The history of Wadhwan, once known as Vardhamanpuri, traces back to ancient times. It intertwines with the legendary tale of Sati Ranakdevi and the Solanki dynasty ruler, Siddhraj Jaisinh. According to folklore, Ranakdevi, in an act of Sati, defended her honor after Siddharaj killed her husband, leaving the Bhogavo River as a silent witness. Ranakdevi’s curse, it is said, rendered the place waterless, leading to the construction of a temple in her honor at the cremation ground, alongside the cenotaphs of Wadhwan rulers.
Wadhwan, a fortified town in Gujarat, stands proudly on the banks of the River Bhogavo. The city’s walls, still intact today, echo the stories of the Jhala Rajput clan, to which the Wadhwan rulers belonged, giving rise to the name “Jhalawad” for the region. Adding to its historical significance, the footsteps of Jainism leader Mahavira on this soil imbue the place with sanctity.
Wadhwan Through the Ages: A City of Nostalgia and Serenity
Wadhwan, with its timeless charm, invites travelers to immerse themselves in a memorable experience. The city, characterized by wooden structures, features low-height balconies, with shops at ground level and residences above. Over the ages, Wadhwan has evolved into a bustling medieval oriental bazaar, retaining its old-world charm.
Wadhwan – A Palette of Experiences
Wadhwan, renowned as the “land of wooden toys,” is not only celebrated for its tie-and-dye materials, brass utensils, and metal wares but also for its educational wooden toys. The city is also famous for its delectable treats like “Gathiya” and “Peda.” Travelers are drawn to this vibrant destination, eager to immerse themselves in a rich and delightful experience. The city’s residents, known for their enthusiasm, particularly showcase their passion for automobiles through a captivating collection of vintage and classic cars housed in the automobile library.
Wadhwan – Embracing the Joys of Life
Wadhwan, often referred to as the “two-step wells city,” boasts exemplary structures such as Madhu Vav and Ganga Vav, showcasing outstanding subterranean architecture. These wells stand as prime examples of the architectural elegance found throughout Gujarat. The cityscape is adorned with buildings, each telling its own story, while the overall joy of life in Wadhwan is best experienced by savoring the ambiance and surroundings. Visitors can witness the following highlights:
Madhu Vav and Ganga Vav
These two step wells epitomize the architectural prowess of Wadhwan, showcasing the city’s commitment to preserving its cultural and historical heritage.
Temple
Ranakdevi Temple: This small beautiful temple is located in the southern portion of Wadhwan. This is built near the cremation ground along with the cenotaphs of the Rulers. This temple has been built in memory of Ranakdevi who committed sati here when her husband Ra “Khengar” was killed by Siddhraj Jaisinh. It is said that the River Bhogavo was cursed by Ranakdevi and it became dry forever.
Swami Narayan Temple: This is a construction with a stupendously constructed majestic gate and beautifully painted interiors. It uses bright colors and is in the typical style of architecture that is pertaining to the Swami Narayan cult.
Wagheshwari Devi Temple: The Goddess Wagheswari is very famous for the celebration of Navrathri, the nine day Indian festival. This is the temple where only the men perform Garba.
Other tourist spots
Muli: This is located 27kms from the Swami Narayan Temple. This is the royal palace and temple of Mandavrajji.
Sanctuary
The Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary : This is located 40 kms away from Wadhwan. This is a haven for birds. This has a huge lake, has many marshes, and is situated around 64 kms to the West of Ahmedabad city. This is situated near Sanand Village in Gujarat. This is a place for migratory birds and they are mostly found in winter and spring. This is one of the largest sanctuaries in Gujarat and is the largest wetland bird sanctuary. There are millions of birds visiting this place and the winter migratory birds are the pelicans, flamingos, white storks, brahminy ducks, and the herons. The ideal time to reach here is before sunrise and the calmness and the stillness of the surroundings makes this a favorite of the tourists. There is lot of Gujarati food available here and horse rides, and other entertaining facilities are available here. Country boats, folk dancers and shacks are present there, which give the tourist an ecstatic feel. The Padhars or the folk dancers are very famous here.
How to Reach Wadhwan
To reach Wadhwan, Gujarat, you can consider various modes of transportation. Here are the primary options:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Wadhwan is Rajkot Airport (RAJ), located approximately 111 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use public transportation to reach Wadhwan.
- By Train: Surendranagar Junction (SUNR) is the nearest major railway station to Wadhwan, situated around 12 kilometers away. You can take a train to Surendranagar Junction and then proceed to Wadhwan by taxi or local transportation.
- By Road: Wadhwan is well-connected by road. You can reach Wadhwan by bus, car, or hired taxi. The city is accessible via major highways, and the road network is efficient for travelers.
- By Bus: State transport buses and private buses operate from various cities to Wadhwan. You can find buses connecting Wadhwan to nearby towns and cities. Check the schedule and availability based on your location.
- By Car: If you prefer a more personalized mode of transportation, you can drive to Wadhwan. The city is accessible by road, and you can use GPS or traditional maps for navigation.
Best Time to Visit Wadhwan
The best time to visit Wadhwan is during the winter months, spanning from October to March. This period offers a pleasant and comfortable climate, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons to help you plan your visit:
- Winter (October to March): Winter is considered the best time to visit Wadhwan. The weather during these months is cool and dry, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). This is the most comfortable time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The days are pleasant, and the nights can be cool.
- Spring (March to May): Spring is also a good time to visit, especially in March and early April when temperatures are still moderate. However, as the season progresses towards May, temperatures may start to rise, and it can become warmer. It’s advisable to carry light and comfortable clothing during this period.
- Summer (May to June): Summer in Wadhwan, especially from May to June, can be hot with temperatures exceeding 35°C (95°F) or more. It is less favorable for outdoor activities, and the heat may impact your overall travel experience. If visiting during this time, it’s crucial to stay hydrated and take necessary precautions.
- Monsoon (July to September): Wadhwan experiences monsoon from July to September. While the rain brings a refreshing change to the landscape, heavy downpours can make outdoor activities challenging. It’s advisable to check weather forecasts and road conditions if planning to visit during the monsoon season.
Thus, the city of Wadhwan is a place to reckon with and a city to be in if you want wild life, adventure and excitement put together.
As we leave the city we think, “A city like Wadhwan is like two of the same kind.
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