Known for its exquisite charm and unparalleled vibrancy Gujarat is one of the best tourist spots in India which promises you a lifetime of memories. This state is a treasure trove of heritage, culture and life. Along with being home to Mahatma Gandhi, Asiatic lion in Gir national park, delicious food items and colourful culture it also houses remarkable architecture and is one of the religious hubs of the nation. Gujarat travel packages are most sought after because of the pristine and unique wildlife teamed up perfectly with the glory of incredible temples. Gujarat is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Jain and Hindu devotees and is dotted with numerous temples and pilgrimage sites. People visit these pious locations from across the globe in order to witness the grandeur.
Here are some of the most important and famous temples in Gujarat:
Somnath Mandir:
Located comfortably in the western coast of Gujarat, the Somnath temple or “the shrine eternal” is among one of the most popular in India. Its importance lies in the fact that this temple is considered to be the first of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva. This is one of the most important pilgrimage sites and has been destroyed and reconstructed over a period of several years. Although the real date of construction of Somnath is still unknown, the final reconstruction of the temple was done by Sardar Vallabh bhai patel in the year 1950. Built in chalukya style of architecture the temple’s top or shikhara alone is 15 metres in height depicting the grandness of the entire temple.
Dwarkadheesh Mandir:
Also commonly known as Jagat mandir, this temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna who is worshipped here as the “king of Dwarka” or “Dwarkadheesh”. The main shrine of the temple is 5 stories tall and is supported by 72 massive pillars. The construction of the temple is about 2,200 years old and since then it has been a pilgrimage site for Hindu devotees. The temple became a part of the Char Dham Yatra pilgrimage after a visit by philosopher and thologian Adi Shankaracharya in 8th century. The dedication towards Lord Krishna can be easily witnessed in the temple, even the flag that sways boldly on top of the temple showcases a moon and a sun, representing that till the sun and moon exists, in the same manner Lord Krishna will continue to exist.
Swaminarayan Akshardham Mandir
Situated in the vibrant town of Gandhinagar this large Hindu temple complex was built over a painstaking time of 13 years. The temple is a tribute to Swaminarayan’s life and his teachings. It occupies a massive area of 23 acres with the main Akshardham mandir towering to a jaw dropping 108 feet, this temple is visited by almost everyone who is one a sightseeing tour of Gujarat. Inside the temple there is a 7 feet gold-leafed murti of Swaminarayan which rests on a 3 feet pedestal and weighs 1.2 tons. The whole temple complex is an impressive work of craftsmanship complete with an attractive water show which is organized after the sun sets.
Bala Hanuman Temple
Positioned strategically on the south eastern side of the Ranmal Lake, just as the name suggests, this temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Devotees flank this temple on an everyday basis to worship the lord and present offerings. What makes it one of the most visited temples in Gujarat is the fact that, it has been, mentioned in the Guinness Book of World Records for the continuous chant of ‘shri ram jai ram jai jai ram’ since 1st August, 1964. This ‘ram dhun’ has earned this temple a spot in India for being one of the most visited. Without a visit to this temple your visit to Jamnagar will be considered to be incomplete.
Rukmini Mandir
Dedicated to the consort of Lord Krishna, Goddess Rukmini, this temple is relatively small in size while being of extreme importance for Hindu devotees and pilgrims. It is said that this temple was constructed 2,500 years ago but several researchers have argued it to be of 12th century. The entire temple is carved with rich and intricate engravings and carvings among which sits the image of Goddess Rukmini. The panels at the tower base depict carvings of human figures and elephants. All the stunning paintings and engravings all around the temple exterior as well as interiors clearly depict the various events that occurred in Rukmini’s life.
Sun Temple
Considered as one of the most beautiful temples in India the sun temple is located in the village of Modhera and dedicated to the sun god Surya, this temple sits on the banks of the river Pushpavati. Built between 1026-27 ce, the magnificence and impact of this temple is still unmatched for. Although no prayers or offerings are made inside the temple and the entire place is maintained by Archeological Survey of India. The place remains open for visitations and throngs of tourists crowd the place to witness the temple’s grandeur and creativity. Both the inner and outer walls of the temple is richly carved and engraved. Even the pillars are filled with fine and detailed works of art. The entire temple complex is constructed in chalukya style architecture which means detailed designs were utilized.
Bhalka Tirth
One of the most significant Hindu pilgrimage sites this temple is situated along the western coast of Gujarat. The temple is built on the exact spot where Lord Krisgna was shot by an arrow by a hunter called jara. This allowed Lord Krishna to leave the earth and find his place in the heavenly abode. The departure of Lord Krishna is a significant one since it marks the end of Dvapara Yuga and the beginning of the Kali Yuga. This temple is also located on the confluence of 3 rivers – Hiran, Kapila and Saraswati, which is also known as Sangam. The temple is thronged with devotees who come here to worship the Lord and offer him their prayers.
