Not your usual Gujarat: 6 offbeat places worth the trip

Think Gujarat is all about Gir lions, and garba nights? Think again! Beyond the touristy trails lies a secret side of the state — one dotted with ghost towns, volcanic hills, hidden beaches, and stepwells that could rival movie sets. These lesser-known gems are where stories echo louder than selfies, and make for a great place to visit. So if you're the kind of traveller who likes detours more than destinations, buckle up! We’re heading off the grid to uncover six offbeat places in Gujarat that most people ignore — but your inner explorer will thank you for sure.

An 11th-century stepwell that was built as a memorial in Patan, Gujarat, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a stunning example of India’s subterranean architecture. This was built by Queen Udayamati in the loving memory of her husband, King Bhima I of the Solanki dynasty. Rani ki Vav is an inverted temple, going seven levels down into the ground and extending more than 64 meters in length. At the bottom level of the well is a sanctum that originally contained a Shivalinga, affirming the religious function of the area.

One interesting piece of information about this stepwell is that it was buried quite deep under silt because of the floods of the Saraswati River and was rediscovered in the 1940s by the Archaeological Survey of India, for which it has become internationally famous. Rani ki Vav is also displayed on the INR 100 Indian currency note.

A charming town in the Kutch region of Gujarat, Mandvi was once a major part of the Kutch region. This town was named after Sage Mandavya, from the epic Mahabharata. It is known for its charming beach that blends history and cultural craftsmanship. One of Mandvi’s hidden gems is its centuries-old shipbuilding yard, where artisanal wooden ships called “dhows” are still handcrafted using ancient techniques.
For tourists, Mandvi is off the beaten path for Gujarat; it is a combination of nature, heritage, and simplicity. Be it lazing around on the beach, wandering through royal palaces, or seeing maritime craft, Mandvi presents a breath of fresh and lesser-known air in Kutch.

Saputara, located in Gujarat's Dang district, is the state's only hill station and a peaceful retreat in the Western Ghats. Bathed in heavy forest cover and hill fogs, it experiences a cool climate and landscape throughout the year. Popular sites include Saputara Lake, Sunset Point, Ropeway, and Gira Waterfalls. The town also depicts tribal culture through its Artist Village and traditional handicrafts. Ideal for nature lovers and families too, Saputara is the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and exploration of cultures that make it one of the most pleasant and offbeat holiday retreats in Gujarat.

One of the most incredible Indus Valley Civilization archeological sites. The well-laid-out city, sophisticated water management system, and pristine landscape create a surreal, time-machine-like experience. This place goes back more than 4,500 years and provides a once-in-a-lifetime, rarely seen glimpse at their way of life. This town was sectioned into three areas: the citadel, middle town, and lower town—a highly structured design that reveals a strong awareness of social design.
It appears that trade, craftsmanship, and everyday life flourished here, as suggested by the beads, ceramics, tools, seals, and animal sculptures found in excavations. In addition, there is evidence of connections to Mesopotamian civilizations, which underscores Dholavira's significance in prehistoric world trade.

It is the best-kept secret of Gujarat's nature. Far within the Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, this fall is a quiet and lesser-trodden sanctuary that provides a welcome respite from nature. Situated around 12-14 km from the Statue of Unity, this falls is particularly beautiful during the monsoon and early winter months, when it just appears majestic. The forest surrounding it has rare and varied vegetation and wildlife like sloth bears, hyenas, and barking deer. It is also perfect for a photo opportunity, with landscape scenery and vibrant wildlife. Anyone who is going to see the Statue of Unity can include the Zarwani Waterfall in their schedule to enjoy a perfect blend of culture and nature tours.

Polo Forest, located near Abhapur in Gujarat's Sabarkantha district, is a hidden paradise in the Aravalli Hills. Spanning over ancient ruins and foliage, it offers a fascinating mix of nature and history. A rich city once ruled by the Parihars and later the Rathod Rajputs, the forest boasts centuries-old Jain and Hindu temples. Suitable for trekking, birding, and sightseeing, Polo Forest is perfect for a peaceful retreat among nature and architectural ruins.