Day 01: Arrive Ahmedabad by flight
Meeting assistance on arrival and transfer to Hotel
(Check in time 12 noon but we will try for early check in which will depend on occupancy of the Hotel)
Afternoon visit Ahmedabad City: Ahmedabad was founded in the 15th Century by Ahmed shah, the independent Sultan of Gujarat. It is now the capital of the State of Gujarat and a graceful blend of old and new. Including, Sabarmati Ashram, established by Mahatma Gandhi on the Sabarmati River in 1915. This was the nerve centre of India’s freedom movement. In 1930 Gandhiji began his famous Dandi March from here. Jama Mosque , Located in the centre of the old city, this congregational mosque was built by Sultan Ahmed Shah in 1423. Built in yellow sandstone, it combines the best of Hindu and Muslim styles of architecture, standing on 260 pillars supporting 15 domes at varying elevations. Sidi Saiyad’s Mosque: This small mosque once formed part of the city wall, it is close to the river end of Relief Rd. Constructed by Sidi Saiyid, a slave of Ahmed Shah, it is noted for its beautiful carved stone windows in which the branches of a tree are intricately intertwined to form the complete window.
Lunch, Dinner & Overnight at the Le Grande Residency Hotel
Day 02:Ahmedabad / Poshina (190 Kms. / 4 Hrs Approx)
After Breakfast, drive to Poshina. Upon arrival, check in to Hotel.
Afternoon visit Poshina: The Village of Poshina is a tribal village and visited for guests looking to explore its tribal heritage and crafts. The Village of Poshina is home to a number of Native artisans-the tribal arrow crafters, silver smiths, potters, blacksmiths and the Bazaar is famous for Silver tribal Jewelry, ornate sheathed daggers and terra cotta horses. Darbargadh Poshina is a small family runs medieval fort cum heritage hotel in a tribal village
Lunch, Dinner & Overnight at the Darbargarh Poshina Hotel
Day 03 : Poshina / Patan / Modhera / Bajana (280 Kms. / 4-5 Hrs.around)
After early breakfast, drive to Dasada, enroute visiting Patan and Modhera
Patan: Patan has over 100 beautifully carved Jain temples & many attractive traditional carved wooden houses. Rani Ki Vav is the oldest and the grandest stepwell in the state of Gujarat. It is situated at Patan and is believed to have been built during 1022 to 1063 AD. The construction was completed by the widowed queen Udayamati. It is the centre for fine textiles particularly silk patola sarees produced by the characteristic ‘ikat’ technique.
After visit continue your drive to Bajana, and en-route visit to Modhera
Modhera: The sun Temple of Modera is one of the finest example of Indian temple architecture of its period. Built in 1026 A.D. the temple is dedicated to the Sun Goa, Surya and stands high on a plinth overlooking a deep stone- steeped tank. Every inch of the edifice, both inside and outside is magnificently carved with Gods and Goddesses, birds, beasts and flower, the sun temple at Modhera is magnificent. The first view of the sun temple is breathtaking, with the pillared portico of the sabhamandap reflected in the massive tank. The weathered golden brown stone of the edifice has an overpowering grandeur. There is no worship offered here now. There is no shikhara either. The temple has a sanctum, a pradakshina patha and a sabha mandap in front. The exterior of the sanctum has many carved images of the Sun God, portrayed as wearing a belt and long shoes. The mandapa in front of the sanctum has beautifully carved pillars with exquisite toranas adorning the entra
After visit drive to Bajana, on arrival check in at Camp
Lunch, Dinner & Overnight at Royal Safari Camp
Day 04: Bajana
Morning and afternoon excursion to The Little Rann of Kutch : which covers an area of roughly 5,000 square km, is primarily known as the Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary. The sanctuary was established in 1972 as the last natural habitat of the Indian Wild Ass (Equus Hemionus Khur). One of the three surviving species of the Wild Ass in the world-the other two being found in Central Asia and in and around Tibet-the Khur is high on the list of endangered species. A safari through the Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary in the Little Rann of Kutch in northwest Gujarat is a unique experience. A safari through this region gives one a chance to come face to face with a wide variety of birds and other wildlife. FLORA AND FAUNA – The Rann of Kutch is full of dry thorny scrub and there are no large trees. The main vegetation in the region includes many species of grasses that are widely available as the source of food for the wild Asses. The most famous wildlife of the region includes the Indian Wild Ass, as well as the chinkara, desert fox, jackal, desert cat, caracal, nilgai, wolf, blackbuck, and striped hyena
Lunch, dinner and Overnight at Royal Safari Camp
Day 05 : Bajana / Dhamakada / Ajrakhpur / Dhaneti / Bhuj (200 Kms. / 5 Hrs )
After early breakfast, drive to Bhuj, enroute visiting Dhamkada, Ajrakhpur, Dhaneti around the rann.
DHAMAKADA- AJARAKHPUR: Its unique ajarkh type of printing is very much famous as the only printing of kutch which is no where it is printed. Hand made block is also famous.
DHANETI, the village holds a special place in annals of Kutch Gurjar Kshatriyas or Mistris of Kutch, who entered Kutch and fought a battle on the land of the Dhaneti village in late 12th Century around 1177–78 A.D. (V.S. 1234) and got themselves established and settled at this village under leadership of Patel Ganga Maru
En-route Packed Lunch
After Lunch, drive to Bhuj. Upon arrival, check in to Hotel
Dinner & Overnight at Hotel Prince
Day 06 : Bhuj (Day excursion to Banny Villages with Hodka Regions)
After breakfast visit Bhuj City: The old, walled city of Bhuj is the most important town in Kachchh and also the district headquarters. Rao Khengarji of the Jadeja dynasty, which ruled over Kachchh for more than 400 years, founded Bhuj in 1548 AD, Kachchh Museum:The oldest museum in Gujarat, it was established in 1877 originally known as the Ferguson Museum, after its founder, Sir James Ferguson, a governor of Mumbai under the British Raj. The exhibits on display are gold and silver ornaments, Kshatrapa inscriptions, textiles, weapons, archaeological finds, stuffed animals and musical instruments. Besides these, it is equipped with a picture gallery and sections for anthropology and shipping. Prag Mahal (New Palace): Constructed in 1979, the Prag Mahal is a magnificent building made of ornate Italian marble and sandstone. Its Corinthian pillars and Jali work depicting European flora and fauna are worth observing.
Later proceed to DSP office/Bhuj to obtain permit (DSP and COLLECTOR office at Bhuj are closed on Sunday, Second Saturday’s and Bank Holidays)
Packed Lunch from Hotel, Dinner & Overnight at Hotel Prince
Day 07 : (Day excursion to Banny Villages with Hodka Regions)
After breakfast, full day visit of Hodka / Dhordo / Bhairandiyara Tribes : visit Artists Village -You will explore its typical village houses, meet different artisan families and admire the finest embroidery styles and leather crafts. You will explore the artisans families to see their nicely decorated and painted traditional houses, learn about their livelihoods and customs and admire their fine Embroideries (Pakko, Neran, Kambhiro, Applique, etc) and Leather work which you can also buy directly from artisans. You will also explore Virda or Well where you learn about the ancient process of water harvesting in the Banni dry-lands, a flat and dry extension of land similar to Rann of Kachchh, to enjoy the particular landscape. Dhordo village – You will see beautiful traditional mud houses (Bhungas) with Mirror Work and fine Mutwa (Community) embroidery with tiny mirrors.Bhirandiyara Village – a small settlement of Musilim shepherds.Ludia Village – to see their traditionally painted mud houses, Meghwal (Community) Embroidery and wood carving crafts. Khavda – Famous for its beautiful pottery work.India bridge – The last Civilian point of India-Pakistan Border.Karo Dungar (Black Hill) – for the sunset, drive to the “Dattatray Temple” at the top of the karo dungar, from where you will have the best views of the Great Rann. Chhari Dhand wetlands, home to several species of settled and migratory birds, including the Raptor, Common Crane, Grey Hypocolius, Flamingos among others. Than Monastery and nearby temple set amongst green hills, to enjoy its refined architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
Packed Lunch from Hotel, Dinner & Overnight at Hotel Prince
Day 08 :Bhuj / Jamnagar / Rajkot (340 Kms. / 07 Hrs)
After early breakfast, Departure to Rajkot, along the way stop at Jamnagar, fortified town built in the sixteenth century to the east of the lake Ramnal connected to the mainland by a footbridge. Visit the Chandni bazaar, the market area at the center of which stand a extraordinary frescoes, The Shantinar Mandir and adinath Mandir. The city is renowned for products made using Ayurvedic technique.
Lunch, Dinner & Overnight at the Hotel Sarovar Portico
Day 09 :Rajkot / Gondal / Junagadh (105 Kms. / 3 Hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Junagadh and en-route visit to Gondal: Gondal, the capital of the former princely State of Gondal, was ruled by the Jadeja Rajput clan, till the independence of India. Visiting the Naulakha Palace built of 17 th cent. By Bhakumbhaj i the founder of Gondal. Naulakha Palace. Its magnificent architecture will leave you spellbound and the antique furniture, spiral stairways and the chandelier-lit courtyard would take you back to the royal period. Vintage classic cars collection of the Maharaja of Gondal. The palace also has a museum. The next set of royal relics can be found at the Orchard Palace and Huzoor Palace during Gondal tour.
After visit, continue your drive to Junagadh.
Upon arrival, check in to Hotel.
Evening free for independent activities
Lunch, Dinner & Overnight at Leo Resort
Day 10 :Junagadh
After breakfast, full day city tour of Junagadh: Junagarh is picturesquely located at the foothills of the Girnar Hills in Gujarat. The place is world famous for its Ashokan Rock Edicts and other famous forts, shrines and other monuments. The most charming tourist spot in Junagarh is famous Ashokan Rock Edicts. The Emperor Ashoka of the Mauryan Dynasty inscribed a total of 14 edicts in the Pali script around 250 BC. Later Rudradama and Skandagupta added Sanskrit inscriptions between 150-450 AD. Uparkot Fort winch is located on the eastern side of Junagarh. Chandragupta Maurya built this fort in 319 AD but it was rebuilt several times by many kings in the later centuries. The Jama Masjid and two magnificent step-wells known as Adi Chadi and the Naughan are located inside the fort. You can also spot some Buddhist caves, which are about 1,500 years old. Famous among them is Temple of Neminath, the 22nd Jain tirthankar. Another not to be missed attraction in Junagarh is Durbar Hall Museum, which houses weapons, armor and many artifacts of the erstwhile nawabs.
Lunch, Dinner & Overnight at Leo Resort
Day 11 :Junagarh / Somnath / Diu (175 Kms. / 04 Hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Diu, enroute visiting Somnath Temple.
Somnath Temple is regarded as one of the twelve sacred Shiva shrines known as Joytirlinga. A museum, which is located inside the temple complex, contains relics of the past associated to old temple that was destroyed by Afghan invaders.
After visit drive to Diu, on arrival check in at Hotel
Afternoon free for beach/ independent activities
Lunch, Dinner & Overnight at Radhika Beach Resort Day 09 :Rajkot / Gondal / Junagadh (105 Kms. / 3 Hrs)
Day 12 :Diu / Bhavnagar (220 Kms. / 5 Hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Bhavnagar, on arrival check in at Hotel
Afternoon visit Bhavnagar: was founded in 1723 A.D. by Bhav Singhji, member of the Gohil Rajput clan which came to the Saurashtra coast from Rajasthan in the 12th century.It grew into one of the 15 richest princely states in India during the early – 20th century. The Nilambagh palace hotel was built in 1859 AD as the Yuvraj bunglow (Residence of the crown prince) by a German architect, Mr. Simms and became the royal residence. Takhteshwar Temple : In the middle of city, on a hill a temple was built by Maharaja Takhatsihnji in 1893. This temple provides paqnoramic city view. The temple and whole compound is made of shining white marble.
Lunch, Dinner & Overnight at Narayani Heritage
Day 13 :Bhavnagar / Palitana / Bhavnagar (60 Kms. / 01 Hrs Oneway)
After breakfast, excursion to Palitana: Palitana is one of India’s most picturesque pilgrim centres. Lying at the foot of Shatrunjaya Hill, it has 863 exquisitely carved temples and The path is climbed through 3500 steps built in marble over an impressive span of nine hundred years. The architectural appeal of Palitana transcends religious boundaries and attracts tourists of all faiths. Patlitana is also a living sacred symbol of Jainism. Palitana is a `must visit’ destination for the Jains and all those who would like to witness what the subtle combination of human enterprise, architectural skills, philanthropy and channelised religious fervour can achieve. The mount Shatrunjaya lies hardly a kilometer away from the town, the way, which is now thronged on both the sides by sarais and minor temples, including Kala Bhandars (museums). The mountain is associated with Rishabhdev, the first tirthankar, also known as Adinath. It is believed that all the tirthankars, except Neminath, attained nirvan here. The multitude of temples, half palaces, half fortresses and made of splendid marble,
After visit drive to Ahmedabad, on arrival check in at Hotel
Lunch, Dinner & Overnight at Narayani Heritage
Day 14: Bhavnagar / Champaner (240 Kms. / 05 Hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Champaner. Upon arrival, check in to Hotel
Champaner is located at a distance of 50 km from Baroda and at the foothill of the Pavagadh hill in Gujarat. The Pavagadh hill composed of reddish-yellow coloured stone formation is one of the oldest rock formations in India. The hill rises to a height of nearly 800 m from the mean sea level. Pavagadh hill was a famous Hindu fortress under the Solanki kings of Gujarat followed by Khichi Chauhans. In 1484, Sultan Mahmud Begarah took possession of the fort and renamed it Muhammadabad. These monuments are located on the Mauliya plateau, which is situated on the hill. The earliest temple datable to 10th – 11th century is dedicated to Lakulisa of which only gudhamandapa and antarala is extant. Other temples belong to Hindu and Jaina sects and are datable to circa 13th – 15th centuries A.D. All the temples are of the Nagara style having garbhagriha, mandapa and an entrance porch.
Afternoon city tour of Champaner: The C hampaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park with its ancient Hindu and Jaina architecture, temples and special water retaining installations together with its religious, military and agricultural structures, dating back to the regional Capital City built by Mehmud Begda in the 16th century, represents cultures which have disappeared.
Lunch, Dinner & Overnight at Champaner Heritage
Day 15: Champaner / Jambughoda / Chota Udaipur / Champaner
After breakfast, full day excursion to Jambugodha, Chotta Udaipur:
JAMBUGHODA: Jambughoda is a base point to visit Bhilala and Bayaka tribal villages.
CHOTTA UDAIPUR: Chhota Udaipur is a tribal dominated district and the district headquarters is located 110 km away from Vadodara. It shares its borders with the state of Madhya Pradesh. Chhota Udepur is the third tribal dominated district in eastern Gujarat after the Narmada and Tapi districts.
Chhota Udepur district has a forest area of 75,704 hectares and has deposits of dolomite, fluorite, granite and sand all of which are mined. The district is also home to a large dairy industry. The Rathwa tribals who live here produce the Pithora mural paintings by mixing colours with liquour and milk and then using it to depict intricate motifs and scenes on the walls of their village dwellings
Lunch, Dinner & Overnight at Champaner Heritage
Day 16:Champaner / Ahmedabad (135 Kms / 03 Hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Ahmedabad:
Evening free for independent activities / shopping
Lunch, Dinner & Overnight at Le Grande Residency Hotel
Day 17: Depart Ahmedabad.
Early morning transfer to airport to board International flight back home.
