After attending the unforgettable 50th Local Guides (LG) meet-up at Patan in December 2024, hosted by the amazing @NareshDarji, I was filled with inspiration. His energy and passion motivated me to step forward and host my very own Local Guides meet-up. And what better way to start than as part of the Local Guides 10th Anniversary Celebration year? 
It was also the first LG meet-up of 2025 in Gujarat, making it even more special!
The night before the meet-up, excitement and nervousness kept me awake. 
I made a last-minute run to print the LG 10th Anniversary Celebration cards for all the attendees. Little did I know, the night would also be filled with congratulatory calls and messages from fellow Local Guides. Some confirmed their attendance, some requested a virtual link, and others simply wished me the best. The overwhelming support filled me with gratitude. 
On the bright and fresh morning of January 5, 2025, I, along with my co-host Nareshbhai, reached the scenic Indroda Nature Park at 9:30 AM. 
We shared our live location in the WhatsApp group to ensure everyone could easily find us. Slowly but surely, fellow Local Guides started arriving, and by 10:30 AM, we had an incredible group of 15 enthusiastic Local Guides gathered near the ticket counter. I was especially touched by @Sakib_22, who traveled all the way from Junagadh (339 KMs from Gandhinagar - 6 hr 40 min) just to join us! 
After a warm welcome and group introductions, we kicked off the meet-up with a vibrant group photo session. 
Nareshbhai and I distributed the LG 10th Anniversary Celebration cards and logo-pin cut-outs to everyone, making it feel even more festive.
Our exploration began with the Dinosaur Park, where we marveled at life-sized replicas of prehistoric creatures. 
At around 10:40 AM, I started a virtual meet-up link, allowing Local Guides from across the country to join us. Seeing friends join virtually from different corners of India was truly heartwarming.
We continued capturing beautiful moments through photography as we explored the park further.
The Snake House 
was our next stop, followed by the Zoo, where we got to see majestic Asian lions, tigers, and leopards up close. 
Every corner of Indroda Park offered something unique, and we made sure not to miss a thing!
Asion Lion and Lioness:
During our exploration, we had an insightful discussion about the Local Guides Connect platform, Google Maps features, and how we can contribute more effectively through edits, reviews, and adding new places. 
We also exchanged stickers. Nareshbhai shared valuable insights about the 10th Anniversary of Local Guides and the incredible 20-year journey of Google Maps.
One aspect that stood out was the accessibility features of Indroda Park. With well-maintained pathways, ramps, and accessible facilities, it truly ensures inclusivity for all visitors. 
After wrapping up the meet-up, we all headed outside the Indroda Park to enjoy a delightful snack break. 
The South Indian breakfast was simply delightful, and we bonded over plates of idlis and meduvadas.
Blue Whale Skeleton:
As we departed, I felt a deep sense of gratitude. 
To everyone who joined in person, to those who joined virtually, and to those who supported me in planning this meet-up - THANK YOU! 
This experience will remain etched in my heart forever.
A big shoutout to Google Maps and the Local Guides Connect platform for bringing together such an incredible community. 
Hosting this meet-up was one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life, and I can’t wait to plan many more in the future.
Special Thanks to Our Attendees:
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Physically Present: @NareshDarji , @NituGogoi, @MonilSuthar, @RajnikantS, @Pratik_d_fit , @Sakib_22, @Hemang_Rindani, @Djbhavin28, @Rahul1942, Krunal, Harshil Borad, Mit, and all the wonderful Local Guides who joined us at Indroda Park.
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Virtually Present: @TravellerG, @AjitThite, @TusharSuradkar, @Ptrivedi, @Tejal, @Mukund_hirapara, @ShubhamWaman, @bhayani_naitik, @DheerajSudesh, @Gouri_S_Prakash, @Palanimuthu1 , @PrinceKumar, @Globe_trotter_Ish, @MathanVibranarayan, @Tejas and all the amazing Local Guides who joined us via the virtual link and also shared the screenshots.
We have captured more beautiful memories which can be seen here in Google Photos Album.
Until next time… Happy Mapping! 
This meet-up was hosted as a part of Celebration of 10 Years of Local Guides!
#10YearsofLocalGuides #LocalGuides10
