About Ghumli Archaeological Site
Ghumli Archaeological Site is a historic ruined settlement near Ghumli village in Bhanvad Taluka, Devbhumi Dwarka District, Gujarat. Once the capital of the Jethwa dynasty from the 8th to 14th century, it is known for scattered temple ruins and stepwells. The best-preserved structure is the 12th-century Navlakha Temple built in Solanki style. The site offers insight into medieval Saurashtra architecture and history amid a rural, semi-forested landscape.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect an open-air archaeological zone with scattered stone ruins, temple plinths, carved pillars and stepwells set in a rural, semi-forested area near the foothills of the Barda Hills. The main intact structure is the Navlakha Temple with intricate Solanki-era carvings. Other remains include ruined shrines, gateways and vavs (stepwells) like Vikia Vav and Jetha Vav. The site is largely undeveloped with unpaved paths and requires walking to explore different ruins.
Key highlights
- 01
Navlakha Temple, Ghumli - 12th-century Solanki-style temple dedicated to Sun God, the best-preserved monument at the site
- 02
Ruins of the former capital of the Jethwa dynasty with scattered temple foundations and carved stone remains
- 03
Vikia Vav and Jetha Vav - historic stepwells showcasing medieval water architecture
- 04
Intricate stone carvings, pillars and sculptures characteristic of Maru-Gurjara architecture