What is the first word or thought that comes to your mind when I use this word, patriotism’? Well, I am no magician or a mind-reader, but here are a list of things you might have visualized in these two seconds – olive green uniforms, crisp and smart salutes, shining stars, weapons and ammunition, medals, fearless men and women standing upright without breaking a sweat. Well, thinking about these come naturally to us. We have witnessed wars throughout our national development and it is in this context that I plan to write an article on Nadabet Border Tourism and explain the mighty significance the place has on us and why it is important.
Nadabet’s Border History
This quiet border village in the North-Gujarat district of Banaskantha has a major role in the annals of Indian history. When Pakistan bombed Indian airbases in 1971, a full-scale war broke out on both the western and eastern fronts (present day Bangladesh). The Pakistan army along with its belligerents planned to attack and capture Kutch, a district in the west-most part of India, Gujarat. It is here that the region of Nadabet and the Border Security Force (BSF), our first line of defence played a pivotal role in national defence. The BSF were not only successful in preventing the enemy’s advances; it also ended up capturing over a 1000 square kilometres of enemy territory, before political powers returned it after the Shimla Agreement was signed.
Border Tourism (Seema Darshan) in Nadabet
Inaugurated in 2016 by the Tourism department of the Gujarat Government and the BSF’s Western frontier to boost border-tourism in the state, the Seema Darshan project aims to instil a sense of patriotism and strives to bridge the gap between civilians and our border sentinels. It aims to make the common man watch, feel and learn about the way things work on our borders. In addition, this seeks to give one an insider’s look, a different perspective into the lives of the BSF personnel serving at the borders.
Things to do at Nadabet
Like most other tourist places, even this unique place wouldn’t be complete if it did not leave you with enough memories. The activities, attractions, and experience-zones are built to take you through a journey of resilience and to make you feel proud to be an Indian.
The main activities are centered around two places – The T-Junction and the Zero-Point. However, this is not all. There are several things one can do while visiting this place. Here are a few things you should not forget to go to, as you witness a piece of our history.
BSF Retreat Ceremony: Widely held as the ‘Wagah of Gujarat’, this 5000-seater capacity place is a replica of the daily evening retreat that happens on the Wagah-Attari border. The only catch: There are no soldiers from the other side. If you are in luck, you might also witness cultural performances and camel shows.
Zero Point: This is probably the sum of the entire trip. Located ~30km from the T-junction, this border fence is literally the last line of division between the two countries. Touch the barbed wires at your own risk and feel the thrill of being there. (Consider taking special permission from authorities).
Ajeya Prahari Memorial: Spend a few quiet minutes looking at and honoring people who fought for our freedom and ended up giving the ultimate sacrifice to our country.
Adventure Activities: How can a soldierly experience be complete without breaking some sweat? Engage in activities ranging from free fall, and air gun shooting to off-road-riding and commando training courses.
How do you get to Nadabet from Ahmedabad?
Nadabet is located almost 250 km from Ahmedabad and is best enjoyed on a road trip. Having your own car here, can not only give you ample protection from the heat but can help you cover the 30km journey to the Zero-point. Plus, your own vehicle for commute saves you from those long wait times and unreliable road services. A popular choice by many is the car services provided by Sai Travels, the best taxi service in Ahmedabad. They have all ranges of choices ranging from sedans to SUVs. More importantly, you have experienced and skilled drivers accompanying you throughout your journey to make sure you have a memorable experience. Here’s the best part: Even though this is probably the best Outstation Taxi service in Ahmedabad, the rates quoted are very much affordable and the services provided are worth every penny.
What are the other places to visit near Nadabet?
Well, if your energy would keep you going on, we highly recommend that you visit the famed Modhera Sun Temple in Mehsana (117km from Nadabet) and the exquisite Rani ki Vav in Patan (142km from Nadabet).