Gujarat an Overview

8/7/2019 Gujarat an Overview

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GALLOPS : FIRST DESIGNER MALL OF GUJARAT

Max and Globus are having their first showroom in Gujarat are situated atGallops. All the leading brands like Pepe Jeans, Reeboke, Max, Lifestyle,Globus, Archies Gallery, Koutons are included under one tag gallops. Themall is also having a delicious food zone which includes famous food chainsof India like Murugan Xpress, Happinezz, Subway, Havmor and so on. It isthe most happening shoipping place in the city as it Gallops, the first everdesigner mall of Gujarat in the mega City Ahmedabad. It is the mall withthe designer concept of Pyramid. The mall is situated in the most hop andhappening shopping area Satellite. It is having great facilities provided byany other mall of Gujarat. It is having 700 car parking facilities which isonly mall having this kind of parking zone. The mall includes all the leadingbrands showrooms. Some of them like attracts the fun-loving and fashion

oriented around N G Patel of N G Group says that they were working forthese mall since last 16 months and being proud to say that it is the onlydesigner mall of Gujarat, which is made with the concept of Pyramidstructure. The Gallops will surely be the new sensation for shopping freaksand fun loving people from the India and abroad. The malls also provide thedesigner showroom like Namee which has the designer collection of sarees, western outfits, gorgeous accessories which will surely lure the mass.

It also has a designer collection by famous designer of India like VikramPerdnis, Neeta Lulla. Gallops is surely the best shopping for shoppinglovers.

A FASHIONABLE AND ATTRACTIVE DESIRE FOR WOMENS :VICTORIAN JEWELLERY

When Queen Victoria came to the throne in 1837 jewellery was romanticand nationalistic. It gave attention to the pressure of all folk art which laterinfluenced the art and crafts movement. Until mid century most western

jewellery came from Europe but soon jewellery began to be made inAmerica and Australia. Although jewellery had been made by multiplemethods of production for centuries, mid Victorian mass production inBirmingham (England), Germany and providence, Rhode Island meant thatstandards were lowered Victorian women rebelled when they saw some of the machine made jewellery on offer, although much of what has survived isof good quality.


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Victorian jewellery is usually ornate and decorative and sometimes ratherostentatious but as the century progressed, styles became more open andlighter and more angular often showing oriental influence and morewearable with day clothes.

Diamond jewellery was popular in the 19 th century and up to the present dayalthough the specific value depends on the individual piece as well as thequality of the diamonds, which can differ enormously from piece to piece.Diamond jewellery can be dated by the different cutting of the stones. TheVictorians used rose cut, brilliant cut and table or cushion cut diamonds.Jewellery became more affordable in the 19 th century with the world widediscovery of sapphire from Kashmir, opals from Australia. Gold fromCalifornia, demanded garnets from Russia and diamonds from South Africa.

Victorian jewellery will be more in demand concerning the festive season inGujarat. As Navratri is the 9 nights festival, these time surely the Victorianjewellery will be the womens first choice. Silver jewellery which is hatevery year with the traditional chaniya cholis will be surely replaced by eyecatching and stylish Victorian jewellery. As it gives the trendy and peppylooks and the advantage is it looks more stylist with the Indo-westernchaniya cholis.

As now a days Navratri is also getting more fashionable than traditional.The Victorian jewellery will surely in demand among the youth. Victorianjewellery also gives the looks of some antique designer feel which looksquite different than the traditional silver jewellery Rings, Necklace,Pendants, Full sets and many more accessories are available on demandingthis Navratri.


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GUJARAT AN OVERVIEW

Situated on the western tip of India, this is a state that has been the front runner in theover all economic development of the country since 1960. With only6% geographicalarea and 5% of the population of India. Gujarat contributes to 21% of the countrys

exports and 6.42% of the national GDP at constant prices. Also Gujarat has the highesteconomic growth rate in the country.

The state is a manufacturing powerhouse with world class production capabilities intextiles, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals and agro-based products. The state has 41 portsthat handle most of the cargo in the country including Indias only chemical handling portlocated at Dahej in Bharuch district. Its immensely successful state co-operativefederations have brought prosperity to rural Gujarat. Cooperatives like Amul enjoy asignificant market share in Indias processed food section. Gujarat is also rich in bioresources and has a forest cover of 1.88 billion hectares.

VIBRANT GUJARATThe state has earmarked funds to promote itself at the international trade fairs andconferences. Policy makers of the state are keen to build a brand that stands for relianceand unmatched quality. The annual Global Investors Summit was held this year inJanuary which saw new project announcements by many corporate. This year theVibrant Gujarat 2006 will be held from 12 th to 14 th January. It coincides with the grandUttarayan festival.

SABARMATI RIVER FRONT PROJECT

Ahmedabad will soon be boasting of a Manhattan like skyline with the tallest skyscrapersonce the Sabarmati River Front Project is complete. The Sabarmati RiverfrontDevelopment Corporation Limited promoted by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporationis undertaking a project to develop the riverfront area and proposes to sell the 22.15 ha of this reclaimed land for commercial development. Also 12.47 ha of the reclaimed landwill be sold for residential development. Land will also be utilized for public utilities andrecreational facilities, thus changing the face of Ahmedabad.

WATER REVOLUTION

Gujarat has created a water revolution with no parallel in the country. With the initiationof river linking project another first in the country, Narmada waters are now flowing inall major rivers across the state. The semi arid region of Gujarat is converted into a lushgreen belt. The historical confluence of Saraswati and Narmada rivers at Siddhpur hasbecome a place of pilgrimage. The Sardar Sarovar Project has truly been recalled thelifeline in Gujarat . It is Indias largest hydro project. Other check dams are also beingconstructed. The drought effected areas are recharged with water under the SujalamSufalam Yojana in Gujarat.


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PRIVATISATION

The state has actively sought private participation in improving the existing infrastructurefacilities. The state is the first in the country to develop port facilities, estates and roadsin conjunction with the private sector. When the economic regime in the country was

under protective environment and most of the activities were under the Governmentcontrol, Gujarat had taken steps in the direction of privatization. The Government of Gujarat has enacted Gujarat Infrastructure Development Act, which facilitates the processof setting up of Infrastructure projects with the help of private sector investment.

INDUSTRIES

Gujarat is Indias most industrialized State accounting for 20% of Indias manufacturingoutput. 21% of the exports and 30% of its stock market capitalization.

It ranks third in the number of factories in the country. It is a leading state in terms of per

capita gross output and per capita value added in industries. Projects worth US$7.3billion are under are under implementation. The industrial growth of Gujarat with afigure of 8.52% is way ahead of many Indian states.. It was one of the first states to setup industrial parks in India. The small industries policy receives around the clusterdevelopment approach. Some of the key industries that make Gujarats Industrial coreare:

Drugs and Pharmaceuticals

Gujarat is a reputed centre for pharmaceutical and healthcare education and research.The pharmaceuticals industry of the state substantially contributes to production anddomestic consumption and to the export basket of the countrys drug sector.

Textiles

The next two years could be defining moments in the fortunes of this industry, as theglobal garment majors are required to set up garment operations in the state, which wouldhave a catalytic effect in terms of vendor development programmes, training andemployment creation.

Mines & Minerals

Gujarat is endorsed with a rich and diverse mineral base. Principal minerals found in thestate are limestone, bauxite and lignite. Entrepreneurs have already made major inroadsinto the processing of resources.

Gems & Jewellery

Gujarat accounts for 72% of Indias gems and jewellery exports. Promotion of jewelleryparks is on the anvil. 80% diamonds processed in India are processed in Gujarat. Of this,


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approximately 90% are processed in Surat alone. Enterprising dealers from Palanpurhave risen to such prominence that they constitute the most influential group in the worlddiamond trade.

Agro Based Policy

Around 5.61% of registered units in the state are agro based. Food parks, agro processingzones and agro export zones are to be set up to provide impetus to the export of perishables. The states agro policy is intended to create a world class supply chain tofacilitate between the centers of cultivation and agro processing zones. The state istaking a number of measures to double its agro processing capability.

INFRASTRUCTURE

Gujarat has sound infrastructure in form excellent road network exceeding 74,000 kmsand rail network of across 5130 kms. Gujarat has the highest number of airports in India.

The state is planning a second international airport and will invest Rs. 1200 crore on it.The ports of Gujarat handle a lot of port traffic in the country and also millions of tonesof cargo. The Pipavav Port at Pipavav (Saurashtra) and the Mundra port in Kutch werethe countrys first Greenfield ports to be developed on a Build-Own-Operate-Transfer(BOOT) basis.

Gujarats maritime sector is considered to be the most developed among the states of India, Gujarats indented coastline is dotted with 41 strategically located ports. 1 major,11 intermediate and 29 minor ports. By 2015, it is estimated that Gujarats port willhandle on million tonnesi.e. 39% of the total national cargo

Social infrastructure.

The statesliteracy rate stands at 69.1% which is higher than the national average of 65.38%. Gujarat is home to some of the best educational institutions in the country as theleading business school IIM, the design school NID, NIFT etc. The industrialdevelopment of the stategives ample scope for setting up of new educational institutes isspecialized across like marine engineering, port management, jewellery design, bio-technology.etc.

The state leads to labour productivity in the country and the highest proportion of thestates population runs their own business.

The state has high expectancy levels, low birth and death rates and low infant mortalityrate, Healthcare facilities available in Gujarat are comparable to the best in the world.

Industrial Infrastructure


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The Gujarat Industrial Investment Development Corporation has already set up 168Industrial estates and another 106 are being developed. The state government hasdeveloped special economic zones. It encourages organizations to set up units in thesezones by giving them tax holidays and subsidies like exemption from stamp duty andregistration fees.

INVESMENT

Gujarat is an investors delight and these are promising times for Gujarat. With 16.8% of the total industrial investment of the country, Gujarat stands first for the highest industrialinvestment in the country. The state houses a number of multinational corporations, largeprivate sector companies, strong public sector enterprises and a large number of mediumand small scale units.

MEDICAL TOURISM

Gujarat is gathering popularity as a favorite medical tourism destination in the world.Medical tourism has been identified as a thrust area. With multi specialty hospitalsequipped with modern infrastructure and offering cost effective treatment to NRIs, amedical tourism policy is being developed to further develop this sector.

REAL ESTATE

Property prices are soaring all over the state more so especially in Ahmedabad andKutch.. Industrial Investments in Anjar and Mundra have triggered the rise in cost of land by 500 to 1000 times in the last four years. While in Ahmedabad it is the SabarmatiRiverfront Project that is responsible for the escalating land prices.

TOURISM YEAR 2006

The year 2006 has been declared the Tourism Year by the government of Gujarat. Thegovernment is encouraging the development of event based tourism, tourist circuits, andinfrastructure development at tourist sites. It aims to increase the contribution of tourismto the state GDP to a level of 10% by 2022. The state government is seeking partnershipwith private national and international tourism groups to develop the sector.

E-GOVERNANCE

Gujarat is among the leading states to invest money and resources for IT implementationin governance and citizen services. The E-Dhara project has seen 100% computerizationof land documents. The state government has outlined a number of policy initiatives toencourage entrepreneurs. Information kiosks are being put up at important buildings willhave information on the investment opportunities at the state and district level. Thesewill guide investors seeking information on government regulations regarding newventures and investment.


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Gujarat has received three awards in the domain of e-governance for being the best e-governed state for the best service orientation and in the technology category.

It makes strong business sense to be in Gujarat. The vibrancy of the state extends muchbeyond its lifestyle and culture. Gujarat is known for its entrepreneurial spirit and

excellent labour environment. It gets the ranking of AAA for the strength of itseconomy, employment opportunities, industrial infrastructure and quality of life, and thefuture looks energy rich too.

THE POLS OF AHMEDABAD

The Pols are an integral part of old Ahmedabad, the largest city and erstwhile capital of Gujarat. It nurtures in its folds, pages of history, a breath of harmony and a showcase of exquisite architecture. Pols date deck to 1714 when communal riots necessitated greatersecurity and gave rise to self sufficient micro-neighborhoods with a distinctive residential

pattern and irregular street clusters. Over the years, as the close knit pattern of pol livingnucleated deep amity, neighborhoods were formed around common professions ratherthan religions.

A WALK DOWN THE POL

Residential units with intricately carved wood and stone facades project outward witheach other floor making a beautiful line up on both sides of the street. The compactlybuilt neighborhood bred kinship across Hindus, Jains and Muslims of common professionGuarded by a gate, the usually narrow street, widens at points to accommodatecommunity activity at chabutra , a temple or playing areas. Interestingly, the dense andvertically high formations ensured cooler interiors in blazing summers while higherfloods brought in the winder warmth.

LIFE IN 1714, INSIDE THE 18 TH CENTURY HOUSE

The richly carved exterior indicated the prosperity and aesthetic values of the women.The most effluent resident owned a bigger Havcli which had the grandest faade donein elaborate stone carvings and wood carvings. Predominantly wooden, the sculptureddoors , windows, beams, pillars and balconies stand high above and around the otta theentrance platform for primary and casual social interaction. Step inside into the centralopen space , the chowk around which the rest of the zones are built. Both the chowk andthe baithak reflect workmanship in woodwork as eaves, brackets, pillars, ceilings,windows and doors. The baithak, kitchen and service areas shared the ground floor,while narrow and steep stairways climb up the quarters and terrace above. As moderniliving brings in the changes, the pols with all their age withered glory will live proudlyin Ahmedabad. Notable in the present day pols are Mhurat Pol, Mandvi-ni-Pole andLakha Patel-ni-Pol.


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TOWNS AND CITIES

AHMEDABAD

The business capital of Gujarat, Ahmedabad is well known for its progressive and

enterprising qualities. The industrious populace has prospered in almost of areas of industry and trade putting. Ahmedabad as a leading centre on the business map of thecountry. This city is also nicknamed as the Manchester of India because iof the textileindustry.

.The formal capital of Gujarat is also a unique blend of traditional values and modernoutlook. Its rich premughal and Mughal architure still sustains its district identity inperfect unison with the modern structures. The world famous Siddi Sayyed Screen andAdalajStepwell (17 Kms from Ahmedabad) are standing testimonies of the Mughalarchitecture.

Tourist AttractionsJama Masjid, Sarkhej Rouuza, Rani Rupmati Masjid Rani Sipri Masjid and Tomb, SiddiBashir Masjid, Bhadra Fort, Tran Darwaja, Shah Alam Rauza, Kankaria Lake,ShahibaugPalace, Dada Hari-ni-Vav, Seth Hutheesing Jain Temple, Sabarmati Ashram, CalicoMuseum, Shreyas Utensil Museum etc.

Excursions

Nal Sarovar, - A Marvellous bird sanctuary (64 Kms) Lothal A 2 nd century B C city (80Kms) Patan The one and the only place in the world for exclusivePatola silk sarees(130 kms) Shamlaji an important Vaishnavava Shrine(126 Kms) Ambaji a popularpilgrimage centre (177 kms) Modhero (famous for its Sun Temple depicting exquisiteeratic carvings (106 kms).

VADODARA (BARODA)

Basking in the glory of the preindependence Gaekwadi Raj , Vadodara is full of pleasantsurprise for tourists. Its well manicured neat lush green gardens are a major attractionnotable among them is the Sayaji Garden which has a zoo, museum, Planetarium and aunique childrens train. The Laxmivilas Palace, residence of the Gaekwads, has its ownmuseum. The Kirti Mandir with original paintings of Nandlal Bose and Tambekanwadawall paintings after a visual feast. Vadodaras M S University is a world famous centrefor knowledge and study,. In the last 25 years this Garden city has remained at theforefront of industrial activity with giants like IPCL, GSFC, Gujarat Refinery andPetrofils being established here. This development has gifted a unique cosmopolitanprofile to the already rich heritage in culture and education.


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Tourist attractions

Makarpura Palace, Lakshmi Vilas Palace, Maharaja Faeth Sinh Museum, Kirti Mandir,Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery Planetarium.

ExcursionsChampaner the ancient capital of Patai Royal 53 Kms from Baroda has beautifularchitural monuments and mosques.

Pavagadh serene temples on a hill.

Shuklati in (90 Kms) Dakor (57 Kms) Religious places of Hindus.

SURAT.

Surat is one of the oldest cities of Gujarat in ancient times It was a major trade centrewith trading ships from all over the world anchoring here. . Even today, it preservesglimpses of the bygone era the ancient Dutch gardens. Dutch cemetery and the old fortstand proudly in defiance of time.

Today Surat is throbbing with textile industry, diamond cutting and polishing industry,spices and a host of other activities which includes exquisite jariwork. The Chowpaty onthe banks of Tapti river is famous.

Tourist Attractions

The old fort-14 th century structure built by Mohammed Bin Tughlak. The Englishfactory house a combination of Hindu and colonial architecture.

Rander Omate mosques galore.

Excursions

Ubharat (42 kms) the wind and the sea and you plus an excellent holiday home equippedwith at facilities.

Tithal (108 Kms) beautiful beach resort.

Ukai (108 Kms) the largest man made lake in themidst of a picturesque tribal area.

Shukiathirth (104 Kms) An ideal picinic and on the banks of the river Narmada

Dummas Beach (8 Kms) Saputara (120 kms) Nargal and Unai hot springs are alsointeresting excursion spots.


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Bhavnagar

Bhavnagar once used to be an active port on the Gulf of Cambay. It is also a take off point for a trip to Palitana, the Mecca of Jains. Mahatma Gandhi studied here in his

college days.Tourist Attractions

Gandhi Smruti Sardar Samiti and Bar Talav a picturesque lake.

Excursions

Palitana and Talaja are important Jain pilgrim spots. Near Talaja is Gapnath a temple siteadjacent to a beautiful. beach Mahuva is also a good beach.

RAJKOTRajkot once the capital of Saurashtra is famous for its gold and silver ornaments. It isalso a foremost industrial centre of Saurashtra. Mahatma Gandhi had spent his childhooddays in Rajkot.

Tourist Attractions

Kaba Gandhi no Delo Gandhis ancestral home. Rajkumar College. Watson Museumand Library Lal Pari Lake. Altered High School. Aji Dam, Government Milk Dairy.

Excursions

Wankaner (150 Kms) a former palace converted into a hotel and holiday resort.Jadeshwar (60 Kms) Ghela Somnath (76 Kms) Virpur (64 Kms) Gondal (38 Kms)Tramba (30 Kms).

Jamnagar

Jamnagar a princely town is named after His Highness Jamsaheb., the former ruler. It isfamous for pearl fishing and the world renowned tie and die (Bandhani) fabrics.

Tourist Attractions

Kotha Bastion and Lakhota fort which houses a museum displaying sculptures datingfrom 9 th to 18 th Century. Also of tourist interest Jam Sahebs Palace. Rosy & Bedi ports,Khambhalia Ghats, Manekbail Mukhtidham, Stadium Ranmal Lake.

Piratan Marine National Park can be approached from Bedi Port.


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Excursions

Dwarka and Bet Dwarka are nearby. Dwarka is the ancient town where Lord Krishnaresided and Bet Dwarka is an island with a Krishna temple.

PORBANDAR

The Birth Place of Mahatma Gandhi. It is also called Sudamapuri.

Tourist Attractions

Kirti Mandir, Bharat Mandir, Planetarium, Chowpatty.

JUNAGADH

Junagadhs establishment dates back to the reign of Emperor Ashoka (250 B C) Later,

the Nawabs of Junagadh ruled from there. It has many interesting tourist sites. Themountain of Junagadh has Jain and Muslim Shrines and is an important pilgrim site.

Tourist Attractions

Upmarket Fort 1500 year old Buddhist Vaves. Ashokas Rock Edicts. Damodar Kund,Maabara, Shrine of Narsi Mehta, Temples of Girnar, Sakarbaugh Museum and zoo.

Excursions

Sason Gir The abode of Asiatic Lions, which also has a rich variety of wild life.Chorwad and Ahmedpur Mandvi beach Resort are serene, tranquil excursion spots welldeveloped by Gujarat Tourism.

PATAN

The ancient town, once the capital of Gujarat, still retains some of its glory. Patan has amarvelously architectured step well which fascinates the onlooker. It is also well knownfor the world famous Patolas.

PLACES OF PILGRIMAGE

PALITANA

Considered to be the Mecca of Jains. The huge complex of temples atop the Shatrunjayhills, built with marble and elaborately decorated with carvings and reliefs on the pillarswalls and domes is an architectural marvel. The Shatrunjay river flows on the best of these hills. Shatrunjay dam is a popular picnic spot.


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PAVAGADH

Mata kali one of the much worshipped Goddesses of Gujarat presides atop the hills of Pavagadh. It is visited by hundreds of pilgrims daily.

Pavagadh is a very picturesque spot overlooking the majestic ruins of Champaner Fort.The Champaner Mosque is also very famous. Due to its scenic beauty, it has become apopular picnic site. Pavagadh also has the attraction of ropeway ride. Pavagadh isaround 50 kms from Baroda. Hotel Champaner run by Gujarat Tourism takes care of accommodation and food facilities for tourists.

SHUKKATIRTH

The temple site is located on the banks of river Narmada. Because of beautiful naturalsetting, it is also a picnic spot.

Gujarat Tourism has its Toran Holiday Home here.

MODHERA

The Sun Temple at Modhera in North Gujarat is very famous for the unique architecture.The entire temple is elaborately decorated with intricate carvings and stone sculptures.The temple overlooks a stepped pond with rich carvings on the steps. A visit to Modherais a must for all tourists when visiting Gujarat.

FAIRS AND FESTIVALS

The history and culture of Gujarat has its roots in religion. Most of the Fairs and festivalsbeat relevance to some religious belief or event. These occasions are joyous andcolourful, celebrated with much devotion and festivities.

FAIRS INTERNATIONAL KITE FESTIVAL

Since 1989 Gujarat tourism has started organizing this unique kite festival every year inwhich enthusiasts from India and abroad participate. The festival is held between 10 th

and 15 th January around Makarsankranti.

BHAVNATH FAIR

Held on the 14 th day of the Krishna Paksha of Magha (Around February) at the templesof Bhavnath 3 Kms from Junagadh.

Best Folk Music, Bhajans (devotional songs).


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TARNETAR FAIR

Held on the 4 th,5th, 6 th day of the Sukla Paksha of Bhadrapada (August-September) of Tarnetar Village of Surendranagar District,196 Kms from Ahmedabad and 96 Kms fromRajkot. Most notable and colourful fair. Gujarat Tourism makes extensive arrangements

for visit and accommodation facilities of this fair.SOMNATH FAIR

Held on Kartiki Purnma (around November) at the famous temple at Somnath Lakhs of people congregate to offer homage to Lord Somnath. Changing of Bedic hymns, folk drama and dances.

MADHAVRAI FAIR

Held on 9 th day of Chaitra (Around April) at Madhavpur in Porbandar Taluka to

commemorate the marriage of Lord Krishna and Rukhmini.VAUTHA FAIR

Held on Kartiki Purnima (around November) at Vautha Near Ahmedabad to celebrate theconfluence of seven rivers.

Pilgrims light small lamps and set them afloat in the river giving it the appearance of afairy land. Also a cattle fair where horses, camels and donkeys are sold.

JAIN FAIRS

Held at Palitana.

Darshan of Temple and impressive processions are the highlights of these festivals.

DANG DARBAR

Held on the day before Holi (around March) at Dangs Adivasi District.

Tribal dances, distribution of prizes by tribal chiefs etc.

SARKHEJ FAIR

Held on 13 th day of Hijri month of Shawaal of the famous Roza of Saint Shaikh Ahmedabout 10 kms from Ahmedabad.

Marked by austerity and religious ceremonies.


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FESTIVALS

JANMASHTAMI

Held on the Birthday of Lord Krishna all over Gujarat specially at Dwarka to celebratethe birthday of lord Krishna.

NAVRATRI

A nine day festival of joyous gaiety in dedication of Godess Amba held from the 1 st dayAshvin (around October) all over Gujarat.

Most important and colourful festival celebrated for nine nights, Garba & Dandia Ras thetraditional dance performed by men and women.

DASSERAHeld on the last day of Navratri all over Gujarat. To commensurate the victory of Ramaover Ravana.

SHARAD PURNIMA

Held on Full Moon day in the month of Ashvin all over Gujarat.

DIWALI

Held on the 15 th day after Dassera all over Gujarat.

The important festival is enjoyed by one and all The New Year day follows the festival

MAKARSANKRANTI

Held in the month of Pash (14thJanuary) all over Gujarat. When the sky wears Polkadots kites of all sizes and shapes flown by yong and old to commemorate the beginningof the northward journey of the Sun.

MAHASHIVRATRI

Held on the 14 th day of the Krishna Paksha of Magha all over Gujarat

Signifies conclusion of winter, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

RAMNAVAMI

Held on 9 th day of the Sukla Paksha of Chaitra all over Gujarat.


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Celebrated on birthday of Lord Rama.

Rathyatra

Held on the Ashadha Sud 2 at Jagdish Temple at Ahmedabad.Colourful procession of Chariots with idol of Gods

MUHARAM

In memory pf Hazrat Imam, who sacrificed himself and his family for the sake of islam.

Idd-e-Milad

Birthday of Prophet Muhammed

Bakri-Id

In memory of the sacrifice made by Hazrat Ibrahim

TEXTILES AND HANDICRAFTS

TEXTILES

TEXTILE WEAVING HAS A VERY RICH TRADITION IN Gujarat and is literally anart form. Characteristically colourful and versatile in its designs and patterns, thesetextiles are famous the world over.

The popular method is resist technique. The patolas of Patan (N Gujarat) is aninternational favourite. Such textiles are made only in Ball (Indonesia) where thetechnique is known as Double Ikat The Bandhanis ( tie and die fabrics) of JamnagarBhuj and Mandvi are unique in style and pattern. Anjar and Dhamadka (Kachchh) arefamous for its Ajrakh resist printing technique embroidery patchwork and mirror work of Saurashtra is in much demand. Banni textiles (Kachchh) is also reputed for its intricateand tasteful embroidery The woven Mushroo and reserved printing on cotton and silk isalso a district form of textiles.

HANDICRAFTS

The Handicrafts of Gujarat are considered as some of the finest examples of craftsmanship in India and abroad. The wide use of local material and the simplicity of its various forms and patterns characterize its genius.

Kuchchh is the breeding ground of Handicrafts. Women play a very important role in themaking of these objects. The Meghwals who migrated from Rajasthan are expert


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craftsman who work in wood carvings produce leatherware and also weave. The vadasproduce ingenious domestic items like the cradle, toys, lacquer work in glowing colors,clay utensils in innovative shapes and forms etc. Silver jewellery, intricately crafted intothe finest pieces of ornaments is a speciality of Kachchh and Rajkot. Leather items likeShoes, sandals, handbags, purses etc. are also made in Kachchh. Namada (felt inlay)

from Mundra in Kachchh bears its own district identity of colour matching and weavingof patterns. The clay walls of the Bunga the circular hut in decorated with raised patternsreliefs and wall paintings.

Apart from Kachchh several other areas also produce commendable pieces of handcrafts.The wooden sofa sets of Sankheda near Baroda finds place in many a modern home toysand lacquer work at Mahuva are also very popular. The terracotta and pottery work of Gujarat is extremely versatile ranging from water pots to forms of Gods and Goddesses totoys . Metal and wood work of Saurashtra is a distinguished type. The doors of houses,cupboards (pataras) jewellery boxes etc are made with meticulous core with decoratedmetal ships and forms bearing raised patterns and reliefs.

HOLIDAY RESORTS

Gujarat is studded with picturesque, serene, quiet and enjoyable locations. Golden sandybeaches wild life sanctuaries hill stations You name it and Gujarat has in store asuitable location for every taste of holidayers

.BEACH RESORTS

AHMEDPUR MANDVI

The Saundra Beach Resort here is to fully developed holiday site with all modernfacilities and amenities of the tourist disposal.

Comfortable tastefully decorated living quarters a variety of India, Continental andChinese cuisine conference hall for those who want to mix business with pleasure, indoorand outdoor games.

Ahmedabad Mandvi has it all water sports facilities are also provided.

CHORWAD

The Palace Beach resort at Chorwad matches Ahmedpur Mandvi in its quiet, isolatedsscenic beauty with the magic of crystal. Clear sea and golden velvety beach. A palace isconverted into a modern living quarter which offers all the comfort and convenience inthe world.

TITHAL


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Tithal is the most beautiful beach resort in South Gujarat. The luxuriant surfing sea isvery inviting and the beach full of fun and frolic.

UBHARAT

Another quiet charming beach in South Gujarat near Surat.HILL REPORTS

SAPUTARA

A picturesque hill station in the Dangs in Sahyadri Range in South Gujarat. It is situatedat a comfortable height of 873 meters. The hills overlook a lush green valley and havegot several interesting observation points Nature has blessed Saputara with manyhypnotic marvels. A lake in the middle at the hills offers boating pleasure.

WILD LIFE SANCTUARIESSASAN GIR

The Gir forest is the only place in the world except Africa where the King of Jungle. Themajestic Lion can be witnessed in natural habitat. The dense forests of Gir also hosts awide range of other rpecies like Panther, striped Hyena, Sambar Chital (spotted deer)Niligal (blue bull) Chinkara the unique Chowsingha (four Horned antelope) long tailedlangur and others. A crocodile farm is also developed in the jungle.

Lion Safari

An exciting two days package tour is offered by Gujarat Tourism. The package includesreceiption at Keshod Airport transfer to ITDC forest lodge a tour of the Sanctuary Lionshow and transfer to Keshod Airport.

Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary

Nal Sarovar a beautiful lake near Ahmedabad is a unique Bird sanctuary where birdsfrom across the several seas take recluse during the winters. A large variety of birdsincluding Siberian Cranes flock here between November and February. The wholelandscope at Nalsarovar is transformed into a multicoloured Kaleidaoscope of all huesand coloiurs with countless birds chipping and fluttering in the water throughout thewinter season.

Wild Ass Sanctuary

The Wild Asses (Khachhar) roam free in this sanctuary in Kachchh. Thousands of theseanimals have made if their home, where they can live and room these without the fear of extinction.


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Velavadar Block Buck Sanctuary is the place where the unique species roams free in vastopen lands. It is about 48 kms from Bhavnagar

WELCOME

In Gujarat one feels suddenly transported to a world of colour. In this Rainbow Stateof India there are enchanting lakes sprinkled with water; lilies, misty rivers, unspoiltbeaches low forested hills where birds of plumage preen and verdant up lands where arebred the finest cattle in India. At sunset the western horizon of Gujarat is ablaze as if theGods have run not with paint and brush. This rich bounty of color with which nature wasendowed the land the greens the earthy reds and the vibrant sapphire blues are manifest inthe life and work of the people.

Colour suffuses Gujarats handicrafts its textiles, the resplendent fabrics that make up theswirling skirts of women its folk dances and its festivals, its brightly painted Hinu

temples, Jain shrines, splendid mosques, all glow with an ornamentation that is unique toGujarat. Unique also is its heterogeneous population of Hindus, Jains, Parsis andMuslims who have helped Gujarat march from a historic past into a highly industrialmodern present where wealth, prosperity and progress go hand in hand with ethnicity andtradition.

Gujarat offers the visitor a fabulous of beat holiday. With a long and varied history, ithas many interesting places to visit. Here one scarcely knows where legend ends andhistory begins. From beyond the annals of history legend claims that the Temple of Somnath was a witness to the creation of the Universe. Along the south coast of Gujaratare located the sites of the events in Lord Krishnas life.

Gujarats mild and pleasant climate and its salubrious beaches make it an deal locationfor nature lovers and holiday makers. With its colourful warm and spontaneoushospitality traditional costumes and life style Gujarat provides a rare travel experience forthe visitor.

BEACES AND RESORTS

Gujarat has a coastline measuring more than 1660 km the longest among all Indian stateslined by beaches scenic rocky coast lands beach palaces and shore temples. The coastpromises a holiday that blends relaxing on sea beaches with sightseeing and otheractivities. A unique aspect of the Gujarat coast is the presence of royal palaces along thePorbandar, Junagadh, Bhavnagar and Kutch District coastline.

AHMEDPUR MANDVI

It is one of the best beaches of Gujarat. The long sandy stretch of beach with Hoka palmtrees to the rear and a view over the sea to the islands of Diu is good for walks andwading. Watersports are on offer at Ahmedpur Mandvi. It is possible to cross to Diu and


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Indus Valley Civilization was one of the worlds first great civilization. It is also knownas Harappan civilization.

On the basis of general evidence coming up from Kutch and parts of Gujarat it appearsthat the Harappans brought here their full blown culture and lived almost a full life before

their culture declined and fragmented causing large scale migration from Kutch to thehinterland of Gujarat and also perhaps Saurashtra.

DHOLAVIRA

Of all the Harappan sites the site of Dholavira locally known as Kotada in the Khadirstand of Kutch stands apart, it is remarkable for its magnificent planning and enormity of area and deposit. On the present showing, it is one of the two largest settlements in Indiaand the fourth on fifth largest in the subcontinent, the others being. Mohenjo-daro,Harappa, Gharo Bhiro (all in Pakistan) and Rakhigarhi (in India). No wonder, if it wasthe metropolis of the entire Kutch or even a larger area.

LOTHAL

Lothal is the name of an ancient mound situated in the revenue jurisdiction of SaragwalaVillage in Ahmedabad District. The word Lothal meaning place of the dead in Gujaratilanguage is said to have been formed by combining words Lothi and thal.

SURKOTDA

Around 2300 BC the Harappans came to Surkotda and built a folrtified citadel andresidential annexe, made of mud brick, mud lumps and rubble containing houses withbathrooms and drains. They had painted pottery with Indus alphabet painted on the pots,chert blades and copper objects.

HISTORIC ARCHITECTURE

CHAMPANER

Recently declared as UNSCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE. It is situated 47 Kms fromVadodara. The town of Champener was subjugated by Sultan Mehmud Begara in 1484and made it his new capital. Champaner lies at the foot of Pavagadh Fort. The ruins of itsmosques and palaces reflected in the lake are the moist pectoris ones in India.

MODHERA

The Sun Temple of Modhera is one of the finest examples of Indian temples architectureof its period. Built in 1026 AD the temple is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya and standshigh on a plinth overlooking a deep stone steeped tank. Every inch of the edifice bothinside and outside is magnificently carved with Gods and Goddesses birds beasts andflowers.


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ADALAJ STEP WELL

It is situated 17 Kms north of Ahmedabad. The step well at the village of Adalaj isanother fine example of this magnificent architectural form.

PATAN

Home of the famous patola silk saris. Patan is a beautiful old town with Jain temples andcarved wooden houses. Ran ki Vav step well and Sahatrailing lake are also interestingplaces to visit Patan.

VADNAGAR

It is a showcase of the history of about 1000 years with an ancient fort wall, gates andstreet structure. The great temples, Torans, Havelis, Vaves, Kunds, Ghats, and water

wells were the backdrop for colourful, vibrant scenes of daily life and religious rituals.MUSEUMS

Gujarat has some of the finest museums, including some theme museums dedicated totextiles, handicrafts, art & culture. The Baroda Museum has an outstanding collection of manuscripts, some of them dating to the Mogal period, paintings. Tanjore coppersculptures etc. With its status as the Manchester of the East it is but natural that the besttextile museum in the country should be in Ahmedabad. The Calico Museum establishedby the Sarabhai family, one of the earliest textile industrialist of India, has a largecollection of Indian fabrics that is being extended with new acquisitions.

An excellent one man collection that is now a museum is the Veechar Museum of Utensils at Vishala restaurant. Another one man collection on exhibition the late N CMehta museum of miniature paintings which is housed in the L D Institute of Indologycampus in Ahmedabad. The same campus has a Museum having a large collection of sculptures and Jain art.

Those interested in architecture should visit the Sanskar Kendra complex in Ahmedabaddesigned by the French architect Le Corbessier. This houses the famous Kite Museum aswell as the City Museum. Another landmark in Ahmedabad is the Amdavad Ni Gufadesigned byB D Doshi and artist M F Hussain which was inspired by the paintings of thecaves at Aurangabad.

Bhavnagars Barton Museum complex is well known for its collection of coins andcurrency, farming implements and arms. The Junagadh Museum has a very goodcollection of the former Nawabs silver thrones, palanquins, gem studded carpets, armsand weapons paintings and photographs. Rajkot has the Watson Museum named afterColonel Watson who was the political agent.


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HERITAGE HOTELS

Once the abode of the royalty today many of these palaces have been converted intoheritage hotels, museums and archeological sites. The largest of the princely states of Gujarat and one of the premier 21 gun salute states of India was the state of Baroda.

A number of Heritage hotels are situated within 100 kms of Baroda. The 1930s KusumVilas Palace and the Prem Bhawan Palace complex in Chotta Udepur have been openedas heritage hotels.

The Rajwant Palace resort is a wing of the Vijay Palace on the shore of river Karjan. TheSarita Hotel at Mandwa near Chandod and the Jambhughoda Palace are retreats fornature livers

The Palace Utelia near the famous Indus Valley excavations at Lothal offersaccommodation in a turn of the century building set in the heart of a village.

Bhavnagar was one of the richest princely states of Saurashtra. The former rulingfamilys Nilambaug Palace is now a government classified Heritage Classic Hotel.

The Riverside Palace of Gondal is also a Government of India classified heritage hotel inthe same town is the Orchard Palace which has been opened as a heritage hotel.

North Gujarat has three heritage hotels. The Balaram Palace is a classified HeritageClassic Hotel set in huge grounds at the turn of a river and very close to the BalaramAmbaji sanctuary. The Darbargadh at Poshina is a medieval for in the heart of a village.

ART AND CRAFT

Folk art and craft is a way of life in Gujarat. Bhunga walls, Pithora paintings of Rathwasthe terracotta horses of Poshina or Mattam Pachhedi of Ahmedabad are not objects of display or decoration but instead manifestations of a way of life. Gujarat boasts thehighest number of National award winning artisans.

Gujarat is rich with the tie and dye and embroidery work. Saurashtra and Kutch are themain centres. The emboridary of each place and community is unique and identifiable.

Chhota Udepur, Bhujodi, Nirona of Kutch are rich bases of weavers Shawls, durriessarees and apparel woven in bright colour with cotton and wool are popular adamants forurban population as well.

Gujarat is also popular for its gold silver jewellery. Silver jewellery of Rabaris andHarijans from Banni in Kutch has a special ethnic flavour.

Rural belt of Gujarat also specializes in clay craft. Apart from pots and pans variousritualistic objects are also made by the tribals. Circular huts of Banni and Pachchham in


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Kutch with white clary relief work and mirror inlay is exotic and integral expressions of the culture and climate. Konkan, Chowdhari Vilala, Bhil, Gamith, Garasia and Rathwatribues of Dang, Dhampur, Chhota Udepur and North Gujarat also indulge in ritualpaintings on their house walls.

With its depth and diversity such crafts have adorned international museums in Gujarat.The tribal museum at Gujarat Vidyapith in Ahmedabad. Shreyas Museum of Folk Art inAhmedabad and Ahmedabad City Museum at Sanskar Kendra are some of the specimensof craft.

WILDLIFE

Gujarat is a paradise for bird watchers and lovers of wild life with an array of habitats,ranging from deciduous forests, desert plans, grass lands and wet islands to coastal andmarine eco systems.

Offshore from the Gulf of Kutch lies an archipelago of 42 islands which were the firstislands to be declared as a Marine Sanctuary in India.

South from Jamnagar is the world famous Gir National Park which is the

AHMEDABAD

MOSQUES AND MAUSOLEU

Sultan Ahmed Shah founded Ahmedabad on the banks of the River Sabarmati in 1411AD and embellished it with splendid monuments.

MONUMENTS

The Jumma Masjid (1423) which has been described as the most beautiful mosque inthe East. The Sidi Saiyad Mosque (1430), celebrated the world over for its exquisitewindow of pierced stone tracery.

The Rani Rupmati Mosque (1435), the Queens mosque with its perforated stonescreens.

The Sarkhej Rauza (1445-51) an elegant architectural complex of mosque, palance, tomband pavilions grouped around a great stepped tank.


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The Sarkhej minarets of sidi Bashirs mosque an amazing phenomenon whom oneminaret is shaken, the other vibrates too.

Treasures of the old city

Girdled by the remains of the medial wall and its stone gateways old Ahmedabad is hiveof activity. Its lanes and squares, lines with carved and decorated houses make up thepols or quarters where merchants and shop keepers, weavers and jewelers, hand-block printers and wood workers live in small communities.

Modern Ahmedabad

In more recent times, the building traditions of this mercantile city have seen newflowering modern centres of learning like the Indian Institute of Management, theNational Institute of Design and the Gujarat School of Architecture and famed throughout

the country. In addition to the famous Calico Museum, Ahmedabad boasts a finecollection of miniature paintings which are housed in the Paldi Museum designed by LeCorbusier and the Shreyas Folk Art Museum has a unique collection of the crafts andcostumes of Gujarat.

Tarnetar

The most colourful and vibrant fair of Gujarat is the Tarnetar fair held annually atTarnetar in Saurashtra for three days in September.

Match Making

The Special feature of the fair is match making between the youth of Kolis, Bharwadsand Rabaris.

Celebration

The traditional Garba, Hudo dance and tamasha are the favourties, Bhajan mandalis singdevotional songs to the tune of folk instruments such as Khartals, Pakhawaj, dhol andTabla. Cattle shows, exhibitions of embroidery, sports events and food stalls add zest toalready charged atmosphere

DAMAN.

Daman has now become a well known paradise for tourists. A large number of touristsare on their way to Daman from nearby cities like Mumbai, Surat, Navsari, Valsad andVapi. The tourists make their short holidays most enjoyable and charming one of the bestthings about Daman is a Pollution free Zone like an oasis in a busy industrial area.


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Districts of Daman become a Union Territory after delinking from Goa which attainedstatehood on the same day, 30 th May,1987. Daman is situated on the southern border of Gujarat State it is about 193 Kms from Mumbai. The nearest Railway station is Vapi onthe western railway from Vapi Daman is 11 Kms drive towards the Arabian coast. The

main river Daman Ganga, which comes from the Sahyadri range and divides the towninto two parts Moti Daman in the south and Nani Daman in the North.

Devka Beach

Getting at Devka Beach is to hire an auto from Nani Daman. An eye pleasing ride on thecoastal road of about 3 Kms will take you to sandy shaded casorina trees with beautifulrecreation Children Park. Children can enjoy hours of playing in this park, with slides,swings, sea shore and merry go rounds. You can enjoy a stroll on the sands or sit andwatch glorious sun set in the Arabian sea under the colourful umbrellas fixed on thebeach.

Nani Daman Beach

Nani Daman beach provides different picture activities. Foot steps on glittering wet sandin law tide time are enjoyable.

Jampore Beach

Yet another picturesque sea shore Jampore Beach in Moti Daman side to extreme southpoint of the district. The Jampore Beach is a long stretch of warm sands shaded bygroves of casuarinas.

Fort Moti Daman

The Fort itself will give a glimpse of the Portuguese Monarchy. Inside the Fort area youfind Pargola Garden with a rock monument in the centre of the garden. All Governmentoffices, municipal office, collectorate, secretariat, Educational Institutes, schools arefound inside the fort.

Recently developed Hilsa, Acquarium is a special to the tourists. It has a good collectionof exotic and colourful ashes.

DIU

Total area of the District of Diu off the coast of Saurashtra is 38.8 Sq.Km. It is connectedwith the main land by a bridge near Tad Village. The climate of Diu is equitable andpleasant throughtout the year summer and lighter both are moderate. The average annualrainfall is about 70 cms. Diu the smallest, of the famous three some Goa, Daman and Diuis not pampered the way smaller ones normally.


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Diu consists of villages like Ghoghla, Fundum, Bucharwada, Vanakbarand Urban areasof Diu Town. The Administration of Diu has planned to develop the entire island and if it is materialized Diu will be on the way to become a dreamy little island.

Fort

Among the places of tourist interest, the fort of Diu occupies a prominent position. It isan expensive and imposing structure, situated on the coast of the island. The fortcommands a magnificent view of the sea. It was constructed during 1535 to 1541 after adefense alliance concluded by Bahadurshah, Sultan of Gujarat and the Portuguese whenthe former was attacked by Humayun, the Mughul Emperor.

St. Pauls Church

A pearl to be found in this astern shape island is the St. Pauls Church. This fabulousChurch was built in 1691 and dedicated to our Lady of Immaculate conception.

NAGOA BEACH

Nagoa Beach is located in the Nagoa Hamlet of the village Bacharwada. The shape of Beach is horse shoe (semi circular) which is very rare. It is safe for swimming.

Chakratirath Beach

Have a ride of 4 Kms on bicycle or auto rickshaw away from Diu City. Come and relaxat Chakratirath Beach;. Walk on white sand, listen to roaringof the sea. Jallandhar Beachand summer house, flower garden and lovely surroundings Newly built circuit house andtourist complex are yet other attractions.

Gangeshwar

A shivalinga known as Gangeshwar can be seen in the midst of the rocks on the sea shoreaway from Diu City about 5 Kms. It is beautiful sight to watch the tidal waves on thelinga.

Ahmedpur Mandvi

About 4 Kms away from Ghoghla Ahmedpur Mandvi is a well known tourist spot of Gujarat Staste. A new tourist complex is taking shape at Ahmedpur Mandvi on Diu side..


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Options : Rajkot

Options is the first international class shopping mall in the entire Rajkot. Options broughtthe lifestyle trend in Rajkot way back in 1989 with its flagship store situated near Jagnathtemple and another at Yagnik road in 1955. With a desire to give the latest in fashion and

to provide a luxurious store, options decided to set a complete lifestyle store. Optionstakes the pride of the first lifestyle mall of the region.

The three storey mall is spread over with the pleasing ambience and an ideal atmosphereto spend hours shopping for your favorite brands. The mall houses over 80 brands, Indianas well as international. The mall includes every section of lifestyle. Mans wear, Ladieswear, Kids wears, accessories, perfumes, watches, cosmetics, footwear, lingeries.Options would also be shortly launching its cafeteria on its top floor in association withone of the renowned chain Bharatbhai, the owner of the options, tells that it would surelybe a satisfying experience of visiting options. Having all all the materialistic items of lifestyle it will be surely the pleasant shopping stop.

Documents

Gujarat an Overview