Monday, 05 October 2009 11:57

Durbar Gadh Bhuj

About:

Durbar Gadh is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Bhuj, Gujarat. The monument is located in the heart of the old town of Bhuj. It has immense historical importance. Every year, tourists flock to Durbar Gadh, Bhuj that happens to be one of the most remarkable landmarks in the city.Durbar Gadh is the place where the Maharaja of Nawanagar used to hold meetings with the public audiences. It falls under the headquarters of the Kutch District in Gujarat. This historical building was affected by the massive earthquake of 2001. Some of the distinct features of the fort are the beautiful latticed windows and intricate carvings that adorn its exteriors and interiors. A tour to Durbar Gadh in Bhuj is a must during your visit to Gujarat.

 

Darbargadh in Bhuj is a royal enclosure, which was fragmented into a cluster of apartments that were dwelled by the various sections of the royal family. Each cluster was structured around a small courtyard, which thus separated its inhabitants from the outside world.

Further, the Durbar Gadh, Bhuj was built in accordance with the houses in the surrounding towns and villages so much so, that even the resources used in building such structures as well as the space occupied by them was almost similar to those of the common man.To the western side of the Darbargadh, the Pragmal Palace was included a couple of centuries. This new palace resulted in the partial vacation of the previously existing Durbar Gadh.

The chief aspect of the Darbargadh has been the layout of royal chambers that were used as the main public rooms of the Darbargadh. These rooms were designed gracefully following the arts and crafts of the Kutchee culture which was in sharp contrast to the European styles followed in the exteriors.

 

Location info:

Address:Durbar Gadh,Bhuj,Kutchh,Gujrat,India
District: Kutchh
Nearest City: Palitana,55 km and Nulsrover 80 km
Best time to visit: October to March

Climate/Weather:

Weather of Kutch is tropical monsoon with an average annual rainfall of approximately 14 inches. In Summer temperature can reach up to 48°c. In Winter temperature ranges from 12 °c to 27 °c

History:

Durbar Gadh is also the Built in the 18th century by Rao Lakhpatji, Durbar Gadh, Bhuj is a perfect example of an enclosed area of the royal family which exhibited a drastic change in the style of architecture and the layout that resembled those of Europe to a large extent.the name given to the place located in the center of the old town of Bhuj.

 

It was at this place that that the Maharaja of Nawanagar held his meetings with the masses.Although, the massive earthquake in Gujarat with Bhuj as the epicenter in January, 2001 destroyed a portion of the Durbar Gadh, it still failed to affect the popularity and the number of visits to the place by travelers from all over the world.



Interesting things to do:

Interesting things to Visit:

Aina Mahal:
The Aina Mahal in Bhuj, India, is an old Palace that was built in the 18th century. The erstwhile palace which belonged to Maharao Lakhpatji has now been transformed into a Museum that is one of the chief Tourist Attractions in Bhuj. The Aina Mahal is famous for a housing an awesome Hall of Mirrors from which the palace get its name (Aina in Hindi means mirror).The Aina Mahal was constructed by Rao Lakhpatji in the year 1750. Its creator had a passion for music, art, architecture, and literature. The layout, design and decorations of Bhuj Aina Mahal were highly influenced by a royal dream that had eventually been converted into reality by an extremely deft craftsman whose name was Ramsinh Malam.

 

Durbar Gadh:
The Durbar Gadh in Bhuj, India, is one of the most visited Tourist Attractions in Bhuj. This Durbar Gadh houses the famous Aina Mahal (Hall of Mirrors) which delights the visitors by displaying the unique blend of Indian and European architecture with its fountains and two storied royal residences.Built in the 18th century by Rao Lakhpatji, Durbar Gadh, Bhuj is a perfect example of an enclosed area of the royal family which exhibited a drastic change in the style of architecture and the layout that resembled those of Europe to a large extent.Durbar Gadh is also the name given to the place located in the center of the old town of Bhuj. It was at this place that that the Maharaja of Nawanagar held his meetings with the masses.

Folk Museum:
The Folk Museum in Bhuj, India, is also known as Bharatiya Sanskruti Darshan, Bhuj. The Bhuj Folk Museum is situated in proximity to the office of the collector of Bhuj which makes it easily accessible by a variety of modes of transport. These include the services of the luxury coaches, auto-rickshaws, and taxis.One of the chief attractions of Folk Museum, Bhuj which you will hardly find in any of the other Museums in Bhuj, is a rare fossil of a Crocodilian which is which is an extinct species of the crocodile of the modern age. This creature was double the size of a crocodile of today measuring as much as 9 meters as compared to the modern species which measures only 3 to 4 meters in length.

Kachchh Museum:
The Kachchh Museum in Bhuj, India, is one of the famous Tourist Attractions in Bhuj. Built during the period of British Rule in India, the Museum of Kachchh in Bhuj is the most significant among all other Museums in Bhuj as it displays the articles that take the visitors to those ages to which they belonged.The Kutch Museum was established in the year 1877 by the British Governor of Mumbai known as Sir James Fergusson. It was because of the name of its founder that Kachchh Museum, Bhuj was initially named as Fergusson Museum.he Kutch Museum remains closed only on Wednesdays and on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of every month. On all days other than these, Kutch Museum is open from 9.00 to 11.30 in the morning and from 3.00 p.m. to 5.30 p.m.

Jama Masjid:
Jama Masjid in Bhuj is held auspicious by the people of the Muslim religion. The edifice is equally respected by people of any other caste or creed. The intricate designs on the walls of the mosque are worth seeing. All people who follow the Islamic religion come to the Jama Masjid at Bhuj to offer their prayers. People from all other caste can also come here to offer prayers or just to visit the mosque and get a glimpse of the beautiful design and the intricate patterns that are made on the wall. The Jama Masjid stands as a demonstration of the Islamic architecture. The Jama Masjid in Bhuj is noted for its beautifully designed minaret, the dome and the large prayer hall. The Jama Masjid of Bhuj also offers lessons on Islamic religion.

Swaminarayan Temple:
The Swaminarayan Temple, Bhuj is famous all over the world as one of the most spiritually highlighted temple in Bhuj. The Swaminarayan Temple was set by the BAPS, Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha as it is known. BAPS is an organization which operates by the philosophies of Swaminarayan. BAPS as an organization was established in the year 1907 by Shastriji Maharaj.The Swaminarayan Temple, Bhuj operates in the same way as all other temples which belong to the same organization. The Swaminarayan Temple of Bhuj is recognized for spiritual value, social work and the humanitarian service that they offer to the world. As all other temples that operate under BAPS, Swaminarayan Temple in Bhuj is also known for the beautifully carved stone temples.

Bazaars in Bhuj:
The uniquely colorful and picturesque city of Bhuj is situated in the Kutch region of Gujarat. Bhuj is also a municipality in the Kachchh District. The historical city of Bhuj was established by the great Rao Hamirji in the year 1510. This city was later made the state capital by another great personality in the name of Rao Khengari in the year 1549. Lying at the heart of Kutch, Bhuj is quite well connected and well linked by many roads to the rest of the peninsula. Bhuj is very well known for its excellent and skilled community of craftsmen.There are a huge number of tourist attraction spots in the beautiful city of Bhuj. Every year thousands of tourists from all corners of the world and from all over India visit the historical city of Bhuj.

Mobile range info:

How to reach?

Nearest Railway Station:New Bhuj Railway Station is 1 km north of Bhuj. Direct trains ply on the metre gauge line from Ahmedabad and on the broad gauge line for Mumbai.
Nearest Airport:Bhuj is connected by air with Mumbai and Ahmedabad. The Indian Airlines is Jet Airways have daily flights to Mumbai.
Road Transport:State roadways buses as well as private buses. There is good bus service for Ahmedabad (7-hour trip) and to other towns in Gujarat and Rajasthan. There are regular buses for villages around Bhuj.

Nearest Visiting places:

Anjar:
The major spots of tourist visit is the shrine of Jesai Toral and the bungalow of James Mcmurdo and the other spots of visit is Ajaypal temple and the holy shrine of Pinjora Pir are the locations of spirituality and serenity. The famous Jesai-Toral fair is organized here for a celebration of colorful culture in the district. Anjar is famously known for its block printing works, nutcrackers, scissors and penknives manufacturing

 

Bela:
This spot is in the borders of Rann of Kutch which is a famous for its wild ass sanctuary. It is a hill station named Nilva. Nature and nature everywhere would mesmerize everyone in a visit.

Chitrod:
This spot is a village with sweet charm and memories of the past, the Chitrod fort, the Bhachau fort and the Fatehgarh fort and some other historical monuments of this town would speak beauty about the past and present of this location.

Gandhidham:
This place evoked into regular inhabitance during the separation and displacement of the people India. The name of this place reveals the great Mahatma’s ashes which are immersed at Kandla Creek. Kandla is the only free trade region of the country and is situated 12 km to the southeast of Gandhidham. The other important tourist interests are Khavada, Bhardeshwar, and Purneshwar.

Kera:
This town is known to be the ancient place of Gujarat, the famous 10th century holy shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva is situated here, Kera was once the capital of the famous ruler Lakho Fulani, this ancient ruler have left back a marvelous monument during his reign, namely kapilkot fort, this is one of the tourist attraction here. Apart from this the major annual event of Urs celebrations at the shrine of Gulam Ali Shah, pulls in thousands and thousands of devotees from various spots of the country.

Lakhpat:
Today, this spot is noted to be a remote area with less inhabitants sojourn right here, perhaps! The erstwhile living was massive during the year 1851 and known to be as the important trade zone. It is said that by Rao Lakha who founded this place , therefore they name Lakhpat and also there are other reasons to define the name, such as, during the greenish days of living ,the people of Lakhpat made 1,00,000 kori a day ( an old currency of Kutch state) this spot is exactly situated at the junction of Kori Creek and Rann of Kutch on the Pakistan borders, this fortified town is noted for its high walls and gates and bastions of hard stone, of course almost everything around here is perished and looks deserted.

Mandvi:
This spot is said to be the biggest tourist location of the state, the town is famously known for its historical values dates back even before 18th centuries. This town is a port of Maharao of Kutch and it is located on the banks of Rukmavati River in the Gulf of Kutch, at the west coastal in India. The major tourist spot of visit is the Mandvi port which is known to be very ancient and trade zone of handicraft items. The docks at the beach is also a famous spot, where you watch ship building, then the ancient temple of Mulnayak devoted to Bhagawan Shantinath is also an attraction at this port. The Vijay Vilas Palace situated around 8km were once the retreat centre of Maharaos of Kutch during summer, this palace ages from 1940 and exhibits great architectural values and textures designs of great workmanship. The next best landmarks are the famous Aina mahal built in the mid -18th century by Ram Singh and the tomb of Gosh Mohammad, Gurdwara and some more Hindu based temples are the added attractions nearby. The Kalyaneshwar temple and the Narayan Sarovar situated 49 km near and Koteshwar adds an enlighten trip over here, this town of old age offers a splendid trip on sight seeing enrolls old buildings of princely times, chronological palaces and temples, apart from this the town offers valuables of silverware, shell work items, Kutch embroideries, tie- dye sarees, block prints and Bandhini- a form of cloth printing for purchase.

Mundra:
This is another coastal city of the state, and famously known as ‘the Paris of Kutch’ which was founded during the reign of Rao Bhojraji (1633-1645). The famous attraction here is the high fortified stone wall constructed of huge massive blocks taken from the ruins of Bhadreshwar, a holy city of Jains. The major produces of products are the handicrafts of Mundra, tie-dye, block prints and Namda works of Mansoori people are famous and awesome.

Tera:
This is a Teerth and an ancient temple situated here as the major attraction of tourist. The Tera fort known as Darbargarh is situated here as an added attraction, this place is surrounded by ancient temples, havelis, forts and lakes as tourist trips at serene… the temple of Shri Shymala Parshwanath Bhagvan and Shri Naliya Teerth are the another major tourist attractions nearby.

Kutch Bustard Sanctuary:
This sanctuary is established with a concern to protect the great Indian Bustard and its families at large. Apart from this there are harriers, eagles, migratory birds, jungle cats, desert cat and chinkara. The best seasons are late monsoon to winter.

Little Rann of Kutch wildlife Sanctuary(Ktuch desert wildlife sanctuary):
It is located in the north- eastern part of Kutch district near Pakistan and the Wild Ass Sanctuary. This jungle is said to be the largest in India with a circumference of 4950 sq’km filled in with the bliss of nature, saline desert plains, arid grasslands, lakes and marshes around. This sanctuary is mainly a preservation centre for flamingos’ yet gazelles, blue bulls, wolves, and Indian foxes are also concerned as great valuables in this jungle apart from this the jackals, jungle cats, hare, birds species, Indian sand grouse, francolin partridge, bustard quails, desert wheatear, desert, larks, steppe eagle, imperial eagle, short toed eagle, vulture, pelicans, ducks, cranes and storks are the other blessed flows of the air and the earth are found here. The best seasons are October to June.

Narayan Sarovar(Chinkara) Sanctuary:
This spot is considered to be the unique location of the country for its arid zone and uncommon ecosystem. This arid zone is a splendid space of 444 sq’km filled in with thorny jungle and great habitat of chinkara and Indian Gazelle. The other species and animals found here are caracal, ratel, wolf, desert cat, and desert fox, great Indian bustard, lesser florican, blue bull, spotted deer, wild boar and a variety of water fowls. The best season of visit is September to January.

Wild Ass Sanctuary:
This is another biggest Indian forest which spreads over an area of 5,000 sq’km , the sanctuary is mainly noted for the large gatherings of wild ass herds. The Anjal Wild Ass Sanctuary which is inside the Little Rann of Kutch region is a surrounding here too, perhaps! This sanctuary protects more than 2,100 wild asses as in habitats here, the landscape of this jungle resembles an island sort that pulls in wild asses to sojourn in this jungle , these islands are known as ‘baits’ which forms the core for the flora and fauna. During the seasons of monsoon the wild asses are attracted to this flat land of island like and herd in plenty is a noted theory. The other animals that live here are blue bulls, blackbucks, chinkara, wolves and jackals and various fowls of the air and venomous creepers and reptiles. The best seasons are October to June.

Nearest Petrol Pump:

Reliance Petrol Pump:Bhuj,Kutch,Gujarat,India

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:

Hotel Prince:College Road, Mirzapar Highway,Bhuj,Kutchh,Gujrat,India

 

Hotel Abha International:Bhuj,Kutch,Gujarat,India

Things to carry:

Tips & Suggestions:

Help Line/Phone Number:

Police Station:100
Nearest Hospital:
Velani Hospital:Bhuj,Kutch,Gujarat,India
Jubilee Hospital:Bhuj,Kutch,Gujarat,India
Society/Community Phone Number:
Links:www.holidayiq.com

Video

Dynamic View

Shree Swaminarayan Mandir
The temple will have an easy access by public transport and will serve as a permanent place of assembly for worship and Gujrati classes of Melbourne have had to use various Scout halls and School halls previously.These halls have not always been available when needed and thus a decision was made by the Mandir to search for an appropriate place that may be available to us when needed,The model of Swaminarayan temple, that will come in existence in sort time, with the hearty help of holy devotees of supreme god Swaminarayan. This mandir falls in Uttar Desh.....more
Kutch Mandvi Beach
Mandvi beach isone of the finest beach of Gujarat and a historic port town of the Maharao of Kutch. The port of Mandvi was an important sea trade post between the near East and the far East which brought prosperity to the Royal family. Mandvi town was an important city for the Maharaos of Bhuj being endowed with some splendid palaces and buildings. The region surrounding the Kutch Mandvi beach was once very active and significant, and one may come across many ruins and historical sites. Some distance away from the pristine Kutch Mandvi Beach is an ancient dock and port, which is still functional today. Though not historically significant, as the dock/port is completely recent, it is unique in that here, the vessels are made using wood and by hand....more
Prag Mahal Bhuj
The Prag Mahal in Bhuj is one of the most interesting palaces amongst the famous monuments in Gujarat India. The Prag Mahal also called the New Palace, was constructed in the year 1979. Every year tourists from far and wide come to see the splendors of this beautiful architectural structure which stands intact till date to narrate the tales from the bygone era.The Prag Mahal in Bhuj is an example of magnificent architecture. The decor of ornate Italian marble and golden sandstone give the palace a unique look and leaves one spellbound. The attractive Corinthian pillars of Prag Mahal, Bhuj and the detailed Jaali work depict the European flora and fauna. You can spend hours after hours studying and admiring the beautiful art work of Prag Mahal, one of the major tourist attractions in Gujarat....more
Aina Mahal Bhuj
Aina Mahal was constructed by Rao Lakhpatji, is situated in historic city of Bhuj, Gujarat. The mid eighteenth century Palace was built in traditional Kutchi style showing strong European influence as well. Aina Mahal is part of a large palace complex, with a darbar hall, a hall of mirrors and suites for the royal members. The Hall of Mirrors which is a blend of Indian and European creativity is the main attraction of the palace. The walls of this hall are built of white marble and are covered by mirrors surrounded by gilded decorations.The Aina Mahal in Bhuj is an old palace that was built in the 18th century. The erstwhile palace which belonged to Maharao Lakhpatji has now been transformed into a museum that is one of the chief tourist attractions in Bhuj.....more
Tomb of Jesal Toral
Anjar, which is one of the most beautiful cities in Gujarat, houses some of the most attractive forts and monuments. The Tomb of Jesal Toral is one of the famed tourist attractions in Anjar. It is basically a samadhi of Jesal Toral. There is also a bungalow of James Mcmurdo here. It has now been converted into a veritable museum that displays Kutch art.Anjar is also famed for its beautiful block printing work, scissors, nutcrackers and penknives. These are some of the artworks which you will come across in the museum at the Tomb of Jesal Toral in Anjar. On your visit to the city, a tour to Jesal Toral Tomb is highly recommended as it is one of the premier attractions of Gujarat. The tomb is also a centre for fairs.....more
Dholavira Ruins Kutch
Kutch is spelt as Kachchh also, It is a beautiful district of western state of Gujarat in India. It is said to be the most extensive district in the state of Gujarat and the 2nd largest district of India succeeding Leh. The meaning of the word Kutch stands for something that becomes wet and dry intermittently. On tour to Gujarat you must stop at this magnificent travel destination for a while. Here you will get to see various types of interesting sites of which forts and monuments top the chart. In fact Dholavira Ruins in Kutch has been acclaimed massively among all the forts and monuments in Gujarat.Dholavira is an ancient town situated in the state of Gujarat. It lies on the North West corner of the Khadir Island and stands surrounded by water in the monsoons. It was discovered in the year 1967 AD.....more
Vijay Vilas Palace Mandvi
Mandvi was earlier popular as the Paris of Kutch. This is because the Maharajas of Kutch made this place their summer resort because of its pleasant climate. With its rich traditional history a tour to Mandvi is a must on your visit to the forts and monuments in Gujarat. The Vijay Vilas Palace in Mandvi is one of the best examples of the city glamorous historical background.The Vijay Vilas Palace rises from a multi acre estate along the coast near the town. This palace of His Highness Maharao Vijay Singhji who ruled over Kutch in the 1940s is an eclectic blend of architectural styles. Umbrella domes like those seen in palaces of Bengal cupolas that would not look out of place in Mughal buildings jarokhas and cusp arches like those seen in Rajput palaces of Rajasthan, Victorian Gothic arches and classical columns make up the ensemble. Yet the architects were skilled enough to make the entire complex look harmonious....more
Tomb of Ghosh Mohammed Kaba
he tomb of Ghosh Mohammed Kaba in Lakhpat is amongst the best tourist attractions in Gujarat, India. The town of Lakhpat is at a distance of 151 km from the Bhuj airport. The town has an amazing landscape. It is also known for its rich historical splendors, which you can see in the form of old temples, gurudwaras and mosques. The tomb of Ghosh Mohammed Kaba is very famous and attracts a lot of tourists.From the vantage point on the wall of the tomb, a breathtaking view of the sea and the Rann of Kutch can be enjoyed. The town of Lakhpat is now deserted and uninhabited. Amongst the ruins of the town, the one that stands prominent is the Gurudwara or the holy shrine of the Sikhs. The tomb of Ghosh Mohammed Kaba is about 200 years old. It is a gigantic tomb that still stands to narrate stories from the bygone era....more
Kutch Museums
Kutch Museum, formerly known as the Fergusson Museum, is situated in the ancient city of Bhuj, in Kutch , it is the oldest of its kind in Gujarat. The museum, constructed in the Italian Gothic style, is located in the picturesque surroundings on the bank of Hamirsar Lake just opposite to the Nazar Bagh Garden.The Kachchh Museum in Bhuj, India, is one of the famous Tourist Attractions in Bhuj. Built during the period of British Rule in India, the Museum of Kachchh in Bhuj is the most significant among all other Museums in Bhuj as it displays the articles that take the visitors to those ages to which they belonged....more
Folk Museum Bhuj
The Folk Museum in Bhuj, India, is also known as Bharatiya Sanskruti Darshan, Bhuj.This museum has an interesting collection of artifacts including textiles which are displayed at typical village habitat. The Bhuj area has tribal people namely the Rabaries,Jats and Ahir to name a few. Therefore the museum here is rich in folk culture and art and is a must see.One of the chief attractions of Folk Museum, Bhuj which you will hardly find in any of the other Museums in Bhuj, is a rare fossil of a Crocodilian which is which is an extinct species of the crocodile of the modern age. This creature was double the size of a crocodile of today measuring as much as 9 meters as compared to the modern species which measures only 3 to 4 meters in length.Apart from this, a wide range of textiles and artifacts belonging to the members of the royal families of Bhuj have been elaborately displayed in Folk Museum, Bhuj. These timeless items have become hallmark of the glorious past when Bhuj was under the rule of the Rajputs. The private collections of the rulers arouse interest and amazement among visitors of all ages. The Museum also houses models of villages of this part of the world....more
Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary of Gujarat has vast area of sun baked mud flats that are salt impregnated. Some of the area around Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat have small patches of uplands and the hilly islands of the sanctuary are called bets. Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary has marine calcareous grit and oyster bed in the shore bordering the Arabian sea.Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat houses some of the rare wild animals like striped hyena, porcupine, fox, small Indian civet, Indian pangolin and a large number of reptiles. You will find both venomous and non venomous snakes, monitor lizards, star tortoise in the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary at Gujarat. Some of the rare species of birds are found in the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary at Gujarat.....more
Narayan Sarovar Sancuary
Located about only 2 kms away from the Kutch district in Gujarat, the Narayan Sarovar Chinkara Sanctuary is considered as one of the most unique wildlife sanctuaries in India. The sanctuary is also known as the Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary and is mainly dedicated at preserving and conserving the endangered species of Chinkara or the Indian Gazelle. The sanctuary was established in April, 1981 and has been holding a special place among the nature lovers all over the world, since then.It covers a huge area of 444 sq. km.The Narayan Sarovar Chinkara Sanctuary has a unique eco-system. A part of the sanctuary is a seasonal wetland in the arid zone that play mother to 15 threatened wildlife species.....more
Kutch Bustard Sanctuary
The Kutch Bustard Sanctuary is one of the great wonders of wildlife in Gujarat. With amazing geographical features, flora and fauna, the sanctuary simply leaves you spellbound with its wild splendors. Spread over an area of 2 sq km, Kutch Bustard Sanctuary is located in proximity to Naliya which is under the district of Kutch in Gujarat India. The sanctuary was established with an aim to protect the great Indian Bustard.The total population of the species of Indian Bustards has reduced considerably since the last few years due to various reasons like poaching, hunting and others.....more