Heritage Sites & Temples — Set 5

Correct Answer: B. Major Rock Edicts

The Major Rock Edicts of Emperor Ashoka (3rd century BCE) are found inscribed on a large boulder at the base of Mount Girnar in Junagadh. These 14 edicts contain Ashoka's principles of dharma, peace, and welfare. The Girnar inscriptions also include later additions by Rudradaman I and Skandagupta.

Correct Answer: C. Across India and abroad

The Shri Krishna Janmashtami festival at Dwarka attracts pilgrims from across India and abroad, making it one of the most celebrated religious events in Gujarat. Special prayers, rituals, and cultural programs are organized at the Dwarkadhish Temple during this festival. The town of Dwarka comes alive with millions of devotees during this occasion.

Correct Answer: B. Gujarat Sultanate

The Dada Harir Stepwell in Ahmedabad was built in 1501 CE during the Gujarat Sultanate period, commissioned by Dada Harir, a lady superintendent of the royal household. It is a magnificent five-storey structure with intricate carvings reflecting the late Gujarat Sultanate architectural style. The stepwell is an important example of the unique water architecture heritage of Ahmedabad.

Correct Answer: C. 2017

Ahmedabad was inscribed as India's first UNESCO World Heritage City in 2017, making it the 44th site from India on the UNESCO list. The historic walled city (old city/pol areas) was recognized for its outstanding urban heritage. The pols (traditional residential clusters), mosques, temples, and stepwells form the core of this heritage.

Correct Answer: B. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas

The Ambaji Temple in the Banaskantha district of Gujarat is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas of Goddess Durga (Shakti). According to legend, the heart of Goddess Sati fell at this location. Ambaji is a major pilgrimage center attracting millions of devotees especially during Navratri festival.

Correct Answer: C. Mehsana

The Modhera Sun Temple is located in the Mehsana district of Gujarat, in the village of Modhera. It stands on the banks of the Pushpavati River. The temple complex includes the main shrine (Gudhamandap), the assembly hall (Sabhamandap), and the large step tank (Surya Kund).

Correct Answer: D. South

The Somnath Temple faces south towards the Arabian Sea, which is a unique feature among major Hindu temples. There is a pillar near the temple called the Baan Stambha (Arrow Pillar) which has an inscription saying there is no landmass between Somnath and the South Pole. The sea view gives the temple a majestic and serene atmosphere.

Correct Answer: C. Sandstone

The Kirti Toranas of Vadnagar are built from local sandstone and date back to the 11th-12th century CE. They are free-standing ceremonial gateway arches that are well-preserved examples of medieval Gujarat architecture. These gateways likely marked the entrance to a major temple complex.

Correct Answer: B. Ahmed Shah I in 1411

Bhadra Fort was built by Ahmed Shah I, the founder of Ahmedabad, in 1411 CE. It served as the royal palace and administrative center of the Gujarat Sultanate. The fort houses the Bhadra Kali Temple, and the area in front of the fort is called Teen Darwaza (Triple Gateway).

Correct Answer: A. Ahmedabad

Khodiyar Mata Temple is located near Bagodra in Ahmedabad district and is one of the most revered temples dedicated to Khodiyar Mata, the local goddess. Khodiyar Mata is considered the presiding deity of many Gujarati communities. The temple attracts thousands of devotees daily, especially on Fridays and during festivals.