Bhavnagar was founded by Bhavsinhji Gohil (1703-64 AD) in 1723 AD near the Gulf of Khambhat, on a carefully chosen strategic location having potential of maritime trade. Till independence, Bhavnagar State was ruled by the Gohil Rajput clan. The Gohil Rajputs came to Gujarat from Marwar in 1260 AD and had 3 capitals- Sejakpur, Umrala and Sihor; before finally establishing Bhavnagar as their capital. The old town of Bhavnagar was a fortified town with gates leading to other important towns of the region. The Darbargadh (royal residence) was located at the center of the town. The rulers of Bhavnagar subsequently shifted to Motibag and Nilambag Palace.
Bhavnagar remained a major port, for almost two centuries; the flourishing maritime trade resulted in the high rate of urbanization, surplus wealth and cosmopolitan culture of the Town.
Gandhi Smriti is a memorial, with a library of Gandhian books and photographs about the life of Mahatma Gandhi. It also has a fine collection of art objects representing the culture of the Saurashtra region.
Excursions :
Palitana (Jain Temples) 55 km. Sihor (Darbargadh, fresco paintings, brass utensils) 25 km, Velavadar (Black-Buck sanctuary) 37 km, Alang (ship breaking yard) 50 km, Ranpur (13lh century fort) 163 km, Piram Islands (turtle breeding) 25 km, Talaja (birth place of Narsinh Mehta, a group of rock cut Buddhist caves) 54 km, Gopnath (Gopnath Temple, a heritage hotel) 89 km |
