BHUJ
About Bhuj

Bhuj is a beautiful city in the Kutch district of Gujarat & is the home of the first Swaminarayan Sampraday temples. People visit Bhuj to view temples, wooden pavilions, and palaces. Many historical monuments and structures have made Bhuj the most visited destination. White Desert, Bhartiya Sanskruti Darshan, Swaminarayan Temple, Aina Mahal, Kachchh Museum, Kakkad Bhit Yaksha, and many more are the famous sights of Bhuj. 

Bhuj, known as a desert city for its world-renowned the Great Rann Of Kutch, is one of the unique historical sites in India with a blend of vibrant history and ethnic cultures. Bhuj was built in the year 1510 by Rao Hamirji & got its name from the name of the Bhujia Fortress. Bhujia Fortress is on a nearby hill, which offers a scenic view. It is the best tourist place which has a rich heritage and culture. 

Tourist Attractions In Bhuj : 29

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1: Aina Mahal
Aina Mahal
Maharao Lakhpatji's old palace, built in traditional Kutchi style, is in a small fortified courtyard in the old part of the city. It's a beautifully presented museum and is one of the highlights of a visit to Bhuj. The entrance to the palace houses the tourist office, and this is also the site of the Maharao Madansinhji Museum, which has a varied collection of paintings, photos, and embroideries. There is a 15 meters long scroll depicting the Royal Procession of Maharao Shri Pragmalji Bahadur. 
 
2: Banni Grasslands Reserve
Banni Grasslands Reserve
Banni Grasslands Reserve or Banni grasslands form a belt of arid grassland ecosystem on the southern edge of the desert of the marshy salt flats of Rann of Kutch in Kutch District, Gujarat State, India. They are known for rich wildlife and biodiversity, spread across an area of 3847 sq km. They are currently legally protected under the status of a Protected or Reserve Forest in India. The grasslands are home to mammals such as the Nilgai, Chinkara, Blackbuck and Wild boar, Golden Jackal, Indian Hare, Indian Wolf, Caracal, Asiatic Wildcat, Desert Fox & others. 
 
3: Bhadreshwar
Bhadreshwar
It is a famous Jain pilgrimage centre. The architecture of the ancient Shiva temple is such that the presiding deity is visible from the ground floor as well as the first floor, with some beautiful sculpture chiselled on the outer walls. The tour will also cover step well, Sol Thambhi Mosque, Jagdu Shah Palace, Lal Shabhar Mosque, Chokunda Mahadev Temple a visit that will expose too many religious traditions of India, congregated in one region.  
 
4: Bharatiya Sanskriti Darshan
Bharatiya Sanskriti Darshan
A Kutchi cultural center is located south, along College Road, the Ramkund stepwell, the Swaminarayan temple, & the Bhartiya Sanskriti Darshan. It houses a collection of Kutchi folk art & crafts, especially from the remote regions of the district, collected by a forest service official as he traveled around doing government work. There are also exhibits of rural architecture, paintings, textile arts, and archaeological specimens.  
 
5: Bhujodi
Bhujodi
A small town just 8 km southeast of Bhuj, Bhujodi is a major textile center of Kutch, with the vast majority of the 1200 inhabitants involved in textile handicraft production. Here tourists can meet weavers, tie-dye artists, and block printers, most of whom belong to the Vankar community. About a kilometer from Bhujodi is the Ashapura Crafts Park, set up by a corporate, nonprofit wing to help artisans display and sell their work and organize dance and music events on weekends. The Shrujan campus is a place to visit, with embroidery exhibits, a production center, and excellent examples of local architecture. 
 
6: Chari Dhand Wetland Conservation Reserve
Chari Dhand Wetland Conservation Reserve
The Chari Dhand wetland conservation reserve is on the edge of arid Banni grasslands and the marshy salt flats of the Rann of Kutch in Kutch District, Gujarat. It is currently under the status of a Protected or Reserve Forest in India. Chari means salt affected & Dhand means shallow wetland. Dhand is a Sindhi word for a shallow saucer-shaped depression. It's a seasonal desert wetland & only gets swampy during a good monsoon, receiving water from the north-flowing rivers & the catchment areas of many surrounding big hills.
 
7: Darbargarh Palace
Darbargarh Palace
This historic palace complex, erected in various stages, is an intricate maze. It has three sections separated by open courtyards. The palace is built in typical medieval Rajput style with fabulously carved jharokha balconies, jail screens, and cupolas offering splendid views of the old fort, which now houses a government office and a school.
 
8: Great Rann Of Kutch
Great Rann of Kutch
The Great Rann of Kutch, also called Greater Rann of Kutch, or Rann of Kutch is a marshy saline clay desert. Its biogeography province in the Kutch district, the state of Gujarat, is 8 km away from village Kharaghoda in the Surendranagar district. The Rann of Kutch comprises some 30000 sq km between the Gulf of Kutch.
 
9: Hamirsar Lake
Hamirsar Lake
An excellent place to cool off on a hot afternoon, Hamirsar Lake is where people go swimming or sit under a tree and enjoy the water, as well as where many women do their laundry. Walking along the lake's edge is a great way to get from one place to another, with the Aina Mahal and Praga Mahal, the Kutch Museum, the Ramkund Stepwell, Ram Dhun Temple, and the Swaminarayan Temple, all located very close to the eastern side of the lake. 
 
10: Purneshwar Temple
Purneshwar Temple
It is about 35 km from Bhuj. It is a 9th-10th century AD temple rose on a high plinth and has some fine sculptures on display. This temple dedicated to lord Shiva is admired by many for its beautiful structures and architecture.
 
11: Kandla Port
Kandla Port
Kandla is a sea port located in the Kutch district and is one of the major ports on the west coast. It was constructed in 1950 during the partition of India & Pakistan when the port of Karachi became a part of Pakistan. It's now the biggest port in India & can be visited with permission from the port officials. 
 
12: Kutchi Handicrafts
Kutchi Handicrafts
Kutchi handicrafts are renowned over the world & are in abundance in Bhuj, from elaborately embroidered clothing and luxurious quilts to block printing, heavy silver jewelry, and woodcarving. Or better yet, tourists can use Bhuj as a base for excursions to surrounding towns and villages to meet artisans and their families, see the work being done and buy crafts directly from the artisans themselves. 
 
13: Kachchh Museum
Kachchh Museum
The Kutch Museum is also known as the Fergusson Museum after its founder, Sir James Fergusson, a governor of Mumbai under the Raj. Built-in 1877, it's the oldest museum in Gujarat and has an excellent collection. It exhibits a picture gallery, an anthropological section, archaeological finds, textiles, weapons, musical instruments, a shipping section, & stuffed beasts.
 
14: Kera
Kera
Just 22 km south of Bhuj on the road to Mandra, Kera houses ruins of the Shiva Temple, which dates to the era of the Solanki rulers. Much was destroyed in the 1819 earthquake, & only part of the temple remains, like the inner sanctum & half of the main spire. The Fort of Kapilkot, also in a rundown state, is next to the temple.  
 
15: Khavda
Khavda
The town has excellent potters, leather craftsmen, and Ajrakh block printing at Khatrivas. The KMVS office in Khavda sells embroidered handmade dolls and other textile products run by local women. Khavda is also the departure point to visit the world's largest flamingo colony, at a lake in the desert, out past Jamkundaliya, where a half million flamingos stop over on their migrations every year. The flamingo colony is only accessible by camel & winters are the best time to visit.   
 
16: Koteshwar Temple
Koteshwar Temple
After travelling over the expanse of desert in western Kutch, one will find the Koteshwar Temple, at a place where the immensity of dry land meets the incomprehensible vastness of the sea. The only point that breaks the skyline from the flat brown horizon to the east and the wide blue horizon to the west is the point of the Koteshwar Temple, the last outpost of human construction at the westernmost limit of India. Not overrun by tourists like the temple at Dwarka, Koteshwar is conducive to contemplating emptiness, pondering the place of humanity on earth.      After travelling over the expanse of desert in western Kutch, one will find the Koteshwar Temple, at a place where the immensity of dry land meets the incomprehensible vastness of the sea. The only point that breaks the skyline from the flat brown horizon to the east and the wide blue horizon to the west is the point of the Koteshwar Temple, the last outpost of human construction at the westernmost limit of India. Not overrun by tourists like the temple at Dwarka, Koteshwar is conducive to contemplating emptiness, pondering the place of humanity on earth.       
 
17: Kutch Desert Festival
Kutch Desert Festival
A visit to Kutch Desert Festival offers access to the interior and beautiful recesses of the region of Kutch, situated in Gujarat. Kutch is an inundated section of land bearing similarities with the American Wild West. Kutch, in Gujarat, can also be equated with a Desert in some terrains. The Kutch Festival is celebrated for about four months, from October to February. During the celebration of the Kutch Desert Festival, colorfully attired dancers, music concerts, Sindhi Bhajan performances, Langa Desert Music, and shops selling embroideries and jewelry are too, the hallmarks of the Kutch Desert Festival celebrated in Gujarat. It's one of the most beautiful festivals to visit that gives a lifetime memorable experience.
 
18: Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary is in the Great Rann of Kutch & it was declared a sanctuary in February 1986. By October or November each year, rainwater dries up & the entire area turns into a saline desert. This sanctuary supports a wide variety of water birds and mammalian wildlife. The northern boundary of this sanctuary forms the international border between India and Pakistan & because of this enormous part of the sanctuary is closed to civilians after the India Bridge at Kala Dungar, Khavda. Tourists and researchers can only enter here with special permission from the BSF.
 
19: Kutch Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary
Kutch Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary
The ideal way to enjoy this retreat is to take a walk around nature's cradle while befriending various species of the Bustard family. Look around for the Black and Gray Francolin, the Spotted and Indian Sandgrouse, Quails, Larks, Shrikes, Coursers, and Plovers. And if lucky, one might catch fluttering glimpses of rare species of Stolicska's Bushchat and White-naped Tit. 
 
20: Mandvi Beach
Mandvi Beach
Mandvi has one of the most beautiful beaches in Gujarat. The beach attraction in Mandvi is the main attraction, as everyday travelers & followers of God Swaminarayan visit here. This beach is holy as God Swaminarayan and His great saints had taken baths there 175 years ago.
 
21: Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary
Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary
Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary is also known as Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary or Narayan Sarovar Chinkara Sanctuary. Narayan Sarovar is home to a wide array of wildlife, including many species of mammals, reptiles, and birds. The principal species here is the chinkara, an Indian gazelle. Gorad and babul are the plant species found here, gorad in the east and babul in the west. 
 
22: Prag Mahal
Prag Mahal
Built-in the 1860s and 70s in a Venetian Gothic style, Pragmalji's Palace has pointed Gothic arches, classical colonnades, and European truss timber roofs. The massive staircases and deep passages are floored with colorful Minton tiles and lined with handrails on classical balusters. The highlight is the Darbar Hall, which has Corinthian pillars, molded ceilings, Venetian chandeliers, Greco-Roman statutory, classical balustrade galleries, and ceiling murals of Shakespearean characters. 
 
23: Rudra Mata Mandir
Rudra Mata Mandir
14 km from Bhuj on the road to Khavada, this temple located at a scenic spot on the banks of the river Khari is the presiding deity of the Maharajas of Kutch, the Jadeja family. According to mythology, it is 400 years old. A stone's throw away from the temple is the Garha Safari Lodge, a theme hotel with a panoramic view of the river & offers an experience of staying in bhoongas, the traditional dwellings of the villagers but with all the modern comforts.
 
24: Sharad Baug Palace
Sharad Baug Palace
The last maharaja palace to the east of the lake is now a small museum. This museum displays a collection of silver caskets, stuffed tigers, elephant tusks & even Maharaja Madan Sinhji's tennis trophies. The folk museum has a re-created Kutchi village in the forecourt and an outstanding collection of beadwork, embroidery, leather articles, woodcarvings, pottery, and historical relics. 
 
25: Siyot Caves
Siyot Caves
Dated around the first century AD, Siyot Caves have an east-facing sanctum and an ambulatory. Siyot must have been one of the 80 monastic sites that the 7th-century Chinese travelers reported at the mouth of the Indus River.
 
26: Swaminarayan Temple
Swaminarayan Temple
Like most Swaminarayan temples, this one has the typical brightly colored wood carvings around the building, mostly depicting Lord Krishna and Radha. Located just down the road from the Ramkund Stepwell & the Alfred High school is the place where Swaminarayan sat with local holy men when he came through Bhuj. 
 
27: The Black Hills
The Black Hills
25 km north of Khavda, the top of the Black Hills is the highest point in Kutch, at 462 meters. From here, the entire northern horizon vanishes into the Great Rann, the desert and sky often becoming indistinguishable. Since this is one of the places where a civilian can get closest to the Pakistan border, there is an Army post at the top & beyond this point, only military personnel are allowed. The hill is also the site of a 400-year-old temple to Dattatreya, the three-headed incarnation of Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva in the same body.
 
28: Vijay Vilas Palace
Vijay Vilas Palace
Built in 1929 by Rao Vijayrajji, this palace is very well maintained and is often the scene of filming for Bollywood productions. It was built with red sandstone in the Rajput style, with a central dome, Bengal domes at the sides, bastions at the corner, and colored glass windows. The balcony at the top affords a superb view of the surrounding area and the king's tomb.
 
29: Wild Ass Sanctuary
Wild Ass Sanctuary
It is in the little Rann of Kachchh, well known for its Wild Ass sanctuary. This Wild Ass is known as Khar Gaddha, a sturdy creature that can gallop at 50 km per hour. The Little Rann of Kutch is located close by and is famous for the Indian Wild Ass sanctuary, where the world’s last population of Indian Wild Ass still exists along with the Indian Wolf, Desert Fox, Golden Jackal, Chinkara, Nilgai, and Blackbuck.   
 
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How To Reach Bhuj

By Air - Bhuj has its own domestic Airport located in the heart of the city where daily flights operate to Ahmedabad and Mumbai. Kingfisher Airlines and Jet Airways from Bhuj to Mumbai can be availed. 

 

By Train - Bhuj has its own Railway Station which is connected to Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Delhi and other major cities of India.

 

By Bus - Excel Bus Stop in Bhuj is located at a distance of 23 kms from the city from where one can avail government run GSRTC bus services to various destinations in Gujarat.

 

By Road - Bhuj is well connected with nearby cities such as Gandhidham and Mundra. Metered taxis are available for rent from other places inside the city. Even private cabs too could be considered for a budget travel from prominent places to and from Bhuj.

 

Local Transport - Tuk-tuks are the best way to travel within the city. It’s convenient, easy and even cheaper if one knows how to bargain. Charges quoted initially by the drivers might be exorbitant, so be sure to bargain right.
 

Traditional Food (Regional cusine of Bhuj)

Here are some famous traditional dishes and places to eat in Bhuj:

 

1. Gujarati Thali:

   - Specialty: A comprehensive meal that includes an array of vegetarian dishes like dal, roti, vegetables, dhokla, and sweets.

   - Where to Try: Visit local restaurants like Radhe Dining Hall and Prince Restaurant for an authentic Gujarati Thali experience.

 

2. Kutchi Dabeli:

   - Specialty: A spicy and tangy potato filling sandwiched in a pav (bread roll), garnished with chutneys and peanuts.

   - Where to Try: Street vendors and food stalls throughout Bhuj serve delicious Kutchi Dabeli.

 

3. Fafda Jalebi:

   - Specialty: A classic Gujarati breakfast or snack consisting of crispy gram flour strips (fafda) served with sweet jalebi.

   - Where to Try: Try Fafda Jalebi at local sweet shops and breakfast joints.

 

4. Khandvi:

   - Specialty: Rolls made from gram flour, yogurt, and spices, often garnished with mustard seeds and grated coconut.

   - Where to Try: Sample Khandvi at popular eateries like Vithal's Kitchen and Shreeji Snacks.

 

5. Poha:

   - Specialty: Flattened rice cooked with turmeric, spices, and often garnished with sev (crispy noodles).

   - Where to Try: Local breakfast joints serve delicious Poha.

 

6. Gathiya and Sev:

   - Specialty: Crispy gram flour snacks, often enjoyed with tea or as a munching snack.

   - Where to Try: Purchase Gathiya and Sev from local snack shops and vendors.

 

7. Chana Chaat:

   - Specialty: A spicy and tangy chickpea salad with various chutneys and spices.

   - Where to Try: Find Chana Chaat at street food stalls and chaat shops.

 

8. Kutchi Bhakri with Garlic Chutney:

   - Specialty: Thick, unleavened bread (bhakri) served with a spicy garlic chutney.

   - Where to Try: Local eateries and dhabas often serve this combination.

 

9. Radhe Dining Hall:

    - Specialty: A well-known restaurant serving traditional Gujarati Thali and snacks like Fafda Jalebi.

 

10. Prince Restaurant:

    - Specialty: Offers a variety of Gujarati dishes, including Thali, Dhokla, and Khandvi.

 

11. Vithal's Kitchen:

    - Specialty: Known for its Khandvi, Dhokla, and other Gujarati snacks.

 

Bhuj's cuisine beautifully reflects the flavors of Gujarat. These dishes and eateries provide a delightful glimpse into the city's rich and diverse food culture. Enjoy your culinary journey in Bhuj!

Weather & Quick Info Of Bhuj

Bhuj is a modern city & famous tourist destination for heritage lovers & adventure seekers. 

 

The best Months To Visit are from November to March.

 

The ideal time required to explore Bhuj is 3-4 days.

 

Bhuj has many nearby tourist destinations like Dholavira, Pirotan Island, Wankaner & many more.

 

Best Hotels In Bhuj

City Guest House
Price: ₹ 500.00

Updated 3 Oct 2022

Lodge

  • langa Street, Nr. Darbargadh, Opp. Post Office, Bhuj, Kutch, Gujarat, India

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published on 2022-10-03

Odhav
Price: ₹ 1300.00

Updated 3 Oct 2022

Hotel

  • nr. Shakti Hotel, Bhid Gate, Bhuj - Kutch. Gujarat, India

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  • Amenities: Parking , Wifi, Room Service

published on 2022-10-03

Best Travel Agents In Bhuj

Experience Kutch At Its Colorful And Exotic Best During The Rann Utsav
 
Price: Available on Enquiry

Updated 22 Jun 2018

  • Organizer : Madhumati Holidays
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Published on: 2018-06-22 12:38:51

Himachal Tour Package
 
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8 Nights

Updated 1 Oct 2019

Hill Station
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Published on: 2019-10-01 13:08:18

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