After my high-octane visit to the famous Kashtabhanjan Hanuman Temple in Sarangpur, it was time to drive onward to Vadodara (Baroda). I had decided to spend a few days in the city, and apart from the temple complex in Sarangpur, there wasn’t much else on my list there.

The five-hour journey was fascinating, though tiring. Along the way, I often stopped to take a closer look at the lakes and water bodies that appear on either side of the road while driving toward Baroda. Some of these lakes lie deep within farmland, almost hidden from view.

What makes them special is the abundance of birdlife. Cranes, white doves, and other birds are drawn to these freshwater lakes. Many of these ponds are formed as irrigation water flows through the fields, eventually collecting into natural water bodies. They become quiet sanctuaries where migratory birds can thrive.

I would step out of the car, walk closer, take pictures, and simply enjoy the serene landscape. It was deeply relaxing — especially during a long five-hour drive. These pauses gave me space to reflect, to be alone with my thoughts, and to take solitary walks into the farmlands to admire the lakes.

Birds and Open Skies

One can spot cranes, pink spoonbills, doves, and even gulls gliding across the shallow sky above these shimmering waters. From a distance, the lakes look like mirrors reflecting the vast Gujarati sky as you drive toward Baroda.

Sarangpur to Baroda

Another sight that kept my attention alive was the windmills — hundreds of them spread across the expanse of this large state. There is extensive farming in this region, and many farmers use drip irrigation systems to cultivate staple crops like wheat and rice.

It is soothing to the eyes to see white doves hovering gracefully above the fields. I captured several of these beautiful birds through my lens. Lately, I’ve found myself enjoying birdwatching more and more.

A Taste of the Countryside

I stopped for lunch at a local eatery and enjoyed aloo paratha with buttermilk. Much of Gujarat follows a vegetarian cuisine tradition, and I happily stuck to local dishes like dal and paneer.

By the time I approached Baroda, I was tired but content. The drive had given me a genuine glimpse of the Gujarati countryside — calm lakes, open fields, birds in flight, and the slow rhythm of rural life.

I believe I captured some wonderful photographs along the way, but more than that, I carried with me a feeling of quiet satisfaction. Sometimes, the journey between destinations becomes the most memorable part of travel.