Bhavnagar is a port city situated on the coast of Saurashtra in Gujarat. Bhavnagar was founded by the Rajput prince Bhav Sinhji who was a progressive ruler who played an important role in the development of the region. A busy industrial centre, Bhavnagar has little of tourist interest but is useful as a base for visiting Palitana and the Velavadar National Park.

Bhavnagar is an important cotton trade centre and has the administrative headquarters of the Bhavnagar district. The city has distinct old and new sections. The bazaars and the old houses with overhanging wooden balconies add character to the old city.

Getting there:

Bhavnagar is well connected by rail to Mumbai and Ahmedabad. Bhavnagar also has good road connections to most towns in Gujarat. Buses are frequently available to cities like Ahmedabad, Palitana, Una, Vadodara etc. Bhavnagar also has an airport with regular flights to Mumbai.

Tourist Attractions:

Takhteshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva is built on a small hillock overlooking the city. From here you can get some great views of the city as well as the Gulf of Cambay.

Gandhi Smriti Museum has a collection of memorabilia associated with Mahatma Gandhi. 

The Water Lock Gate of Bhavnagar, which maintains the water level of the docks, thus helping ships to stay afloat at the time of low tide is the first of its kind in Gujarat and is interesting

Gaurishankar Lake is a popular picnic spot in Bhavnagar with well maintained parks.

Palitana is an ideal destination for a day trip from Bhavnagar. Situated about 50 kms from Bhavnagar, Palitana is famous for its exquisitely carved Jain temples.

Velavadar National Park is famous for its blackbucks. You can also spot some exotic species of birds here. This beautiful national park is about 65 kms away from Bhavnagar