Smritivan is a memorial park and museum made to dedicate to victim of 2001 Gujarat Earthquake . Smritivan is located on Bhujyo Dungar ( Bhujyo Hill ) on outskirts of Bhuj city. It is a poignant tribute to the victims of the devastating earthquake that struck on January 26, 2001. The Project is developed by Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority. The museum design and curation were made by Factory India and architech was Shilpa cunsultant. The Smritivan Museum is inaugurated by Narendra Modi on 28 August 2022.
Smritivan Memorial Park :
- Smritivan Memorial park is spread in 470 acers area. To dedicate earthquake victims there are more than 5,00,000 trees planted here.
- There are 50 check dams reservoir to dedicate earthquake victims. Dams are made for recharge water level of surrounding areas and solve water crises.
- Miyawaki Forest is world's largest forest in Smritivan. More than 3 lakh trees plants are their. They are plant for green monument for acting like " The Lungs for the City of Bhuj ".
- Smritivan is located on Bhujyo Hill so climb the hill to the top and you can see beautiful sunset or sunrise and also a Bhuj city 360 degree view.
- There is a fort on this site which is more than 300 years old.
The Earthquake Museum :
The Earthquake Museum is divided into 7 blocks in specific themes.
- Rebirth : This block describes revolution of the Earth.
- Rediscover : This block focuses on Gujarat's Topography and its vulnerability of Natural Disaster .
- Restore : It shows recounts the immediate aftermath of earthquake 2001 and its massive relief efforts . It shows via video , images and set up.
- Rebuild : It showcase the rebuilding initiative and success stories of Gujarat.
- Rethink : It shows type of preparedness for future and various disaster. It shows how you can save your life from various disasters.
- Relive : In this block you can feel earthquake with 5D simulator and experience tremors felt during the earthquake . In this block there is a " Tree of Smritivan " where visitors can write message.
- Renew : It is a memorial space where people can pay their respects to the victims by lighting a digital flame.
Smritivan was inaugurated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 28 August 2022. Smritivan was recognized globally for its design and aslo sortlisted for UNESCO Prix Versailles Award. Smritivan is self sustainable complex which is powered by 1.1 MW solar power plant.
Timings : Memorial park and Museum have different timings.
Memorial park timing is 5 AM to 6 PM all days.
Museum timings is 10 AM to 6 PM from Tuesday to Sunday. Museum is closed on Monday.
Tickets Price for Smritivan :
Memorial Park ticket price for Smritivan is 20 INR .
Smritivan Museum ticket price :
- Indian Citizen is 300 INR
- Indian collage Student 150 INR ( Bring Valid ID )
- School Students 100 INR ( Up to 12 Years )
- Foreigners 1000 INR.
- Below 5 years kids are free in Museum.
These ticket prices may be changed when you visit so i suggest visit official Smirtivan website and book your ticket or check ticket prices. https://www.smritivanearthquakemuseum.com/
Smritivan museum and memorial park take at least 3 -4 hours so plan accordingly. While visit Rann of Kutch or Road To Heaven i must say visit Smritivan.
Places To Visit Near Smritivan :
Kutch is most favorite place during winters from November to February. There are many places to visit in Kutch in your tour.
Road To Heaven, White Desert of Kutch, Kadiya Dhro, Mandvi Beach, Vijay Vilas Palace , Bhujyo Hill are most favorite places for tourist.
Famous Food : Kuttchii Dabeli is one of the famous food.
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The White Desert of Kutch is also known as Great Rann of Kutch. It is a natural wonder that transforms into vast expanse of glistening white during dry season or winter season. Great Rann of Kutch is located in Gujarat near Dhordo in Kutch District. Kutch is the largest salt production area in India. Also a largest evaporation rate per year in India. In Monsoon the Arabian Sea flood rann with sea water. Area is full of water during monsoon season so you can only visit during winter season from December to February.
About White Desert Of Kutch :
Vibrant Life : White desert of kutch becomes alive with diverse ecosystem, migratory birds, flora and wild Ass.
Infinite White landscape : The most amazing features is infinite expanse of pure white salt. The layer of white salt create magnificent contrast against amazing blue sky .
Cultural Richness : At White Desert Of Kutch surrounded areas are rich cultural heritage , with colorful tribes, crafts and cuisine.
Things To Do at White Desert of Kutch :
- You can get a Camel safari or jeep safari for exploring a white desert and enjoy the beauty of it.
- Suggest you to see Sunrise or Sunset of Rann. At sunset or sunrise time you can see magical glow over salt flats. So sunrise and sunset are stunning experience at Rann of Kutch.
- Immerse yourself in the culture of Kutch. You can visit local villages, attending traditional dance and also you can enjoy local food.
- You can also see wildlife in Rann of Kutch. You can see Indian Wildass or Onager which is found only in Kutch in India. Also a migratory birds like Greater Flamingo, Pelican and many more raptors found here. The endangered spices like Great Indian Bustard also found here.
Best Time To Visit White Desert of Kutch :
The Best time for experience white desert of kutch is November to February during winter season. During winter salt march completely dry . Also during this period Rann Utsav managed by Gujarat Tourism. In Rann Utsav you can see colorful festival showcasing the region's culture and traditions. Also i suggest to plan in November or December because in February salt march are destroyed due to public foot fall and also a dirty too.
Some Tips while visit White Desert of Kutch :
- You can choose luxury Tent of Rann Utsav or also some affordable tents available near white desert.
- Comfortable cloths and lose fit cloths are suitable for desert.
- You can capture stunning landscape with vibrant colors during sunrise and sunset with white desert salt marsh. So bring good quality camera to capture stunning images of White Desert of Kutch.
Best Experience of White Desert : On Full moon day you can experience the best of white desert of Kutch.
White Desert of kutch is truly unforgettable destination of Gujarat. It offers unique blend of natural beauty , cultural richness and also adventure and wildlife. So i must suggest whenever you plan to visit Gujarat you must visit Rann of Kutch during Rann Utsav in November to February.
Nearest places to visit : Road To Heaven, Dholavira, Kadiya Dhro, Mandvi Beach, Vijay Vilas Palace, Kalo Dungar, Dholavira, Bhuj city, Bujyo Dungar, Smritivan memorial.
Famous dishes of Kutch : Kutchi Dabeli is one of the most famous fast food of Kutch. Also Khichadi - Kadhi, Kachhi Thali , Odho, Mesukh and Pakwan are famous and must try it.
Famous Cloths of Kutch : Bandhani ( used in sari ,dress material and dupatta), Ajrak ( used in cloths, home decor and accessories) , Rogan Art ( Used in saree and dress materials), Kutch Embroidery, Kala cotton ( used in home decor and clothing )
Photos Taken from : Samsung S22 mobile, Canon 6D, Canon 80D
Chhatardi Bhuj is also known as Royal Chhatris or Cenotaphs. Chhatardi is a collection of monuments dedicated to deceased rulers of the Jadeja Rajput Dynasty of Kutch. Chhatardi is located in Bhuj near Hamirsar lake. At Chhatardi many monuments are broken and ruined due to earthquake . But Raydhanji , Desarji and Lakhpatji monuments are still quit intact. The place is very quite and most people may not visit Chhatardi during Kutch Tour. There is a lot of open area around Chhatardi so place is quite silent and peacefull during morning and evening. I suggest visit Chhatardi during early morning or evening because at afternoon its too hot.
Facts and information about Chhatardi :
Architecture : The Cenotaphs of Chhatardi built by red sandstone. The most of the structure of Chhatardi is the Rao Lakha Chhatri and it was designed by Ram Sing Malam. It has a polygonal shape with balcony. It has blue dome which is influenced by Turkish Architecture. It has two galleries with two entrances.
History : Chhatardi was constructed in 18th century by Jadeja ruler Rao Lakhpatji. Chhatardis are blend of Rajputana and Mughal architectural style. It was carved out of red Sandstone. The Rao Lakha Chhatri are designed by Ram sing Malam. A stone Slab near Rao Lakha Chhatri suggest that his 15 wives committed Sati ( Self immolation ) on his funeral. There are lots of figures and images on the pillar.
Current Condition of Chhatardi : The Chhatardi was damaged in 2001 earthquake in Gujarat. The restoration process is ongoing now. Many pillars and structures are damaged and fall down.
Visiting Chhatardi is worth or not ? : Well Chhatardi is a historical place so only who is interested in a historical places like it. The place where Chhatardi located is very peaceful and quite. I like place because i like to know about history and old ruler king activities. I like most of old architecture , constructions, designs, sandstone design, carving and domes are main attractions. So answer is Yes it is worth to visit Chhatardi during sunrise or sunset timings.
Chhatardi Timing to Visit : Chhatardi is open from sunrise to sunset full day. There is no entry ticket for Chhatardi visit. There are not much restriction and also there is no guide facilities. The caretakers can guide you about the Chhatardi and also tell the history about it. My suggestion is to make some restriction around the main buildings and pillars so people can care about our historical place.
Best Time To Visit Chhatardi : Best time to visit Chhatardi is early morning and at evening. During sunrise and sunset the beauty of Chhatardi is at another level. You can take some photos with sunrise or sunset with old architecture pillars make your image beautiful. Also tourist visit Bhuj and Kutch in the winter during November to February so plan your trip with inclusion of Chhatardi.
Location : Chhatardi is located at southwest Hamirsar lake. It is around 4-5 km from Bhuj Railway station. Also near to Bhuj Airport around 5 km. If you travel from International Airport then Ahmedabad airport is the nearest international Airport. From Ahmedabad it is 350 km approx. and take 7-8 hours drive by car. Also two daily express train frequency from Bhuj to Ahmedabad named Bhuj Express and Kutch Express
Nearest Places From Chhatardi Around 5-7 km radius : In Bhuj there are some good places to visit in day time like Prag Mahal, Aaina Mahal, Kutch Museum, Swaminarayan Temple, Bhujio Dungar , Vande mataram Memorial, Smritivan Earthquake museum, Harmirsar Lake etc
Nearest Places from Bhuj : White Desert, Rann of Kutch, Road To Heaven, Dholavira, Kadiya Dhro, Mandvi beach, Vijay Vilas Palace etc. are the major attraction of Kutch and Bhuj.
Kadiya Dhro is a fascinating natural wonder located in the Kutch district of Gujarat, India. It is looks like a grand canyon site and similar to it. Site is not much big but it is far from main road of Ulat in Kutch. You have to drive around 5 km from main road. There is a local transport of Jeep get to the Kadiya Dhro site and come back in 1 hour . They charge 100-200 INR per person or hire a jeep around 1000-2000 INR depend on season. Most people not visited Kadiya Dhro site because it is not in the main route of Kutch , Bhuj and Rann of Kutch. But i think it worth to visit it. Kadiya Dhro site was discovered by traveller Varun Suchday in 2020. Kadiya Dhro is located in between White Desert of Kutch ( Rann of Kutch ) and Bhuj City.
- Grand Canyon of India: Kadiya Dhro is nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of India" due to its resemblance to the famous landmark in the United States. Layers of colorful sandstone have been carved by the wind and river over thousands of years, creating a visually striking landscape.
Location: It's situated about 32 kilometers from Bhuj, near a small village in the Kutch district.
Getting There: Reaching Kadiya Dhro requires an off-road drive of around 4-5 kilometers, so a jeep with good ground clearance is recommended. You can find jeeps available for hire locally
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is between November and February, when the weather is pleasant and sunny
Things to Do: Enjoy the scenic beauty of the rock formations, explore the surrounding area, and be on the lookout for the diverse birdlife. Keep in mind that crocodiles have been spotted here, so avoid swimming in the water .
Hidden Gem: Kadiya Dhro was recently included in The New York Times' list of "52 Places to Visit in the World" in 2021, bringing it more recognition .
If you're looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path destination in Gujarat, Kadiya Dhro is definitely worth considering. Also Kadiya Dhro is less crowded site so you can enjoy a lot without any disturbance. The local jeep allow you for 1 hour visit site but i suggest that reach early morning or late evening to watch sunrise or sunset and hire jeep for atleast 2-3 hours for better visit site. Also some places have good photographs to take with sunset and sunrise. We had a limited time for visit Kadiya Dhro so we reach in the afternoon in very sunny but still is good site to capture in your camera.
Photos Taken with : Canon 6D, Canon 80D, Samsund S22 mobile, DJI Mavic Air 2
Places to visit in Kutch : White Desert , Dholavira, Road To Heaven, Bhuj , Smritivan, Mandvi Beach, Vijay Vilas Palace
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Vijay vilas palace is located in Kutch, Gujarat near Mandvi beach. Vijay Vilas Palace is popular tourist destination who visited Kuch and Bhuj.The resort was built as summer resort. It was built by Maharao shri Khengarji III for his sons Yuvraj shri Vijayaraji. The palace was built by red sandstone . It described the Rajput architecture. Vijay Vilas Palace is about 21 km from Mandvi beach. Total time for visiting vijay vilas palace is around 1-2 hours. Vijay Vilas heritage resort has own private beach. Vijay Vilas Palace is also a heritage hotel which provide A/C tented rooms with beach facing and access to private beach. you can have more details on Gujarat Tourism Vijay Vilas palace.
About Vijay Vilas Palace :
- · Vijay Vilas Palace was built by Maharao Shri Khengarji III.
- · Vijay Vilas palace covered total 700 acre area.
- · It has central high dom on pillars and Bengal domes on sides.
- · Windows are covered with colored glass and Jalis.
- · The palace is in the middle of garden where marble fountain and water channel are passed.
- · The Jalis, Jarokhas, Chajas, Chatris , colored glass work and stone carving made by craftsman of Jaipur,Bengal, Rajasthan and Saurashtra.
- · On the top of central dome open balcony where you can view 360 of surrounding area.
- · Vijay Vilas Palace has its own private beach. You can stay at palace with chargeable basis. Now its for museum purpose also.
- · In Vijay Vilas palace many bollywood movie shoots like Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Commando, Lagaan etc.
- · Palace construction started in 1920 and completed in 1929.
- · Inside palace you can see drawing room.
Entry Tickets for Vijay Vilas
Palace Bhuj:
Entry fees for Vijay Vilas Palace is INR 20 per person. Also Camera fees extra around INR 200 and photography charges around INR 50 .
Vijay Vilas Palace Bhuj
Timings :
Timings for Vijay Vilas Palace visit is morning 10 AM to 1 PM and in evening 3 PM to 6 PM.
Vijay vilas palace is closed on Thursday for visitors.
Nearest places to visit :
Mandvi Beach is the nearest place to vijay vilas palace around 20km distance. Beach is very neat and clean and lots of water activities are done here. It is not white sand beach but you can say its almost white sand beach.
Bhuj city is another place to visit around 65-70 km distance. In Bhuj you can also visit Aina Mahal, Chatradi, Smruti Van, Vandematram Memorial, Bhujyo Dungar etc and also local shopping too.
You can stay at Mandvi there are lots of hotels and resorts near to Mandvi beach. Or you can drive to Bhuj city where you have lots of hotel options to stay and also bhuj is main city of Kutch so you can easily go to White Rann from Bhuj, Dholavira, Road To Heaven, Kadiya Dhro etc.
Road To Heaven is named to the road from Khavda to Dholavira in Kutch Gujarat. The road is so wonderful and scenery so it known as Road to Heaven . Khavda to Dholavira distance is around 58km but from Khavda there is a single line narrow road passes through small villages around 15-20 km approx. The main road starts after it and it is around 30-35 km approx. strait to Dholavira. Road is under constriction but almost 70-80% work done. The road heading to the city of Harappan Civilization Dholavira which is one of the largest site of Harappan Civilization and Indus valley Civilization.
Kutch is a largest district of Gujarat and also of India. Main City or Headquarter of Kutch District is Bhuj. Kutch is famous for White Desert or White Rann. In Every winter season from December to February celebrate “ Rann Utsav “ to attract foreigners and also locals. Tent City made in white desert to stay and also cultural programs arranged in it. The main Rann Utsav held in Dhordo of Kutch.
After visit White desert people also visit Dholavira which is nearest destination from Dhordo and also Kalo Dungar in between. From Dhordo you will have to go Khavda first and then from Khavda to Dholavira which is connected through “ Road To Heaven “. Dholavira is located at Khadir Bet. Khadir bet is separated because after monsoon the water filled outer side of bet. So the Road To Heaven is the way to connect Khadir bet to main city Bhuj.
About Road To Heaven Dholavira / Road to Heaven in Kutch :
- · It connected from Khavda to Dholavira.
- · Road to heaven distance around 30-35 km.
- · After monsoon the rain water on the both side of the road. You can see beautiful Greater Flamingo birds in between. Water level is low but muddy.
- · After winter in January –February the water on both side of the road is evaporated and turn into salt. Not all water but some areas during the road.
- · Water on the both side of the road or Salt/ white layer on both side of the road make the beauty of the road and that’s why it name as “ Road To Heaven “
- · When you are on the road there is hardly some traffic you face the open road with both side water or salt at morning or evening make the scenery like a Heaven.
I must suggest to visit Road To Heaven in Kutch while you visit Kutch. Also Visit Dholavira which is one of the largest Harappan Civilization site.
Places to visit near Road To Heaven :
Dholavira, Kalo Dungar, Dhordo, White Desert
Places to Visit near Bhuj : White Desert , Kadiya dhro, Chhatardi, Mandvi beach, Vijay vilas palace, Bhujyo Dungar, Smriti Van, Vande matram memorial
Camera Used : Canon 80D, Canon 6D, DJI Mavic Air2
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Dholavira is located in Bhachau taluka in Kutch District of Gujarat. Dholavira is archeological site and it is one of the largest Harappan site among 5 sites. You can go to Dholavira by passing Road to Heaven which is finest route both side salt water. It is also a world heritagesite of UNESCO. Dholavira is located on Tropic of Cancer. It is located on Khadir bet island in the Kutch Desert wildlife Sanctuary. It is in the Greate Rann of Kutch belonging to Indus River. The site was discovered by Shambhudan Gadhvi in 1960. After his effort site was officially discovered in 1967-1968 by archeological survey of India. Total 8 Harappan site and Dholavira is one of the largest site among them. Other major Harappan site discovered are Harappa, Ganeriwala, Mohenjo-Daro, Kalibangan, Rupnagar, Rakhigarhi and Lothal. Dholavira was important center for trade between central Asia, south Gujarat, Punjab and Sindh. The excavation was started by ASI in 1989. There were 13 field excavation between 1990 to 2005.
City Plan of Dholavira :
Dholavira city is in rectangular shape. It spread over 54 acers and total area measures length around 2530 ft and width around 2023.8 ft. City Dholavira is divided in 3 parts as The Citadel, The Middle Town and The Lower Town. The Castel is double in height and bailey area near the castle is where important officials were lived. Middle town has own defense, gates, streets , well systems and large open spaces. Lower town for lower workers which has no boundary walls. In Dholavira there are 2 rivers flown one is Manhar in the south and Mansar in the North side.
Water storage system/
Reservoirs :
Water harvesting and storage system of Dholavira says about advance hydraulic engineering in third millennium BCE. The unique features of Dholavira is water conservation system of reservoirs and channel systems which was never found anywhere in the world before. They store rain water which diverted into rivulets. The system for water harvesting is for long time preserve fresh water in Kutch climate where sometimes rain may not fall for years. Reservoir are cut through stone about 23 ft deep and 259 ft long. Total 16 or more reservoir created of different size.
A huge sign board found around 9.8 ft long on which 10 letters of Indus script. The costal route existed linking Lothal and Dholavira to Sutkagan Dor on the Makran coast.
Language :
The Harappan spoke an unknown language. The Script which was found on large sign board not yet deciphered.
Chronology of Dholavira :
|
Cultural
Stages |
Chronology |
Cultural
Affiliation |
Culture |
Period |
|
Stage
VII |
c.
1500-1450 BCE |
Post
Harappan |
Late
Harappan |
Period 5 |
|
Stage VI |
c.
1950-1800 BCE |
Late
Harappan |
Late
Harappan |
Period 4 |
|
Stage V |
c.
2100-2000 BCE |
Harappan |
Harappan |
Period 3 |
|
Stage IV |
c.
2500-2100 BCE |
Harappan |
Harappan |
Period 3 |
|
Stage
III |
c.
2800-2500 BCE |
Dholavira
Culture |
Kot
Dijian |
Period 2 |
|
Stage II |
c.
2900-2800 BCE |
Dholavira
Culture |
Ravi/
Hakra |
Period
IA & 1B ( starting before 3700 BCE ) |
|
Stage I |
c.
3000-2900 BCE |
Dholavira
Culture |
Ravi/
Hakra |
Period
IA & 1B (starting before 3700 BCE ) |
While visit Kutch Dholavira is must visit site in your itinerary. You can visit Dholavira with family to know about old architecture, business coastal area via sea, living things and utensils and most important is water harvesting system. While visit Dholavira must take a guide to know every structure in detail it will cost around 500 INR per group but worth it.
How To reach Dholavira :
Dholavira is 130 km from Bhuj. Bhuj is main city in Kutch where you find airport , railway stations and bus transports. From Bhuj Dholavira around 2 hr 40 min distance. Road is very good just from Khavda road is single line and narrow for half an hour. After it the Road To Heaven started around 30-40 km long and the road is fantastic both side water after monsoon and after evaporate water you can see salt a white desert both side of road.
Accentor is a small bird of prunellidae family. In India it is generally found in East Sikkim area. It built its nest low in a bush. When i was on a trip to Singalila National Park. I found at sandakphu area. Sandakphu is high altitude place in Singalila National Park located in West Bengal. From here you can see Mt. Kanchenjunga very clear which is highest peak of West Bengal. Lots of Birds here. To visit Singalila Park November to February you can found lots of snow and good landscapes too with snow on Mt Kanchenjunga. Also if you are going for birding you can visit March to May/June Month is the best . It is very cold weather during winter November to February at Singalila National park.
About Alpine Accentor Bird :
- Alpine Accentor bird is robin size bird. Length of bird is around 15 -17 cm.
- Bird just like similar to house sparrow in color with brown back streaked.
- Adult Alpine Accentor have red brown spotting on underparts
- Also adult have grey head too.
- In Asia Accentor found at 2000 m above height. Specially at Himalayas.
- It build nest in bush.
- It laying 3-4 plain (not spotted) eggs of sky blue color.
Singalila National Park :
Singalila national park is located in West Bengal. There are lots of birds in this sanctuary. Also its good for trekking at Sandakphu. From here you can see Mt. Kanchenjunga easily and very closely. Also a beautiful Himalayan Mountain range with snow. Amazing weather very cold in winter and moderate in summer. Summer season is the best for birding at sandakphu.
Alpine Accentor bird Binominal Name is Prunella Collaris . Total 9 subspices are recognised of Alpine Accentor bird.
Gear used : Canon 1000 D, Canon 55-250 mm Lens.
Road To Heaven is named to the road from Khavda to Dholavira in Kutch Gujarat. The road is so wonderful and scenery so it known as Road to Heaven . Khavda to Dholavira distance is around 58km but from Khavda there is a single line narrow road passes through small villages around 15-20 km approx. The main road starts after it and it is around 30-35 km approx. strait to Dholavira. Road is under constriction but almost 70-80% work done. The road heading to the city of Harappan Civilization Dholavira which is one of the largest site of Harappan Civilization and Indus valley Civilization.
Kutch is a largest district of Gujarat and also of India. Main City or Headquarter of Kutch District is Bhuj. Kutch is famous for White Desert or White Rann. In Every winter season from December to February celebrate “ Rann Utsav “ to attract foreigners and also locals. Tent City made in white desert to stay and also cultural programs arranged in it. The main Rann Utsav held in Dhordo of Kutch.
After visit White desert people also visit Dholavira which is nearest destination from Dhordo and also Kalo Dungar in between. From Dhordo you will have to go Khavda first and then from Khavda to Dholavira which is connected through “ Road To Heaven “. Dholavira is located at Khadir Bet. Khadir bet is separated because after monsoon the water filled outer side of bet. So the Road To Heaven is the way to connect Khadir bet to main city Bhuj.
About Road To Heaven Dholavira / Road to Heaven in Kutch :
- · It connected from Khavda to Dholavira.
- · Road to heaven distance around 30-35 km.
- · After monsoon the rain water on the both side of the road. You can see beautiful Greater Flamingo birds in between. Water level is low but muddy.
- · After winter in January –February the water on both side of the road is evaporated and turn into salt. Not all water but some areas during the road.
- · Water on the both side of the road or Salt/ white layer on both side of the road make the beauty of the road and that’s why it name as “ Road To Heaven “
- · When you are on the road there is hardly some traffic you face the open road with both side water or salt at morning or evening make the scenery like a Heaven.
I must suggest to visit Road To Heaven in Kutch while you visit Kutch. Also Visit Dholavira which is one of the largest Harappan Civilization site.
Places to visit near Road To Heaven :
Dholavira, Kalo Dungar, Dhordo, White Desert
Places to Visit near Bhuj : White Desert , Kadiya dhro, Chhatardi, Mandvi beach, Vijay vilas palace, Bhujyo Dungar, Smriti Van, Vande matram memorial
Camera Used : Canon 80D, Canon 6D, DJI Mavic Air2
Thol bird sanctuary is located in Kadi Taluka in Mehsana District near sanand Gujarat. It is an artificial lake located near village Thol. In 1912 thol lake was built and it was declared as a Sanctuary in 1988. The main use of lake is use of water for irrigation. The Thol Bird Sanctuary or a Thol lake wildlife Sanctuary India is a habitat of more than 150 spices of birds. Also it is famous for migratory birds Flamingos and Sarus Crane which breeds here.
About Thol Lake / Thol Bird Sanctuary
Thol lake is located near Thol village and its area around 38000 acres. Lake faces all season winter , summer and monsoon. During winter temperature goes to 8 degree and in summer temperature goes to 43 degree. Thol lake is under control of Forest and Irrigation department of Gujarat. Thol lake water storage capacity is around 84 million cubic meters. Thol wildlife sanctuary is declared as Eco Sensitive Zone .
Flora and Fauna Thol Sanctuary :
Thol lake has many vegetation plants like Zizyphus, Acacia nilotica, Ficus, Capparis, Azadirachta indica etc. There are also some mix flora of Marshy and Aquatic plants reported in Thol Lake.
Thol lake is protected area and it is very good habitat for water birds. In thol bird sanctuary there are more than 150 spices of birds found . Among these more than 60 % of birds are water birds. Flamingo bird is most prominent bird of Thol Lake. Also Sarus Crane nest in large number here.
Famous Migratory Birds of Thol Lake
• Flamingos
• Sarus Crane
• Great White Pelican
• Mallards
• Bar Headed Geese , Grey Headed Geese
• Waterfowl
There are also some spices reported here like Dalmatian Pelican, Indian Skimmer, Greater Spotted Eagle, Indian Vulture and white rumped Vulture etc. In Mammals Bluebull, Blackbuck and Golden jackal reported here.
Thol Lake Timing and Fees :
Thol lake open everyday at 6 AM in morning and close at 5.30 PM in evening. Entry fees for Thol Lake or Thol sanctuary is 50 INR for per person. Also Camera fees extra at 200 INR and if you go via car then car fees also 500 INR. Foreigner fees are 10 $ per person.
Best Time to Visit Thol Sanctuary / Thol Lake :
Best time early morning for Thol Lake. In winter if you go before sunrise you can see Twilight sky amazing with lake shore and birds sound .During all season Thol lake has its own beauty. Every season you can visit at Thol Lake. But mostly during winter from November to March season is best for Thol Sanctuary visit. Because during winter lots of Migratory birds came here and stay for long time so for birding winter season is best at Thol Lake. Also during summer some of birds stays here like flamingos and pelicans, geese etc. So you can also see them in summer too. Also during summer water level of lake is low so may be the birds you can get in deep or sometimes closer. During monsoon most people don’t visit but if you like macro photography then you must visit Thol lake in monsoon. You can get some excellent macro subjects like waterdrops , Spiders, Insects etc.
What to do and What not to do in Thol Lake / Keep in mind while visiting sanctuary in India :
• Keep silence in sanctuary
• Maintain discipline
• Keep sanctuary clean
• Do not throw plastic waste anywhere in sanctuary
• Protect wildlife
• Observe birds, mammals etc and protect them and identify them
• Follow rules of wildlife protection act -1972
• Don’t disturb birds and animals
• Don’t enter in sanctuary with liquor and inflammable objects
• Don’t make loud noice.
• Enter in sanctuary with permit only and keep receipt till you leave sanctuary
• Don’t feed birds and animals
Where to Stay near Thol Lake :
Well near to Thol Lake there are not good places to stay at night but you can go near to destinations like Kadi, Kalol or Gandhinagar , Ahmedabad where you can get good places to stay at night. Nearest I suggest Kalol around 15-18 km or you can go Ahmedabad around 25 km.
Places to Visit near Thol Lake :
If you are staying at Ahmedabad then go for Ahmedabad Darshan , Pol area of Ahmedabad and Adalaj Ni Vav ( Heritage places ) etc. Also go for fast food test at night at Manek Chauk and SindhuBhavan road there are lots of option for food lovers like Urban Chauk, Freezbee etc.
If you stay at Gandhinagar then visit Mahatma Mandir at Gandhinagar, Sarita udyan , Akshardham Temple etc.
I would suggest Modhera Sun Temple if you had some more time which is around 100km from Ahmedabad. For bird lovers and bird photographer I would suggest visit Little ran of Kutch (LRK) during Winter season, Pariej Lake, Indroda park Gandhinagar, Jessore Sanctuary Banaskantha etc.
How to Reach Thol Sanctuary :
Nearest airport is Ahmedabad and from Ahmedabad thol lake distance is around 30-40 km
Also for Railway station is Ahmedabad because you can get all frequency and destinations from Ahmedabad railway station.
Bahucharaji or Becharaji is located in Mehsana district Gujarat. It is a Hindu Temple of Hindu Goddess Bahuchara Mata.Bahucharaji Temple is in Bahucharaji town near shankhalpur village Mehsana. Bahucharaji Temple is in center of town. Bahucharaji temple managed by State Government. Ma Devi Bahucharaji is worshipped here as Goddess Bala Tripura Sundari.
Story of Bahucharaji temple
As per old people says Dandasur demon was stayed near Becharaji and won Patallok, Mrutyulok and Devloka all three lokas. The Devil has boon from Lord Shiva that a godeess appeared against him in small girl form. All 3 lokas Devas went to Goddess Parambaa to save them from demon. The Bahuchar mata appeared in form of small girl for fist time at Varakhadi tree . So bahuchar mata known as Bala Bahuchara Mata. Goddess killed demon with Trishul and bought peace for people of earth.
- Main vehicle of Bahuchar Mata is cock.
- Bala Yantra of Crystle and encased In gold is worshipped at temple.
- Bahuchar Mata carries sward on top right hand, Abhay mudra on bottom right, a text of scriptures on top left and trident on bottom left.
- In my family we believed that new born male child first time hair removed ( Mundan ) after 1 year in temple.
- It is also believed that any new child don’t speak properly then bought here and on his behalf cock donated to Mata and in few days child can speak properly.
- All over from India devotee came here and pray for blessing of Goddess. On purnima ( full moon ) day is special for devotees. On Chaitri Poonam 5 days fair arranged near the Temple and in city.
Where to Stay in Bahucharaji or Bechraji :
There are lots of Dharamshala , Hotels, Guest Houses in Bahucharaji. All places are in good rate available. People can also go to Mehsana , Shankhalpur for stay . Also people can go to Modhera Sun Temple for visit.
Bahucharaji Mata Temple Darshan Timing :
Bahucharaji Mata temple darshan timing is from 5.30 AM to 10 PM .
Nearest Airport : Ahmedabad
District : Mehsana
Pincode of Bechraji : 384213
Ambaji is a town in Banaskantha district. The town surrounded by aravalli Hills. Ambaji is Famous for Ambaji Temple. Millions of devotees visit Ambaji Temple every year. Even my family also visited Ambaji Temple once in a year Climate of Ambaji is change in all season . Summer is very hot around 45 degree and in winter temperature goes down to 6-7 degree. Rainfall average 15 -30 in in monsoon.
About Ambaji Temple:
- Ambaji Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas .
- Ambaji Mata Temple is a major Shakti peethas in India. It is also known as Arasuri Ambaji Mata Temple.
- Shree visa Yantra is worship as main God. No one can see Yantra with nacked eye. And also the Photography of Yantra is not allowed.
- The original seat of Ambaji Mata is at on top of Gabbar Hill.
- On purnima day large number of people come to Ambaji temple for darshan. On Bhadarvi Poornima there is a large mela in city. People from all over the country come here by walk from their destination on Bhadarvi Purnima . People make food camps, medicine camp, refreshment camp in between the road for people who come by walk in Ambaji Temple.
- The shrine of Shri Amba is regarded as a revered shrine by Shakta Shaktism sect of Hinduism. There was a say and also it believed that the heart of Sati Devi has fallen here.
The Myth of Ambaji Temple :
According to Lord Vishnu cut the corpse os sati with his weapon Sudarshan Chakra and 51 pieces fell on earth. That 51 place built shrine. And at Ambaji there was a say that Sati Devi’s heart was fallen so Ambaji is one of most important Shakti Peeth.
Gabbar Hill , Ambaji Temple
Gabbar is located at west of Ambaji Village at around 4-5 km away. It believed that original seat of the Goddess is at top of Gabbar Hill. There are around 999 steps for climbing Gabbar Hill. Among them 300 stone steps and rest are very narrow passage so it’s a thrill to climb. On the flat top of the hill there is a small temple of Ambaji. In this temple small covered lamp keep constantly burning. The lamp also seen from Ambaji Temple at night. There are footprint of Goddess their under the pipal tree.
In Ramayana there is a say that Lord Rama worship devi Ambaji so Devi Ambaji gave him an arrow name AJAY and with this arrow Lord Rama killed Ravan in the war.
9 Swaroop of Devi Ambaji :
- Shri Bhramcharini
- Shri Chandra Ganta
- Shri Katyayini
- Shri Kalratri
- Shri Mata Gauri
- Shri Kushmanda
- Shri Shail Putri
- Shri Siddhi Datri
- Shri Skandmata
Ambaji Temple Darshan Timing
Arti timing every day 6.00 AM in the morning
Winter Timing
|
Morning |
7.00 AM to 11.30 AM |
|
Afternoon |
12.30 PM to 4.00 PM |
|
Evening |
6.00 PM to 8.30 PM |
Summer Timing
|
Morning |
7.00 AM to 10.45 AM |
|
Afternoon |
12.30 PM to 4.30 PM |
|
Evening |
5.30 PM to 9.15 PM |
Monsoon Timing
|
Morning |
7.00 AM to 11.30 AM |
|
Afternoon |
12.30 PM to 4.30 PM |
|
Evening |
5.00 PM to 9.00 PM |
Ambaji Mata Devasthan Trust has installed Udan Khatola ( Rope –way ) facility for Gabbar hill.
Rope way price for adult is 125 rs and for kids below 110 cm is 64 rs.
Where To stay In Ambaji :
There are lots of hotels in Ambaji. Most hotels near to the temple. Generally i prefere at Reva Prabhu hotel or Jethiba Sadan which provide good Gujarati Thali in food and good condition rooms with good fare. Now a days there is a resort near Pancha village bus stand name Vanraji Resort before 3-5 km from Ambaji Temple. It is the first resort in Ambaji and resort is awesome. You can stay and enjoy the arravalli hills.