The Call of Gujarat
The seeds of our Gujarat adventure were sown by the captivating advertisements featuring Amitabh Bachchan, urging us with the alluring phrase, “Kuch Din to Gujaro Gujarat Mein” (Spend a few days in Gujarat). These enticing visuals painted a picture of a vibrant land brimming with cultural richness and historical grandeur, igniting a desire within us to explore this captivating state.
Embarking on the Journey
Our journey commenced in February-March 2016, with a group of fellow travellers eager to witness the wonders of Gujarat first-hand. We embarked on our adventure with a mix of anticipation and excitement, eager to immerse ourselves in the diverse tapestry of this unique region.
Jamnagar: A Glimpse of Coastal Charm
Our first stop was Jamnagar, a coastal city nestled along the Arabian Sea. After a scenic flight from Delhi, we arrived in Ahmedabad and then embarked on a road trip to Jamnagar. While Jamnagar offered a tranquil escape, its attractions were relatively limited. However, the journey itself provided a glimpse into the changing landscapes and the vibrant spirit of the people we encountered along the way.
Dwarka: Land of Lord Krishna
The highlight of our trip was undoubtedly Dwarka, the legendary city associated with Lord Krishna. The ancient city, steeped in mythology and spirituality, captivated our senses. Dwarka is only 132 km from Jamnagar.. We stayed at the luxurious Goverdhan Greens Resort, offering a serene retreat amidst lush greenery. The hotel is located approximately 8-9 km away from the hustle and bustle of Dwarka town. It is a fantastic hotel with a nice swimming pool. The staff here are courteous, friendly and very helpful.
Spiritual Awakening.
In the evening we went for darshan of Lord Dwarkadeesh. Our visit to the magnificent Dwarkadhish Temple was a deeply moving experience. Seeking the blessings of Lord Krishna within the hallowed halls of the temple filled us with a sense of peace and tranquillity. After seeking blessings of Lord Krishna the group returned to the hotel with Prasad for their family and relations.
A Touch of Disappointment
Unfortunately, the presence of litter marred the beauty of this sacred site, casting a shadow on our otherwise blissful experience.
Bet Dwarka: An Island of Enchantment
A ferry ride took us to the enchanting island of Bet Dwarka, a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
A Scenic Ferry Ride
The journey itself was an unforgettable experience, with the sights and sounds of the sea and the playful antics of the sea gulls which flew over us on the ship creating a mesmerizing ambiance.
Historical Significance
Beyond its religious importance, Bet Dwarka holds significant archaeological value. The island’s rich history, unearthed through excavations, offers a glimpse into the region’s ancient past, including its trade relations with the Roman Empire.
Diu: A Portuguese Legacy
Our journey continued to Diu, a picturesque coastal town with a distinct Portuguese influence. We spent a day exploring the charming streets, soaking in the unique blend of cultures and admiring the architectural marvels left behind by the Portuguese colonial era.
The Ancient Town of Lothal
From Diu out final destination was Ahmedabad. The distance from Diu to Ahmedabad is 365 km. It was a very long and tiring journey. Just 60 km short of Ahmedabad is the ruins of the ancient town of Lothal dating to 3700 BC. The group had the opportunity to visit this site. Lothal the ancient port town was discovered by the ASI in 1954 and excavated in 1955 to 1960.
Ahmedabad: A Blend of History and Modernity
We reached Ahmedabad at around 2030 hours. The stay was at Hotel Country Inns and Suites. Nobody was in the mood to do anything other than have dinner and relax. Ahmedabad, is a bustling metropolis that seamlessly blends historical charm with modern vibrancy. After the long night we got up the next day raring to go on the city tour.
Visit Blind School
We had a unique opportunity to experience the world through the eyes of the visually impaired by participating in a “Vision in the Dark” program at an NGO that provides vocational training to blind students.
The Legacy of Gandhi
Next we visited Mahatma Gandhi’s Sabarmati Ashram which provided a poignant reminder of the Mahatma’s life and his unwavering commitment to non-violence and social justice.
A Shopaholic’s Paradise
Evening was reserved for shopping. Ahmedabad, renowned for its vibrant textile industry, offered a delightful shopping experience, allowing us to indulge in some retail therapy and bring back clothes, souvenirs and sweets for our loved ones. We were back in our hotel by 2030 hours.
Conclusion
We returned back to Delhi via Indigo Airlines. Our Gujarat journey was a kaleidoscopic adventure that unveiled the state’s diverse facets – from its rich history and spirituality to its vibrant culture and breathtaking natural beauty. While the journey offered a glimpse into the wonders of Gujarat, it also highlighted the challenges faced by the state, such as the issue of environmental pollution. This trip not only broadened our horizons but also instilled a deep sense of pride in the incredible diversity and resilience of our nation. The harmonious coexistence of various cultures and communities within Gujarat served as a powerful reminder of the strength that lies in unity
