Friday, May 26, 2006

Back Blog: Gujarat Sightseeing

Not one to pass up the opportunity to explore a new place with a local. My AIF peeps and I got Chirag to show us around Ahmedabad a bit. In all honesty there ain't much there (sorry Aditi and Cheryl, but you know its true). Insuferable heat aside Jen, Sejal and I had a good time.


The roof of Chirag's House

Ruins of Lothal
Discovered in 1957, it has been proved to be the ruins of a full fledged settlement of the Harappan era dating as far back as the 2nd millennium B.C.








Some Random Temple




Gujju Thali: A formal Affair




Adalaj Vav
Adalaj Vav is situated 18 kms. north of Ahmedabad in Gandhinagar district. Built in 1499 A.D. by Queen Rudabai, this step well at the village Adalaj is a fine example of magnificent architectural form, unique to Northwestern India.

The step well or Vav as it is locally called is intricately carved and is several stories in depth. The designs on its walls and pillars include, leaves, flowers, birds, fish and other breathtaking ornamental designs.

A unique characteristic of step wells was that they not only conserved water but were also cool chambers where one could rest during hot summer months. In the olden days, these step wells used to be frequented by travellers and caravans as stopovers along their trade routes.













Parting Shot: Good times were had

No comments: