This trip introduces you to Gujarat a state with an amazingly varied topography ranging from the deep green of the dense forests to stark white at the salt plains. Its 1660 kilometers coastline is home to some of the most unique marine species and geographical locations at the state makes it an ideal matrix, a melting pot of a vast variety of culture, people, places and history due to eons of migratory influences. Along with all the migrations came in various ritual practices, cuisines, style of dresses, fairs and festivals, celebrations all of which were amalgamated and became a part of what this amazingly diverse state has to offer to you.
Highlights: Gateway of India, Dhobi ghats, Acropolis of Lothal, Asiatic lions and other wildlife in Gir, spiritual town of Dwarka, wild donkeys in Kutch
Day 1: Mumbai
Arrival transfer to the Hotel.
Day 2: Mumbai – Ahmedabad (B)
In the morning, proceed for tour of Mumbai visiting Prince of Wales Museum, built in 1904 and designed in the Indo-Saracenic style. A mere five-minute walk from this prestigious museum stands – Gateway of India; It was built to commemorate the visit of King George V in 1911. It is a magnificent structure overlooking the Arabian Sea. Also visit Gandhi Museum and the bustling Dhobi ghats, the washermen’s village. Later drive through Marine Drive an esplanade in a sweeping curve, also called the Queen’s Necklace, strung with glittering street lights like an enormous pearl necklace, and is at its most beautiful when lit up in the evening.
Afternoon flight to Ahmedabad.
Day 3: Ahmedabad (B)
A full day tour visiting Gandhi Ashram, Bhadra Fort, Rani Sipri Mosque and quirky Utensils Museum
Day 4: Ahmedabad - Bhavnagar (B)
Drive to Bhavnagar via archaeological site of Lothal, explore the Acropolis, baths, citadel and museum.
Days 5: Bhavnagar - Sasan Gir Wildlife Sanctuary (B/L/D)
Journey to 800 Marble temples of Palitana enroute to Sasan Gir Wildlife Sanctuary, home to big cats – Asiatic lions and leopards, as well as crocodiles, hyenas and jackals and a variety of other wildlife.
Days 6: Sasan Gir (B/L/D)
Day in Sasan Gir Wildlife Sanctuary for jungle safaris
Day 7: Sasan Gir Wildlife Sanctuary - Porbandar (B)
Drive to Porbandar via ancient fort and Buddhist caves
Day 8: Porbandar - Dwarka (B)
Tour Mahatma Gandhi’s ancestral home, Kirti Mandir memorial, continue to spiritual seaside town of Dwarka and discover ancient shrines, lovely temples and quiet beaches.
Day 9: Dwarka (B)
Day at leisure
Day 10: Dwarka - Jamnagar (B)
Visit colourful tie-died cloth markets, bustling bazaars and Jain temples, Gujarat Ayurveda University – the first university in the world to teach traditional medicine, yoga and naturopathy in accordance with ayurvedic principles.
Day 11: Jamnagar - Bhuj (B)
Visit bazaars, old walled citadel, Darbargadh, Hall of Mirrors at the Aina Mahal.
Day 12: Bhuj (B)
Visit Banni grasslands and opportunity to meet some of the local communities.
Day 13: Bhuj - Dasada (B)
Continue to desert landscape of Little Rann, home to India’s remaining wild donkey population. Enjoy time at Wild Ass Sanctuary, sleep under the stars in a safari camp just outside the reserve.
Day 14: Dasada - Ahmedabad (B)
Drive to Ahmedabad via Patan stepwells, a local silk centre and Modhera Sun Temple.
Day 15: Ahmedabad (B)
Transfer to the Airport for your onward flight
Private program - can start any day of the week and can be modified or operated in reverse
Included: Accommodation in 4* Hotels, meals as shown above, transfers & sightseeing using air-conditioned private car, local English speaking guides, entrance fees at monuments, current taxes.
Note: Please contact us if you require more information on different Hotel categories.
Prices quoted are valid till 30 September 2024. Cost above is indicative, based on Low Season in NZ Dollars and subject to change due to fluctuation in exchange rates. Please read T&C before booking. Call 09 410 5060 or 0508 EXOTIC (0508 396 842) or email info@exotic.net.nz for more information.