Gujarat Historical, Cultural, Religious & Wildlife Discovery Tour
Package price On Request
Product Code : AGORA556
Embark on an immersive 15-day journey through Gujarat, a land brimming with historical wonders, vibrant cultures, spiritual landmarks, and diverse wildlife. Begin your exploration in Ahmedabad, where ancient temples and modern museums set the stage for an enriching experience. Traverse to Bhavnagar, uncovering the remnants of the Indus Valley Civilization at Lothal and delving into Gandhian history. Ascend the spiritual heights of Palitana's Shatrunjaya Hill and soak in the coastal charm of Diu. Wildlife enthusiasts will be captivated by the Asiatic Lions of Sasan Gir, while the architectural marvels of Junagadh, Bhuj's cultural tapestry, and the ethereal landscapes of Kutch promise awe-inspiring moments. Concluding in Ahmedabad, this tour encapsulates the essence of Gujarat's multifaceted heritage.
Day 1: Arrive Ahmedabad
Arrive in Ahmedabad and transfer to your hotel. Take some time to rest and prepare for your exploration of Gujarat's rich cultural heritage, which beautifully blends traditional and modern influences.
Day 2: Ahmedabad
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel. Visit Sabarmati Ashram, where Mahatma Gandhi lived and led India’s independence movement. Explore exhibits that showcase his life, philosophy, and the iconic spinning wheel. Next, head to Hutheesing Jain Temple, dedicated to the 15th Tirthankara Dharmanatha, renowned for its intricate carvings and architecture. Continue to Bhadra Fort, a 15th-century fort with palaces and mosques, offering a glimpse into Ahmedabad’s rich history. Discover Sarkhej Roza, an architectural gem that blends Islamic, Hindu, and Jain styles, set around a serene lake. As evening falls, visit Manek Chowk, a bustling market that transforms into a street food haven. Enjoy local delicacies like khaman, fafda, and jalebi. Explore Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, famous for its 'Tree of Life' jali, and then head to Adalaj Stepwell, a 15th-century marvel with intricate carvings. Conclude your day with a visit to Swaminarayan Temple Kalupura, the first temple of the Swaminarayan sect, known for its stunning architecture and spiritual ambiance.
Day 3: Ahmedabad - Bhavnagar (175kms)
After breakfast, depart for Bhavnagar. Enroute, stop at Lothal, an ancient city of the Indus Valley Civilization, renowned for its well-preserved dockyard and intricate town planning. Upon arrival in Bhavnagar, visit Takhteshwar Temple, perched on a hill with panoramic views of the city and the Gulf of Khambhat. Explore the Gandhi Smriti Museum, housed in a colonial-era mansion, dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi’s life and legacy. Visit Barton Library and Museum, one of Gujarat’s oldest libraries, with a rich collection of books and artifacts. Stroll through Victoria Park, a lush green sanctuary home to various bird species. End the day with a visit to Nilambag Palace, now a heritage hotel, where you can admire its regal architecture and enjoy a traditional Gujarati meal.
Day 4: Bhavnagar - Palitana - Diu (225kms)
After breakfast, journey to Palitana. Begin with the ascent of Shatrunjaya Hill, climbing 3,572 steps to reach the Shatrunjaya Jain Temples, known for their intricate marble carvings. After exploring Palitana, continue to Diu, a coastal town with Portuguese heritage. Check into your hotel and take time to rest and refresh after the day’s travel.
Day 5: Diu - Sasan Gir (100kms)
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel. Explore Diu Fort, a massive structure with a lighthouse and ancient cannons overlooking the Arabian Sea, reflecting the island’s Portuguese colonial history. Visit the Naida Caves, a labyrinth of tunnels and caves carved from sandstone. Stroll along Nagoa Beach, a horseshoe-shaped beach ideal for relaxation and water activities. Visit St. Paul's Church, known for its Baroque-style architecture, and explore Gangeshwar Mahadev Temple, where five Shiva lingams are washed by tidal waves. In the evening, travel to Sasan Gir National Park, the last natural habitat of the Asiatic lion.
Day 6: Sasan Gir National Park
Begin with breakfast at the hotel. Embark on a morning safari in Sasan Gir National Park, guided by expert naturalists who will help you track and observe wildlife, including the elusive leopard, Indian wild boar, and various bird species. In the afternoon, enjoy another safari to explore different areas of the park. In the evening, visit the Crocodile Breeding Centre to learn about conservation efforts for the endangered Mugger crocodile.
Day 7: Sasan Gir - Junagadh - Rajkot (160kms)
Start with breakfast at the hotel before departing for Rajkot. Enroute, visit Junagadh and explore Uparkot Fort, offering panoramic views of the city and housing ancient Buddhist caves, step wells, and a mosque. Visit Mahabat Maqbara, known for its intricate carvings and spiral staircases, and the ancient Jama Masjid, which reflects a blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural influences. Stop by Ashok Shilalekh, an ancient rock edict of Emperor Ashoka. Arrive in Rajkot and explore the city, including the Watson Museum, showcasing the history and culture of Saurashtra, and Kaba Gandhi No Delo, the house where Mahatma Gandhi spent his early years. End the day with a visit to Jubilee Garden, a peaceful park featuring statues, fountains, and a museum.
Day 8: Rajkot - Dholavira (260kms)
After breakfast, travel to Dholavira, an ancient city of the Harappan civilization. Explore the extensive ruins, including the well-planned city layout, large reservoirs, and intricate drainage system. Visit the Dholavira Archaeological Museum, which houses artifacts like pottery, beads, and seals. Take an evening walk around the Fossil Park near Dholavira, where you can see the remains of ancient trees.
Day 9: Dholavira - Hodka (Rann of Kutchh) (90kms)
Start with an early morning visit to Flamingo Lake, a wetland attracting thousands of flamingos and other migratory birds. After breakfast, head to Hodka, a village in the Rann of Kutch known for its vibrant handicrafts and traditional lifestyle. In the evening, visit Kala Dungar (Black Hill), the highest point in Kutch, offering panoramic views of the Great Rann of Kutch. Experience the mystical aura as you watch the sunset over the vast salt desert.
Day 10: Hodka - White Rann of Kutch
Start with breakfast at the hotel before heading to the White Rann of Kutch, a vast salt desert known for its stunning, surreal landscapes. The white expanse is particularly mesmerizing at sunrise and sunset. If the Rann Utsav is in season, immerse yourself in the vibrant festivities featuring cultural performances, local crafts, and traditional music and dance. Visit Dhordo Village to see traditional mud houses (Bhungas) adorned with intricate mirror work and explore local culture and craftsmanship.
Day 11: Hodka - Bhuj (65kms)
After breakfast, travel to Bhuj, with a stop in Banni village to witness traditional handicrafts. In Bhuj, visit Aina Mahal, a palace of mirrors and glass showcasing Indo-European architecture. Explore the Kutch Museum, the oldest museum in Gujarat, and visit Prag Mahal, a 19th-century palace with a blend of Gothic and Italian styles. Enjoy the serene surroundings of Hamirsar Lake, a man-made lake surrounded by temples, palaces, and gardens.
Day 12: Bhuj - Mandvi (60kms)
Start with breakfast at the hotel before journeying to Mandvi, a coastal town known for its shipbuilding yards. Visit Vijay Vilas Palace, a royal residence with stunning architecture and a private beach. Relax at Mandvi Beach, known for its calm waters and stunning sunsets. Explore the 72 Jinalaya Jain Temple complex and visit the Mandvi Wind Farms, one of the first wind farms in India.
Day 13: Mandvi - Dasada (Little Rann of Kutch) (275kms)
After breakfast, depart for Dasada, with a stop in Mundra. Explore the Mundra Port, one of the largest ports in India, and visit the Mundra Wind Farm. Also, visit the Kankai Mata Temple, situated on a hill with panoramic views. Continue your journey to Dasada, near the Little Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot the endangered Indian wild ass, desert foxes, and migratory birds.
Day 14: Dasada - Ahmedabad (215kms)
Start with breakfast at the hotel before a wildlife safari in the Little Rann of Kutch. Observe the Indian wild ass, desert foxes, and migratory birds, and visit local salt pans to learn about traditional salt farming. Travel to Ahmedabad, making stops to explore Rani Ki Vav in Patan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with richly sculpted panels. Discover Patola silk sarees at the Patan Patola Heritage Museum and admire the Modhera Sun Temple’s intricately carved pillars. Upon arrival in Ahmedabad, you have time to shop for souvenirs or relax before your departure.
Day 15: Ahmedabad - Departure
Start the day with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or a brief visit to local markets. Reflect on your enriching journey through Gujarat before transferring to the airport for your departure flight.
- Assistance on arrival at airport.
- 14 Nights' accommodation in selected price category hotels.
- Daily breakfast at hotels.
- Private AC car/van for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program.
- English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program.
- Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
- 1-Time Gypsy safari in Gir National Parks with naturalist.
- 1-Time Gypsy safari in Little Rann of Kutch with naturalist.
- Bottled drinking water in car.
- Government taxes.
Hotels used or similar for 14 nights accommodation
Ahmedabad x 3 night
3* - WelcomHeritage Mani Mansion/ Parker Lords Eco Inn
4* - Ramada Hotel/ Lemon Tree Premier
5* - The House of MG/ Le Meridien
Bhavnagar x 1 night
3* - Efcee Sarovar Portico/ The Fern Bhavnagar
4* & - Nilambag Palace Hotel/ The Fern Bhavnagar
Diu x 1 night
3* - Krishna Beach Resorts/ Kostamar Beach Resort
4* & 5* - Radhika Beach Resort/ Azzaro Resorts & Ganga Spa
Sasan Gir x 2 nights
3* - The Fern Gir Forest Resort/ Lion Safari Camp
4* - The Fern Gir Forest Resort/ Lion Safari Camp
5* - Woods at Sasan/ The Gateway Hotel Gir Forest
Rajkot x 1 night
3* - The Fern Residency/ Marasa Sarovar Portico
4* & 5* - Fortune Park JPS Grand/ Regency Lagoon Resort
Dholavira x 1 night
3*, 4* & 5* - Rann Resort Dholavira/ Dholavira Tourism Resort
Bhuj x 1 night
3* - Seven Sky Clarks inn/ Hotel Ilark
4* & 5* - The Fern Residency/ Hill View Resort
Hodka/ Rann of Kutch x 2 night
3*, 4* & 5* - Shaam-e-Sarhad Village Resort/ Kutir Craft Village Resort
Mandvi x 1 night
3* - The Village Resort/ Seabreeze Resort Mandvi
4* & 5* - Serena Beach Resort/ Mandvi Beach Resort
Little Rann of Kutch x 1 night
3*, 4* & 5* - Royal Safari Camp, Bajana/ Rann Riders, Dasada
- Any flight tickets.
- Camera charges at monuments if any.
- Meals other than mentioned in the inclusions.
- Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc.
- Gratuities and optional activities.
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions.