Currency: Indian Rupees

Official languages: Gujarati

The history of Gujarat began with Stone Age settlements followed by Chalcolithic and Bronze Age settlements like Indus Valley Civilisation. Gujarat's coastal cities, chiefly Bharuch, served as ports and trading centers in the Nanda, Maurya, Satavahana and Gupta empires as well as Western Kshatrapas period.

The History of Gujarat is varied and unique. The first settlers in the state of Gujarat were Gurjaras who happened to be ethnic group of India. Be that as it may, the most punctual Archeological follows demonstrate the Indus Valley Civilization as verifiable relics with the Stone Age settlements are found in Gujarat around Sabarmati and Mahi streams.

Its underlying foundations are additionally in the Harappan follows found at Lothal, Rampur, Amri and different spots. Ancient Gujarat was governed by the Maurya Dynasty. Ruler Chandragupta Maurya conquered various states in Gujarat while his grandson, King Ashoka broadened his area in Gujarat. The rules of the initial three Mauryas were noteworthy however with Ashoka's demise in 232 B C the Mauryan realm started to disintegrate, prompting political defragmentation. The Shungas who succeeded the Mauryas attempted, ineffectivelyto maintain the similarity to political solidarity. 

Embracing different religious faiths, Gujaratis demonstrate a vibrant mix of Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, and Buddhism. This amalgamation of cultures is quite evident in their beliefs, customs, traditions, institutions, and practices. Due to many religions coexisting in the state, Gujaratis believe in various Gods and Goddesses. Embracing different religious faiths, Gujaratis demonstrate a vibrant mix of Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, and Buddhism. Majority of the Gujaratis are Vegetarian. A traditional 'Gujarati Thali' consisting of dal (lentils), roti, rice and vegetables apart from salads, farsan . The sweet dish followed by chaas, forms the morning meal. Evening food consist of 'bhakri-shak' or khichdi kadhi.

The climate of Gujarat involves diverse conditions. The plains of Gujarat are very hot and dry in summer and cold and dry in winter. Summer is milder in the hilly regions and the coast. During summers, the daytime temperature is around 49 °C (120 °F) and at night no lower than 30 °C (86 °F).

Citizens of most countries, including the United States, need a visa to visit India which should be arranged in advance. Full details can be found at The Government of India website (http://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/). Citizens of Nepal and Bhutan do not need a visa, while some nationalities may get them upon arrival.

There are various means of public transport in Gujarat. Local buses run by the State transport connect all major cities of Gujarat and offer a comfortable journey at nominal fares. Private taxis, auto rickshaws can be hired to move around the cities and towns. For shorter distances, cycle rickshaws are also available.

Before you leave on your holiday, there are at least four health-related things you should do. Please check the handbook for specifics, but for now, here’s the short list:

Step 1: Check with the CDC for their recommendations for the countries you’ll be visiting.

Step 2: Have a medical checkup with your doctor.

Step 3: Pick up any necessary medications, both prescription and over-the-counter.

Step 4: Have a dental and/or eye checkup. (Recommended, but less important than steps 1-3.)

We recommend avoiding packing any plastic bags in your luggage before flying to Kenya. You should also remove any items purchased at departure airports from their bags before boarding. Double check your luggage before disembarking in Kenya and leave any plastic bags on the plane.

Carry an identity proof with you at all times.

Carry items like sunscreen lotion and mosquito repellent creams.

You should remember that alcohol is banned in Gujarat.

Do not leave your goods unattended.

Pay attention to the rules & customs, especially while visiting a place of worship.

Drink bottled mineral water as far as possible.