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Jamnagar's 174-Year-Old Bhujiya Kotho Reopens for Tourists on March 19

The historic Bhujiya Kotho in Jamnagar will open for tourists from March 19, 2026, following extensive restoration. The building, constructed between 1839 and 1852 and once the tallest in Saurashtra, was damaged in the 2001 earthquake. A Rs 25 crore project under a state development scheme restored it using traditional techniques and natural materials. The site is part of a larger heritage chain connecting key historical landmarks around Ranmal Lake.

Key Points: Historic Bhujiya Kotho in Jamnagar Reopens After Restoration

  • Historic 174-year-old building reopening
  • Restored after 2001 earthquake damage
  • Rs 25 crore conservation project
  • Part of heritage chain development
  • Inaugurated by PM Modi in 2025
2 min read

Jamnagar's 174-year-old Bhujiya Kotho set to reopen for tourists from March 19

The 174-year-old Bhujiya Kotho, once Saurashtra's tallest building, reopens to tourists on March 19, 2026, following a Rs 25 crore restoration.

"This magnificent building can take shape in its original form - Official Release"

Gandhinagar, March 18

Jamnagar's historic Bhujiya Kotho will be opened for tourists from March 19, 2026. This historic building was once considered the tallest building in Saurashtra and holds an important place in the history of this region.

According to the Chief Minister's Office, under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel, continuous efforts have been made to preserve and enhance the historical and cultural heritage of the state.

After this historical heritage of Jamnagar was also damaged in the 2001 earthquake, the Jamnagar Municipal Corporation started the restoration, conservation, consolidation and reproduction of Bhujia Kotha at a cost of Rs 25 crores under the Swarnim Jayanti Mukhyamantri Urban Development Scheme.

To establish the heritage of Bhujia Kotha with its historical glory, this work was completed in coordination with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and its Phase-1 was inaugurated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 20 September 2025, a release said.

The construction of Bhujia Kotha was done between 1839 and 1852. At that time, this building was used for security and communication. The building was damaged due to the earthquake in the year 2001.

The architecture of Bhujiya Kotha, artistic windows, arches, and conservatory have been successfully given a historical form through tireless efforts according to centuries-old traditional techniques. So that this magnificent building can take shape in its original form, natural materials including lime, guggle, multani mitti, gokhru, areetha, and vermilion have been used in the restoration work.

In phase 2 of this work, to preserve the heritage of Jamnagar, the Lakhota Museum between Khambhaliya Gate, Bhujiya Kotha and Ranmal Lake is being connected through a heritage chain. In the near future, all these historical places will be accessible from a single entry point and the work for this is currently in progress.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh Q
₹25 crores is a lot of money. While I appreciate heritage conservation, I hope the funds were used efficiently and there is proper accountability. The focus should also be on creating facilities for local tourists, not just foreign ones.
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Aman W
As someone from Jamnagar, this fills me with pride! Bhujiya Kotho is part of our identity. Using traditional materials like lime and multani mitti shows a commitment to authentic restoration. Jai Saurashtra! 🇮🇳
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Sarah B
This is fascinating. I visited Gujarat last year and was impressed by the stepwells. Adding this to my list for my next trip. Connecting it to a museum and lake via a heritage chain sounds like a great tourist experience.
K
Karthik V
Excellent work by ASI and the local corporation. The 2001 earthquake damaged so much of our heritage. It's heartening to see these structures being brought back to life. Hope they maintain it well for future generations.
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Nisha Z
More than just a tourist spot, this is about preserving our story. The building is from the time of our great-grandparents. Taking my kids there will be a history lesson no book can provide. Well done!

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