Zainabad is situated around 50 km from Modhera and 95 km from Ahmedabad. It is a tiny yet picturesque town on the fringes of the Little Rann of Kutch. On a tour to Zainabad, you will come across different and exciting sightseeing spots. However, the one that has brought it immense fame is the Wild Ass Sanctuary. You must come to this sanctuary first. In this sanctuary, you will catch glimpses of exotic wildlife and bird populations. To your delight, sighting the rare Asiatic Wild Ass and the endangered Hubara Bustard will make your day.
History of Zainabad
Zainabad is a small town in Gujarat, India, that the Malek family once ruled. Its history dates back to the 13th century when Nasir ud-Din, a descendant of the Muslim saint Baha-ud-din Zakariya, was killed by the chief of Pātdi. Malek Bakhan, Nasir ud-Din's son, avenged his father's death and became the ruler of Zainabad. The Malek family had a 600-year reign over Zainabad, remaining loyal to the Mughal Empire and playing a crucial role in Gujarat's defense. In the 19th century,
Zainabad was a part of the Baroda State and gained independence as a princely state in 1921.
Zainabad became a part of Gujarat in 1960 when it acceded to the Indian Union on February 15th, 1948. The town is situated in the Rann of the Kutch region and is well-known for its natural beauty and historical sites, such as the Sun Temple, Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary, and Thol Lake.
Here are some of the critical events in the history of Zainabad:
13th century: Nasir ud-Din, a descendant of the Muslim saint Baha-ud-din Zakariya, is killed by the chief of Pātdi.
13th century: Malek Bakhan, son of Nasir ud-Din, avenges his father's death and becomes the ruler of Zainabad.
16th century: Zainabad becomes a part of the Mughal Empire.
19th century: Zainabad became a part of the Baroda State.
1921: Zainabad becomes a princely state in its own right.
1948: Zainabad accedes to the Indian Union.
1960: Zainabad becomes a part of Gujarat.
Why is Zaniabad famous?
Known for its refined cultural heritage and considered the ideal base to discover the charisma of the Little Rann of Kutch, Zainabad is all about fun and excitement. You will also vouch for the same after taking a tour of Zainabad. Apart from enjoying the sights of the exotic wildlife, you can also participate in several activities. You can opt for camel and jeep safaris. Alternatively, to experience thrilling fun, you can take time out for bird watching.
How to reach Zainabad?
Embarking on a tour to Zainabad is easy and convenient because it has vital air, rail, and road connectivity. If you want to come here by air, then Ahmedabad is the nearest and most easily accessible airport, located 95 km away. You can also take a rail route to this town. The nearest railhead is Viramgam at a 45 km distance. It receives regular trains from Rajkot and other big towns and cities of Gujarat. Alternatively, by road, you can arrive here by availing of the Gujarat State Road Transport bus services.
On the Zainabad tour, you can spot the Nilgai (Blue Bull), Chinkara, Black Buck, Jungle, and Desert Cats. The fascinating sight of the avian population, comprising migratory birds such as Flamingos, Cranes, Waterfowl, Waders, Raptors, and Sand Grouse, will be an exhilarating experience. A trip to the wildlife sanctuary of this region will be highly enriching, as you can spot more than 300 species of birds that are not only exotic but rare to find.
Best time to visit Zainabad
The best time to visit Zainabad is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 29°C to 34°C. The monsoon season in Zainabad is from July to September, during which the weather is wet and humid, with an average rainfall of around 500 mm. If you plan to visit Zainabad during the summer (April to June), be prepared for hot and humid weather, with an average temperature of up to 42°C.
Things to do in Zainabad
If you are planning a trip to Gujarat and are confused about what to do in Zainabad, we have compiled a list for your tour to make it more memorable and exciting. Below are the popular things to do in Zainabad:
- Indulge in the Rann Utsav, a desert festival in the Rann of Kutch, a salt marsh near Zainabad.
- Go shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Visit the Jain temples in Zainabad, some of Gujarat's oldest and most beautiful.
- Seek blessings at Surendranagar Trimandir, a Hindu temple complex with three temples dedicated to Vishnu, Shiva, and Krishna.
- Take a boat ride on Thol Lake, a popular spot for fishing and boating.
- Explore the Sun Temple, a 10th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Surya, the sun god.
Travel tips
- Refrain from carrying excessive cash with you as you move around in the state.
- Learn about the place/ attraction you are visiting beforehand so that no fake tour guide can scam you.
- Carry mosquito-repellent creams with you.
- Alcohol is strictly banned. So, avoid stiff drinks, or you might have to pay a heavy fine.
- Cover your knees and shoulders, especially while visiting pilgrimage sites.
- Beware of pickpockets.
- Check the opening time of temples, museums, etc., beforehand.
- Do not cause any harm to the wildlife while visiting wildlife sanctuaries or national parks in Gujarat.
- Do not accept food from strangers, even if it is packed.
