Located on the shore of the Arabian Sea, the peninsular region of Gujarat known as Saurashtra was formerly known as the Kathiawar. Approximately one-third of Gujarat is covered by these eleven districts, which are neatly divided between the Gulf of Kutch to the west and the Gulf of Khambhat to the east. This site is also greatly revered by all Indians because it is the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, the most famous activist of India. Gandhi preached nonviolence and was instrumental in winning independence for India.
The region of Saurashtra is known for its varied dynamics, as it sways between the hectic city life and the peaceful village life. There are some well-known religious temples on the peninsula’s hills, as well as some amazing architectural sites, beautiful beaches, and a wildlife refuge. And this portion of Gujarat, in particular, sparkles with some stunning colors during Navratri.
Top 5 Places To Visit In Saurashtra Region Of Gujarat, are listed below.
1. Gir National Park
As a haven for the last remaining wild lions in Asia since 1965, Gir National Park is a source of national pride for India. The park, which spans an enormous 1,150 sq. km., is situated 65 kilometers southeast of Junagadh. Reports indicate that the park’s lion population has risen from 200 to 400, and a large number of visitors come to witness the majestic creatures’ antics. Other uncommon animals that call this reserve home include gazelles, wild boars, leopards, antelopes, and huge deer.
December through April is the ideal time to visit this park. Close by this park is the Kamleshwar dam, where visitors can feel the rush of excitement as they watch birds and untamed crocodiles swim freely. There was once a tiny tribe that lived here; they were moved to another area, but some of their descendants still survive in the wilderness here.
2. Somnath Temple
The Hindu community considers the Somnath temple a holy pilgrimage site, and hundreds of worshippers visit the shrine daily. It is the first of the twelve “Jyotirlingas” (representations of Lord Shiva), and that’s why the temple is always held in the highest regard by Hindus. The months of October through March are ideal for a visit, as it is when the city has its most important events. The western coast of Gujarat is home to the temple, which is just 79 miles from Junagadh.
Legend has it that the Moon God himself used only gold to construct the temple. However, other materials were used for subsequent reconstructions of the temple. King Ravana had it changed into silver, Lord Krishna into sandalwood, and finally the rulers had it built with stones. Visitors are not charged to enter.
Read Also: Top 5 Most Popular Temples in Gujarat
3. Girnar Mountain
Girnar, a hill in Gujarat’s Junagadh district that dates back hundreds of years, is very important to both Hindus and Jains. To pay respects to the deities worshiped at the hill’s 866 Hindu and Jain temples, one must descend nearly 10,000 steps. On the fourteenth day of every year, during the Parikrama festivities, this hill is visited by the largest number of worshippers.
Beginning from Girnar Taleti, the ascent to this hill is 2,000 steps, and at the top, one may take in the breathtaking panorama. At dawn, when the sun casts a golden light over the entire mountain, the scenery is at its most breathtaking.
4. Shatrunjaya Hill
October to March is the ideal time to visit Shatrunjaya,, a hill in Gujarat’s Bhavnagar district that is 50 meters above sea level. It is also home to numerous Jain and Hindu temples that date back at least 900 years. The Shatrunjaya temple is the holiest of all Jain temples and the most well-known of them all.
Getting to the top of this hill is a breeze—just 3,300 steps compared to Girnar Hill’s 10,000—and you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama. Famous for hosting a ‘Teerth Yatra’ around Kartik Purnima, the hill is revered by Jains who always make sure to pay their respects during that time.
5. Blackbuck Sanctuary
Situated on the coast of the Gulf of Khambhat, Blackbuck National Park is about 49 km from Bhavnagar city. Most of the 34 square kilometers that make up the park are occupied by farms and abandoned areas. The park is well-known for its blackbucks, an aesthetically pleasing animal with two twisted horns.
Along with blackbucks, the park is well-known for other animals, such as hunting cheetahs, striped hyenas, and others. An estimated 1600 blackbucks graze freely in this region, and many visitors come to the park in the hopes of seeing these exotic animals up close.
Conclusion
Experiencing the varied dynamics of India is possible with the aforementioned itinerary of five sites to see in the Saurashtra area of Gujarat. If you want to visit these places Clearcabs is the best way to go.