Bhavnagar travel guide

Bhavnagar was ruled by progressive rulers from its foundation in 1723. Surrounded by flat and richly cultivated land, it is now a major industrial town and cotton export centre, and is rapidly becoming one of India’s most important ship-building ports. However, most of its character is preserved in the bazaars of the Old City where you can pick your way through the crowded lanes amongst the old merchants’ havelis.

Victoria Park, 2 km from the centre, is a former royal hunting preserve. Far removed from the image conveyed by its name of a manicured British city park, it has rolling scrub forests and marshes rich in birdlife. Nilgai, hyena, jackal, jungle cat and monitor lizard can all be seen. A pleasant stroll from the Nilambagh Palace, it is a great place for walks. Gaurishankar Lake, a popular escape from the city with parks and steps along the embankments, is good for winter birdwatching when cranes, pelicans and ducks arrive. Plovers, terns and other birds nest on the islands.