Sightseeing Highlights
The entire fortifications of Champaner are spread over three levels - the base (Champaner), the top (Pavagadh) and the area connecting both of them (Marchi). At the base is the Citadel Royal enclosure of Muhammad Begada. This rectangular space is enclosed by massive walls and at the entrance gates is a huge lake or Vada Talav, which is a good place to relax after exploring the place. You should see the ruins of Sultan's Palace and the Air Manzil, which is an excavated site showing a houses, gardens, water channels, and gates.
There are many mosques here also and these include the Shehar ki Masjid, Jami Masjid, Kewada Masjid and Nagina Masjid. The Jami Masjid is one of the finest examples of Sultanate architecture of Gujarat. The ruins of Khapra Zaveri Palace are worth seeing, and from its terrace, one can have a good view of the source of Vishwamitri River.
The important temples here are the Kalikat Temple, dedicated to Goddess Kali, and the 10th century Lakulish Temple, which has some beautiful sculptures, and attracts million pilgrims each year.
Other Activities
You can visit the nearby wild life sanctuary of Jambu Ghoda which lies 25 km away
Champaner is an ancient fortified city, which is located at the foothills of Pavagadh, around 159 km from Ahmedabad.
There are two stories about the origin of the name of this town. Some
believe that is named after Champaraj who was the founder of the city,
while others believe that the town was named after the champa tree that
is found here. The town has a rich historical culture and was a major
trade center dealing in fine silk, woven and dyed textile, and sword
manufacturing. But its decline started after attacks by the Mughal
Emperor Humayun in 1535 AD. The entire landscape of Champaner has many
ruins of fort walls, tombs, gardens, arches, pillars and wells. It has
been named the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. |
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