Places To Visit When In Rajkot.

The sprawling, bustling city of Rajkot is not the first destination that comes to mind when you think of a holiday in India. But, there are a good number of places to visit in Rajkot that introduce you to its history and let you explore its natural allure.

One of the largest cities in Gujarat, Rajkot is situated on the periphery of Aji and Nyari Rivers. Built by the Thakur Saheb Vibhaji Ajoji Jadeja from the lineage of the Jadeja clan in the 17th century AD, the city has been a seat for the Jadeja rulers. Famous for all its silk work, gold jewellery and watch parts, Rajkot is a fast developing city of the nation. It also holds a position in the Top 10 Cleanest Cities Of India. 

1. Rotary Midtown Dolls Museum: 

The Rotary Midtown Dolls Museum has dolls from all over the world. It has a display of over 1500 dolls from over 100 nations. The dolls have been brought from different countries and bear the flags of their respective nations. These dolls showcase the culture and traditions of the countries which they come from. 

2. Watson Museum: 

Watson Museum depicts the history of India and the colonial history of Rajkot. Precious items from both are on display. The museum focuses on human history and culture. The museum houses paintings from the Indus Valley Civilization and splendid pictures of royal princesses of Saurashtra. Being one of the finest museums in Gujarat, it allows guided tours along with photography and also has sales counters for spreading the word about the museum. 

3. Aji Dam: 

Aji Dam is built on the river Aji which satisfies the water supply of the people living in the city. The place has an amusement park and a zoo in the surroundings which makes it an ideal picnic spot. The purpose of the dam is to channelize the water of the river as well as maintain the ecological balance of the city and help to keep the city clean. 

4. Jagat Mandir: 

Carved in beautiful red stones, Jagat Mandir (also known as The Universal Temple) is dedicated to Shri Ramkrishna Paramhansa. The main deity is carved into a white marble structure seated on a lotus flower. The temple represents all the different religions namely, Hinduism, Christianity, Islam and Buddhism. That is why it is called the Universal Temple. 

5. Nyari Dam: 

Another major attraction for tourists and the locals is the beautiful Nyari Dam built on the Nyari river. The dam is a peaceful place and has poise. It is also a window to nature in the busy city. The Nyari dam is a scenic delight and a bird watchers paradise. Apart from being a vibrant picnic spot it also meets the water supplies of the city. 

6. Kaba Gandi No Delo: 

Mahatma Gandhi spent his early years in Rajkot. His paternal home where he used to live with his parents is known as Kaba Gandi No Delo. This place is now converted into a Smruti Museum. This place is of historic importance as it helps one to see and understand the early phases of Gandhi’s life. It is also a picture representation of the life lived by Gandhiji and his family.

6. Prem Mandir: 

Prem Mandir also translates as the Temple of Love. Much to one’s surprise, architecturally looking like a temple, Prem Mandir is a cathedral. The cathedral is dedicated to the sacred heart of Jesus. This cathedral also depicts various religions and has five domes, each of which is inscribed with the writings of different religions. The main dome has a lotus and a cross. The place also has imprints of Buddhism, Islam, Christianity and Hinduism. 

7. Jubilee Garden: 

Jubilee Garden is often known as the commercial hub of the city located in the centre of Rajkot. The garden is an amusement park and has rides for both kids and adults. Also small shops and food stalls make the place bustling with people always. The garden is famous for its snack ‘Chevdo’ that is made of rice flakes and is served here by the local vendors. The garden is famous for being wrapped around Alfred High School, Watson Museum, Connaught Hall and Lang Library. 

8. Khambhalida Caves: 

Khambhalida Caves is a group of 3 caves. Carved out of a local limestone rock, these caves date back to the 4th and 5th Century AD. There is a ‘Chaitya’ and a Stupa on the entrance of the central cave. There are two human size sculptures of two of the Bodhisattvas named Padmapani and Vajrapani that stand on the sides of the entrance on the right and left. The caves have a lot of Buddhist sculptures and carvings. 

10. Lal Pari Lake: 

On the outskirts of the city, is this beautiful natural treasure called the Lal Pari Lake. It is popular amongst the people because of the variety of birds that can easily be spotted there. The birds are both local and migratory. The mainly spotted birds are the pelicans, rosy pastor, spoonbill, pheasant tailed jacana and the purple moorhen. 

Wrapping Up

Rajot has its own charm and is a city which dwells in both the present and the past. With it’s own captivating charm the city takes you by awe. Do visit these places whenever you get a chance to visit Rajkot.

If you want to travel around India more, read this to find out the 7 Wonders Of India.

Read more on the story behind our famous Qutub Minar.