The city of Bharuch (Gujarat) is located on the mouth of one of the most important rivers of western India, Narmada River. During its antiquity period the place was a thriving sea port for the purpose of coastal trading. Traces of the settlements date back to as far as the 3rd century during the time of Barugaza. According to Skanda Purana the great sage Bhrigu had arrived in Bharuch on top of a tortoise. There are several other interesting theories and facts that make this place even more significant. Dotted with religious places of worship adorned by the river and a well-preserved culture dating back to the ancient era.
Places to Visit
Golden Bridge
Connecting the city of Ankleshwar to Bharuch is the stunning golden bridge which looks like a beautiful maze and is built on top of Narmada River. It is also referred to as the Narmada bridge which was primarily built for better access of the trading and administrative administrators. Although built during the time of the British the bridge has been preserved in a very good condition. The bridge is a very beautiful sight and is a boon for the people travelling to and fro from the city in case of toll tax and fuel prices. One can plan a road trip with the bridge in the itinerary.
Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
Seated peacefully amidst the peacefully green environment, the temple of Swaminarayan is the best place to take some time off from the bustle of the city crowd. Every inch of this place is sparkling clean along with places where you can have something to eat, a book stall that lets you insight into the temple and know more about Shri Swaminarayan. After your darshan inside the main temple one can sit in one of the many scenic and peaceful gardens and observe some quiet time. due to being built following the perfect Vaastu the entire vibe here is extremely positive and makes for a day well spent in Bharuch.
Ninai Waterfall
Surrounded by a tremendous amount of natural beauty and located at a distance of less than 3 hours from the main city of Bharuch is one of the most popular waterfalls in Gujarat, Ninai. Gushing down from a height of over 30 feet and supporting a thriving ecosystem this place is one of the prime places of tourism in Bharuch. You can spend a day here with your family and loved ones by hiking or setting up a picnic and spending some peaceful time with nature. It is one of the most active parts of one of the hotspots for eco-tourism in the regions surrounding Sardar Sarovar Dam.
Nilkantheshwar Temple
This humble-looking temple, painted all in red, is located on the banks of the holy river of Narmada and offers some of the most panoramic and stunning views of the river beyond. As the name suggests this holy peaceful site is dedicated to Lord Shiva when he had kept the poison in his throat during the Samudra Manthan, which turned the lord’s throat blue, hence the name nil ‘blue’, Kantha ‘throated’. The temple is surrounded by a pond and should definitely be visited with your family and loved ones if it is serenity and spirituality that you are looking for.
Narmada Park
Located on the banks of the river Narmada and off the route of NH7, is an entertainment park where your family and kids can have a relaxing time. The park is very well maintained with a lot of entertainment options available for the visitors like a modern waterfront to have a closer look at Narmada River and fall in contact with nature, paved walkways, fountains, gardens for relaxing and even a play area for the kids to have some fun. Due to its location in close proximity to Nilkantheshwar temple it is another one of the most visited places in Bharuch since people go here to relaxing after offering their prayer to lord shiva
Zarwani Waterfall
Located inside the Shoolpaneshwar wildlife sanctuary this waterfall is developed as an eco-campsite which will make you feel like you are at peace with nature. It is home to a plethora of flora, fauna and birds making it the perfect place to spend your day amidst nature and the bountiful beauty of the surroundings. Home to deer, sloths, wild dogs, leopards etc. this waterfall can be visited by arranging for a day’s trip with the help of the forest department here. If you are looking to explore further then you can go on a hike or a brief trek through the natural beauty surrounding this waterfall.
Kadia Dungar Caves
Situated near the village of Zazpor this cave group consists of a collection of 7 caves which dates back to the 1st and 2nd century AD. The group of caves showcases monolithic sculptures of lion pillars. The construction of the cave is dedicated in vihara styles and it also has a brick like stupa on the foot of the mountain. The influence also showcases Buddhist architecture and is truly a treat for history buffs and offbeat travel lovers as well. It is situated at a very accessible distance of just 40 kms from the main city of Bharuch. The caves are surrounded by small green hills, beautiful farms and lush meadows. This place is truly a treat for nature lovers.
Guman Dev Mandir Temple
This is one of the most significant temples dedicated to lord hanuman whose date goes back to the ancient ages. The facilities ensure that you have a memorable time here. The temple’s history is very old and combined with the peaceful atmosphere here this is the best place to experience spirituality and tranquillity. The place boasts of immense positive energy and the idol here is believed to be a Swayambhu which means that the idol here is self-manifested around more than 500 years ago. It is a great place to spend with your family and also to perform some meditation activity amidst the serene environment.
Jama Masjid
History of Muslim religion in Gujarat spans over a millennia and if one has to choose a living image that represents Muslim in Gujarat, then it cant be anything other than the Jama Masjid of Bharuch. The mosque possesses a distinguished structure, which in turn differentiates it from other mosques in India. On one hand, its covered courtyard gives it the look of a fort, while on the other its construction during the 14th century from the remains of an ancient Jain temple represent temple architecture modified on Islamic practices.
History states that the Jama Masjid at Bharuch earlier served as the palace of Ranakdevi, but was later transformed into a mosque by Sultan Muhammad Begda on winning as the prince of Saurashtra. The mosque holds a strong position at the base of Bharuch Fort and has good historical value attached to it. The nearby Narmada River again adds to its scenic beauty.
Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary
Resplendent with an amazing biodiversity, Shoolpaneshwar WildLife Sanctuary spreads at over 600 sq. Kms is a nature observer’s paradise. At just 100 Kms It is a must do excursion from Ankleshwar. Freely roaming Raptors, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Rhesus Macaque, barking deer with picturesque Satpura ranges in the backdrop is an amazing sight to relish.
Must Try Food in Bharuch
1. Shree Khodiyaar Kathiyawadi Dhaba
2. South Samarth Restaurant
3. Anand Restaurant
4. Karim Pizza
5. Cafrestro
6. Shree Umiya Annapurna Kathiyawadi Hotel
7. Khana Khazana Restaurant
8. The D Pizza
9. Chinese Hut
10. Ministry Of Grill - Barbeque & Pizzeria
How To Get Here
By Air
To reach Bharuch, travellers can land at Surat airport as it is located at a distance of 69 km. One can also land at Vadodara airport as it is a domestic airport located nearby. Tourists can easily take local taxis or buses to reach the place smoothly. The prices of the air ticket as well as bus or taxi is affordable so people can easily visit this place.
By Road
Bharuch is well connected with the bus commuting service. Tourists can take tourist, luxury or state bus services to reach the place smoothly. Tourists can easily reach the place as the buses are comfortable. The nearby places to Bharuch are Ahmedabad (203 km), Shirdi (359km), Mumbai (399 km ) and Pune (464 km).
By Train
Bharuch Railway Station is well connected with the railways from all major cities and towns. Tourists can easily reach the place to make the travel enjoyable. The rail fares are affordable so tourists can afford it. To reach the city, people just need to take a local bus or taxi.
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