Porbandar is a coastal city in the state of Gujarat, perhaps best known for being the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi and Sudama (Friend of Lord Krishna). Onshore explorations in and around Porbandar brought to light for the first time the remains of a late Harappan settlement dating back to the 16th - 14th century BC, which is similar to that from Dwarka. This is another evidence to suggest that the Harappan legacy of maritime activity continued till the late Harappan period on the Saurashtra coast.
The discovery of ancient jetties along the Porbandar creek signifies the importance of Porbandar as an active centre of maritime activities in the past. The Indian mythology says its the birthplace of Sudhaama (Friend of Lord Krishna), hence its being referred to as Sudhaamapuri or Sudhamapuri. Porbandar was also formerly the seat of the eponymous princely state in British India. It is believed that Porbandar was discovered on Rakshabandhan day.
A picturesque sea port, it has various places of sightseeing interest, including a pleasant beach with beach villas. Other places of interests are Gandhiji's Kirti Mandir, Sudama Mandir, Bharat Mandir, Planetarium, Chowpati, Arya Kanya Gurukul etc. The Sudama Mandir is in reverence to the childhood friend of Lord Krishna, this temple was constructed between 1902 and 1907. It is said that funds were exhausted while this temple was being constructed and the people of Sudamapuri decided to raise the required funds by hosting various drama shows.
Madhavpura lies 60 kms. from Porbandar. It is believed that Lord Krishna and Rukmini got married overhere. A large fair is held in March - April.
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