The city of Bharuch (Gujarat) is located on the mouth of one of the most important rivers of western India, Narmada River. During its antiquity period the place was a thriving sea port for the purpose of coastal trading. Traces of the settlements hare date back to as far as 3rd century during the time of Barugaza. According to Skanda Purana the great sage Bhrigu had arrived in Bharuch on top of a tortoise. There are several other interesting theories and facts that makes this place even more significant. Dotted with religious places of worship adorned by the river and a well-preserved culture dating back to the ancient era, here are some of the best places you can visit in Bharuch:
Golden Bridge
Connecting the city of Ankleshwar to Bharuch is the stunning golden bridge which looks like a beautiful maze and is built on top of Narmada River. it is also referred to as the Narmada bridge which was primarily built for a better access of the trading and administrative administrators. Although built during the time of the British the bridge has been preserved in a very good condition. The bridge is a very beautiful sight and is a boon for the people travelling to and fro from the city in case of toll tax and fuel prices. One can plan a road trip with the bridge in the itinerary.
Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
Seated peacefully amidst the peacefully green environment, the temple of Swaminarayan is the best place to take some time off from the bustle of the city crowd. Every inch of this place is sparkling clean along with places where you can have something to eat, book stall that lets you insight into the temple and know more about Shri Swaminarayan. After your darshan inside the main temple one can sit in one of the many scenic and peaceful gardens and observe some quiet time. due to being built following the perfect Vaastu the entire vibe here is extremely positive and makes for a day well spent in Bharuch.
Ninai Waterfalls
Surrounded by a tremendous amount of natural beauty and located at a distance of less than 3 hours from the main city of Bharuch is one of the most popular waterfalls in Gujarat, Ninai. Gushing down from a height of over 30 feet and supporting a thriving eco system this place is one of the prime places of tourism in Bharuch. You can spend a day here with your family and loved ones by hiking or setting up a picnic and spending some peaceful time with nature. It is one of the most active part of one of the hotspots for eco-tourism in the regions surrounding Sardar Sarovar Dam.
Nilkantheshwar Temple
This humble-looking temple, painted all in red, is located on the banks of the holy river of Narmada and offers some of the most panoramic and stunning views of the river beyond. As the name suggests this holy peaceful site is dedicated to Lord Shiva when he had kept the poison in his throat during the Samudra Manthan, which turned the lord’s throat blue, hence the name nil ‘blue’, Kantha ‘throated’. The temple is surrounded by a pond and should definitely be visited with your family and loved ones if it is serenity and spirituality that you are looking for.
Narmada Park
Located on the banks of the river Narmada and off the route of NH7, is an entertainment park where your family and kids can have a relaxing time. the park is very well maintained with a lot of entertainment options available for the visitors like a modern water front to have a closer look at Narmada River and fell in contact with nature, paved walkways, fountains, gardens for relaxing and even play area for the kids to have some fun. Due to its location in close proximity to Nilkantheshwar temple it is another one of the most visited places in Bharuch since people go here to relaxing after offering their prayer to lord shiva.
Zarwani Waterfall
Located inside the Shoolpaneshwar wildlife sanctuary this waterfall is developed as an eco-campsite which will make you feel like you are at peace with nature. It is home to a plethora of flora, fauna and birds making it the perfect place to spend your day amidst nature and bountiful beauty of the surroundings. Home to deer’s, sloths, wild dogs, leopards etc. this waterfall can be visited by arranging for a day’s trip with the help of the forest department here. if you are looking to explore further then you can go on a hike or a brief trek through the natural beauty surrounding this waterfall.
Kadia Dungar Caves
Situated near the village of Zazpor this cave group consists of a collection of 7 caves which dates back to the 1st and 2nd century AD. The group of caves showcases monolithic sculptures of lion pillars. The construction of the cave is dedicated in vihara styles and it also has a brick like stupa on the foot of the mountain. the influence also showcases Buddhist architecture and is truly a treat for history buffs and off beat travel lovers as well. It is situated at a very accessible distance of just 40 kms from the main city of Bharuch. The caves are surrounded by small green hills, beautiful farms and lush meadows this place is truly a treat for nature lovers.
Guman Dev Mandir Temple
This is one of the most significant temples dedicated to lord hanuman whose date goes back to the ancient ages. The facilities ensure that you have a memorable time here. The temple’s history is very old and combined with the peaceful atmosphere here this is the best place to experience spirituality and tranquillity. The place boasts of immense positive energy and the idol here is believed to be a Swayambhu which means that the idol here is self-manifested around more than 500 years ago. It is a great place to spend with your family and also to perform some meditation activity amidst the serene environment.
