Gandhinagar - Capital City of Gujrat and one of the better planned cities in India with green & clean places
Gandhinagar is the capital city of Gujarat, India, and is located on the banks of the Sabarmati River. The city is named after Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation, and is known for its well-planned layout and modern infrastructure. Few years back we had the opportunity to visit Gandhinagar and explore its many attractions, and I must say that I was thoroughly impressed with what the city had to offer.
One of the first things that struck me about Gandhinagar was its cleanliness and greenery. The city is known for its eco-friendly initiatives and has a number of parks and gardens where visitors can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. One such park is the Sarita Udyan, which features a wide variety of trees, shrubs, and flowering plants, as well as a children's play area and a jogging track. Another popular park is the Indroda Nature Park, which is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including crocodiles, deer, and peacocks.
Gandhinagar is also known for its many government buildings and administrative offices, many of which are built in a modern and futuristic style. One of the most impressive buildings in the city is the Akshardham Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan and features intricate carvings and sculptures. The temple is also home to an IMAX theater and a water show that showcases the history and culture of Gujarat.
Another must-visit attraction in Gandhinagar is the Adalaj Stepwell, which is a five-story structure that was built in the 15th century. The stepwell is a stunning example of Indo-Islamic architecture and features intricate carvings and geometric patterns.
For those interested in shopping, Gandhinagar has a number of markets and shopping centers where visitors can find a variety of goods, including traditional handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry. One popular market is the Sector 21 Market, which has a wide variety of shops and restaurants.
The Akshardham temple in Gandhinagar is a magnificent temple complex dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the city and is known for its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and religious significance.
The temple complex covers an area of around 23 acres and was built in 1992 by the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) organization. The temple is made of pink sandstone and features a blend of traditional Indian and modern architectural styles. The temple is surrounded by lush gardens and fountains, making it a peaceful and serene place to visit.
The main attraction of the Akshardham temple is the central monument, which stands at a height of 108 feet. The monument is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures that depict various scenes from Hindu mythology. Visitors can also see a large number of marble statues that depict the lives of various saints and holy men.
The Akshardham temple also features a number of other attractions, including a giant screen IMAX theatre, which showcases films about India's history and culture. The water show, which takes place in the evening, is a spectacular display of music, lights, and water that tells the story of India's cultural heritage.
Visitors to the Akshardham temple are required to follow a dress code, which includes wearing appropriate clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Photography is not allowed inside the temple complex, and visitors are advised to be respectful of the religious significance of the temple.
Overall, the Akshardham temple is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Gandhinagar. Its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and rich cultural significance make it a memorable and enlightening experience for all who visit.
The Mahatma Mandir is a convention and exhibition center located in the heart of Gandhinagar, and is dedicated to the life and teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. The center covers an area of 34 acres and is a massive structure that can accommodate up to 5,000 people at a time.
The Mahatma Mandir is not only a tribute to Gandhi, but it also showcases the rich cultural heritage of Gujarat. The center hosts a wide variety of events, exhibitions, and cultural programs throughout the year, showcasing the art, craft, and culture of the state.
The center also features a museum that is dedicated to the life and teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. The museum has several galleries that showcase the major events in Gandhi's life, including his early years, his involvement in the freedom struggle, and his philosophy of non-violence. The museum also has a library that houses a vast collection of books, photographs, and other materials related to Gandhi's life and work.
The Mahatma Mandir is not just a place of remembrance, but it is also a modern and functional center that has hosted a number of national and international events, including the Vibrant Gujarat Summit, which is a biennial event that attracts investors and business leaders from all over the world.
Overall, I had a wonderful time exploring the many attractions of Gandhinagar, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a modern and eco-friendly city with a rich cultural heritage.
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