Gujarat

Situated on the west coast of India, the state of Gujarat is one of India's wealthier states with a number of important industries, particularly textiles and electronics. It has the largest petrochemical complex in the country. Gujarat was the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation. Gujarat is the former home of a majority of India's emigrants, particularly to Africa, the UK and USA. Around 40% of the Indians in New York area are estimated to be Gujaratis. Geographically, Gujarat can be divided into three areas. The eastern (mainland) region includes the major cities of Ahmedabad, Surat and Vadodara (formerly Baroda). The Gulf of Cambay divides the mainland strip from the flat, often barren, plain of the Kathiawar peninsula, also known as Saurashtra.

Along the south coast are sites where many of the great events in Lord Krishna's life took place. Gujarat is also a major centre for the Jains, and some of its most interesting sights are Jain temple centers. The state is known for its rich masonry work, delicious cuisine, and handicrafts like mirrorwork and silver jewellery.