Porbandar
is the administrative center of the Porbandar district of Gujarat and
the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi. It even finds mention in Skanda Puran
as Sudamapuri and Ashmavati. According to Hindu mythology, Porbandar is
the place associated with the friendship of Lord Krishna and Sudama. The
present day city was established by Rana Sartanji in 1785 AD, who made
it his capital. This confirms the fact that Porbandar was initially a
fortified town of India. In 1888, under the orders of Colonel Lally, it
lost its fortification. The city is situated on the west coast of India and was therefore a major trade & travel center in the Mughal period. In 1531 AD, it was attacked by the Portuguese, to attain control over the sea trade of the region. In 1807 AD, the Walker Treaty of was signed between the ruling clans of Saurashtra and the British. It put an end to the conflict and helped in the development of the city. The most fascinating feature of Porbandar tourism comprises of the city's architecturally impressive buildings. The city is remarkably planned with stone structures and rich carvings.
It is dotted with numerous religious places and public buildings, overlooking the serene waters of the sea. This has made Porbandar one of the most sought after tourist destinations along the coast. There are a number of places in the city for the tourists to visit. These historic buildings stand as a reminder of the glorious bygone era. The port of the city was built in the 20th century and is regarded one of the important sea ports in the state.
Tourist Attractions
Kirti Mandir
Kirti Mandir is built near the birthplace of Mahatama Gandhi. He was born here in the year 1869 AD. The place is visited by thousands of tourists every year. One can see the residence of Mahatma and his wife Kasturba here. Kirti Mandir also houses a Gandhian library and a prayer hall.
Sudama Temple
According to Hindu mythology, Sudama was a dear friend of Lord Krishna. The friendship of two is an example sited between friends even today. To pay homage to the great soul, a beautiful temple was built in the center of Porbandar. This temple is the only temple in the entire country that is dedicated to Sudama.
Darbargadh
Darbargadh is the fortified palace of the city. It was built by Rana Sartanji and has a huge stone entrance, with high turrets and massive wooden doors. The splendid palace is one of its kinds in the whole state. The nearby edifices on the left of the entrance resemble large mansions with courtyards and intricately carved wooden elements.
Sartanji Choro
It is a three storey summer pavilion built by Rana Sartanji, constructed in Rajput architectural style amidst sprawling gardens. There are pillars adorned with the images of musicians, profusely carved foliated arches and a single dome at the top. It reminds the bygone days, when Rana Sartanji used to sit under this pavilion and compose poems in Braj language.
Huzoor Palace
Huzoor Palace is a mammoth palace situated at the edge of Marine Drive. It is a European structure overlooking the sea, adorned with sloping roofs, huge windows, sprawling gardens and carved fountains.
Other Attractions
Other royal and public heritage buildings of the colonial period are Public Library, old Raj Mahal (now a college), Victoria Jubilee Madrasa, Collectorate, Bhavsinhji High School, Natwarsinhji Sports Club, etc.
How to reach Porbandar
By Air: Porbandar has its own airport. It is connected to Mumbai and other cities by air.
By Rail: The railway station of Porbandar lies on the Ahmedabad railway line.
By Road: State transport buses connect Porbandar with the other cities in the state.
