Heritage City
Anjar
The Oldest Town of Kutch
Explore
1
Founded: 650 AD (Oldest Capital)
2
Famous For: Jesal-Toral Shrine
3
Craft: Knives & Metalwork
4
Food: Spicy Ghughra
5
Distance from Bhuj: 42 km
6
Vibe: Rustic & Historic
Overview
Anjar is the oldest capital of Kutch, with a history dating back to 650 AD. It is a town of legends, most famously that of 'Jesal and Toral', a robber-turned-saint and the queen who reformed him. Unlike the modern Gandhidham next door, Anjar retains a rustic, old-world charm with narrow bazaars famous for metalwork and textiles. It is a spiritual center and a shopper's delight for traditional Kutchi items.
Who Should Visit
History & Culture Buffs To witness the legendary shrines of Jesal-Toral.
Shoppers Famous for 'Anjar Knives', metal nutcrackers, and Batik prints.
Pilgrims A major stop for devotees visiting local temples.
Offbeat Travelers Those looking for authentic, non-touristy Kutch vibes.
How to Reach
From Bhuj 42km | 45 Mins. Frequent buses and shared taxis available.
From Gandhidham 15km | 20 Mins. It's practically a suburb of Gandhidham now.
By Train Anjar (AJE) is a station on the Bhuj-Gandhidham line, but Gandhidham Junction has better connectivity.
Top Things to Do
Jesal Toral Samadhi (30-45 Mins) The heart of Anjar. Visit the shrines of the legendary couple. Open 6 AM - 8 PM.
Bazaar Walk (1 Hour) Explore the Ganga Bazaar line for 'Sudi' (Nutcrackers) and Pen-Knives. Anjar's steel quality is legendary.
Bileshwar Mahadev (30 Mins) An ancient Shiva temple with beautiful architecture.
Vira Balak Smarak (45 Mins) A moving memorial dedicated to 185 schoolchildren who perished in the 2001 earthquake.
Local Bazaars & Shopping Areas
Ganga Bazaar The main market street famous for traditional metalwork. Find authentic Anjar knives, betel nut crackers (Sudi), and steel utensils. Best time: 10 AM - 1 PM and 4 PM - 8 PM.
Metalwork Shops Specialized blacksmith workshops where you can watch artisans forge traditional knives and tools. Custom orders accepted. Prices negotiable.
Textile Market Small shops selling Batik prints, Bandhani, and traditional Kutchi embroidery. Lower prices than Bhuj for similar quality.
Jesal Toral Market Area Around the shrine, find religious items, traditional sweets, and local handicrafts. Gets busy during festivals.
Station Road Shops Modern stores selling daily essentials, clothing, and some handicrafts. Fixed prices, convenient for quick shopping.
Famous Spots & Landmarks
Jesal Toral Samadhi The legendary shrine complex dedicated to the robber-turned-saint Jesal and Queen Toral. Built in 1900s, this is Anjar's spiritual heart. Open 6 AM - 8 PM daily.
Bileshwar Mahadev Temple Ancient Shiva temple with intricate stone carvings dating back centuries. Peaceful atmosphere perfect for meditation and photography.
Vira Balak Smarak Moving memorial dedicated to 185 schoolchildren who lost their lives in the 2001 earthquake. A place of remembrance and reflection.
Old Town Gates Historic entrance gates to the ancient capital, showcasing traditional Kutchi architecture. Great for photography and understanding town layout.
Anjar Railway Station Heritage railway station building from British era. Still functional and connects to Bhuj and Gandhidham.
Traditional Havelis Scattered throughout old town, these merchant houses display beautiful woodwork and traditional architecture. Some are still inhabited.
Metalwork Workshops Living heritage sites where traditional knife-making continues using centuries-old techniques. Visitors welcome to observe.
Local Tips & Common Mistakes
Market Hours The market often takes a strict siesta from 1 PM to 4 PM. Plan morning or evening visits.
Combined Trip Combine Anjar with Gandhidham or Bhadreshwar; it's small enough for a half-day trip.
Knives on Flights If you buy the famous Anjar knives, PUT THEM IN CHECK-IN BAGGAGE. They will be confiscated in carry-on.
Best Time to Visit
October to March: Best weather. The 'Jesal Toral Mela' (Fair) usually happens around March (Holi), which is a great cultural experience but crowded.
Food & Culture
Ghughra Anjar is famous for its spicy 'Ghughra' (stuffed pastry snack). Try it at street stalls.
Dabeli Like all Kutch towns, Anjar has its own Dabeli variants.
Metal Craft Watch artisans make knives and betel nut crackers by hand.
Nearby Destinations
Gandhidham
(15km) Modern city for stay and food.
→
Bhuj
(42km) The main capital.
→
Bhadreshwar (35km) Historic Jain temple and seaside spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Anjar worth a stop? Yes, for 1-2 hours if you love history or want to buy unique metal/textile souvenirs.
Can I stay in Anjar? It's better to stay in Gandhidham (20 mins away) which has far better hotels.
Gallery
Glimpses of the royal city
Anjar Town Gate
Jesal Toral Shrine
Traditional Handicrafts
Market Streets
Historic Architecture
Vira Balak Smarak