Jamnagar is a city in Jamnagar district, Gujarat. In 1920, this city was built by Maharaja Kumar Shri Ranjitsinhji. At that time it is known as Nawanagar. Other name of Jamnagar is Oil City of India as two largest oil refineries are located in this place. Rajpur architecture can be seen in this place. This place is famous for pearl fishing centre. So it is known as Oyster of India. Before oil companies started in Jamnagar, primary job of the people in Jamnagar is manufacturing brass. So Jamnagar is also known as Brass city of India.
Jamnagar was modernised with the consultation of Sir Edward Lutyens. Modernisation includes residential plots, entrance gates, gardens, parks, axial road. Several Jain and Hindu Temples are situated in this place so this place is also known as Chhoti Kashi that means small Kashi. Of all the temples most famous temples are Bala Hanuman Temple and Ancient sun temple. For the shopping lovers best places are Chandi Bazaar and Lindi Bazaar. Silver ware, embroidery and tie and die fabrics are famous in Jamnagar.
What to see in Jamnagar:
Bhujio Kotho: It was built to act as watch tower against enemies. This was five storied building. On the first floor of the building holes are placed. They are used to shoot the enemies from the holes. Tower is located at the top of the building. From that tower visitors can have a view of entire Jamnagar. Tower is in the shape of peacock.
Darbargadh Palace: Sculptures, decorated mirrors, ornate pillars and monuments can be seen in this place. This palace is best example for European and Rajput architecture styles. It was built in 1540.
Lakhota Palace and Museum: This was located on the Lakhota Lake. Other name of the Palace is Lakhota Tower. During 9th century this palace was converted into museum. Several artifacts, weapons, knives, guns, swords and art pieces can be seen in this place.
Bala Hanuman Temple: This place is most famous in Jamnagar. It has entered into Guinness Book of World Record, as devotee are doing continues 24 hours chanting of the Rama Mantra Sri Rama Jai Rama Jai Jai Rama from 1st August 1964. This chanting is known as Ram Dhun. Everyone is welcomed to join in this chanting. It is located near Lakhota.
Other places to see in Jamnagar: Mota Ashapura Maa Temple, Bohra Hajira, Pratap Vilas Palace, Lakhota Fort are some other places to see in Jamnagar.
What to see around Jamnagar:
Marine National Park: In India this is the first marine park. Area covered by this park is 163 sq.kms. It is a part of Marine Wild life Sanctuary. Mangroves, coral reefs and habitants can be seen here. It is located 30 kms from Jamnagar.
Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary: More than 300 species of birds can be seen here. Migratory birds also can be seen in this place. Area covered by this sanctuary is 6 sq.kms. It is located 18 kms away from Jamnagar.
Getting to Jamnagar: This place is well connected with road, rail and airways. From several major cities such as Bhuj, Rajkot, Baroda, Udaipur, Mumbai, Ahmadabad buses and trains are available. Jamnagar is connected to Mumbai, Ahmadabad, and Vadodara through airways.
Getting around Jamnagar: Cheapest way to see the places around Jamnagar is to prefer bus. Visitors can also hire autos, taxis to visit the places surrounding Jamnagar.
Best time to visit Jamnagar: Best time to visit the place is between October to March.
Where to stay in Jamnagar: All varieties of hotels are available in Jamnagar. Luxurious hotels located on Bedi Road. Several number of midrange hotels are located in India Marg and Okha Road.
Where to eat in Jamnagar: Vegetarian food is most famous in Gujarat. Almost all the restaurants serve only Gujarati cuisines. Very few restaurants offer south Indian, Punjabi, and North Indian Continental Cuisine. Best restaurants are available in Arya Samaj Road, Bhidbhanjan Road and Hapa Road.