Patan was the former Capital of Gujarat during the medieval period. The fortified city built by the King Vanraj Chavda around 745 AD which still stands as a testimony of that bygone era. Also known as the Anhilwad Patan, the city gets it named after Anahil – a shepherd friend of King Vanraj.
Further, the city famous for Patola sarees and it is one of the finest hand-made textiles hubs in the world. It was the Suba headquarters of Delhi Sultanate during the rule of Mahmud Ghazni, hence the place has many Muslim architectures. So here are some best places to visit in Patan that really helps you to explore its periodic past.
Best Time To Visit – The ideal time to visit Patan is between the months of October to April. Further, the rest of the months are not suitable to visit this location due to its extreme climate conditions. Apart from that, most of the events and festivals held here in the winter season. So before planning to visit this place keep all the above-mention point in your mind.
Rani Ki Vav
Located on the bank of River Saraswati, Rani Ki Vav is a unique step well in the distinctive form of water resource and storage system. The step well is an excellent example of subterranean architecture, hence it represents unique craftsmanship. Constructed around 1063 AD by Rani Udaymati in the loving memory of her husband, it is the grandest stepwell in Gujarat.
Further, the stepwell also listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its marvellous Maru-Gujarat style of architecture. The walls and pillars of this stepwell adorned with beautiful sculptures of different God and Goddesses. Some of the popular sculpture dedicated to Lord Vishnu that you can see here like Kalki, Rama, Krishna, Narsinh, Vaman, Varahi and Mahishasura Mardini. So if you want to take a glimpse of a rich heritage of this city then it is one of the best tourist destination in Patan that you can’t miss.
Things To Do At Rani Ki Vav – Photography, see various sculptures of deities and Visit marvellous craftsmanship of ancient times
- Also Read: Popular onuments in in Gujarat
Khan Sarovar
Khan Sarovar is a famous water reservoir, which is located on the southern part of Patan. Constructed using stones from the ruined structure, it was built around 1886-1890 by the governor of Gujarat, Khan Mirza Aziz Kokah. Further, the water tank separated by pillars that contain stone steps and masonry on all four sides. Thus, the water of this reservoir rich a certain height during the rainy season. Besides that, it is surrounded by lush greenery and hence the whole location looks more majestic. Due to its peaceful and picturesque surrounding, it is a worth visiting tourist destination in Patan where you can spend some relaxing time.
Things to Do At Khan Sarovar – Photography, Relaxing and Sightseeing
- Also Read: Beautiful Lakes in in Gujarat
Sahastralinga Talav
Sahastralinga Talav is another famous tourist spot situated on the bank of river Saraswati, this artificial water storage tank constructed by King Siddharaja Jai Singh around 1084 AD. The name of this water tank literally means to the lake of thousand lingas, thus it is a spiritual site too for Hindus. You can also find various shrines around this tank dedicated to Lord Shiva. Today only a few shrines left at this place that has different idols of gods and goddesses. By exploring this site read the tourism boards and know the mythological stories about this place.
Things To Do At Sahastralinga Talav – Take a casual stroll around the tank, Explore various shrine of Lord Shiva and Sightseeing
Jain Temples
For the religious travellers, there are a number of places to visit in Patan as there are around hundreds of Jain Temples in this entire region. Thus, the site was also considered as the centre of Jainism during the Solanki era. Among all these temples, the Panchasara Parshwanath Jain Derasar is the famous ones and hence visited by lots of tourists every year. The temple complex famous for its beautifully engraved wooden dome. And the wall of the temple carved with beautiful images of animals, Gods and Goddesses. Some other famous temples that you can visit here like Kalika Mata, Sindhvai Mata, Brahma Kund and Hemchandra Jain Gyan Mandir.
Things To Do At Jain Temples – Get a chance to know Jainism rule and principal, See various sculpture of Gods & Goddesses and Get some peace and relax
- Also Read: Most Popular Jain Temples in India
Mashru Weavers
As you all know the entire region of Patan famous for its Patola Sarees. There are different communities which produce good quality of sarees. Among all these communities, Mashru weavers are the famous one which uses a unique style of weaving using silk and cotton. Further, the important thing about their costume is that the outer layer made up of woven in silk whereas the inner garment is in cotton. So if you want to learn or view the weaving technique of Patola sarees then it will be a worth visiting tourist attraction in Patan.
Things To Do At Mashru Weavers – View the making process of Patola sarees, Shopping and Explore the culture & tradition of Mashru weavers community
Patan is one of the best historic sites to visit in Gujarat. The tourist spot has many other attractions that make it a sought after destination for travellers. Overall a must visit tourist destination that gives you a unique experience of sightseeing in Gujarat.
