Aside from being known as the city that sleeps in the afternoon, Rajkot is such an interesting place to visit because of its historical sights. The city also boasts a vibrant art and culture scene. They have beautiful textiles and furniture, sarees, embroidery works, and jewelry. It is also a nice place to go shopping. You’ll find lots of bright and colorful handicrafts made by locals, in addition to antiques and traditional items. There are a number of interesting museums here, such as the Watson Museum and Rotary Dolls Museum, wherein you’ll get a lesson in history. The Aji Dam and Jubilee Garden are beautiful recreational areas that you should visit. Plus, the city is one of the cleanest cities in India. For accommodation, you can book rooms in any of the several hotels in Rajkot. If you are looking for luxury, you will find several 5-star hotels. In the meantime, for your upcoming vacation, continue reading to learn more about the top things Rajkot is famous for.
What to look forward to nearby:
- If you're interested in Buddhism, head to Khambhalida Buddhist Caves, around two hours outside of the city, where you'll find remnants from the 4th century AD.
Good to know:
- You'll find more information about Rajkot on Gujarat Tourism, the official tourism website for the state.
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1. Patola Saris (Mayur Patola Art)
Known for its splendid weaving techniques and complex and beautiful designs, the Patola sari is a specialty of Rajkot. The fabric is quite expensive and unique, often worn by the higher class. You can either buy these at shops around the city or even watch a workshop on it. There are workshops wherein you can watch and learn how the Patola Saris are made. These sarees are very soft, and silky, and you can wear them for any occasion.
Patola Saris ( Mayur Patola Art)
Address: Sarvoday Society, Behind Virani Highschool., Rajkot, Gujarat 360002, India
2. Tarnetar Fair
With explosive colors, a romantic ambiance, and feel-good music, the Tarnetar Fair is a great place to go as it is a celebration of the unity of Draupadi with Arjuna. The fair is a great event to attend in order to know more about the culture and people of the city. Significant tribes in the nearby region get together and celebrate this occasion. The tribal members participate in fun activities such as dancing, music, and even sports. There are also food stalls and exhibits which you can look in to. You’ll learn a lot about the history of the city because of the traditional dances and music played by various groups. There are a lot of festive activities you’ll surely love.
3. Rajkot Bandhani sarees
Bandhani sarees are certainly one of the famous things to buy in Rajkot. A distinctive and cherished part of India’s rich textile heritage, these sarees are known for their intricate tie-and-dye patterns that create vibrant, eye-catching designs.
Rajkot has gained fame as a prominent hub for the production of these exquisite Bandhani sarees mainly because of its artisans who employ age-old techniques passed down through generations. The process involves tying tiny knots on the fabric with thread before dyeing it, resulting in a striking array of patterns and colors. The city’s Bandhani sarees are celebrated for their quality, artistry, and ability to encapsulate the essence of Gujarat’s cultural traditions.
4. Iron & Forging Products
Rajkot has made a name in the industry of iron and forging products. The city has been supplying a lot of companies all over the world with their various machines, motors, automobiles, and more. You’ll find a lot of these products being sold around the city and you may even see how they make it themselves.
5. Silver (businesses)
The city is also known for its silver whether that be for jewelry, accessories, or even industrial reasons. There has been a high demand for silver in the city from almost everywhere across the globe. Due to their extensive skills and jewelry making techniques, there are a lot of businesses that are selling silver jewelry for a reasonable price.
6. Rajkot's Green Chutney
Not only is the green chutney a hit in Rajkot but it is also famous globally. This condiment paired with some of the famous street foods in Rajkot brings a delicious twist to almost any type of food whether that be potato chips or wafers. The condiment is a mix of spiciness and tanginess, with a hint of a nutty flavor that bursts in your mouth. Don’t go empty-handed and buy a bottle or two before you go home. It has a long shelf life, but it won’t stay on your shelf for long - it’s that delicious!
7. Siesta
Siesta is known to be an afternoon nap and here in Rajkot, they take siestas very seriously. The locals here have developed the term siesta into their businesses, wherein you’ll find shops often closed from 1 pm to 4 pm and opens at night. There are barely any shops that are opened during siesta time because the city realized that a lot of locals are also sleeping at the same time. Not only will you be avoiding the blazing heat, but you’ll also get to avoid the traffic. So if you’re looking for some retail therapy, it’s best that you either go for it in the morning or at night because most shops would be closed in the afternoon.
8. Handicrafts
As one of the centers of arts, Rajkot is known for its beautiful and interesting handicrafts. The types of handicrafts range from embroidery, block-printing, metal crafts, wood carving, metalworking, and more. In the city, you can look forward to the beadwork, a type of handicraft in which two to three beads are put together to create a beautiful piece such as necklace, earring, or an ornament. They invest their time in creating eye-catching jewelry pieces. It is also best known for its traditional woodwork and unique furnishings. Don’t forget to buy a thing or two to remind you of the city.
Fun things to do in Rajkot
To experience all that the city has to offer, fill up you itinerary with some of the fantastic things to do in the city listed below.
9. Take a walk down the memory lane at Watson Museum
Established in 1888, the Watson Museum is named after Colonel John Watson, a British history enthusiast. The museum serves as a treasure trove of historical, archaeological, and cultural relics, showcasing the rich heritage of the Saurashtra region. It boasts a diverse range of exhibits, including sculptures, coins, manuscripts, paintings, and textiles, allowing visitors to delve into the history and traditions of Rajkot and its surrounding areas.
The Watson Museum is not just a repository of the past but also a testament to Rajkot’s commitment to preserving its cultural legacy.
Watson Museum
Address: Jawahar Rd, Opp BSNL Office, Jubilee Garden, Rajkot, Gujarat 360001, India
Website: Watson Museum
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (closed on Wed, 2nd & 4th Sat)
10. Discover more of Gandhi’s life at Mahatma Gandhi's School (Alfred High School)
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Alfred High School was an educational institution that lasted 164 years and is where the well-known Mahatma Gandhi studied. The school was established during British rule in India, thus, the architecture of the building is unique and foreign.
Although this historical site was later on changed to a museum, it’s still a must-see site because of how well Mahatma Gandhi was honored here. The museum tells the story of Gandhi’s teachings, ideas, and his life, which is a great history lesson for many. There is also a laser and sound show which is quite eye-catching. The museum features 39 galleries detailing various aspects of Gandhi’s life, works, and ideologies. It also houses a souvenir shop, a garden, and a food court.
Mahatma Gandhi's School (Alfred High School)
Address: Jubilee, Chowk, Jawahar Rd, Lohana Para, Rajkot, Gujarat 360001, India
Website: Mahatma Gandhi’s School - Alfred High School
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 7pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 0.14 - 0.34 USD
11. Watch the sunset at Aji Dam
This famous attraction is a captivating dam that is well-maintained. You’ll find yourself at peace when you’re visiting because of the calmness and cleanliness of the area. There are also a lot of birds so you can go birdwatching, but make sure to be careful. The water in the dam is clean and is also the source of water for the people in the city. The views and the fresh air are enough reasons why the dam is a must-visit. Just a few steps away from the dam, there is a beautiful and spacious garden perfect for unwinding. The place is also said to be one of the best places to have a lovely picnic because of the view plus the great weather.
Aji Dam
Opening hours: 6am - 6pm (daily)
Price: Free
12. Play around at Fun World
There are fun amusement rides and amazing entertainment awaiting you here at Fun World, the first-ever amusement park in the city. Whether you’re a kid or an adult, the 26 amusement rides will definitely keep you going and happy. Toratora is considered to be one of the main attractions in the park, so if you’re up for a challenge you should try this ride. On special occasions, there are also amazing recreational activities such as picnics, drawing, painting, and games. Feeling peckish? There are food and drinks available at the park. Fun World is definitely a great family-friendly place.
Fun World
Address: In Race Course Ground, Rajkot, Gujarat 360001, India
Website: Fun World
Opening hours: 4:30pm - 11pm (daily)
Price: 3 - 4 USD
13. Enjoy bird-watching in Hingolgadh Nature Education Sanctuary
This sanctuary has been around for over 40 years and is surrounded by diverse flora and fauna amidst bountiful nature.
A unique blend of deciduous forests and savannah grasslands, the sanctuary plays a pivotal role in groundwater conservation by recharging aquifers in the region. Managed by the esteemed Gujarat Ecological Education and Research (GEER) Foundation, it garners a whopping footfall of visitors, especially during the monsoon.
You can spend a day amid 314 different plant species and spot a chinkara or a blue bull in the lush forests. There are 19 species of snakes found in the area, out of which 16 are non-venomous. With 230 species of bird habitats found here, you can do bird-watching and spot favorites like the dove, shrike, woodpecker, and Indian roller in the nature reserve.
Hingolgadh Nature Education Sanctuary
Address: 5838+6RX, Jasdan-Ahmedabad highway, Taluka Vinchhiya, Post Amarapur, Rajkot District, Hingolgadh, Gujarat 360055
Website: Hingolgadh Nature Education Sanctuary
Opening hours: Mon: 8am - 6pm; Wed: 8am - 6pm; Thu: open 24 hours; Fri - Sat: 8am - 6pm (closed on Tue)
14. Admire dolls from across the globe in Rotary International Dolls Museum
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Rotary Dolls Museum on Saturday, April 18, 2015
Located in the heart of the city, this museum is a treasure trove for the little ones. It combines different countries and regions’ uniquely varied traditions and cultures through dolls. The Rotary Clubs across the globe have donated these dolls on display to the museum.
Being the brainchild of Mr. Deepak Agrawal, a Rotarian himself, the idea was conceived in 2001. It showcases more than 1600 traditional dolls from over 102 countries worldwide. The window dressing shows where the dolls have traveled from. Archives of historical documents related to the dolls are also found in the museum.
Besides the tour, you can also have a good time learning about the cultures of various countries and the different languages around the museum.
Rotary International Dolls Museum
Address: Opp Heera Panna complex 2nd floor, Nagrik Bank Building, Dr. Yagnik Rd, Rajkot, Gujarat 360001
Website: Rotary International Dolls Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 1:30pm, 2:30pm - 7pm (closed on Mon)
15. Enjoy peaceful meditation at Shri Ramakrishna Ashrama
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Shri Ramakrishna Ashrama on Wednesday, February 17, 2021
Shri Ramakrishna Ashrama is a divine and peaceful temple with the vibe you desire for a deep meditation session. It is a serene and calm place, both on the inside and outside, with a well-manicured garden, complete with a fountain. The temple has a book store with various interesting reads that you can use for spiritual nourishment after meditation. If you are in search of inner peace, then don’t miss a visit to this temple when you are in Rajkot.
Shri Ramakrishna Ashrama
Address: Jagnath Plot, Rajkot, Gujarat 360001, India
Website: Shri Ramakrishna Ashrama
Opening hours: 5am - 12pm, 4pm - 9pm (daily)
16. Discover the life of Mahatma Gandhi at Kaba Gandhi no Delo
Posted by Eagle Connect LLP on Friday, 11 October 2019
Kaba Gandhi No Delo is one of the highly historic sites in Rajkot. Since it is where Gandhi lived from the age of six, it is one of the best places to check out if you want to find a detailed showcase of Mahatma Gandhi’s life presented in an interactive and informative manner. Since this is where Mahatma Gandhi grew up, you will also gain vital insights about his family, including a trip to Alfred High School Museum, where he studied during his early life.
Kaba Gandhi no Delo
Address: 8, NAV LANE, Dela Vadi, Khadia, Rajkot, Gujarat 360001, India
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
17. Attend sports and cultural events at Racecourse Grounds
Posted by Hansaben Rupapara on Friday, 20 December 2019
One of the best ways to indulge and soak in other people’s culture is to take part in the sports. If you visit Rajkot, then a trip to Racecourse Grounds will be a good opportunity to fully immerse yourself in a variety of Indian cultures. The ground is located right at the heart of the city, and it is usually the venue for various sports and cultural events. Even if you don’t want to take part in any of the sports, you can simply attend, sit back and get entertained.
Race Course Ground
Address: Race Course Ring Road, Rajkot 360001, India
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
Tip from Trip101 local expert
This destination is also perfect for kids, as it is filled with rides and open space for playtime. Furthermore, just adjacent to the Racecourse Grounds is Fun World, another fun family place to let loose and have fun. Fun World is an amusement park with many adventurous games and even rides, including a horror house and 4D rides. However, it has a minimal entry fee. There are even eateries inside selling savory corn chaats, sev puris, fries, and more. So don't forget to stop by Fun World for a great experience.
Visited this place?
18. Watch exciting wildlife at Pradyuman Zoological Park
India can show off its abundant wildlife, including certain endangered species whose extinction from the surface of the earth seems inevitable. Instead of going for a full safari in search of these animals in the wild, if you are visiting Rajkot, simply visit Pradyuman Zoological Park to check out some of the country’s most cherished wildlife. Some of the main attractions in this park include tigers, Asiatic lions, an aquarium with various types of fishes. If you love nature or you are visiting with little ones, then be sure to not miss this park.
Pradyuman Zoological Park
Address: Pradhyuman Park, Rajkot, Gujarat 360003, India
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 9am - 6pm (closed on Fri)
Price: 1 USD
19. Enjoy a picnic at the picturesque Lal Pari Lake
Lal Pari Lake is another incredibly beautiful place ideal for picnics or simple outdoor relaxations. The lake is just a few kilometers from the city, and it is in a quiet place with lots of migratory birds. Birdwatchers, nature lovers, and anyone in search of peace and tranquility will find the lake inviting in all aspects.
Lal Pari Lake
Address: Lal Pari Lake, Rajkot, Gujarat, India
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
20. Cherish the peace and tranquility at Jubilee Garden
Jubilee Garden is right at the heart of the city, and it is one of the places you will love to have around when you need a breather from the hustle and bustle of the city. It features an expanse of lush greenery, and other than resting, it forms magnificent grounds for family picnics. This is also the place where Watson Museum, Lang Library, and an auditorium are located. As such, it can provide plenty of things to do and see.
Jubilee Garden
Address: Jubilee Rd, Lohana Para, Rajkot, Gujarat 360001, India
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
21. Soak in the serenity of Aji Dam Garden
Aji Dam Garden is a beautiful step garden surrounded with amusement parks for children, zoo, crocodile park. It is worth...
Posted by GroupOuting on Tuesday, 1 November 2016
If you are looking for more green spaces and places that enthuse a lot of peace and tranquility, then you will be pleased to learn about Aji Dam Garden. With facilities such as manicured gardens, spacious seating areas, a kids’ playground, eateries, and the picturesque dam, it has all you need to spend quiet times soaking in the peace and tranquility of nature.
Aji Dam Garden
Address: Aji Dam Chokdi, Rajkot, Gujarat 360002, India
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
22. Appreciate an evening stroll at Nyari Dam
Posted by Er Jigar Chudasama on Saturday, 14 December 2019
Nyari Dam may not be very touristic, but it is a great place to go for a walk, especially in the evening. It also has picnic sites where you can gather with friends and family to enjoy light moments with one another. And, when you visit with your better half, you will love the romantic walks with beautiful views.
Nyari Dam
Address: Nyari Dam Rd Gujarat 360005, India
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
Explore the wonders of Rajkot
Not just the abundance of natural, cultural, and historical attractions, but the food, art, and fairs make Rajkot a unique and much-loved city. Make sure you get to make the most out of your experiences by checking out the best places to see and things Rajkot is famous for in Rajkot. Once you visit this city and explore its wonders, you might keep wanting to come back for more.
Frequently asked questions about things Rajkot is famous for
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