R ARIVANANTHAM
GANDHINAGAR, NOV 25
Thanks to Gujarat’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural landscapes, the state’s strategic focus on infrastructure development, 16 prominent tourism destinations saw over 61 lakh national and international visitors in just 20 days during the festive season. More than 13 lakh devotees flocked to Dwarka for prayers, while Kankaria Lake in Ahmedabad stood out as a favourite destination in the city’s heritage landscape, drawing large crowds.
- Gujarat’s tourist destinations attract national and international visitors during the festive season
- During the 21-day Diwali holiday period, from October 26 to November 15, 2024, 61.7 lakh tourists flocked to 16 major destinations and pilgrimage sites across the state
- Kankaria Lake in Ahmedabad stands out as a favourite destination in the city’s heritage landscape
CM’s infrastructural advancement initiatives boost tourism
“Under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the state has undertaken significant infrastructural advancements to position Gujarat’s tourism sector on the global map. These efforts aim to provide an unparalleled experience to visitors, reflected in the steady rise in tourist footfall. During the 21-day Diwali holiday period, from October 26 to November 15, 2024, an impressive 61.70 lakh visitors explored 16 prominent tourist destinations and pilgrimage sites across the state,” says a tourism department statement.
16 iconic tourist destinations and pilgrimage sites
Popular attractions, including the Statue of Unity, Atal Bridge, Riverfront Flower Park, Kankaria Lake, Pavagadh Temple, Ambaji Temple, Girnar Ropeway, Science City, Vadnagar, Somnath Temple, Dwarka Temple, Nadabet, Modhera Sun Temple, Smritivan Memorial, Gir Safari, and Dandi Smarak, witnessed an overwhelming response from tourists. Ahmedabad’s Kankaria Lake alone drew over 5.50 lakh visitors, while the Dwarka Temple recorded the highest footfall, with more than 13 lakh devotees.
During the Diwali holiday period 2024, Gujarat witnessed an impressive influx of 61.70 lakh visitors, who explored its 16 iconic tourist destinations and pilgrimage sites, showcasing the state’s growing appeal as a top travel destination.
They are Statue of Unity and Associated Attractions-4,90,151 visitors; Ahmedabad: Atal Bridge-1,77,060, Riverfront Flower Park-16,292, and Kankaria Lake-5,95,178, Pavagadh Temple and Ropeway-8,92,126, Ambaji Temple, Shaktipeeth Parikrama, Ropeway-12,08,273; Girnar Ropeway-1,05,092; Science City (including musical fountain)-1,02,438; Vadnagar-74,189, Somnath Temple-8,66,720; Dwarka Temple-13,43,390; Nadabet-64,745; Modhera Sun Temple-45,375; Smritivan Memorial, Bhuj-45,527; Gir Jungle Safari + Devaliya Jeep and Bus Safari-1,13,681 and- Dandi Smarak-30,479
Rann Utsav begins in Kutch; 7.42 lakh tourists visited during 2023-24
The much-awaited Rann Utsav has officially commenced, attracting both domestic and international tourists. During the festival, visitors can enjoy a range of cultural programs along with various adventure sports activities. For the 2024-25 edition, the festival will feature an Adventure Zone offering 20 distinct activities, including paramotoring and ATV rides. Additionally, a Children’s Activity and Fun/Knowledge Park will be set up with 10 different activities, such as games and activities that promote understanding of nutrition, as well as a VR game zone.
G-20 Meetings showcase Gujarat’s tourist attractions to the world
Recently, Gujarat hosted a series of G-20 meetings as part of India’s presidency. The state government successfully organized these meetings at world-class tourist destinations such as Dhordo in Kutch and the Statue of Unity, providing G-20 delegates with an opportunity to experience the rich heritage of Gujarat. Delegates visited notable attractions, including Dholavira, Modhera Sun Temple, Ahmedabad’s historical landmarks, GIFT City, and the Dandi Kutir, and praised the state’s cultural and historical legacy. Their visit to these ancient cities left a lasting impression, with delegates expressing that these sites are a treasure of the world, emphasizing the importance of preserving them for future generations.
