|
|
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| |
|
Gujarat Hotels |
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
Ahmedabad Excursion |
|
|
|
|
|
Sarkhej
Sarkhej is situated about 8 kms. southwest of the city
centre and a suburb of Ahmedabad. Sarkhej was once a
country retreat of the Muslim rulers. It is known for
its Rauza, the fine architectural complex of mosques,
palaces, pavilions and tombs, all grouped around a
stepped tank. The style shows distinct Hindu
influence. By the entrance is the tomb of Sultan
Mahmud Begadaa, with geometric jalis casting patterns
of light on the floor. Shaikh Ahmed Khattu lived at
Sarkhej and built this mosque with a great open space
in front of the prayer hall, surrounded by the domes.
The Dutch established an indigo factory nearby. |
 |
|
|
|
|
Vishala
Vishala is situated about 5 kms. from Ahmedabad. It is
purposefully built showpiece of a collection of huts along
clay paths which capture the spirit of a traditional
Gujarati village. It began as an excellent vegetarian
restaurant in 1978 but has grown since to include a museum,
live performances of music, dance and puppet shows as well
as craftsman at work and an excellent shop. Pots, handloom
linens, hand crafted shoes, clothes, brassware or embroidery
from Vishala. Here you can sit cross-legged at low tables,
eat on green leaves and drink from clay tumblers. The
portions are generous and there is a large variety of
traditional dishes, breads, chutneys, ending with an Indian
sweet and nutty ice-cream.
Utensils Museum
The Utensils Museum has an exceptional collection of rare
brass and copper utensils, water pots, old betel nut boxes
and containers used for temple rituals. |
|
|
|
Adalaj
Adalaj is situated about 17 kms. north of Ahmedabad.
The baoli or step-well at Adalaj Vav is one of the
finest step well in India. Queen Rudabai built this
well in 1499 to provide the traveller with a cool and
pleasant refuge from the summer heat. A long flight of
steps descends to the water. It has three entrances
leading to a huge platform that rests on 16 pillars,
with corners marked by shrines. Ornately carved
pillars and cross beams create open spaces and four
storey that are quite striking. The octagonal well is
five storey deep. The baoli is decorated with
exquisite stone carvings, subjects range from
eroticism to buttermilk.
Dada Hari Vav
Dada Hari Vav was built in 1499 by a woman of Sultan Begara's harem. This wav has steps to lower platforms,
terminating at a small, octagonal well. The depths are
cool, even on a hottest day. Neglected and often borne
dry, it is a fascinating place. The best time to visit
and photograph the well is between 10 to 11 AM
(earlier in the summers |
 |
|
|
and later in the winters), at other times the
sun does not penetrate to the various levels.
Mata Bhavani's Well
Mata Bhavani's Well is about 200 kms. north of Dada Hari Vav. Thought to be several hundred years older, it is less
ornate and used as a simple Hindu temple.
Gujarat Science City
The Gujarat Science City is an educational theme park
situated on the road to Gandhinagar. The features of this
science city are an IMAX theatre, the interactive Hall of
Science, a 30 seater Thrill Ride Simulator, a spot lit
Musical fountain and an Energy Education Park.
|
|
|
|
Nalsarovar
Bird Sanctuary
Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is situated about 60 kms.
south west of Ahmedabad. Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is
the famous bird sanctuary in Gujarat. The Nalsarovar
lake is a seasonal lake spread over an area of 115
square km. This extensive lake is surrounded by the
iron flat plains and is known for its water birds.
About thousand species of birds like flamingoes and
other water birds migrate in the Nalsarovar Bird
Sanctuary during winter. Various variety of birds like
kingfishers, egrets, darters, storks, cormorants,
jacanas, moorhens, coots, grebes and ducks can be
seen in this sanctuary. The best time to visit this
sanctuary is in the months of December and January.
|
 |
|
|
