Set out in this Gazetteer is the entire range of archaeological sites and historical monuments of Gujarat – a major Indian state in its western region. Human settlements here can be traced back to the Stone Age (Palaeolithic, Mesolithic periods) in the valleys of the rivers Sabarmati, Tapi, Narmada and Mahi. During the protohistoric period, Gujarat formed a significant part of the earliest urban cultures, with planned cities of the Harappa/Indus Civilization. Throughout the centuries that followed this urban (Indus) culture, Gujarat has had intimate linkages with the mainstream Indian politics, religions, and culture – which are distinctly manifest in its archaeological, architectural, and other remains.

Gujarat has had its share in the subcontinent’s cultural movements which, in turn, have contributed to its glorious heritage. Centuries of Hindu and Islamic rule here have produced some of finest examples of architecture, including beautiful temples, mosques, step-wells, tanks, palaces, et al -- which, representing diverse architectural styles, reflect the composite cultural heritage of the state.

This book – the inaugural volume in the series of state-wise gazetteers – presents brief, but authentic, data on the art, architecture, and archaeology of the sites from the state of Gujarat. Beginning with an at-a-glance view of Gujarat’s history: from the Stone Age to the British rule, the volume carries 2753 specific entries covering all important monuments and archaeological sites that have been discovered in the state so far. It also includes a supplement of maps and interesting photographs.

“The Gazetteers of Indian Archaeological Sites and Monuments” is a project of the American Institute of Indian Studies, planned as a series of regional volumes to record published and unpublished data on archaeological sites and historical monuments to provide a reference index to scholars.

Vasant Shinde: an archaeologist of international renown, is Professor of Archaeology and Joint Director of the Deccan College, Post-Graduate and Research Institute, Deemed University, Pune.