Bhuj literally means “arm”. Legend says that this place was once ruled by Naga rulers and Bhuj gets it’s name from the last Naga Chiefain “Bhujanga”. Great Sanskrit grammarian and logician Panini mentions Vibhujagni in his “Paniniyam” or “Ashtadhyayi” which is probably present Bhuj. As per literature Bhuj was founded by Rao Hamir in 1510 (in his name there is a lake “Hamirsar Lake”) and later Bhuj was made the capital of Kutch by Maharao Khengar ji I in 1549. Present Bhuj is famous for unique handicraft items.
Location: Bhuj is located in western part of northwestern state Gujarat and it is District Headquarter of Kutch district.
How to reach: Bhuj is well-connected with major cities of India and can be reached by bus, train or flight. Shyamji Krishna Verma Airport is located only 5kms from the city. We reached Bhuj by train from Jaipur. Within the city autorickshaw, bus service to major tourist locations and jeep services are there. For sight seeing hiring private cab is preferable.
Best time to visit: Winter (November to February) is the best time to visit any part of Gujarat due to it’s hot tropical climate. We visited in mid-February and it was slightly hot weather. November to February is also the time for Rann Utsav in Gujarat which happens at approx. 88kms distance (White Desert) from Bhuj.
For exploring all the main attractions in Bhuj city as well as nearby exciting places like Khadi Nadi and Kalo Dungar you need to stay in Bhuj atleast 4 days. However in this blog I will discuss “places to visit in Bhuj in a day”.
- Aina Mahal and Prag Mahal
Aina Mahal was built by Lakhpat ji in 18th century after he was influenced by Mughal art and architectural style he observed during his visit to Mughal darbur. The palace has collection of silver trees with emerald embeded in them, bed used by Lakhpat ji with four gold pillars, musical instruments, photographs, royal palanquins and amazing mirror works on the wall.
Check out the blog: Royal Landmarks of Bhuj – Aina Mahal and Prag Mahal
Prag Mahal was built under commission of Rao Pragmal ji in 19th century and the palace was completed during the rule of Khengarji III. Prag Mahal is influenced by Italian architecture. Although both Aina Mahal and Prag Mahal are located in the same complex they look totally different from each other. Starting Bhuj trip with Aina Mahal and Prag Mahal will give you good idea about the past of Kutch region.
2. Swaminarayan Temple, Bhuj
Swaminarayan Temple of Bhuj is newly constructed one. Previous temple was very much affected by earthquake in 2001. White colored Swaminarayan Temple has Narnarayan idols inside alongwith Ghanshyam ji idol (childhood name of Swaminarayan). The temple is open from 5am to 12 o’clock and from 3pm to 9pm. During our visit we saw the temple is closed for the tourists little bit earlier than closing time. The complex is beautiful to spend some time peacefully.
3. Bhujia Hill
Bhujia Hill or Bhujiyo Dungar (in Gujarati Dungar means Hill) is located approx. 4kms from the main city. Bhujia Fort built by the Jadeja rulers on Bhujia Hill in 18th century and Bhujia temple are the main attractions of the hill. From the top you can see the town and sunset looks amazing.
4. 72 Jinalaya Jain Temple
According to Jainism 24 Tirthankaras have appeared on earth to teach good things to humanbeings and 72 Jinalaya Jain temple is an important pilgrimage site for people following Jainism. There are 72 Jain temples inside the complex with 72 small shikhars (peak). It is said that last Tirthankar Bhagavan Mahavir died at the age of 72 and hence 72 is an important number in Jainism. Bhagavan Mahavir was contemprary of Lord Buddha.
5. Vijay Vilas Palace
Vijay Vilas Palace is located at approx.65kms from Bhuj in Mandvi town very near to Mandvi Beach. Vijay Vilas Palace -built in early 20th century and once summer palace of Jadeja Maharajas and their family in Kutch – is a very beautiful spot for clicking photos with refreshing windy upper balcony. This palace is also famed for Hindi movies shoot inside the complex.
Check out the blog: Vijay Vilas Palace of Kutch, Gujarat – Complete Guide
6. Mandvi Beach
Mandvi Beach is located at approx. 60kms from Bhuj and it was our last stop for the day!. Less crowded Mandvi beach offers many options for food and entertainment (moreover price for these options is within the budget :-D). The beach is very clean and sunset view is magnificent.
Check out the blog: Mandvi Beach of Gujarat- A Memorable Day Trip from Bhuj
More places to explore in Bhuj:
- Kutch Museum
- Khadi Nadi
- Kalo Dungar
- Sharad Baug Palace
- Heritage walk around Hamirsar Lake
Located at 88kms distance you cannot miss Rann of Kutch – White Desert as there is a local saying “Kutch nahi dekha toh kuch nahi dekha” (if you haven’t seen Kutch you have seen nothing). During our trip we went to DHOLAVIRA located at 125kms from Bhuj (through new road) – an archaeological site belonging to Indus civilization. Both these places were visited on 2nd day. If you want to have tent city experience during Rann Utsav you can stay inside tent city (various packages are available on official Rann Utsav website). But we preferred staying in Bhuj and had a day trip to first Dholavira and then Rann of Kutch.
Bhuj was very much affected by the earthquake in 2001 and many touristy places lost their previous charm. During our trip we were told that in Bhuj city permission for construction is given only for two storied building. Due to continuous effort since the earthquake restoration brought back earlier glory of Bhuj.
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