Jamnagar, previously known as Nawanagar, is a small 16th-century pearl fishing town. It was ruled by Jamthe Jadeja and was built around the Ranmal lake in 1540. It was also the capital of the Jadeja kingdom who were the Rajputs of Nawanagar. Today, it is the city that has the only Ayurvedic University in India and a temple which is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records. The city is slowly getting famous amongst travelers as it has an array of exciting tourist spots and fascinating things to do. Let’s quickly go through them.

Being a historic Indian city, Jamnagar has some of the finest architecture in Gujarat. The Lakhota Palace, Pratap Vilas Palace, and Darbargadh Palace are the pride of the city. These palaces are also the top attractions of the city and many tourists visit these palaces and admire the beauty, art, and the history associated with them. So when you visit Jamnagar, do not forget to take a tour down to the majestic structures and click some amazing pics with your loved ones.

The city of Jamnagar has a huge list of religious places which are well revered by thousands of Hindus and Jains alike. To name a few, Bal Hanuman Mandir, Bhidbhanjan Temple, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Shri Balahanuman Sankirtan Mandir, Pranami Mandir, Swaminarayan Temple, and Khijada Mandir are the most notable ones. Thousands of pilgrims pay a holy visit at these temples. They offer their prayers, seek peace and salvation. The atmosphere at these temples is simply sublime especially at the time of Aarti. The Bal Hanuman Temple is also listed in the Guinness Books of World Records. Devotees have set up a record for chanting continuously “Sri Ram, Jai Ram, Jai Jai Ram”. So do visit these places for a divine experience.

Jamnagar has one of the most popular marine national park known by the name “Narara”. It is India’s first marine national park and is the home ground for many species of birds. The model crematorium, or the cremation park, another top attraction of the city which is situated at just 10 minutes towards the north of the city center. It houses many idols of saints and prominent religious figures and some pictures from the Ramayana. The circle of life that shows different stages of the human lifecycle is indeed very interesting. Besides these, there are many gardens and parks where you can have a peaceful time with nature.

The next in the list is Balachadi Beach. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in western Gujarat. Numerous visitors (both local and foreigners) come along with their loved ones to spend a romantic, peaceful time. The sunrise and sunset at Balachadi Beach is an amazing sight to witness. The sweet sound of cool breeze, stunning view of the wide-spread ocean, and soft sand to walk on refills you with energy and rejuvenation. So experiencing all these at Balachadi Beach should be on your list of things-to-do.

Is any trip complete without shopping? The answer is just one word, No! When you travel to different places, shopping at the local market is something which you cannot miss. Jamnagar offers you a huge variety of things that you can take home. The hustle-bustle around the crowded and well-stocked shops is the true highlight of the city. Wondering what to buy? Here is our recommendation: 

• The Bandhani or tie-and-dye fabric, dress material, Bandhani Dupattas, sarees, shawls, curtains, colorful and traditional bedsheets, and so on.
• Richly decorated materials with ornate bead and glasswork along with silverware.
• Wooden chests with brass plating, bangles with brass inlay work, fabricated necklaces, Beetle nut-cracking tool, agate paperweights, vases, wall hangings, and much more.

You can buy all this stuff from Chandni Market, Willington Crescent, and Mahavir Bandhi Center. You can also visit the malls and shop for some branded items but the variety of material and items that you will get in the local market is far better than in the malls.