lothal - Located 87 Kms from Ahmedabad, is a place of tremendous archaeological significance. Excavations have uncovered a planned city of the Harappan civilization of the 2nd millennium B.C. with an intricate underground drainage system. An on-site museum displays beads, bangles, painted bowls, goblets, jars, terracotta toys and ivory and shell objects which were unearthed during the excavations



Vadodara (Baroda)
The historical city of Baroda is often referred as Vadodara- the place of Banyan tree. Prior to independence, it was the capital of princely Gaekwad State that gave rise to the great rulers like Maharaja Sayaji Rao III. He gave a distinct look to the city and today it is reputed as a pleasant city that offers some interesting museums and art galleries. Its also known for its university and its faculty of fine arts, An institution which has been responsible for the emergence of the vadodara School of contemporary Indian painting and as a thriving industrial Centre.


Places of Interest
Sayaji Bagh (Baroda Museum) - Populary know as kamati baug, the garden is the heartthrob of the city. It Was built by sayajirao iii in 1879 A.D. a purpose built museum in sayaji Baug between 1887 and 1894, it was shortly joined by its sister " the Picture gallery " ( 1908 - 1914 ) the collection of Indian miniatures, Sculpture, textiles, objects from Japan, Tibet and Nepal, Indian and Foreign coins, wide array of items of study of science and natural history Earns for this museum a place of its own..

Laxmi Villas Palace - Reputed as one of the most expensive buildings built in the 19th century, the elaborately designed Laxmi Villas Palace presents a fine example of the excellence of Indo-Saracenic architectural styles. It has carved cedar ceilings, a silver throne and Italian mosaic. Outside are three pleasant courtyards filled with palms, European statuary, Italian marble and stained glass. The palace also offers a huge collection of armor and sculptures that narrate the tales of a glorious ancient past.

Maharaja Fateh Singh Rao Museum - Located in the palace grounds, the museum offers royal art collection. It includes European works by Raphel, Titian and Murillo and examples of Greco-Roman, Chinese and Japanese art and collections of Raja Ravi Verma. A visit to the museum is sure to give you a deep insight into the various art forms that stand apart.


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