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Gujarat's 18 heritage sites attract over 3.6 mn visitors in 2024

IANS April 18, 2025 158 views

Gujarat's remarkable heritage sites have attracted an impressive 3.6 million visitors in 2024, highlighting the state's rich cultural landscape. The four UNESCO-recognized sites, including Ahmedabad and Rani ki Vav, have become major tourist attractions showcasing architectural and historical diversity. These sites not only draw domestic and international tourists but also represent significant archaeological and architectural achievements. The state's Heritage Tourism Policy plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting these cultural treasures, ensuring their accessibility and conservation for future generations.

"Heritage sites are living narratives of our cultural richness" - Gujarat Tourism Official"
Ahmedabad, April 17: More than 3.695 million domestic and international tourists visited Gujarat's 18 heritage sites in 2024, as per government data shared on Thursday.

Key Points

1

Ahmedabad leads with 7.15 lakh tourist footfall

2

Rani ki Vav showcases spectacular 11th-century stepwell architecture

3

Dholavira reveals Indus Valley civilisation innovations

4

Heritage Tourism Policy drives cultural preservation

The four UNESCO-recognised world heritage sites in Gujarat saw a notable influx of visitors.

Ahmedabad, a heritage city recorded the highest footfall with more than 7.15 lakh tourists, followed by Rani ki Vav in Patan with 3.64 lakh, Dholavira in Kutch with 1.6 lakh, and Champaner-Pavagadh with more than 47,000 visitors.

These four globally recognised sites are vital cultural landmarks.

Champaner-Pavagadh, listed in 2004, is known for its fusion of Hindu and Islamic architecture and sacred Kalika Mata Temple.

Rani ki Vav, inscribed in 2014, is a spectacular 11th-century stepwell adorned with detailed sculptures and also featured on India's Rs 100 currency note.

Ahmedabad, declared India's first UNESCO World Heritage City in 2017, showcases a rich architectural legacy with ancient havelis, mosques, temples, and pols reflecting more than 600 years of history.

Dholavira, a former city of the Indus Valley civilisation and UNESCO site since 2021, offers a glimpse into advanced ancient urban planning and water conservation techniques, as per government data.

Beyond these, several lesser-known but culturally significant sites across Gujarat are also attracting increasing tourist attention, supported by sustainable tourism initiatives and improved accessibility.

The state's Heritage Tourism Policy has been instrumental in reviving old forts, palaces, and heritage buildings, especially in rural and semi-urban regions.

The policy promotes adaptive reuse of heritage properties and encourages public-private partnerships to conserve and showcase the region's architectural legacy.

World Heritage Day, observed globally on April 18, underscores the importance of preserving sites of cultural and historical significance.

This year's theme, announced by ICOMOS, is "Heritage at Risk from Disasters and Conflict: Preparing for the Future".

The theme resonates strongly with Gujarat's approach, which emphasises both conservation and resilience in the face of modern challenges.

Reader Comments

P
Priya M.
Gujarat's heritage is truly breathtaking! Visited Rani ki Vav last month and was amazed by the intricate carvings. The state's tourism initiatives are really paying off 👏
R
Rahul K.
While I appreciate the conservation efforts, I wish they'd improve the visitor facilities at Dholavira. The site is incredible but needs better amenities for tourists.
S
Sunita P.
Ahmedabad's old city is magical! The pols, the architecture, the food... spent 3 days just wandering around. More people should experience this living heritage ❤️
A
Amit S.
The numbers are impressive but I hope the government maintains a balance between tourism and conservation. Some sites are getting too crowded during peak seasons.
N
Neha R.
Champaner-Pavagadh is such a hidden gem! The blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture is fascinating. Glad to see it getting more recognition now ✨
V
Vijay P.
As a history teacher, I'm thrilled to see students getting more interested in our heritage. These sites make history come alive in ways textbooks never could!

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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Tags:
Gujarat Tourism UNESCO World Heritage Sites Ahmedabad Rani ki Vav Dholavira Cultural Tourism Heritage Conservation
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