Prepare for the greatest travel competition: Gujarat vs Rajasthan! If you're stuck between experiencing the vibrant states of Gujarat and Rajasthan, this article can help you decide. Both states are jewels of India's colorful culture, offering one-of-a-kind experiences, delectable cuisine, and magnificent views. But which one should be at the top of your travel bucket list? Let's take a deep dive into each of these wonderful sites and discover what they have to offer.
So, which of the states is going to capture your heart? Regardless you select Gujarat or Rajasthan, one can expect a memorable journey packed with rich culture, great food, and amazing landscapes. Let the adventure begin!
Gujarat - Land of Legends
Gujarat, a land of stories, is known for its unique attractions. Imagine yourself roaming among the ancient remains of Lothal, an Indus Valley Civilization site, or admiring the beautiful white desert of the Rann of Kutch beneath a starry sky.
Don't miss Gir National Park, which is the only area in the world where you can witness Asiatic lions in the wild. If you're a history enthusiast, the stately palaces of Vadodara and the breathtaking Sun Temple in Modhera are must-sees. Plus, Gujarat's colorful festivities, such as Navratri, will keep you partying the night away!
Best time to visit Gujarat
The best time to visit Gujarat's top tourist attractions is between October and February. With the good weather, sightseeing in Gujarat becomes easier. July to September is also a fantastic period to see Gujarat's major sites. Some cities receive little to no rain at all.
3 must-visit places in Gujarat
Porbandar
Porbandar, one of Gujarat's most beautiful beach towns, is currently developing as a significant trade hub. It is also well-known as the birthplace of Gandhi. Scenic temples and dams contribute to the beauty of the area, and there are several wildlife places to add to your exciting stay in Gujarat.
Somnath Temple
The next prominent destination to visit in Gujarat is a temple. The Somnath Temple, one of Lord Shiva's most sacred Jyotirlingas, is more than simply a religious landmark. The temple, which is on the banks of the rocky Arabian Sea, is also a wonder. It has been tear down and rebuilt several times, including by Lord Soma in gold, Ravana in silver, Krishna in wood, and King Bhimdev in stone. It is the stone structure that stands tall today, attracting millions of devotees who come to seek the Lord's grace.
Rann of Kutch
Rann of Kutch is possibly the most gorgeous thing you've ever seen. Rann of Kutch, nestled peacefully between the boundless Thar Desert and the sprawling Arabian Sea, is a captivating sand and salt marvel. On full moon evenings, the desert glows like a diamond, bringing a dreamlike sensation of tranquility with it. On full moon nights, cultural activities are given, tents are built, and you may spend the night exploring the magnificent land. One of the most stunningly lovely sites to visit in Gujarat.
3 must-do things in Gujarat
Bhuj
For those who enjoy solitude, this is your chance to explore a breathtaking scenery as you stroll across the salt desert in Bhuj. The white salt and blue sky that extend from the Indus River to the Gulf of Kutch are a visual feast. So, this may be one of the best things to do in Gujarat. Another thing you should do while you are here is participate in the traditional performances and dances that will be conducted during the course of the festival.
Gir National Park
The Gir National Park is the only location where Asiatic Lions could be seen, but there is plenty else to see. The national park provides a unique experience for enjoying and preserving specific species. This campaign was launched by the Nawab of Junagadh as these lions were on the danger of extinction owing to overhunting. This is one of the finest experiences to have while in Gujarat.
Gandhinagar
Gujarat has a reputation for its beautiful workmanship. So, when you come to Gujarat to shop, one of the most popular things to do is buy handicrafts. Gujarat offers it all—wooden carvings, sculptures, and handmade textiles. Walking around the village of Gandhinagar is a must for everyone interested in souvenir collecting.
How to reach Gujarat?
By airways
The quickest way to get to Gujarat is to fly from Delhi Airport to any of the Gujarat states, which include Porbandar, Surat, Ahmedabad, and Vadodara. Take the fly to Surat and you'll be there in about 55 minutes. This airport has first-rate facilities and amenities to meet all of your demands while you're traveling. Upon arrival, you can use the cab, taxi, and bus services that are queued up outside the airport. You may also take the direct Metro train link from the airport to the Ahmedabad city core.
By railways
Rail connects major cities and several of Gujarat's towns. Trains to Gujarat go to and from important cities like as Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab. The busiest railway stations are at Surat, Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Vadodara. Other notable railway stations in Gujarat include Porbandar, Surat, Gandhidham, Vadodara, Veraval, Rajkot, and Ahmedabad.
By roadways
Gujarat is well connected to all major cities in the country through convenient national and state highways. You can also take advantage of several bus routes from neighboring states like as Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh. You can get to and from Gujarat using local busses and nice Volvos.
Rajasthan - Lands of Kings
Next, we arrive at Rajasthan, the country of kings and warriors. Picture walking through the majestic royal palaces and forts of Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur, each with its own story of bravery and magnificence. Experience the Thar Desert's magic with a camel ride and a memorable night underneath the stars.
Rajasthan's cities are visually stunning, with the pink colors of Jaipur, the blue homes of Jodhpur, and the golden dunes of Jaisalmer. Also, the local marketplaces are brimming with vibrant fabrics, jewelry, and handicrafts ideal for souvenirs.
Best time to visit Rajasthan
Winter is the most favored time to visit Rajasthan due to the pleasant weather. However, no one season can be classified as the best time to visit Rajasthan, India. However, most visitors choose to visit Rajasthan around the months of November and February.
3 must-visit places in Rajasthan
Jaipur: So, Pink city or Rajasthan's capital, is the state's biggest city. Jaipur, founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh in 1727, is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Rajasthan. With a lengthy list of historic and ancient landmarks, easy access from major towns, and an excellent city design in which all streets flow from east to west, Jaipur is a sight to see, making it one of the top locations to visit in Rajasthan in three days.
Jaisalmer: Jaisalmer, also known as the 'Golden City', is located in the middle of the Thar Desert and is known for its gorgeous sun-soaked sand dunes, colorful forts, and rich history and customs. Jaisalmer, one of the top five towns to visit in Rajasthan, is well-known for its forts, palaces, temples. Interestingly, a panoramic picture of the city resembles a prince seated on a crest of sand dunes, topped by the Jaisalmer Fort.
Jodhpur: Jodhpur is just a continuation of the monarchy you find in Jaisalmer and Jaipur. The regal city was the seat of authority for the then-Mewar kingdom, with various forts, palaces, and temples to fascinate visitors from all over the world. Jodhpur is renowned as the Sun City due to its bright weather, but it is also known as the Blue City because the blue homes surrounding Mehrangarh Fort are a sight to see.
3 must-do things in Rajasthan
Ranthambore National Park: Ranthambore National Park is possibly the most famous wildlife reserve on the Indian subcontinent, as well as one of the most popular. Ranthambore, one of the original Project Tiger reserves, is a particularly lovely park with dense forests, rocky hills, grassland, and lakes, all overlooking a massive 13th-century fort. This pristine natural ecosystem is home to several of India's most iconic creatures, the most renowned of which is the Bengal tiger, and with recent conservation efforts, sightings of this majestic beast are becoming more regular.
Ranvas - UNESCO World Heritage Site: There are few sites in the world where you may stay at a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One such location is Ranvas, which is part of the spectacular 12th-century Ahhichatragarh Fort. The rooms are in a succession of havelis built for the sixteen wives of 18th century Maharaja Bakht Singh and are exquisitely adorned; nevertheless, it is the surroundings that makes Ranvas such a remarkable and unusual place to stay. Ahhichatragarh is a marvel of fort design, and the sensitive two-decade restoration revealed some of Rajasthan's best paintings.
Udaipur for cycling tour: A cycling tour is a great way to get a new perspective on an Indian city. One of the better destinations in Rajasthan for this is Udaipur, which has a small ancient center. The ancient city includes many temples, havelis, and markets, and riding allows you to had a variety of experiences and truly get to know the city. You will have your own guide, helmets, and bottled water, and the riding will not be taxing. The Clock Tower and jewelry mart, the vibrant vegetable and spice market, and the City Palace complex are all must-sees.
How to reach Rajasthan from Delhi?
By airways: Jaipur International Airport is Rajasthan's basic international airport. If you're traveling from Delhi to Rajasthan, Jaipur is the nearest entrance point. There are regular flights from Delhi to Rajasthan, which take around 1 hour and 5 minutes.
By railways: Rajasthan's main railway station is the Jaipur Junction. There are two additional major stations: Gandhinagar and Durgapara. There are various trains that go from Delhi to Rajasthan, which takes roughly 4 hours. There are 21 express trains between New Delhi and Jaipur. Some of the trains that leave Delhi for Jaipur are the Jaipur AC Double Decker and the Ashram Express.
By roadways: It takes about 5 hours to get there. The costs are reasonable, and daily buses go from New Delhi to Jaipur. RSRTC buses operate daily from Delhi to Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, and other destinations, and the journey is extremely comfortable. A handful of personal buses also go along this route.
Conclusion
As the travel comparison of Gujarat and Rajasthan draws to an end, it's certain that both states provide amazing experiences, diverse cultures, and distinct adventures. Choosing amongst them is not simple, but that is part of the pleasure!
Gujarat captivates visitors with its rich history, breathtaking scenery, and exciting festivals. On the other hand, trip to Rajasthan captivates with its regal past, beautiful forts, and desert escapades. Walking through the magnificent palaces of Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur is like entering into a fairytale.
So, which state would you pick? If you enjoy ancient civilizations, rich animals, and exuberant events, Gujarat could just capture your heart. However, if you enjoy regal grandeur, desert vistas, and vibrant towns, Rajasthan may be the ideal destination.
