Vadnagar, located in Gujarat's Mehsana district, has a rich history spanning over 4,500 years. It is believed to have existed for 2,500 years and has been referenced in ancient Hindu texts. Initially called Chamatkarpur (meaning "magic city") due to its mythical association with a healing spring, Vadnagar later became known as Anadapur, the capital of Anarta Pradesh during the Mahabharata period. By the 1st century CE, it flourished in arts, culture, and literature, earning a reputation as a vibrant hub.
The 7th-century Chinese traveler and scholar, Xuanzang, visited the city, documenting it as Anandapur, a prosperous town with many temples and a strong Buddhist presence. During the Solanki Dynasty, Vadnagar reached new heights, marked by the construction of its six-gated citadel, religious sites, and step-wells.
Vadnagar's archaeological significance emerged more prominently in recent years. Excavations by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) revealed its links to the Harappan civilization, unearthing pottery, tools, textiles, and remnants of a Buddhist monastery dating back to the 2nd-7th centuries. The monastery is notable for its stupas and an open courtyard surrounded by cells arranged in a swastika pattern.
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| Vadnagar entrance gate- the Kirti Toran ancientpages.com |
One of the most iconic structures in Vadnagar is the Kirti Toran, a grand arched gateway from the Solanki era. Carved with battle and hunting scenes, the 40-foot-tall monument stands on the western flank of Sharmishtha Lake, another historical landmark built during the Solanki period, which still serves as a focal point in modern Vadnagar.The arch made of yellow and red sandstone consists at topan image of a seated god Kartikeya flanked by Ganesh and Makara (a griffin),
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| Hatkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Vadnagar,GJ tanhadil.in |
Hatkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Vadnagar,GJ en.wikipedia.org
Above image: Hatkeshwar Mahadev Temple,Vagnagar, Gujarat.15 th century Shiva Hindu temple......
Another religious landmark is the Hatkeshwar Mahadev Temple, built in the 15th century, known for its intricate carvings of mythological scenes, apsaras, and celestial motifs. The Mehta ni Vav, a seven-story stepwell, is one of Vadnagar's notable vavs (step-wells), a distinctive feature of ancient Gujarat architecture.
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| Hath Jain temple,en,wikipedia org. image: |
Additionally, the Chauta Adinath Jain Temple (Hathi Derasar) , over 1,100 years old, attracts pilgrims with its serene atmosphere and spiritual significance. There are remains of a Buddhist monastery dating from the 7th century C.E., as well as two Jain derasars.recent excavations unearthed ancient Buddhist Monastery dating back to 2nd to 7th CE.
The city also honors its cultural heritage through the Tana Riri Samadhi, a tomb dedicated to the legendary sisters Tana and Riri, who were renowned for saving the Mughal court singer Tansen through their singing. An annual music festival celebrates their legacy.
In recent times, Vadnagar has gained attention as the birthplace of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where he helped his father sell tea at the Vadnagar Railway Station. The station, now a tourist spot, reflects the city's renewed focus on preserving its heritage.
Vadnagar's appeal as a tourist destination is further enhanced by its proximity to Patan and the Modhera Sun Temple, both easily accessible. Best visited during the winter months, Vadnagar's charm lies in its blend of ancient history, culture, and vibrant architectural heritage.
Closest airport, Ahmedabad that is 100 km away. One can book a private taxi or get a ticket for GSRTC bus; Vadnagar has a train station but currently, only a few trains stop here. Most cities of Gujarat are connected to Vadnagar through state highways.
https://www.explorewithecokats.com/vadnagar-gujarat-heritage/
https://thrillingtravel.in/vadnagar-gujarat-places-to-visit.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vadnagar
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