Bhavnagar, Gujarat

Bhavnagar is a city in the Indian state of Gujarat. Founded in 1723 AD by Bhavsinhji Gohil (1703-64 AD) the city has been named after it's founder and ruler. It has been the capital of Bhavnagar State which was the first princely state of India to merge with the Indian Constitution Indian Union in 1948. The current royal family of bhavnagar resides in the Nilambagh Palace and comprises the Maharaja Vijayraj Singh Gohil, Maharani Samyukta Kumari, Prince Jaiveerraj Singh Gohil and Princess Brijeshwari Kumari.

Bhavnagar is situated 228 km from state capital Gandhinagar and to the west of Gulf of Khambhat. It is currently the administrative headquarters of the Bhavnagar District. Bhavnagar is the fifth-largest city of Gujarat, and the second-largest city in the Saurashtra region. Bhavnagar is also known as the cultural capital of Saurashtra.

Transport

Places to See:

Gandhi Memorial

Gandhi Memorial is also known as Gandhi Smriti Museum. The museum has a collection of some rare photographs and memorabilia associated with Mahatma Gandhi. 

The Barton Library

Barton Library is one of the oldest libraries in Gujarat. It is located in the center of Bhavnagar. There is also a museum in the building. which is a worth visiting spot in the city. 

Gaurishankar Lake

Gaurishankar Lake is a popular picnic spot. A number of fairs and other public events are also organized here. The lake is flanked by a beautiful garden known as Pil Garden. There is also a small planetarium in the vicinity. 

Takhteshwar Temple

Takhteshwar Temple is located on a hillock near the city. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is an important pilgrim place for the nearby region. It was built in the year 1893 by Maharaja Takhatsihnji. The temple and the whole complex are made up of white shining marble. It is a much sought after picnic spot and offers a panoramic view of the city. 

Water Lock Gate

Water Lock Gate is a one of its kind structure in Gujarat. It was constructed with a special purpose i.e. to maintain the level of the sea water in the docks. This helps the ships to float during the time of low tide. It is allowed to see this gate, but only with prior permission. 

The Central Salt and Marine Research Institute

For those who have keen interest in science, the Central Salt and Marine Research Institute is an interesting place. Many scholars, from across the country as well as abroad, visit the institute for research purpose. It is located on Waghavadi Road and enjoys immense popularity.

Black Buck National Park

Black Buck National Park is situated at Velavadar, at a distance of 72 km from Bhavnagar airport of Gujarat. It was established in the year 1976 in the Bhal region of Saurashtra and spreads over an area of 34.08 sq. km and has appropriate grasslands ecosystem. 

Gopnath Beach

Gopnath Beach is situated in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat. It is located on the coast of the Gulf of Kambhat, at a distance of 75 km from the city of Bhavnagar. Gopnath is a pristine beach known for its natural beauty. 

Palitana Jain Temples

Palitana is situated at a distance of 51 km from Bhavnagar and serves as an important Jain pilgrimage of Gujarat. The Shatrunjay Hill loacted nearby the place hosts approximately 900 big and small Jain Temples. These temples are dedicated to the 24 Jain Tirthankarars. 

Shihor

It houses the historic old palace of the Maharaja of Bhavnagar. The palace stands with all its ancient glory and is adorned with sprawling gardens, artistic wall paintings and woodcarvings. 

Khodiyar Mata

Khodiyar Mata was the family Goddess of the rulers of the former Bhavnagar State. There is a shrine dedicated to the Goddess nearby. The deity of the temple is taken in high regard. The shrine boasts of exquisite architectural beauty and presents breathtaking sites. It has 36 pillars and a huge mandap to add on to its beauty. 

Mahuva

Mahuva is a small town, situated at a distance of 25 km from Bhavnagar. It is famous for its wood and ivory handicrafts. The specialty of the place is Lacquer work on wooden furniture and toys. 'Jamadar' mangoes grown here are similar to the delicious Alphonso. The main attractions of the town are an old mosque, Laxmi-Narayan Temple and a Jain Dehrasar. The Pipavav project nearby is flourishing as a major port and coastal industrial centre. 

Gadhada

Gadhada is famous for its Swaminarayan Temple. The temple was built in 1829 AD and is an architectural gem. It is situated on a high platform with a square, an assembly hall and large sarais (rest houses). The temple was built by the Swaminarayan Sampradaya. Every year a fair, known as Jal-jhilani Ekadashi, is held here on Bhadrapad Sud 11. The fair is attended by a large number of devotees............
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