Wonders of Gujarat Tour

Rabari village - Bhuj Transfer to hotel for overnight stay.

This morning fly to Bhuj the capital of the Rann of Kutch. Later visit the city to view the 18th century Aina Mahal Palace (Now a private museum) and explore some the narrow alleyways with their carved overhanging balconies.

Visit the Banni villages around Bhuj which are noted for their traditional handicrafts, especially embroidery, block painting, pottery, leather and silver work.

After breakfast leave with your driver for Gondal (250 kms/ 5.5 hrs) which is situated in the heart of Gujarat. Gondal is an interesting town and excellent base from which to explore the area. Gondal is noted for its impressive 17th century Naulakha Palace and the Bhuvaneshwari Ayurvedic Pharmacy. The Vintage and Classic Car Museum in the grounds of the main palace is well worth visiting.

Morning visit Junagadh hotel for its fort and nearby Girnar Hill (at 900 m the climb takes about 2 hours) has exquisite 12th century Jain temples on the summit. GondalOther places of interest around Gondal include Dhoraji and Jetpur. At Dhoraji view the Dabarghadh (old palace) an architectural masterpiece with fine sandstone carvings. Jetpur is a textile town known for its woodblock and screen printing. Afternoon Drive to Bhavangar (230 kms / 4 hrs), a flourishing port on the Gulf of Khambhat and a good base from which to visit Palitana.

Early morning visit Palitana (70 kms /1 hrs) where over a period of 900 years, 863 Jain Temples have been constructed on five sacred hills -if you wish to climb Palitana you should allow at least 4 hours to climb to the top. Later drive to Palace Uthelia (150 kms / 3 hrs), a small comfortable heritage guesthouse, in the heart of the village.

Activities : Heritage

At leisure to explore Uthelia an agricultural village, noted for its traditional houses. Other places of interest include nearby Lothal to see the major archaeological site dating back to the Harrappan era 2400 -1500 BC and the Gundi Ashram

Activities : Heritage

Morning drive to Ahmedabad (80 kms /1 hrs). Afternoon visit the noted Calico Museum (closed on Wednesdays and holidays). Overnight at hotel.

Activities : Heritage

Today visit Modhera and Patan. The Surya Temple at Modhera was built in 1026 AD and is dedicated to the Sun God. Patan is the old capital of Gujarat and home of the famous Patola silk weavers and is also noted for the Rani Vav step well.

Activities : Heritage

Transfer to the airport for your return flight to Mumbai (it is also possible to travel Mumbai by train). Ahmedabad is also connected by air to Delhi, Bangalore, Jaipur and Chennai, alternatively, From Ahmedabad it is possible to travel on by car the little Rann of Kutch or to Rajasthan.

Activities : Heritage