Happy TravellerWelcome to Dhoraji, a charming town situated on the banks of the River Safura, a tributary of the River Bhadar in the Rajkot district of Gujarat, India. Often overshadowed by its neighboring cities, Dhoraji is a hidden gem that boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious local cuisine. Join us as we uncover the many treasures of Dhoraji and reveal why this enchanting destination should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
== History ==
Dhoraji was acquired by Kumbhaji II of Gondal State from Junagadh State in the middle of the eighteenth century. Bhagwatsinhji, the noble ruler of Gondal State, was born at Dhoraji Darbargadh. In the late 19th century, he introduced town planning principles to regularize and monitor the growth of the town and established a town planning department. The new neighborhoods between the railway station and the old town are an example of urban planning during the British India. After the arrival of the railway in the town, the new town was designed with axial planning, road circles, parks, public amenities, markets, and broad avenues.
== Attractions ==
Dhoraji Fort, completed in 1755 AD, is a must-visit attraction for history buffs. The massive fort wall has several bastions, four main gates, and three smaller gates, known as baris. The four main gates are Kathiawadi Darwaja in the East, Porbandar Gate in the West, Halar Gate in the North, and Junagadh Gate in the South. Next to the temples of Shri Panchnath Mahadev, Rushiwadi Bileshwar Mahadev, and Shri Chetaniya Hanuman, Shree Swaminarayan Mandir is also a popular spiritual center in the old town. Murli Manohar Temple, located over 350 years old, bears various architectural styles like Gujarati ornamental, Rajasthani, and Indo-mughal styles.
== Demographics ==
As of the 2001 India census, Dhoraji had a population of 80,807. Males constitute 51% of the population, and females 49%. Dhoraji has an average literacy rate of 71%, higher than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 78%, and female literacy is 65%. In Dhoraji, 11% of the population is under 6 years of age.
== Environmental Issues ==
Major pollution is caused by Jetpur cotton industries.
== Economy ==
The areas economy was long centered around sugar and tile production. Today, it relies on agriculture, specifically cotton, groundnuts, peanut, sugar cane, corn, vegetables, as well as edible oil production. However, Dhoraji is also developing into a hub for the plastics industry. The city is also famous for its own food items like Garlic potatoes, Bread pakoda, Besan gathiya, Dabeli of popatbhai, Aflatun sweet of M.H sons, Bhel of Manohar, Paubhaji of Kailash, Super King famous Gola dishes in whole Saurashtra.
== Transport ==
=== Air ===
Rajkot and Porbandar are the nearest airports. Keshod and Jamnagar are also nearby airports.
=== Road ===
Dhoraji is on National Highway 27. NH27 connects Dhoraji with Upleta, Rajkot, Porbandar, Gondal, and Jetpur. National Highway 927D connects Dhoraji to Jamnagar via Kalavad.
=== Railway ===
Dhoraji railway station lies on the Wansjaliya-Jetalsar railway line that connects with Rajkot, the nearest large city. Wansjaliya railway junction is west of Dhoraji and connects with Porbandar, Jamnagar. Dhoraji railway station and Jetalsar railway junction are east of Dhoraji and connect with Rajkot.
We hope you enjoyed learning about the hidden gem that is Dhoraji. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, it’s a destination that should not be missed. Book your trip today and experience the magic of Dhoraji for yourself!
