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Location: 246 Kms From Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Significance: Gandhiji Spent His Childhood Here. Main Attractions: Kaba Gandhi No Delo, Watson Museum. Languages: Gujarati, Hindi, English.

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The pleasant city of Rajkot, situated 246 kms from Ahmedabad, was once the capital of the princely state of Saurashtra. Today, it is best known as the town where Mahatma Gandhi spent the early years of his life when his father was a 'Diwan' or Prime Minister to the king of Saurashtra. Even today, their family home here houses a permanent exhibition of Gandhiji's personal belongings.

Rajkot has a fine museum and some old colonial architecture.Handicrafts like silver and textiles are a highlight of Rajkot, which has the National Weaving Institute, which is working to promote traditional weaves. Rajkot is one of the most important commercial and industrial cities of Saurashtra.

PRIME ATTRACTIONS

Kaba Gandhi No Delo: Gandhiji's ancestral home which now houses the Gandhi Smriti, a permanent exhibition.

Watson Museum And Library: Located in the pleasant Jubilee Garden, the museum is a good introduction to Saurashtra's cultural heritage.

The Rajkumar College: As early as 1870, the state had become known for its Rajkumar college, built for the education of the princes of the Indian state.

Rashtriya Shala: famous for the center of 'Patola' weaving, Rashtriya Shala was founded by Mahatma Gandhi.

Jagat Mandir: Built of red stones, it is a beautifully carved temple of Shri Ramkrishna Paramhansa.

EXCURSIONS

Lal Pari Lake And Randerda: A Picturesque picnic spot, 5 kms from Rajkot.

Ajit Dam: It is situated 8 kms from Rajkot and is responsible for supplying water to whole of the town.

Wankaner: About 50 kms from Rajkot on the way to Kachchh; is the palace of Wankaner, now converted into a Heritage Hotel.

HOW TO REACH RAJKOT

Air: Various Airlines operate daily services connecting Rajkot with Bombay.

Rail: Rajkot is a Junction on the Western Railway, Viramgam-Okha meter gauge line.

Road: State transport buses and private luxury coaches connects various centres of Gujarat. It is situated 798 Kms. from Bombay via Ahmedabad, 101 Kms. from Junagadh, 193 Kms. from Porbandar, and 216 Kms. from Ahmedabad.

WHERE TO STAY

Rajkot's inexpensive hotels leave much to desired but a few are adequate. There are quite a few budget options available. It's worth spending a little more to find welcome relief from the hustle and bustle of the city.