Jamnagar

History of Jamnagar

The princely state of Jamnagar was founded by Jam Rawal, who arrived on the northern coast of Kathiawar in 1535 AD. According to local bardic chronicles, Jam Rawal left Kutch after a conflict surrounding the death of his father, Jam Lakhaji.

After leaving Kutch, Jam Rawal conquered several territories on his way to Kathiawar. He eventually established his kingdom in the region and began searching for a suitable place for his capital.

Foundation of Nawanagar

According to legend, while hunting in the area of present-day Jamnagar, Jam Rawal saw a hare bravely chase away his hunting dogs. Impressed by the courage of the animal, he believed that a land capable of producing such courageous creatures would also produce brave people.

After consulting his astrologers and scholars, Jam Rawal selected the site between the Rangmati and Nagmati rivers for his new capital. The foundation stone was laid in August 1540 AD, and the city was named Nawanagar, meaning “New City”. Over time, Nawanagar came to be known as Jamnagar, meaning “City of the Jams”.

Climate of Jamnagar

The climate of Jamnagar is generally pleasant, although the city experiences considerable variation between summer and winter.

• Summer generally lasts from March to June.
• Daytime temperatures can reach around 42°C.
• The monsoon season generally extends from July to September.
• Winter begins around October and continues until February.
• Summer temperatures generally range from 24°C to 42°C.
• Winter temperatures generally range from 10°C to 24°C.

The district can experience strong winds and heavy rainfall associated with cyclonic storms or depressions over the Arabian Sea, particularly after the monsoon and, to a lesser extent, during May and June.

How to Reach Jamnagar

By Air

Jamnagar is connected by air with major parts of India. The airport is located approximately 10 km from the city. Regular flights connect Jamnagar with Mumbai and other major cities.

By Train

Jamnagar is situated on the Western Railway network and is connected by regular trains with major cities such as Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Delhi and Kolkata.

Express and other regular trains operate between Jamnagar and Ahmedabad. Popular services also connect Jamnagar with Mumbai.

By Road

Jamnagar has a good road network and is connected through national and state highways. State transport buses connect the city with Rajkot, Porbandar, Bhuj, Bhavnagar, Ahmedabad, Vadodara and Surat.

Private buses and coaches also provide connectivity to major cities and towns in Gujarat and other parts of India.

Shopping in Jamnagar

Jamnagar is particularly famous for its traditional Bandhani tie-and-dye textiles. Bandhani is one of the most popular handicrafts associated with the region.

Bandhani Textiles

Bandhani is created by tying thousands of tiny knots in a piece of fabric and then dyeing it in different stages using various colours. After the knots are removed, intricate patterns and colourful designs appear on the fabric.

The technique is used to create saris, shirts, shawls, bed sheets, curtains, tablecloths, handbags and other textile products.

• Bandhani saris
• Gharchola wedding garments
• Odhni
• Shawls
• Traditional textiles
• Zari-embroidered fabrics

Bandhani from Jamnagar, Mandvi and Bhuj is especially known for its detailed designs and patterns. The price depends on the fabric, complexity of the design and the number of times the fabric has been tied and dyed.

Other Shopping Items

Jamnagar's markets also offer a variety of traditional handicrafts and decorative products.

• Brass-inlaid bangles
• Brass and wooden boxes
• Agate paperweights
• Kum Kum
• Kajal and Surma
• Traditional handicrafts

Markets around Lindi Bazar and Chandni Bazar provide opportunities to explore traditional products and modern shopping options.

Fairs and Festivals of Jamnagar

Navratri

Navratri is a nine-night festival dedicated to Goddess Amba. Men and women gather in public spaces to perform the traditional Ras Garba dance.

Janmashtami

Janmashtami is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Jamnagar and marks the birth of Lord Krishna. The festival is observed according to the Hindu calendar during August or September.

Hotels in Jamnagar

First-Class Hotels in Jamnagar

• Hotel Express Jamnagar
• Hotel Regency Jamnagar
• Hotel Vishal International Jamnagar
• Orbit Hotel Park Inn International Jamnagar

Budget Hotels in Jamnagar

• Hotel New Aram Jamnagar
• Hotel President Jamnagar