Ahmedabad, the leading city of Gujarat was the state capital until 1970; later on the capital was shifted to Gandhinagar. This fascinating city is a silent witness of the traditional culture and history of Gujarat. The city stands on both banks of the river Sabarmati and is christened by Ahmed Shah - the medieval ruler of Gujarat. This bustling industrial and commercial centre also has some of the magnificent sites to rediscover. The city is associated with the father of the nation - Mahatma Gandhi, who had established his ashram on the bank of the river Sabarmati. The city offers the traveler a unique style of architecture, which is a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles (Indo-Saracenic style of architecture). The historical monuments of Ahmedabad date back to the 15th century. The city has been known for its industry since medieval times. Presently it is famous for its textile mills and is often referred to as the 'Manchester of the East'. Situated on the banks of the river Sabarmati, the city is a real portrait of monuments and palaces of historic importance. It is the cultural and intellectual capital of Gujarat. The city holds some of the country's prime sites - the Sabarmati Ashram, Ahmed Shah's Mosque, Balvatika, Teen Darwaza and Bhadra Fort, Swami Narayan Temple, Kankaria Lake, Calico Museum and the bustling streets which are infectious and spirit sweeping.

Bhavnagar was founded by Bhavsinhji Gohil (1703-64 AD) in 1723 AD due to its strategic location for maritime trade. The town was fortified with gates leading to important towns of the region. The royal residence was located at the centre of the town and was subsequently shifted to Nilambagh Palace. Bhavnagar has served as a port for more than 200 years. This maritime trade has helped the town to achieve high rate of urbanization and a cosmopolitan culture. Today Bhavnagar is a bustling town dotted with merchant's havelis, shops specializing in textile, and gold and silver jewellery. The various tourist sites including temples, monuments, museums, gardens are all scattered in the town.

Bhuj was the capital of the princely state of Kutch whose wealth was derived from the sea trade with East Africa and Persian Gulf. The city was dotted with beautiful palaces, havelis and bazaars. But due to the devastating earthquake of 2001 the city is almost reduced to rubble. The city's prime attraction Darbargadh palace was temporarily closed down. It houses the Aina Mahal or "Palace of Mirrors" which was badly damaged. Among other heavily damaged structures were the Swaminarayan temple, royal cenotaphs and the wide-spread bazaars. But the excellent folk art museum still stands. It houses a collection of Kutch textiles, embroidery, weaponry and other local crafts.