Gujarat, located in the westernmost part of India, is blessed with distinct terrains and various sacred sites. In terms of area, Gujarat is the fifth largest state in India and the ninth largest state in terms of population. On its northeast, Gujarat is bordered by Rajasthan, on the south by Daman and Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Maharashtra on the southeast and the Arabian Sea and Sindh( Pakistan) on the west, contributing largely to Gujarat tourism. Gandhinagar is the capital of Gujarat while Ahmedabad is the largest city in Ahmedabad. The people of Gujarat speak the Gujarati language and Gujaratis are native to the state. Saputara and Kutch are two other important tourist places in Gujarat which are famous for several things.
These two places are also an integral part of Gujarat tourism. The staple diet of Gujaratis is mostly vegetarian. Gujarati snacks is quite popular among all the gastronomers who come here to grab a bite. Some of the famous food items are dhokla, thepla, bhakri and more. Bhawai and Raas-garba are the main folk dance in Gujarat. During the festival of Navratri, many tourists come here to take part in the folk dance performances. Tourism in Gujarat has seen a sharp rise ever since people have come to know about the culture and geographical marvels of the state.
Offering breathtaking views from Great Rann of Kutch and chance to observe wildlife with a visit to Gir National Park, here are bounty of places to cherish an excursion. It is advised to book a package in between the months of November and February which is the peak duration to visit here. Opting for a package during main festivals like Rann Utsav and Rath yatra can even be more fulfilling.
Day 01 Arrive Ahmedabad (By Flight)
Arrival at Ahmedabad. Welcome with fresh flower garlands and transfer to the hotel.
On arrival Check-in at Hotel. Overnight at hotel.
Ahmedabad, also known as Amdavad is the second largest city of west India and the largest city in Gujarat. Ahmedabad was also the former state capital of Gujarat. Ahmed Shah I founded this city on the banks of the Sabarmati river in 1411 and thus named as Ahmedabad. Ahmedabad is also known for its association with the Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation and is one of the India’s foremost industrial centres. It is a place where tradition and modernity co-exist in perfect harmony.
Day 02 Ahmedabad
After breakfast, full day visit of Ahmedabad.
Overnight at hotel.
Bhadra fort -is one name that indeed deserves a special mention. Constructed in the year 1411 A.D. during the rule of Marathas, it was established by Sultan Ahmad Shah, the founder of Ahmedabad city.
Teen Darwaza – is an architectural marvel, the beauty of which is surely going to leave you awestruck. Consisting of gorgeous arched gates, Teen Darwaza is one of the longest as well as the oldest gateways of the Ahmedabad city. It was established in the year 141 A.D. by Sultan Ahmed Shah, who founded the city of Ahmedabad.
Jhulta Minar – Ahmedabad is well known for its swaying minarets, more commonly known as Jhulta Minar. A classic example of superb craftsmanship, Jhulta Minar is actually a part of the mosque Siddi Bashir. The mosque has been constructed in such a manner that, if you apply a little force on its upper arc, the Minar tends to sway. For kids, Jhulta Minar in Ahmedabad, India is a real fun place.
Sidi Saiyad Mosque – was built in 1573 and is located in the largest city of Gujarat, Ahmedabad. The Mosque was built by Sidi Saiyad who was a slave of Sultan Ahmad Shah. It is one of the most famous mosques of Ahmedabad and was the last mosque that was built in Gujarat by the sultanate and is also regarded as one of the holiest places in Gujarat.
Swaminarayan Temple-The first and foremost Swaminarayan temple was built at Kalupur in Ahmedabad. Being the most prominent temple, it is always thronged by people. People come from different parts of the country and congregate here in this temple to seek the blessings of the deity. Dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan, the temple boasts of its exquisite wooden carvings.
Afternoon visit Akshardham temple in Gandhinagar is one of the largest and most prominent temples in the entire state of Gujarat. Located in Gandhinagar city, the famous Akshardham temple is a place, which consists of a number of things under one roof like art, education, architecture, exhibitions and research. It is truly an architectural masterpiece.
Day 03 Ahmedabad – Modhera & Patan – Dasada (230 Km/ 5 hrs)
Morning drive to Dasada (Little Rann of Kutch) & Check in at Rann Riders or Desert Courses.
On the way visit Modhera & Patan.
Afternoon visit to the Little Rann of Kutch By jeep. Overnight at Coobas Huts accommodation
The Sun Temple, Modhera, at Modhera in Gujarat, is a temple dedicated to the Hindu Sun-God, Surya. It is situated on the bank of the river Pushpavati, 25 km from Mehsana and 102 km from Ahmedabad.
Patan, an ancient fortified town, was founded in 745 AD by Vanraj Chavda, the most prominent king of the Chavda Kingdom. He named the city Anhilpur Patan or “Anhilwad Patan”. There are many Toursist Attractions including Forts, Vavs Step Wells, Talavs Lakes and places of worship and unity of Gujarvada youth club. The main Tourist Attraction are Rani ki Vav the world Heritage and Patola of Patan.
The little rann of Kutch – also spelled as Kuchchh is one of the best tourist places in India located near the Great Rann of Kutch in Kutch district of Gujarat state. It’s not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site Tentative List but also the home of world’s last refuge Wild Ass only found here and has been declared as the Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary. Due to the Biodiversity of the Rann, it is also a home to many bird species and it is one of India’s largest Bird Sanctuaries. The little rann of kutch serves as paradise for birdwatchers and bird photographers.
Day 04 Dasada – Bhuj (By Road) (280 Kms. / 7 hrs)
After breakfast drive to Bhuj, Upon arrival proceed to DSP/Collector office to obtain the permit.
Please all foreign clients need to obtain the permit for Banny village visit
Evening visit to the Bhuj city and market. Overnight at Hotel.
Bhuj connects you to a range of civilizations and important events in South Asian history through prehistoric archaeological finds, remnants of the Indus Valley Civilization Harappans, places associated with the Mahabharata and Alexander the Great’s march into India and tombs, palaces and other buildings from the rule of the Naga chiefs, the Jadeja Rajputs, the Gujarat Sultans and the British Raj. In a walk around Bhuj, you can see the Hall of Mirrors at the Aina Mahal; climb the bell tower of the Prag Mahal, examine the 2000-year-old Kshatrapa inscriptions in the Kutch Museum; admire the sculptures of Ramayana characters at the Ramakund stepwell; walk around Hamirsar Lake and watch children jumping into it from the lake walls as the hot afternoon sun subsides; and catch the sunset among the chhatardis of the Kutchi royal family in a peaceful field outside the center of town.
Day 05 Bhuj – Banny Villages – Bhuj (By Road) (150 Kms / 4 hrs – One Way)
Fullday excursion to the Banny villages to see various typical villages to see the traditional art and culture of Gujarat.
Evening return to Bhuj. Overnight in Bhuj.
Banni Village -Or Banni grasslands form a belt of arid grassland ecosystem on the outer southern edge of the desert of the marshy salt flats of Rann of Kutch in Kutch District, Gujarat State, India. They are known for rich wildlife and biodiversity and are spread across an area of 3,847 square kilometres. They are currently legally protected under the status as a protected or reserve forest in India.
Day 06 Bhuj – Sayla (By Road) (260 Kms. / 4.5 hrs. appx.)
After breakfast drive to Sayla.
Afternoon sightseeing of Sayla & Walking tour of the Village. Overnight in Sayla.
Sayla is a countryside area in Gujarat around Sundrendranagar 130 kms from Ahmedabad recommended for heritage travellers for a transit stay enroute Kutch.” Sayla is visited for its craft heritage. Beadwork in villages near Sayla, Ikat Weaving at Sayla and Somasar, Tangaliya Weaving at Vasatari, Handloom and Khadi clusters.
Day 07 Sayla – Rajkot – Gondal (By Road) (130 Kms. / 3.5 hrs. appx.)
After breakfast drive to Gondal.
On the way visit Rajkot. Overnight in Gondal.
The beautiful city of Rajkot is located on the banks of the Aji River and Nyari River. Rajkot is well-known for its royal living. The city is also famous for its handicrafts and silver jewellery. It is the fourth largest city in Gujarat. Rajkot is a multicultural city and is a part of Kathiyawad and people of Rajkot are famous as Kathiyawadi’s.
Mahatma Gandhi House -The Karba Gandhi No Delo is the house of the Mahatma Gandhi where he lived from the age of six. The Mahatma Gandhi House has a good collection of things related to the Mahatma Gandhi’s life.
Lal Pari Lake and Randerda -Lal Pari Lake and Randerda is a picturesque picnic spot, situated about 5 kms. from Rajkot.
Rashtriya Shala – Rashtriya Shala was founded by Mahatma Gandhi which has a center of patola weaving.
Jagat Mandir – Jagat Mandir is beautiful carved temple of Shri Ramkrishna Paramhansa. It is made of red stones.
Day 08 Gondal – Junagadh – Sassangir (By Road) (64 Km/ 1.5 hrs. appx.)
After breakfast city tour of Gondal.
Later drive to Sasangir arrive and transfer Sasangir Lion Sanctuary.
Overnight in Sasan Gir.
Gondal is a city and a municipality in Rajkot district in the Indian state Gujarat. Gondal state was one of the eight first class princely states of Kathiawar.
Naulakha Palace – Is the oldest extant palace in Gondal, dating back to the 17th century. It has legendary stone carvings with exquisite “jharokhas” balconies, a fabulous pillared courtyard, delicately carved arches, and a unique spiral staircase. The large chandelier-lit “durbar” hall court house witnesses stuffed panthers, gilt wooden furniture, and antique mirrors. The Private palace museum displays an impressive display of silver caskets which were in the services of carrying messages and gifts for Maharajah Bhagwat Sinhji on his silver jubilee as ruler of Gondal.
The Royal Garages – have an extensive collection of vintage and classic cars, for which it has been famous all over the world
Day 09 Sassangir – Somnath – Diu (By Road) (120 Kms. / 3 hr. appx.)
Am 06.00: Jeep Safari into the Sasangir Lion Sanctuary.
After breakfast drive to Diu. On the way visit of Somnath. Overnight at Hotel at Diu.
Special Note: Sasangir Sanctuary is closed every year 15 June to 15th Oct in such period the said night replaced at Junagadh.
Sasan Gir Wildlife National Parks, Sanctuary – Sasan Gir National Park was established on 18th September, 1965, as a Forest Reserve, primarily to conserve the Asiatic lion-classified as one of the World’s most threatened species. Now Gir National Park is the only remaining place in the world, where one is likely to see the Asiatic Lion.
Somnath Temple – The legendary shore temple of Somnath is located near Veraval and is about 80 kms from Junagadh. The Somnath temple is one of the twelve most sacred shrines dedicated to the Lord Shiva. The temple contains the jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva. This temple has a very long history. According to the legends, the Somnath temple is very old and was originally built in gold by the Somraj, the Moon God.
Day 10 Diu
Full day enjoy the beach activity and day visit of Diu.
Overnight at Hotel.
Diu is not a great choice for a beach-centric vacation. Most of its sandy strips are littered with trash, and the throngs of families make them better for people-watching than sun-worshipping. Diu town sits at the east end of the island. The northern side of the island, facing Gujarat, is tidal marsh and salt pans, while the southern coast alternates between limestone cliffs, rocky coves and sandy beaches.
Day 11 Diu – Bhavnagar (By Road) (200 Kms. / 4 hrs. appx.)
Morning enjoy the beach activity
After lunch drive to Bhavnagar. Overnight at Bhavnagar.
Bhavnagar is a city in the Indian state of Gujarat. It was founded in 1723 AD by Bhavsinhji Gohil1703-64 AD and was named after its founder and ruler.
Takhteshwar Temple – The Takhteshwar Temple is a historic temple, located on a small hill. This temple provides good views of the city and the Gulf of Cambay.
Gaurishankar Lake – Gaurishankar Lake is a very popular place for the evening stroll, picnic and bird watching. Ducks, geese, pelicans, cranes and other wading birds can be seen on the banks of this lake.
Barton Museum & Gandhi Smrit -Mahatma Gandhi which reminds of the Mahatma Gandhi as a student of Bhavnagar University. This museum also has a library that consists of the books and photographs of Mahatma Gandhi.
Day 12 Bhavnagar – Palitana – Baroda (By Road) (360 Kms. / 6.5 hrs. appx.)
After Early/Pack breakfast at 6.00 AM drive to Baroda Vaodadara.
On the way Visit of Palitana – Shatrunjaya Temple doli-lift chairs are available at extra cost.
PM: Drive to Baroda & Check in at Hotel.
Overnight at Hotel.
Vadodara is a graceful city of palaces, parks, temples and museums. It is also known as Baroda and is the industrial and cultural capital of Gujarat. Vadodara, originally ‘Vadapadraka’ means a village amidst the banyan trees. Baroda is called as the garden city of Gujarat.
The Shatrunjaya Hill is located at a height of 591 metres. The Shatrunjaya Temple is the most sacred temple of the Jains and one of the largest of its kind in India. Shatrunjaya “place of victory against inner enemies” originally Pundarikgiri, also spelt Shetrunjaya are hills located by the city of Palitana, in Bhavnagar district, Gujarat, India. They are situated on the banks of the Shetrunji River at an elevation 164 feet 50 m above sea level. These hills have similarities to other hills where Jain temples have been built in Bihar, Gwalior, Mount Abu and Girnar.
Day 13 Baroda – Champaner – Chotta Udaipur – Baroda (228 Km/ 5 hrs)
Full day excursion to Champaner and Chotta Udaipur.
Evening return back to Baroda. Overnight in Baroda.
Champaner -Is just such a place. Here you can find an old palace, fort, several mosques, but also walk the ancient streets just as its inhabitants did five centuries ago. Champaner was an out-of-the-way pilgrimage site for hundreds of years, became the capital of Gujarat, and was then abandoned to be overtaken by the jungle. The city is remarkably well-preserved, with Hindu and Jain temples a thousand years old, mosques from the time of the Gujarat Sultanate, Champaner became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004.
Chotta Udaipur- is it proximity to various hamlets of bhils, rathwas, Bhilalas and other tribes. A tour of the tribal village and hamlets offer An insight into traditional architecture, lifestyle & handicrafts of each Aboriginal community in the tirbal market called ” hatt ” occur at Different villages. Rathwas who can be seen & sporting colourful attires And chunky jewellery, pithora painting, pottery, terracotta figures, Langoti wearing and bamboo basket weaving and important handicrafts
Day 14 Baroda
After breakfast, full day city tour of Baroda
Overnight in Baroda.
Kadia Dungar Caves – Seven rock-cut caves and monolithic lion pillars are present at Kadia Dungar, near Bharuch. The caves suggest that they were viharas. A Brick stupa was also found in the foothills. These caves were in use during 1st and 2nd century AD.
Kayavarohan Temple -Kayavarohan is a village located in Vadodara. Kayavarohan is one of the sixty-eight ‘teerthas’ Pilgrimage of Lord Shiva as mentioned in the Shiva Purana. It is of great significance to the Pasupatas Followers of the Pashupati doctrine. There is a huge ocassion on Maha Shiv Ratri Festival.
Lehripura Gate – Built as the western gateway to the old city in 1558, Lehripura Gate is an impressive structure with beautiful arches.
Lakshmi Vilas Palace -The Lakshmi Vilas Palace, an extravagant building of the Indo-Saracenic school, was built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1890 at a cost of GBP180,000. Major Charles Mant was the architect.
It is reputed to have been the largest private dwelling built in the nineteenth century and four times the size of Buckingham Palace. At the time of construction it boasted the most modern amenities such as elevators and the interior is reminiscent of a large European country house. It remains the residence of the Royal Family, who continue to be held in high esteem by the residents of Baroda.
Day 15 Depart Baroda (By Flight)
Transfer to airport for flight back home.
City | Night (s) | 5* Hotels |
Ahmedabad | 02 | Hyatt Regency |
Little Rann of Kutch | 01 | The Royal Safari Camps |
Bhuj | 02 | Regenta Resort Bhuj |
Sayla | 01 | Ambika Nivas Palace |
Gondal | 01 | Gondal Palace |
Sasangir | 01 | The Fern Gir Forest Resort |
Diu | 02 | Azzaro Resort & Spa |
Bhavnagar | 01 | The Fern Bhavnagar |
Baroda | 03 | Grand Mercure Vadodra |
– Meeting and assistance by our representative.
– Welcome with fresh flower garlands.
– 14 Nights accommodation as per the program.
– Daily breakfast and dinners.
– Local English / French / German / Italian / Spanish / Chinese / Russian speaking guide.
– All transfers, sightseeing, excursions as per the program by private vehicle.
– Gondal visit inclusive of Vintage car collection and Naluka Palace
– Monument entrance fee to the object sights in the itinerary
– Transport, Parking, Gasoline & Toll ways.
– All taxes.
– Tips
– International Air Fare
– Visa Fees
– Travel Insurance
– Personal expenses and drinks.
– Accommodation in good hotels.
– Check-in / out time is 12 noon at most of the hotels.
– Extension to other places is also possible with a minimal extra cost.
– Additional nights are available at each place with minimal supplement.
– A visa is required and must be obtained prior to your departure from your Country.
– If quoted hotel is not available, we will provide one of a similar category and standard.
– Small deviations in the tour program are sometimes necessary, depending on weather, road conditions, flight schedules and room availability.
– In case the government changes presently applicable taxes, increase in airlines prices, fuel surcharge our rates will need to be adjusted accordingly.
– In Asia, there is no relevance between the distance and time of travelling, as it depends upon the condition of the roads and congestion of the traffic.
– While every effort will be made to maintain the itinerary, in view of local strikes etc that are beyond our control all schedule and itineraries are subject to last moment changes.
– Clients must be fully insured, as the company cannot accept liability for loss or damage to client’s property, medical emergencies or any other loss suffered by them whilst on tour.
– In Case of issuing Domestic or International air tickets, SGV is not responsible for any refund if the flight is delayed or cancelled, as it is the responsibility of airline.