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Lothal
One
of the important archaeological excavations, this Harappan city dates back
to 2nd millennium BC. 'Lothal' in Gujarati means 'Mound of Dead' same as
what Mohenjodaro means in Sindhi.
Patan (130 kms from
Ahmedabad)
Established during the Solanki era, this town is famous for its
architectural wonders. Patan is an important centre for weaving. The Patan
silk and printing is very popular among the ladies. The exclusive
geometrical patterned Patola silk are in great demand among the Indians as
well as among the foreigners. This ancient Hindu capital is not even a
pale shadow of its original. Patan lost its glory as a capital city after
Mahmud of Ghazni sacked it in 1024.
Adalaj Vav 
'Vav'
in Gujarati means 'well'. Adalaj Wav is one of the most ancient wells in
Gujarat. Built in 1499 AD, this well has carvings, which depict flower and
bird motifs. This well is preserved almost in its original form. The
highly decorated archways, pavilions and corridors are the main
attractions for any visitor to this place.
Modhera
Modhera is famous for the Sun
Temple . This temple, though not as famous as those of
Konark and Khajuraho
has resemblance with these temples in architectural style. Modhera Temple
was built in 1026-27 by King Bhimdev but was partially damaged by Mahmud
of Ghazni. 
The construction of this temple is in such a manner that the sun shines
in the sanctum sanctorum during sunrise and sunset. The sculptures on the
walls of the temple resemble the Konark and the Khajuraho temples.
Cambay
(92 kms from Ahmedabad) During the Mughal era, this whole region was
called Cambay. In those times, this was one of the important ports and
trading centres in India. But when Surat
was developed, the decline of Cambay started and finally with the silting
of the ports, Cambay faded into history.
Nal
Sarovar Bird Sanctuary 
60
kms from Ahmedabad, there is a 116 sq. kms lake. This lake is home to
numerous migratory and indigenous birds. These birds flock here through
the year. One can take a taxi or bus to watch the ducks, geese, pelicans
and flamingoes at the sanctuary.
Gandhinagar
(32 kms from Ahmedabad) Gujarat was initially a
part of the Mumbai state and Ahmedabad was the capital of Gujarat. But in
1960 a new capital of the state named Gandhinagar, was designed. The
secretariat of the state moved here in 1970. Gandhinagar is the second
planned city of modern India after Chandigarh
.
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