When most travelers think of Gujarat, they imagine its bustling cities, grand temples, and famous attractions like the Gir National Park or the Rann of Kutch. However, beyond these well-known spots, Gujarat hides a treasure trove of lesser-explored destinations that are rich in natural beauty, history, and culture. These off-the-beaten-path locations offer a different perspective of the state, providing a serene and unique travel experience.
In this blog, we will take you on a journey to discover hidden gems across Gujarat—places that are often overlooked but are just as captivating and worth exploring.
Nestled in the Aravalli Range, Polo Forest is a scenic, verdant destination located around 150 km from Ahmedabad. Known for its dense forests, ancient Jain and Hindu temples, and picturesque hiking trails, this spot is perfect for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The forest is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including birds, leopards, and monkeys, making it a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
The Polo Jain Temples, dating back to the 10th and 15th centuries, are hidden amidst the greenery. Though in ruins, these temples provide a sense of mystery and a glimpse into the rich history of the area. The tranquil ambiance, combined with the natural beauty of the surroundings, makes Polo Forest an ideal retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Traveler Tip: Visit during the monsoon season for the lushest greenery and flowing streams. Bring comfortable shoes for trekking and birdwatching gear if you’re into wildlife spotting.
If you’re looking for a cool escape from the heat of Gujarat, Saputara is the state’s only hill station, located in the Dang district. Perched in the Sahyadri mountain range, this hidden gem is known for its rolling hills, lush landscapes, and pleasant climate throughout the year.
Saputara offers a variety of activities for visitors, including boating on Saputara Lake, trekking up to Sunset Point, and visiting the Artist Village to see local tribal artisans at work. Adventure seekers can enjoy paragliding, zip-lining, and even waterfall rappelling at nearby Gira Waterfalls during the monsoon. Saputara is also home to the Dang Festival, where you can experience tribal culture, music, and dance.
Traveler Tip: The monsoon season (June to September) is the best time to visit Saputara, when the surroundings are at their greenest, and the waterfalls are in full flow.
Located in the small town of Modhera, about 100 km from Ahmedabad, the Modhera Sun Temple is one of Gujarat’s most stunning yet lesser-visited historical sites. Built in the 11th century by the Solanki dynasty, this temple is dedicated to the Sun God and is an architectural masterpiece. Though it is no longer an active place of worship, the temple remains an iconic symbol of Gujarat’s ancient architectural prowess.
The temple complex features intricate carvings and is aligned in such a way that the first rays of the sun illuminate the sanctum during the equinox. The Surya Kund, a large stepped tank in front of the temple, adds to the beauty of the site, with numerous miniature shrines surrounding it.
Traveler Tip: Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Patan, home to the famous Rani Ki Vav, for a day filled with historical exploration.
While the Great Rann of Kutch gets most of the attention for its vast white salt flats, the Little Rann of Kutch is a lesser-known but equally fascinating destination. This salt marsh is part of the Wild Ass Sanctuary, home to the endangered Indian wild ass (also called khur), as well as a variety of migratory birds, including flamingos, pelicans, and cranes.
Visitors to the Little Rann can enjoy a desert safari, which offers a chance to explore the stark beauty of the landscape while spotting wildlife. The salt pans scattered across the Little Rann are also a unique sight, where salt farmers work to harvest salt from the earth, making it an interesting cultural experience.
Traveler Tip: The best time to visit is during winter (November to February) when the weather is cooler, and the migratory birds are in the region.
If you’re seeking a secluded beach experience in Gujarat, Gopnath Beach, located near Bhavnagar, is a hidden gem that remains relatively unexplored by tourists. Unlike the busier beaches of Mandvi or Diu, Gopnath offers a serene and quiet retreat where you can enjoy the beauty of the Arabian Sea without the crowds.
The beach is known for its limestone cliffs, clean sand, and gentle waves. Nearby, you can visit the historic Gopnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Gopnath Bungalow, the summer palace of the Bhavnagar royal family.
Traveler Tip: There are limited facilities at Gopnath Beach, so it’s a good idea to pack your own food and drinks for a picnic by the shore.
Located in the historic city of Junagadh, the Mahabat Maqbara is one of Gujarat’s most stunning yet lesser-known architectural wonders. Built in the late 19th century, this mausoleum is an eclectic blend of Indo-Islamic, Gothic, and European architecture. The intricate carvings, spiral staircases, and minarets give the structure an almost fantastical appearance.
While Junagadh is more famous for Girnar Hill and Uparkot Fort, the Mahabat Maqbara offers a unique glimpse into the city’s history and royal past. Though it’s not as well-maintained as some of Gujarat’s other monuments, the maqbara’s beauty lies in its detailed craftsmanship and mysterious allure.
Traveler Tip: Junagadh is also the gateway to Gir National Park, so you can combine your visit to the maqbara with a wildlife safari in search of Asiatic lions.
Located in the Bhavnagar district, Velavadar National Park is a lesser-known but stunning wildlife sanctuary that feels like stepping into an African savannah. The park is home to the majestic blackbuck, a species of antelope known for its spiral horns, and is a haven for birdwatchers, with species like harriers, pelicans, and flamingos commonly seen.
Unlike the more popular Gir National Park, Velavadar offers a quieter, more intimate wildlife experience. The wide-open grasslands and lack of large predators make it an excellent destination for peaceful wildlife safaris.
Traveler Tip: The best time to visit Velavadar is during winter (November to March), when the weather is cool, and bird migration is at its peak.
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