Porbandar

Porbandar – The City Where Mahatma Gandhi Was Born
About The City
Porbandar is an ancient port city, located in the coastal region of Gujrat. The city is renowned for being the birthplace of two legendary people in the history of India. The first of these is Sudama, the childhood friend of Lord Krishna and the second is Mahatam Gandhi, the distinguished freedom fighter, who is also known as the Father of the Nation. The city is also known for excavations of late Harappan civilization, which dates back to 16-14th century BC. The rich cultural heritage of the city and its numerous temples attract countless tourists here every year. In addition the city is also famous for its various high ranking educational institutions, which provide education to countless students from India and abroad. 

Prominent Places Of Tourist Interest
Kirti Mandir: The Kirti Mandir is the most famous tourist hot spot of Porbandar and is also referred to as the “Temple of Fame”. Constructed in 1936 AD, by Maharaja Sayaji Rao III, this religious structure is situated next to the place of birth of Mahatma Gandhi.  The complex features memorial of Bapu as well as a museum which displays the old pictures and some personal possessions of Bapu. There is also a having books on Gandhian philosophy along with a prayer hall and a spinning hall. 

The Krishna-Sudama Temple: This temple, located in the heart of the city, is dedicated to Sudama, the childhood friend and beloved devotee of Lord Krishna. This is the only temple of Sudama in India and was built between 1902 and 1907. The temple features a monument of the Jethwa Dynasty ruler, Shri Ram Devji Jethwa as well as a maze, which is believed to relive individuals of their sins, if crossed successfully.

Darbargadh: Constructed by Rana Sartanji, Darbargadh is a fortified palace that features an immense gate carved out of stone. The gate has high turrets on both sides as well as huge wooden doors, and presents a perfect example of similar royal areas scattered across the various parts of Gujrat.  The huge walls of the fort also feature 4 main gates and 3 small gates or baris along with several bastions. This three story structure stands on a high plinth and is decorated with the images of musicians, sitting lions, complex geometrical figures and other sculptures on the front side.    

Huzoor Palace: Located at the end of the Marine drive, this palace was constructed by Natwar Shah, who employed the European architecture style in its designing. The palace faces in the direction of the Arabian Sea and is surrounded by gardens and water fountains on the other sides.  The palace is essentially constructed in a zigzag form and has a tied up timber roof and terraces with banisters. In addition the palace also features a number of neo-classical pillars along with various porches in the shape of semi-circles.

Daria Rajmahal:  The Daria Rajmahal, constructed in the late 19th century by Maharaja Bhavsinhji, is located in the vicinity of Huzoor Palace. This beautiful monument reflects Arabian and Italian architectural splendor, with the facades built in the Italian style that combine the finer aspects of Renaissance and Gothic styles. The Palace is also renowned for its great chandeliers, paintings and European furniture, which symbolize the grandeur of the great Maharaja.