Gujarat – Footprints of Mahatma Gandhi

Description

Gujarat – Footprints of Mahatma Gandhi

Gujarat, the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, holds a special place in the heart of India’s history. The state is dotted with several significant sites that trace the life and work of the Father of the Nation. Here’s a guide to some of the key locations associated with Mahatma Gandhi in Gujarat:

1. Porbandar

Kirti Mandir: This is the ancestral house of Mahatma Gandhi, where he was born on October 2, 1869. The house has been converted into a museum that showcases memorabilia of Gandhi’s life, including photographs and personal artifacts. It also features a Gandhian library and a prayer hall.
Darbargadh: A fortified palace built by Rana Sartanji of Porbandar, which reflects the architectural heritage of the region. Although not directly related to Gandhi, it adds to the historical context of the city.
Bharat Mandir Hall: Located in a landscaped garden, this hall contains a large relief map of India and bas-reliefs of heroes from Hindu legends. It reflects the cultural and historical milieu of Gandhi’s time.

2. Rajkot

Kaba Gandhi No Delo: This was Mahatma Gandhi’s childhood home, where he lived from the age of six. The house has been preserved as a museum displaying Gandhi’s early life and his formative years. Exhibits include personal items, photographs, and documents related to his childhood and education.
Watson Museum: Located in Rajkot, this museum houses a collection of items related to Gandhi, including manuscripts and personal effects, as well as artifacts from the colonial era.
Rajkumar College: Gandhi completed his secondary education at this prestigious institution. The college has a rich history and continues to be a renowned educational institution in India.

3. Ahmedabad

Gandhi Ashram: Located on the banks of the Sabarmati River, this ashram was established by Gandhi in 1915 and served as the headquarters for the Satyagraha movement. The Hridaya Kunj, Gandhi’s living quarters, is preserved as it was during his time. The ashram is a significant site for those interested in Gandhi’s philosophy and the freedom struggle.
Sabarmati Riverfront: Although not a historical site per se, the riverfront area near the Gandhi Ashram offers a tranquil environment to reflect on Gandhi’s legacy and his connection to the city.

4. Dandi

Dandi: Located about 300 km south of Ahmedabad, Dandi is the site of the historic Salt March (Dandi March) of 1930. Gandhi led this 240-mile march to the sea to protest the British salt tax. A monument and a salt pan memorial mark the place where Gandhi reached the sea and made salt, symbolizing India’s struggle for independence.

5. Other Notable Sites

Adalaj Step-well: Although primarily a historic architectural site, it represents the kind of historical and cultural depth that Gandhi appreciated and advocated for during his life.

Itinerary

Arrive in Rajkot:

Transfer to Hotel: Check into your hotel upon arrival. Rajkot, once a princely state and a significant base for the British administration in Western India, is a vibrant city with a rich history.

Rajkot Highlights:

Karba Gandhi No Delo (Mahatma Gandhi House)
- Historical Significance: This is the childhood home of Mahatma Gandhi, where he lived from the age of six. The house has been preserved to reflect his early life and the influence of his upbringing.
- Exhibits: The house contains a collection of personal items, photographs, and documents related to Gandhi’s life. It also features a small weaving school, highlighting Gandhi’s passion for handloom and his advocacy for self-reliance.
Watson Museum
- Historical Insights: Named after Colonel John Watson, a political agent in Rajkot, the museum showcases a diverse collection of artifacts.
- Collections: It houses 3rd-century inscriptions, delicate ivory carvings, and objects from the colonial period, including a marble statue of Queen Victoria. The museum provides a glimpse into the cultural and historical evolution of Rajkot and the broader region.
Rajkumar College
- Educational Legacy: Established in the 19th century by the British, Rajkumar College is one of India’s premier private educational institutions. It was initially set up for the education of Indian princes and continues to be renowned for its academic excellence.

Evening:

Explore Local Markets: Rajkot’s bustling markets and bazaars are perfect for experiencing local culture and shopping for traditional handicrafts and textiles.

Overnight:

Stay in Rajkot: Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Explore Porbandar:

Darbargadh
- Historical Significance: Discover the Darbargadh, a grand fortified palace constructed by Rana Sartanji in 1785 AD. The palace is renowned for its elaborate stone carvings and impressive architectural features, including a large carved stone entrance gate flanked by high turrets and massive wooden doors.
Kirti Mandir
- Gandhi’s Birthplace: Visit Kirti Mandir, the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi. This historic house has been transformed into a museum that commemorates Gandhi's early life. The museum features a Gandhian library and a prayer hall, providing insights into Gandhi's upbringing and his formative years.
Bharat Mandir Hall
- Cultural Heritage: Explore Bharat Mandir Hall, located in a well-maintained garden. The hall showcases a large relief map of India on the floor and bas reliefs of Hindu heroes on the pillars. The hall serves as a cultural and historical landmark, reflecting India's rich heritage.

Additional Information:

City Features: Porbandar is known for its impressive city planning and stone buildings with rich carvings. The city’s historical links to trade with Africa and Arabia and its association with Mahatma Gandhi add to its cultural significance.
Local Industries: The city is also known for its production of fine-quality silk and cotton, alongside chemical factories and cement works.

Evening at Leisure:

Local Exploration: After visiting the key sites, you may have some free time to explore local markets or relax at your hotel.

Overnight Stay:

Hotel: Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Sightseeing in Bhavnagar:

Gandhi Smriti and Barton Museum
- Historical Significance: Located near the clock tower, the Gandhi Smriti and Barton Museum houses a significant collection of memorabilia related to Mahatma Gandhi. Explore exhibits that detail Gandhi's life and contributions to India's independence.
Gaurishanker Lake
- Picnic Spot: Visit Gaurishanker Lake, a serene location ideal for a relaxing picnic. The area features a well-maintained park where you can enjoy the tranquil environment and scenic views.
Takhteshwar Temple
- Panoramic Views: This temple is situated on a hill, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area. The temple is an important religious site and a great vantage point for observing Bhavnagar.
Lock Gate
- Engineering Marvel: Explore the Lock Gate, an innovative structure designed to keep sea-water impounded during low tide, ensuring that ships can remain afloat. This unique engineering feat is notable for its historical significance in maritime trade.

Evening at Leisure:

Local Exploration: You may have some free time to explore local markets, enjoy the city's ambiance, or relax at your hotel.

Overnight Stay:

Hotel: Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Drive to Lothal:
- Lothal:
  - Indus Valley Civilization: Explore Lothal, a significant site of the Indus Valley Civilization. Key highlights include the impressive dockyard, one of the most remarkable works of maritime architecture from the ancient period, spanning 37 meters by 22 meters.
  - Archaeological Findings: Discover the remains of well-planned streets, workshops of goldsmiths and coppersmiths, and potteries. The site also features advanced underground drainage systems. Note that Lothal is closed on Fridays.
Return to Ahmedabad:
- Drive Back: Continue your journey back to Ahmedabad.
- Arrival and Transfer to Hotel: Arrive in Ahmedabad and check back into your hotel.
Explore Ahmedabad:
- Historical and Cultural Insights: Ahmedabad, founded by Sultan Ahmad Shah in 1411, is a vibrant city with a rich history. It’s known for its beautiful old city with intricate havelis and mosques, blending Hindu and Muslim architectural styles.
- Architectural Highlights: Explore the walled area, the exquisite carved wooden mansions, and the Indo-Saracenic mosques. Ahmedabad’s architectural legacy includes both historical structures and modern designs by renowned architects such as Le Corbusier and Louis Kahn.
- Textile Heritage: Learn about the city’s textile industry, which earned it the nickname “Manchester of the East” in 1888.

Evening at Leisure:

Local Exploration: Use the evening to explore local markets, enjoy local cuisine, or simply relax at your hotel.

Overnight Stay:

Hotel: Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Morning: City Sightseeing

Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel.
Gandhi Ashram:
- Visit: Explore Mahatma Gandhi’s former retreat on the Sabarmati River. This ashram was central to India’s independence movement and is now a national monument. Visit Hridaya Kunj, the cottage where Gandhi lived, and see exhibits related to his life and work.
Sidi Sayed Mosque:
- Visit: Admire the exquisite stone window tracery of this mosque, a masterpiece of delicate carving that transforms stone into intricate filigree.
Jumma Masjid:
- Visit: This historic mosque, built by Sultan Ahmed Shah in 1423, is a fine example of Indo-Islamic architecture. It features 260 pillars supporting 15 domes and is known for its blend of Hindu and Muslim architectural styles.
Teen Darwaja:
- Visit: Observe the grand triple-arched gateway built by Sultan Ahmed Shah, which served as the royal entrance to the Maidan Shahi (Royal Square). It’s noted for its perfect proportions and ornate design.
Hutheesingh Jain Temple:
- Visit: Explore this ornate Jain temple, built by a wealthy Jain merchant in 1850. It is renowned for its intricate carvings and architectural beauty.

Afternoon: Further Exploration

Adalaj Step-well:
- Visit: Travel 17 km north of Ahmedabad to the Adalaj Step-well, a stunning example of Indian water architecture. Built by Queen Rudabai in 1499, it features intricate carvings, multiple stories, and a cool refuge from the heat.
Akshardham Temple:
- Visit: Head to Gandhinagar to see the modern Akshardham Temple, built from pink sandstone and known for its detailed carvings and gold leaf sculpture of Lord Swaminarayan. Note that Akshardham is closed on Mondays.

Evening: Local Culture

Law Garden Market:
- Visit: Enjoy the vibrant Law Garden Market, known for its beautiful textile handicrafts from Gujarat. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs and experience local craftsmanship.

Overnight: Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

In time transfer to Ahmedabad Airport / Railway Station to board flight / train for your onward journey to your next destination.

Gujarat – Footprints of Mahatma Gandhi