Religious

Dwaradhish Temple

One of the four Dhams (divine abodes of India) and Sapata Turis (seven sacred cities), Dwarkadeesh Jagat Mandir doesn't need any introduction. The word 'Dwarka' is made of two words- ‘dwara’ meaning road, and 'ka' implying eternal significance. Going by the mythological records, Dwarka was the kingdom of Lord Krishna, and he stayed there for quite an extended period.

The five storey temple stands on 72 pillars, which according to the science of archeo-astronomy, is some immense significance. The sandstone plinth and walls of the temples are embellished with panels depicting dancers, elephants, musicians and celestial beings. Along with Jagat Mandir, you can also visit the nearby temples like Bet Dwarka, Okha, and shrines dedicated to Rukmini (Lord Krishna’s Wife), Mirabai, Narsinh Mehta and Shank Narayan.

Somnath Temple

A primary shrine amongst the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, Somnath temple is located in the small town of Gujarat’s Junagarh district. One of the most expensive aartis, costing approximately 15 lakhs is carried out here. The shivling at the temple is believed to be 'swayambhu' or self-born, manifested in the temple. Locals call this temple as 'shrine eternal' because it has withstood the test of time; it was destroyed six times and every time it was rebuilt.

The current structure of the temple, seventh reconstruction, is a magnificent edifice built in the Chalukya style of architecture by the master masons of Gujarat, known as Sompuras. You can also visit the beach, and the museum, close to the temple, which exhibits 1638 pieces from 7th to 15th century.

Palitana Temple

Located atop the Shetrunjai Hill, Palitana temple is one of the most sacred Jain temples in India and is known for its 3000 brilliantly carved temple. It is believed that the first Jain Tirthankara, Adinath, is visited this hill while his chief disciple Pundarika attained enlightenment here. According to the records, there are approximately 108 large temples and 872 small shrines with about 7000 images total that have been built over 900 years from the 11th century by the Jain community.

To reach the temple, one will have to climb 3800 steps. For the elder, palanquin (palki) service are easily available. The panoramic view of Palitana unfolded itself as one progresses along to the temple. From the top of the temple, you can see the panoramic view of the Gulf of Cambay and countryside.

Sun Temple

Built in 1027 AD, Sun temple is one of the surviving Indian shrines dedicated to God Sun and stands as an epitome of the exquisite Hindu temple of Solanki dynasty. The temple is divided into three parts, which are perfectly aligned from east to west, in accordance with the deity passage of the sun.

Inside the temple complex, you can see a suryakand or stepwell, prayer hall (also known as Sabhamandapa) supported on 52 pillars and another room (Gudhamandara) that leads to inner sanctum called Garbhagrah. The temple is a sight to behold during the Modhera Dance Festival. Sun temple is located in the Mehsana district of Gujarat, and one can reach by car or bus ride from Ahmedabad.

Akshardham Temple

Established in 1992, Akshardham temple is sacred to Lord Swaminarayan, who belongs to Vaishnav tradition and believes that salvation can be reached by the total devotion of supreme God by exercising righteousness, knowledge and detachment. Set up in an area of over 23 acres, the temple complex serves as a place for education and entertainment.

The highlight of the temple is its architecture built of 6000 tons of pink sandstone and not event cement or steel has been used in its construction. The main hall of the temple enshrines 7 feet tall idol of Lord Swaminarayan. Further flanking the idol are the statue of his successors. A treat to the eyes of architecture lover, Akshardham is one of the magnificent architectural heritage of Gujarat.

Shri Arasuri Ambaji Mata Temple

One of the Shaktipeetha and a prominent religious site in Gujarat, the Ambaji temple is located on the border of Gujarat at Rajasthan. Locals say that when Lord Shiva was carrying the burnt body of goddess Sati, her heart fell at the same place where the temple currently stands. At the Ambaji temple, Visayantra is worshiped, not the idol of the goddess. The temple looks its best during Bhadrapad Purnima, and Navratri festival as this is when the temple structure is decorated with lights and flower.