Travel back in time to the Town of Relics, Champaner

The town of Champaner is said to have been established by King Vanraj Chavda, who named the town after his loyal and most trusted minister, Champaraj. This town in Gujarat is much famed for its many relics that still stand here and gives us an insight into the heritage and culture of the bygone days.It is an absolutely exciting and education trip for those coming here as they get to see and explore some of the oldest monuments in our country. The town of Champaner is said to have been ruled by many dynasties, and each of them have left its mark here for us to marvel at. Here is a look at some of these magnificent structures that you should see when visiting Champaner. One of the places to visit in Champaner is the Brick Tomb, which is the only tomb in Gujarat to be made out of bricks. All the remaining tombs within the state are made out of mud and clay. Although in ruins, it still has a certain grandeur about it.Photo Courtesy: Varun Shiv Kapur A tourist place in Champaner is the Jami Masjid, adorned by two minarets each having a height of 30 mt. The detailed carvings and intricate pillars in the mosque will amaze you. Attracting a large crowd of devotees, the mosque is highly decked up during the celebration of Eid.Photo Courtesy: Shravani Another place to visit in Champaner is the Helical Stepwell, a rather scary looking well that requires you to climb down a spiral staircase dug into the earth. Tourists coming here can either enjoy the scenic view of the region or take a trip down the well if they are up for some spooky fun.Photo Courtesy: Native Planet Another lovely mosque in Champaner is the Nagina Masjid, known for its various intricate carvings. Built on a pedestal this mosque is said to have been built by a king who once ruled the place. He is said to have named the mosque after his wife Nagina. It is an interesting place to explore although you should keep in mind that the prayer hall is reserved only for the Muslims.Photo Courtesy: Arian Zwegers Another tourist place in Champaner is the Sikander Shahs Tomb, who was the last emperor of Champaner. It is said that he was assassinated by his aide Imam-ul-Mulk, who then went on to kill his other two brothers as well. The tomb is the resting place of Sikander Shah as well as his two brothers and is built by one of his ardent followers. You can explore this tomb and observe some amazingly crafted domes, wondering at the skill of the craftsmen. Photo Courtesy: Native Planet A famous mosque in Champaner is the Kevada Masjid that is still date used for holding prayers and for other spiritual purposes. It is said that this mosque was built by Sikander Shah for the royal family. The unique feature about this mosque is that it is built facing the side where Mecca is situated. This majestic mosque is sure to leave you spellbound as it has many inscriptions from the Holy Quran etched on its walls. Tourists can explore the outer region of this mosque as only Muslims are allowed to enter here. Photo Courtesy: Arian Zwegers Another beautiful mosque in Champaner is the Lili Gumbaz ki Masjid, said to have been built by a Hindu king for his lovely wife who was a follower of Islam. The mosque has a beautiful fluted dome which with the passage of time has lost much of its colour and shine. Another unique feature about this mosque is that it has a kalash placed at the centre of it. It is said that the queen in a show of gratitude placed this kalash here.Photo Courtesy: Nikhilthemacho Another tourist place in Champaner is the elegant Sahar ki Masjid, said to be the royal mosque of the sultans who once ruled here. Though the mosque has lost much of its grandeur and is partially in ruins, tourists who come here can explore its architecture.Photo Courtesy: Sajaldhiman A place to visit in Champaner is the Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its variety of wildlife and greenery. It is a haven for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts and photographers who come to catch a glimpse of animals like the Barking Deer, Nilgai, Chausingha, sloth bear and more here. It is a perfect place to head to with your family for a recreational outing.Photo Courtesy: Raman Sharma Another tourist place to visit in Champaner is the Makai Kothar, which are three-domed buildings that were used to store grains for the army of soldiers. It is said that these huge buildings stored grains and other items required by the soldiers when they went for a battle. Though now partially in ruins it still emotes the grandeur it once held.Photo Courtesy: Native Planet By Air: The nearest Domestic Airport is at Vadodara, about 42 km from the place. It is well-connected with all the other major cities in our country.By Train: The Champaner Railway Station lies on the Godhara to Vadodara line and is not frequented by many trains. The nearest major railway head is at Vadodara, which is 53 km away from Champaner. It is connected with other railheads in India.By Road: This is the cheapest option to reach Champaner from an accessible destination. Buses run by the Gujarat State Government are available from Ahmadabad and Vadodara.Photo Courtesy: Poonam Agarwal