PATAN, GUJARAT – A HIDDEN GEM IN GUJARAT

Patan is a historic city located in the northern Indian state of Gujarat. It is situated on the banks of the Saraswati River and is known for its rich cultural heritage and architectural splendor. The city was founded in the 8th century AD and was the capital of Gujarat until the 15th century.
Patan is renowned for its magnificent Rani ki Vav, an intricately designed stepwell that was built in the 11th century AD. The stepwell is one of the finest examples of Indian architectural excellence and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features stunning carvings and sculptures depicting Hindu gods and goddesses, as well as mythical creatures and celestial beings.
Apart from Rani ki Vav, Patan is also home to several other historic monuments and landmarks, including the Patan Fort, Sahastralinga Talav, and the Jain temples of Panchasara and Mahavir Swami. The city is also known for its exquisite Patola silk sarees, which are handwoven using a double ikat technique and are considered one of the finest textiles in India.
Patan is a great destination for history and culture enthusiasts and offers a glimpse into the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Gujarat. The city’s bustling bazaars and markets are also a great place to shop for traditional handicrafts and textiles, and the local cuisine is a delicious blend of Gujarati and Rajasthani flavors.
Things to Do
Patan offers a range of experiences and activities for visitors. Here are some of the top things to do in Patan:
- Visit Rani ki Vav: Explore the stunning Rani ki Vav, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at the intricate carvings and sculptures that adorn the stepwell.
- Explore the historic landmarks: Take a tour of Patan Fort, the Jain temples of Panchasara and Mahavir Swami, and the Sahastralinga Talav, a tank with a thousand lingas, all of which are significant historic landmarks.
- Learn about Patola silk weaving: Visit the workshops of Patola silk weavers and learn about the intricate process of weaving these exquisite sarees.
- Shop at the local bazaars: Explore the bustling bazaars and markets of Patan and shop for traditional handicrafts, textiles, and other souvenirs.
- Enjoy local cuisine: Sample the local cuisine, which is a delicious blend of Gujarati and Rajasthani flavors, at the city’s many eateries and restaurants.
- Attend local festivals: Experience the vibrant culture of Patan by attending local festivals and events, such as the Patola festival, which celebrates the traditional art of Patola weaving.
- Take a day trip: Take a day trip from Patan to nearby attractions such as the Modhera Sun Temple or the historic city of Ahmedabad, which is known for its rich cultural heritage and architecture.
Must See Places in and Around Patan
Patan and its surrounding areas are home to several historic and cultural landmarks that are worth visiting. Here are some of the must-see places in and around Patan:
- Rani ki Vav: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rani ki Vav is an intricately designed stepwell that features stunning carvings and sculptures depicting Hindu gods and goddesses, as well as mythical creatures and celestial beings.
- Patan Fort: The Patan Fort is a historic landmark that was built in the 18th century AD and is now a popular tourist attraction.
- Panchasara Jain Temple: This 12th-century temple is dedicated to Lord Mahavir and features stunning sculptures and carvings.
- Sahastralinga Talav: This ancient water tank features a thousand lingas, and is believed to have been built by King Siddhraj Jai Singh in the 11th century AD.
- Modhera Sun Temple: Located around 35 kilometers from Patan, the Modhera Sun Temple is a 10th-century temple dedicated to the Hindu sun god, Surya.
- Ahmedabad: The historic city of Ahmedabad, located around 120 kilometers from Patan, is known for its rich cultural heritage, architecture, and vibrant street markets.
- Sidhpur: This ancient town is located around 30 kilometers from Patan and is known for its rich cultural heritage, historic temples, and traditional architecture.
Overall, Patan and its surrounding areas are rich in history and culture, and offer a unique glimpse into the cultural heritage of Gujarat.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Patan is between the months of October and March, which is the winter season in Gujarat. During this time, the weather is pleasant and comfortable, with temperatures ranging between 10°C and 30°C. The winter season is also ideal for exploring the city’s historic landmarks and monuments, as well as for enjoying outdoor activities such as sightseeing and shopping.
The summer season, which lasts from April to June, can be extremely hot and humid, with temperatures soaring up to 45°C. The monsoon season, which lasts from July to September, is characterized by heavy rainfall and occasional flooding, which can make it difficult to travel and explore the city.
Therefore, the winter season is the best time to visit Patan, as the weather is pleasant and comfortable, and the city’s attractions can be enjoyed to the fullest. However, it is important to note that this is also the peak tourist season, and therefore, it is advisable to make travel arrangements and hotel bookings in advance.