Everybody must have seen colorful Tibetan flags on may be Royal Enfield or backside of car. But do you know everything in the flag right from color to words has a deeper meaning which is inscribed in them.
In the cities dominated by Buddhist cultures like Dharamshala, Leh, Tiber or Spiti, then you might have seen these flags fluttering outside home, temples and mountain top.
Tibetan flags are brightly colored extravagant art & rituals. All of the colors in Tibetan art hold specific meanings. There are mainly 5 colors that are known as panch-varna in Sanskrit. Each color represents a state of mind, a celestial Buddha, a body part, and a part of mantra word.
‘Om Mani Padme Hum’, where Om- the sacred syllable, Mani- Jewel, Padme- Lotus, Hum- Spirit of enlightenment
In balance of all the elements, it is said to bring about inward & outward harmony and wind blows through them, the vibration of prayers & spiritual intention behind them spreads to find fulfillment.
5 colored flag where Blue stands for the ether or wind, White symbolises air, the red stands for fire, green and yellow represents water and earth respectively. And also represent the 5 meditation buddhas & 5 wisdom are compassion, harmony, wisdom of sight, kindness & perfect wisdom. It is also known that it represents the directions North, East, West, South & Center.
The flags do not carry prayers to gods which is common misconception; rather Tibetans believe these prayers and mantras will be blown by the wind to spread the good will & compassion into all-pervading space. As the wind passes over the air is purified and sanctified by mantras.
It is always good if we receive these flags as a gift.
It is considered as disrespectful if the flag touches the ground & that’s why we hung them up at a height.
The fading of colors on these flags means that the prayers were carried by breeze.
Flag should be hung in right order, starting with blue from left to right.
The actual hanging of these flags should be momentous occasion.
These colorful flags never fails to mesmerize me. And every visit to Himalayas is incomplete without taking pictures of it and soaring visibly around Himalayan ranges, they symbolises peace & harmony. These flags give me really sacred feeling. I keep collecting them every time and even I have tied it on room window.
And looks twice as old as all of them putting together”
After spending 12 glorious days in Uttarakhand (Nainital, Corbett, Mussoorie) I returned to home on 3rd June, 2017 and on the very next day i.e. 4th June, 2017 I left for my trip to Varanasi/Kashi/Banaras. Varanasi is the oldest city and having more than 1000 temples and 60 ghats. Visiting Varanasi is quite an experience because Hindus believe that death at Varanasi brings you ‘Moksha’/ it will liberate them from the cycle of birth & rebirth.
Day – 01 : Strolling around Kashi
I reached to Varansi at around 12 P.M. and after having a good lunch at Makkhan Handi Restaurant (Hotel Tridev Inn) , At 2 P.M. I went to visit Kashi Vishwanath Old Temple/ Golden Temple. There are thousands of temples in Varanasi but among them Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the most worshiped one of Lord Shiva and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. Vishwanath means “Lord of the World”. The temple is located on the bank of holy Ganges river at chowk.
The narrow lane or gali approaching the temple is known as vishwanath gali and got to know that numerous rituals and Pooja/Aarti are performed there from the morning till the night and the timings are 2:30 AM till 11 PM throughout the day.
As I was on trip for 12 days previously , I was little tired and Varanasi was extremely hot in June so it made me to go back to the Hotel and have some rest.
Banarasi Pan at the most famous shop
On the way to Hotel, I went to eat Banarasi Paan. You will find tiny shops on the streets everywhere. But this shop is one of the oldest and even Indira Gandhi , Jawaharlal Nehru and Amitabh Bachchan have had pan at place. As it was my first time trying Paan, I tried the special one with Silver coating and trust me it was the most yummiest.
Why not one more :d
As I asked for the Special Pan it was for Rs. 40 rest it is for 10 Rs. And then returned to the Hotel.
Day – 02 : Ghat Exploration Day
Next day morning, I woke up at 5 AM and decided to commence my ‘Ghat Exploration’ and witness morning sunrise at Assi Ghat adjoining by Ganga Mahal, Rewa and Tulsi Ghat. It’s good idea to hire a boat so I went for it. Assi Ghat is where the Ganges River meets Assi located at extreme southern and main ghats.
Magical glow of Sunrise
After exploring Assi Ghat and asking few questions to locals over there I walked towards Dassaswamedh Ghat- the Top attraction of Varanasi. The Best way to understand the city is simply walk along the ghat.
The most ancient and famous Ghat in Varanasi
Dassaswamedh Ghat is the heart of the action and one of the oldest and holiest Ghat where the famous Ganga aarti takes place in the evening. All the Ghats are adjoining and you can walk from one to another very easily.
Funeral Pyres at Manikarnika Ghat
I walked towards Manikarnika Ghat – The Burning Ghat. I felt little disturbed while walking towards mainkarnika ghat which is very popular site of cremation where funeral pyres are never extinguished. But surprisingly the atmosphere was vibrant there. Death is taken as shedding of skin that is no longer necessary. Nearly 200 bodies are burned and their ashes are released into Ganges. Other burning Ghat is Harishchandra Ghat. After Visiting Ganga Ghat, Dassaswamedh Ghat , Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat I returned to the Hotel for Lunch and As I had very low battery on my camera, I went to Hotel for some time.
Boat Ride to witness sunset
After having rest, I again came back to Dassaswamedh ghat to take a sunset boat ride in Ganges to witness a magical dewy glow of sunset. You will see Saffron clad Sadhus Smoking or Meditating or doing Yoga, Kids with their Mundan ceremony, people taking dip in river, locals washing their laundry over there. I went to the other side by Boat ride and guide explaining about the place and showing all the other Ghats i.e. Panchganga, Manmandir, Darbhanga, Lalita Ghat. And evening just after the sunset,
All Gathered for watching pooja from boat balcony
I saw a huge crowd gathering to perform & watch Pooja/Aarti where Hindu priests leads a ceremony of fire chanting and music praising river Ganges & Lord Shiva. Just right before they perform Aarti, I saw Kangana Ranaut (Bollywood Actress) for the shoot of ‘Manikarnika – The Queen of Jhansi’.
Kangana Ranaut for her shoot of Manikarnika – The Queen of Jhansi
Initially I did not know that she is the one taking dip with a heavy costume and my boat was just 10 feet away from her but after watching people taking a lot of pictures then I got to know that there is Kangana Ranaut over there.
Ganga Aarti
Ganga Aarti was really a great experience. Below is the Video of this ceremony. Have a look 🙂
watching this prestigious ganga aarti, I went to market to check out some Banarasi Silk Saree for my mom and try out local street food Banarasi Chaat at Kashi chaat center , observed streets on the way and returned to Hotel.
Me trying saree 😀
Day – 03 : Sarnath – The City Of Hope and Peace.
I woke up at 6:00, had my breakfast and took a taxi for whole day starting from Ramnagar fort. On the other side of the river, 17th century palace, the home of Maharaja/King of Banaras.
It was drizzling a little bit and visited a beautiful museum and temple of Vedavyas over there.
Ramnagar Fort, Varanasi
Immediately after Ieft for Sarnath and many other temples on the way. I visited Annapurna Devi Temple, Shree Durga Temple, Hanuman Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple. Oh, so many temples I visited: d and also Bharat Kala Bhavan.
Lassi is must try
After having a lunch, went to Birla temple, trying lassi over there is must. Saw the architecture of Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
Excavated remains of Sarnath
I moved further for Sarnath – The city of hope and peace. Observed the excavated remains is sarnath and Visited archaeological museum constructed in 1911 treasures the valuable findings of old city sarnath and moved further to Dhamek Stupa – the colossal stupa 143ft height with 93ft diameter was constructed by Ashok.
Next I went to Chinese monastery, Japanese Temple, Bodhi Gaya and Thai temple with Ashoka pillar in the entrance. Saw so many foreigners who were passionate about knowing the history of the place more than the country people.
Silk Saree weaving machine
At last I visited the place where the craft of weaving of Banarasi Silk sarees took place. These sarees are among the finest sarees in India and known for their golden and silver brocade and opulent embroidery. These sarees are famous since the ancient times for the cotton and silk. After buying 2-3 more sarees for my mom and aunt. I left the place to reach Hotel. It was probably 6:30 PM and I reached to hotel and had a nice dine at Makkhan Handi Restaurant again and My trip ended.
Ashoka Pillar
Things to remember while visiting Varanasi :
Remember to be respectful while observing the funerals in Manikarnika Ghat. Do not take photos and do not make noise. (I saw so many people doing over there and it is disrespectful)
Small streets are easy to get lost in and can also be quite dirty with trash on the roads and spits of pan. I really suggest you to don’t take bath in the river. If you want to take bath in holy Ganges then Haridwar and Rishikesh are much cleaner and better
You might find the fake holy men or sadhus claiming to show better places and ask you to go for puja/aartis which will purify your soul, they are going to cheat you and ask money just for no reason and putting tilak on your forehead and if you deny, they will throw some really bad wishes to you.
There are some guides who starts following you and narrating the story of the place even if you don’t ask for. Later on they be rude and asking for money in wrong way. So better if you are not interested then be direct.
Varanasi is very fascinating place but if you are a foreigner, new to India and have other plans to visit more places in India then I recommend to visit Varanasi towards the end of the trip if possible
Overall You will see tiny shops, Pan shops, silk saree shops, colorful bazaars and smoking sadhus on the streets. And All I can say about the place is ‘Tranquility, Culture, History ; All Rolled into One’ , That’s Varanasi for me.
State: Uttar Pradesh
Route from Delhi: Flight, Train Recommended. Bus journey is quite long
Where to Stay: Tridev Inn (Luxurious), Hotel Alka (by the Ghat, Budget Hotel)
Where to Eat: Makkhan Handi Restaurant (Recommended)
Best time to visit: Winter or Rainy Season Recommended As summers are way too hot in Varanasi
I hope you liked my Travelogue on Varanasi. Please share your reviews/suggestions and don’t forget to Subscribe and Share
“The book of nature has no beginning as it has no end. Open this book where you will, and at any period of your life, and if you have the desire to acquire the knowledge you will find it of intense interest, and no matter how intently you study the pages, your interest will not flag, for in nature there is no finality – Jim Corbett
The time I spent in the jungle held unalloyed happiness for me, and that happiness I would now gladly share. My happiness, I believe, resulted from the fact that all wildlife is happy in its natural surroundings. In nature, there is no sorrow, and no repining. Jim Corbett national park is in the foothills of Himalayan belt and has various geographical and ecological characteristics with splendid landscapes.
I visited the Jim Corbett National Park in the month of June 2017, This beautiful park is spread across 1250+ square Km and is divided into different zones. i.e. Bijrani, Dhikala, Jhirna, Dominda and Sonanadi. I entered the Park through Jhirna zone, which is closed to a town Ramnagar and is the only zone which remains open throughout the year, other zones are closed during monsoons (probably after 15th June)
I hired a Gypsy from my resort ‘The Wild Crest ‘ and I woke up early in the morning and ventured out at 6:00 a.m. and entered into park gate, formalities were hassle free and I was joined by my guide “Sukhbir Singh”, who advised me on the do’s and don’ts during the ride and then enlightened me with his knowledge about the park. Once into the jungle experience was awesome like the smell of the jungle, the sound of animals and birds was a treat to my senses. It was then that I realized that I should enjoy the ambiance of the Jungle in totality and not keep thinking about spotting the Tigers only!
All roads lead to that one creation of God, perhaps God himself as far as this pilgrimage is concerned and that is of course the Royal Bengal Tiger. I sighted the younger ones for less than 2 minutes before it disappeared into the bushes. This made my day and I was all the more looking forward for more animals to spot. During the safari, I spotted different species of deer, and I was lucky enough to see dancing peacock ,saw a wild boar, Jackals, flying squirrels, sambar deer, and many species of birds and I was expecting one more time for tiger sighting but wasn’t lucky the rest of the time. The jeep safari goes about 20 kms inside the jungle and they have fixed routes which they follow and comes back via a little different route. The total jeep safari was about 2:30 hours and returned to the Resort at 10:00 a.m.
Overall, a wonderful safari and I am thankful to the guide whose knowledge was not only outstanding but he was also an excellent spotter of wildlife. I surely love this park and will go there again.
In the evening, I visited Garjiya Devi Temple on the river Kosi, which is located on the outskirts of Corbett national park. The temple is situated over a large rock in the Kosi River and one of the most famous temples of Nainital district. There’s also a statue of Lakshmi Narayan of 9th century which is made from black granite. Many people take bath in the Crystal clear water of Kosi River.
If you are planning a trip to Corbett, only for the tiger, DON’T do it! There is so much more to the jungle right from roaming around in open jeeps to knowing about the architectural instincts of ants.
Plan ahead: Though it can be reached easily from Delhi on an overnight bus or train. I would suggest booking your jungle safaris 20-30 days before your date of travel.
Stay in Jungle: There are a few government sponsored websites that offers night stay and safari packages.
Travel in Group: It’s not just a good way to share expenses but also share stories and have fun. For an instance, If you are on you can only look out for animals in just one direction, but if it’s four for you, may be you can show each other what you found.
The hotter the better: Locals say, you can spot more animals on a hot day as compared to cold/rainy days, the reason being they are thirsty, and come out in search of water more than ever.
Not just the Tiger: As I mentioned above, there is so much more to do. The feel of living in and being there in the middle of the action. Other than that, one can opt for elephant safaris , stroll around Kosi River, plan a day trip to Nainital/Bhimtal if you have extra time.
A dusty, chaotic, wind-swept little town in a relatively undiscovered part of Rajasthan hardly sounds appealing. But Barmer will prove you wrong. It’s present name was given by its founder Bahada Rao, popularly known as Bar Rao, Parmar Ruler (Juna Barmer). He build a small town which is presently known as “Juna” which is 25 km from present city of Barmer.
Sanchal Fort is luxury boutique palace hotel located on sand dunes of Mahabar in Barmer Rajasthan which is located in the western part of the state forming a part of the Thar Desert and it also borders Pakistan.
The hotel captures the essence of Rajasthan’s vibrant culture and heritage. The very essence of the culturally rich state of Rajasthan is brought to life at Sanchal Fort. Away from the hustle and bustle of urban madness, their splendid heritage styled hotel is to be found in the middle of sand dunes providing a perfect setting for an ideal break. The true luxury and hospitality while they pamper us all that are needed to make a holiday perfect.
The hotel started opened its doors to guests in the year 2014 when In 2009 the Barmer district came into the news due to its large Oil basin and now Barmer is on global map It has total 27 rooms including 5 suits, a multi-cuisine restaurant named “Zaffran” & a bar lounge “Saaqi”. The hotel also offers a beautiful spa named “Jiva” with a range of authentic massage to soothe one’s body, mind & soul along with a fully quipped gym and a breathtaking infinity pool to dip into. Sanchal Fort’s conference hall is named as “Baradari” meaning a gathering or baithak in the local Rajasthani dialect is perfect for any business conferences or events and the hotel has beautiful lawns for outdoor events & weddings.
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HOW TO REACH BARMER:
By Air: The nearest Airport is at Jodhpur around 220 km from Barmer
By Road: State-run buses connect the town with most of the cities in the state including Jodhpur, Jaipur, Udaipur
By Train: The Barmer railway station is well connected from Jodhpur, which in turn is well connected to major cities of India.
Kiradu Temple, A group of ruined temples located in the Barmer district of Rajasthan, India. The Kiradu town is located in the Thar desert, about 35 km from Barmer
Salt Flat Redana – The Salt Flat stretched away to the horizon, the white crust of layer shone brilliantly in the afternoon sun. It was a grim landscape.
Mahabar Sand Dunes – Who Serves snacks in the middle of the Desert! Well, Sanchal Fort palace did that for us and that too with folk musicians which makes the evening perfect
The mesmerizing fusion of different forms of architecture is one of the main attractions in the city. Equally fascinating are the unique constructions like the ‘pols’ (secret passageways) and the Adalaj Stepwall. The city never fails to surprise a tourist. On one hand, the Sabarmati Ashram reminds Mahatma Gandhi’s contribution to India’s freedom movement while on the other it encourages us to enjoy our life to the fullest through the vibrant events of Navratri and the International Kite Festival. The city also takes us closer to nature through its beautiful riverfronts and one of its kind Indroda Nature Park, the only dinosaur museum in the country.
This is a short day trip that we did with our group recently. I thought of sharing my experience as there is no mention of the Zarwani falls in detail. I feel this is still a less explored place and a must visit for people who like adventure and wildlife.
The Drive ….
Ahmedabad to Vadodara – on the expressway approx 98 kms.
Vadodara-Dabhoi-Rajpipla-Gora Village- Shoolpaneshwar Sanctuary – 130 Kms
After the expressway you drive onto the SH towards Dabhoi from Vadodara, which is a good country road with rural traffic in patches. As you approach Rajpipla you start experiencing the green all round with dense vegetation and farms on both sides of the roads. On reaching Narmada Dist you then take a left from the SH towards Gora village this is a narrow road leading through the forest area, once at the forest department check post you pay the entry fees of Rs. 400/ vehicle and enter.
This is where the excitement starts, as you drive on a 15 Km stretch of winding forest track, with virtually no roads, this can get quite slushy during the monsoons.
The narrow pathway leads you up and down and across various hillocks, the forest keeps getting denser as you move deeper. And then you drive through a small stream of water which leads you to the Zarwani water falls. This entire stretch will excite any off road enthusiast.
Zarwani Falls
Think of a place where you can remain ‘incommunicado’ at least for a day from the daily gripes and grunts. This waterfall is deep in a jungle where the mobiles are dead and there are no electricity lines overhead
You need to park your vehicle on the rocky terrain near the river banks and trek to reach the falls. You will need to walk through the river, crossing three rapids, with almost 3.5 Ft of water at places to reach the Zarwani water falls. You will find local tribal people who also act as guides and will tell you where exactly to step inside the water, as the bottom has rocks which are slippery at places, and will help you reach the falls. On the way you can take a break and relax on the rocks across the stream of gushing pure water. The water is actually so clean that you can see through and spot small fishes at the bottom.
TRAVEL ADVISORY
1.To visit the falls, permission has to be availed from the Forest Office.
2.The waterfall is to be trekked from the parking place. It is better to wear sports shoes, shorts and carry light luggage.
3.Avoid slippery rocks while climbing near the waterfalls.
4.Do not litter and avoid plastics.
5.The electricity generated is with solar energy. It should be used responsibly.
6.No smoking within the forest and waterfall area.
7.Carry sufficient food and drinking water as there are virtually no eating joints within the forest area.
One can arrange for day picnics or treks with the help of the forest department, with the forest, waterfalls and other natural beauty within easy reach
Shatrunjaya Hill, Palitana : The Shatrunjaya Hill is located at a height of 591 metres. The Shatrunjaya Temple is the most sacred temple of the Jains and one of the largest of its kind in India. One has to climb up the hill for about 4 kms (600 meters) on a stepped path to Shatrunjaya (place of victory over worldliness). You can reach this place either in Doli or lift chairs or by walking. The rich persons visit this place on richly caparisoned elephants. There are about 863 white marble Jain temples, built over 900 years on the hilltop, each with its own enclosure.. There is a stunning view from the top of the hill and the air is filled with the scent of the jasmine trees. On a clear day, you can also see the Gulf of Cambay.
Shri Hastagiri Tirth : This sacred place is on a hill on the bank of the river Shetrunji
Blackbuck National Park at Velavadar is situated in the Bhavnagar District of Gujarat state, India. Established in 1976 in the Bhal region of Saurashtra, the park is located around 42 km from the district headquarters city of Bhavnagar
India is a vast South Asian country with diverse terrain – from Himalayan peaks to Indian Ocean coastline – and history reaching back 5 millennia. In the north, Mughal Empire landmarks include Delhi’s Red Fort complex and massive Jama Masjid mosque, plus Agra’s iconic Taj Mahal mausoleum. Pilgrims bathe in the Ganges in Varanasi, and Rishikesh is a yoga centre and base for Himalayan trekking.
While snow claims India’s northern bits, the sun lulls its beaches, its southern outlines acquire an effortless charm and the plains get used to a much awaited extra layer of clothes, the Indian Peninsula enters one of the best seasons to travel here. Here are places to visit in India by a string of holidays, itching your feet to get out and travel.
Besides Africa, Gir National Park in Gujarat is the only place in the world where you can spot lions roaming free in the wild. The real discovery channel of India is situated approximately 65 Kms South East of Junagarh District. The Government notified the large geographical extent of Sasan Gir as wildlife sanctuary on 18th September, 1965 in order to conserve the Asiatic Lion. It covers total area of 1412 square kilometers of which 258 Km forms the core area of the National Park. Indiscriminate hunting by the people of Junagarh led to their decrease in population drastically, while they were completely wiped out from the other parts of Asia. It was the kind effort of Nawabs of Junagarh who protected the queen royalty in his own private hunting grounds. Later in due course of time Department of Forest Officials came forward to protect the world’s most threatened species. From a population of approximately 20 lions in 1913, they have risen to a comfortable 523 according to 2015 census. There are 106 male, 201 female and 213 sub-adult lions in the wilderness of these four districts.
Subtle Glimpses of Major Attractions at Sasan Gir:
Animals: The entire forest area of the Gir National Park is dry and deciduous which provides best habitat for Asiatic Lions. As per the new statics of 2015, the entire Saurashtra Region is inhabited by 523 Lions and more than 300 Leopards. Apart from these two animals the park is a home to two different species of Deer. The Sambar is counted largest Indian Deer. The Gir forest is also known for the Chowsingha – the world’s only four horned antelope. The Jackal, striped Hyena and India Fox are some of the smaller carnivores found in Gir Forest.
Birds: The exotic flora of Gir National Park gives shelter to more than 200 species of birds and moreover the sanctuary has been declared an important bird area by the Indian Bird Conservation Network. Gir is also habitat of raptors like critically endangered white-backed and long-billed vultures.
Reptiles: Gir is blessed with more than 40 species of reptiles and amphibians. Kamleshwar – a large reservoir in the sanctuary is the best spot where Marsh Crocodile can be seen in large numbers. Park has even many species of snake including King Kobra, the Russell’s viper, Saw-scaled viper and the Krait.
Gir Interpretation Zone, Devaliya: Devaliya Safari Park is enclosed area of the Sanctuary that offers a good opportunity for visitors to experience a rustic beauty and wilderness of the area. The safari tour is conducted in a mini bus that takes visitors to another cross section of the Gir. Travelers can watch here a good variety of wildlife in just 20 to 30 minutes tour including Asiatic Lion.
How to Reach Gir National Park Gir: National Park attracts large number of tourists to witness the Asiatic lion, as this is the sole place all across the world where these creatures are presently found. Once extinct, numbers have been recovered owing to the conservation efforts. The Sanctuary is open for tourism from 16th October to 15th June every year.
Junagadh is perhaps the best approach to the park. The railway station in Junagadh receives trains from different cities like Ahmedabad and Rajkot and other major cities. Then, from here it takes approximately one and half hour to reach Gir National Park.
From Rajkot-On reaching Rajkot Railway Station or Airport you can take a cab or bus and to reach a Limda chowk. There are a number of privately operated that go to Junagadh at frequent intervals. Junagadh is nearly 105 Kms from the city Rajkot and it takes nearly 2 and a half to 3 hours to cover the distance.From this point you have two options. First one is either you take a bus from gate number 11or 12 to Sasan Gir or travel by taxi that is accessible bang opposite the taxi stand. The taxi will take nearly one and half an hour and will charge reasonably and will drop you to Sasan Gir.
From Somnath to Gir National Park: Road Distance or the driving distance from the Gir National Park to Somnath is approximately 50 Kms and it takes nearly 1 hour to cover this distance. GSRTC buses and quite a few private buses ply between both the cities and take you directly to Sasan Gir Forest.
zarwani eco campsite is in narmada district. By road it is 99 kms from vadodara.
The route is Ahmedabad-baroda-dabhoi-tilakvad-garudeshawar-towards rajpipla kevadiya road
2.Girmal falls , Dang (ahwa)
Girmal waterfall is located 8 kms from nishana from ahwa-nawapur road near girmal village of dang in Gujarat.
this waterfall extends to a height up to 100 feet, making the highest waterfall of Gujarat.
The picturesque beauty of this site makes it popular among visitors and people of the region alike.
Water swiftly falls from a great height, creating a fog like condition that’s eye catching.
3.Ninai waterfall , dediapada
Ninai waterfall is situated at about 110 km from Kevadia Colony near Dediapada in Narmada district.
It is a nice place to enjoy picnic with family and friends.
There are also accommodation and food facilities in Sagai village at the distance of about 15 km from the Ninai falls.
4.Ratanmahal sloth bear sanctuary.
About 55.65 sq. km area of the Sanctuary is a triangular landmass, which covers reserve forests of 11 villages.
Sloth bear indeed is more dangerous than the leopard at times. But, it is a thrilling experience to have a glimpse of the bear in the Ratanmahal Wildlife Sanctuary.
This is the place, where you may come across a leopard, a palm civet, an Indian civet, four-horned antelope, langurs, Loten’s sunbird, large green barbet, yellow checked tit, crested serpent eagle, grey junglefowl and a pit viper…!
A visit to Ratanmahal is indeed rewarding.
5. Zanzari waterfall
Zanzari waterfalls is about 60 kms from Ahmedabad.
Best time to go in monsoon or till after 2 months it. You have to walk for about 3 to 4 kms to reach fall after parking your vechile.
There is an old Shiv temple near parking .
Camel ride is also available for reaching fall.
You can hear the sound of fall from a long distance.
Good place for half day family picnic near ahmedabad.
6. Jambughoda
An easy destination to combine with a visit to Champaner is the Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary, a mere 20 km away (70 km from Vadodara).
Full of forests of teak and mahuda trees, bamboo, and other lush vegetation, Jambughoda is home to large populations of many kinds of wildlife.
The leopard at the top of the food chain is the primary predator, and its numbers have been increasing recently.
Other large wildlife include the wild boar,nilgai(blue bull, the largest antelope in Asia), jackal, hyena, barking deer, sloth bear, andchausingha(four-horned antelope).
7. Blackbuck national park , velavadar
Black Buck National Park: One of the must visit place, located 30Km off Bhavnagar Gujrat.
The USP of the place is the omnipresent marvels of nature- Sunrise, Sunset, Stars, Meteors off course not to forget Dynamic black bucks, raptors, wolves & wild bores.
8. Polo monument forest, Sabarkantha
Polo Forest is a haven for Eco-friendly nature lovers and the adventurous.
Polo-one of the most ancient historical sites in Gujarat, is also unique for its picturesque surroundings, Forest & Mills serving as refuge for fascinating flora & fauna.
This spot lure tourists during Diwali vacation & monsoon to enjoy the charm of this place.
9. Auto world vintage car museum , SP ring road, kathwada.
Auto world vintage car museum is an excellent collection of 104 cars owned by Mr. Pranlal bhogilala patel of gujarat state
All these cars are in working order.
cars from 1906 to 1964 are looked after by 50+ staff
two cars are given for ride of 3 kms at 500 per 4 persons.
This museum is established since 20 hears.
One must not miss to see this museum.
Its open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
10. Bakor
Bakor is small village from mahisagar district in esteem gujarat.
Campsite developed by gujarat adventure lovers.
Surrounded by a rolling countryside with small aravalli hills dotting the horizon.
With a good forest, bird life and a distinct tribal culture.
11. Taranga hills & Dharoi dam
Taranga hills are located around 20 kms from vadnagar, on the aravali range and harbours have the profound connections with buddhism.
12. Sardar sarovar dam & kevadia colony
Sardar sarovar dam- site with a side view of the flow of the water from the dam ; a lake where boating takes place; the first lock gate of the main canal; a trekking site with a nature education camp for students.
Long concrete dam across narmada river near village navagaon.
13.Karai dam, gandhinagar
Karai dam is Situated at nana chiloda in gandhinagar.
Around 25 kms from ahmedabad.
14. Shetrunjay hills , palitana
Shetrunjay hills are located in holy city of palitana in Bhavnagar district of gujarat.
15. Akshardham temple, gandhinagar
One of the largest temples in Gujarat.
Akshardham Temple – Gandhinagar is a perfect amalgamation of ancient technique of stone architecture and modern era’s technology.
The grandeur of the temple explains the skills and hard work of thousands of volunteers who devoted their precious time and efforts in construction of this temple which has beautifully turned out into even more than a marvelous piece of architecture.
16. Sabarmati riverfront, Ahmedabad
Sabarmati riverfront is very beautiful place. There is a park made with swings for children.
Must go for a vintage var ride rs 30 per person. And self balancing scooter ride rs. 70 per person.
Boarhing facility is also available.
Good place to visit with family.
best place for photoshoots.
17. Balaram , palanpur
Balaram Palace Resort, Located at Chitrasani Village on the Abu-Palanpur Highway No.14 in the Ambaji Reserve forest facing the mighty Aravalis offers splendid views & breeze.
It is also a wonderful dream wedding destination.
18. Kabirwad
Kabirwad is a famous place situated on an island in the middle of the river Narmada.
It can be reached by boats which operate to and from the Shuklatirth Shiva temple.
It is an incredible grove of a Banyan tree which has grown over the years and now occupies an area of almost 3 kms.
The place is named after the famous Saint Kabir who lived here for many years.
It also has an imposing Kabir Temple where visitors & worshippers come to pray.Thus people visit Kabirwad not just for historical reason but also to enjoy the solitude and sanctity offered by this huge Banyan Tree.
19. Laxmivilas palace
Around 115 kms from Ahmedabad by road
The palace grounds include a golf course and sayajirao’s personal museum, containing, among other displays original paintings by Raja ravi varma.
20. Nal sarovar
Largest wetland bird sanctuary in Gujarat & The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands site, it is home to migratory birds in winters
21. Thol bird sanctuary
Thol lake bird sanctuary is around 20 kms from ahmedabad.
One gets overwhelmed wirh flock of bird flying together and creating graphical patterns on the sky. While long-legged elongated necked cranes keep stalking for fishes and small insects.
This place is home to more than 10p species of birds.
Cranes, geese, flamingoes, pelicans, egrets, herons, spoonbills, ducks, whistling teals and many othe migratory birds nest and breed in the lap of this natures exuberance.
22. Kankaria
Kankariya lake is situated in the heart of Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Its located at maninagar area.
It is the largest lake in the city. And great place to hang out.
The lake front is well developed with zoo, kids fun city, aquarium, butterfly park, food stalls, bal vatika, joy rides, mini toy train ride and many other entertainment facilities
its a big circular lake fron one point there’s a walkway which goes to the garden in the middle of the lake called as ‘Naginawadi’
if you are visiting Ahmedabad it is a must visit, you will enjoy whole day with lot of interesting things to do
23. Tirupati rushivan adventure park , himmatnagar
Largest amusement park of Gujarat
24. Shulpaneshwar wildlife sanctuary
Birds having affinities with himalayan and western ghats a variety of raptors, the hills of satpuda range, the thrill of coming across a python or flying squirrel, pangolin or big/lesser cats and the scenic beauty of moist deciduous forest.
All this can be enjoyed by an eco tourist shoolpaneshwar wildlife sanctuary.
25. Vadhwana wetland & eco campsite
Located 10 kms from dabhoi and 20 kms from the jambughoda villag.
a popular bird watching sire for species including stork, tern, ibis, and spoonbill.
To get here you will have to rent a vehicle from dabhoi.
Apart from being a wetland, its also has an eco tourism campsite.
Best time to visit wetland is from October to march that is the main migratory seasons for birds which migrate here from all over the world.
dreamy destinations by pinal mehta 
