TITLE = GUJARAT - ALL TIME FAVORITE - 10 NIGHTS/ 11 DAYS - AMD(2N) BHAVNAGAR(2) DIU(2) GIR(1) RAJKOT(1) BHUJ(2)KUTCH
Day 01 Arrive Ahmedabad
Welcome to Ahmedabad one of the largest city in the state of
Gujarat and one of the largest urban agglomerations in India with a population
of approximately 52 lakhs (5.3 million). Located on the banks of the River
Sabarmati the city is the administrative centre of Ahmedabad district.
Meeting assistance on arrival and transfer to Hotel. ( Only
Transfer )
Overnight at Ahmedabad.
Day 02 In Ahmedabad
After breakfast proceed to Local Sightseeing in Ahmedabad as
under
Gandhi Ashram : Also known as Sabarmati Ashram, Harijan
Ashram, or Satyagraha Ashram, is located in the Ahmedabad suburb of Sabarmati
adjoining to famous Ashram Road, at the bank of River Sabarmati. The ashram was
originally established at the Kocharab Bungalow of Jivanlal Desai on 25 May
1915. The Ashram was then shifted on 17 June 1917 to a piece of open land on the
banks of the river Sabarmati.
Hutheesing Jain Temple : Constructed in the year 1850 AD
is a very famous Jain temple. It has been named after its founder Seth Hathee
Singh, a prosperous Jain merchant. Hathee Singh Jain temple of Ahmedabad was
built in the dedication of the 15th Jain Trithanakara named Dharmnath. The
temple is known for its fabulous architectural styling and designing that
consists of intricate carvings.
The Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, built in 1573, is one of the most
famous mosques of Ahmedabad. The mosque was built by Sidi Saiyyed, who was a
slave of Sultan Ahmed Shah. The mosque was built in the last year of the
Sultanate of Gujarat.
The Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, built in 1573, is one of the
most famous mosques of Ahmedabad. The mosque was built by Sidi Saiyyed, who was
a slave of Sultan Ahmed Shah. The mosque was built in the last year of the
Sultanate of Gujarat.
Then Afternoon visit
Shreyas Folk Museum (Monday and bank holidays are closed)
- one of the informative and educational museums located close to the
suburbs of Ambavadi near Sabarmati. This museum displays the colorful and
traditional folk arts of Gujarat. From textile and clothing to the decorative
collectibles, the Shreyas Folk Museum brings out the traditional rustic flavor
and cultural heritage of Gujarat.
Adalaj Step Well : The Adalaj step-well is a popular
tourist attraction of the city and is situated 18 km. north of Ahmedabad. The
well was built in 1499 A.D. by Queen Rudabai. The step well or Vav, as it is
called in Gujarati, is intricately carved and is several stories in depth. The
designs on its walls and pillars include, leaves, flowers, birds, fish and other
breathtaking ornamental designs. In the past, these step wells were frequented
by travellers and caravans as stopovers along trade routes.
Day 03 Ahmedabad-Bhavnagar via Lothal (220
kms/5 hours)
After Breakfast proceed to Bhavnagar via After breakfast drive
to Lothal ( Friday and bank holidays are closed) : One of the well known
cities of the ancient Indus valley civilization. The origin and history of
Lothal can be dated back to 2400 BC. Lothal in Gujarat is one of the primary
sites of archaeology. Though, it was discovered in the year 1954, but its
excavation work began on the February 13, 1955, which continued till May 19,
1960. It was done by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Read on to know
more about Lothal in India.
Then proceed to Bhavnagar check in Hotel.
Evening is time permits visit Takteshwar Temple : Erected
over a petite mound looking out on the city, this Takheteshwar Temple has been
dedicated to Lord Shiva. One can have a splendid view of the adjoining Gulf of
Cambay; it is an important pilgrim spot.
Overnight Stay at Bhavnagar.
Day 04 In Bhavnagar (Excursion Palitana – 55
kms/1.5 hrs oneway )
After Breakfast Begin climb to the Palitana temples (
Photography is strictly prohibited) located atop Shatrunjaya Hills and crowned
with 863 temples, each rivaling the other for its beauty and magnificence. This
is one of the most awe inspiring sights to devotees and visitors alike. The peak
is a 3 km climb of over 3500 steps from the town, while on each temple one can
see detailed carvings, beautiful idols and images, jeweled statues and intricate
torans. The climb takes approximately 2-2.5 hours. Later Proceed for
lunch(Own/Extra – Please make a advance booking) at the Vijay Vilas Palace for a
sumptuous home cooked meal hosted by the present owners Nitya and Yashpal Singh.
The Vijay Vilas palace was build in 1906 AD by Yashpal’s ancestor, Yuvraj Vijay
Sinhji of Palitana, a member of the same Gohil Rajput clan as the Maharajahs of
Bhavnagar. The palace was used as a country retreat, being splendidly located in
the hills with great views of the Shetrunjaya hill and historic Palitana
temples.
Return back to Bhavnagar.
Overnight stay at Bhavnagar.
Day 05 Bhavnagar- Diu (220 kms/6 hours)
After Breakfast proceed to Diu, A tranquil island filled with
immense beauty, was a Portuguese colony like Goa. An offshore island situated on
the west coast off Saurashtra in Gujarat. Rocky bays, sun-kissed sandy beaches
and limestone cliffs are found in Diu. Take a tour to Diu with TSI India and
experience the splendid charm of the island. Diu is a breathtaking land with
golden beaches, swaying palm orchards and historical monuments.
Check in Hotel. Then Evening Leisure at the Beach.
Nagoa Beach is a tiny seaside village and this area is a
well-liked beach area for those on beach holidays and beach tours to West India.
Nagoa Beach, Diu boasts of a pastoral charm of an old fishing village. Amidst
the swaying palm trees and the cool breeze you shall enjoy lazing around the
deserted environs of Diu Nagoa Beach. A palm-fringed, largely deserted and
secluded beach, Nagoa Beach, Diu is one of the most beautiful beaches in India.
Just twenty minutes invigorating drive from Diu will ferry you to Nagoa Beach
which with a stretch of about 2 kms from one end to another is extraordinarily
beautiful .The unique shoe-shape of the beach makes it more beautiful.
Overnight at Diu.
Day 06 In Diu
After Breakfast Local Sighseeing at Diu.
Portuguese Fort : It was constructed on the ruins of
another fortress, built by the Arab Governor Malekhyaaz ¬around 1400 AD, which
in turn was built over a still earlier fort dating back to 700 AD. At the end of
the Fort Road is the Portuguese Fort PraSa-de-Diu (29 m) built in 1535-41,
standing like a guard on the east.
Naida caves : Naida caves, Diu are located outside the
city wall of the Diu Fort, which was constructed by the Portuguese. The caves
feature a big network of tunnels with square hewn steps, which is yet to be
fully explored. It is believed that the Portuguese during their reign hacked
building materials from these caves.
Diu Museum : The history of Diu Museum in Diu states that
this was an old St. Thomas Church which was transformed later into a museum to
house several artifacts and antique pieces. This former St. Thomas Church, now
transformed into a museum, houses a lot of important antique statues,
inscriptions on the stone by the ancient rulers, magnificent wooden carvings,
idols, shadow-clocks and various other vital artifacts. A majority of these have
been collected from the excavations from different sites and exhibited for the
general public. These artifacts and the antique items reveal the past scenario
of Diu when it was under the rule of the Portuguese.
Church of St Francis of Assisi, Diu Diu Church of St
Francis of Assisi is counted among the highly venerated churches in the region.
Its foundation was kept in 1593 AD. It boasts of an impressive structure
overlooking the very gorgeous Arabian Sea. Today this famous church has been
turned into a hospital. Church of St Francis of Assisi, Diu The very exquisite
and most venerated Church of St Francis of Assisi in Diu was constructed around
AD 1593.
St. Paul’s Church is considered to be the only church in
operation in Diu till date. This 400 year old church shares close similarity
with the Bom Jesus Church at Goa. Boasting a Gothic architectural style, this
church is the biggest Portuguese Catholic church on the island. Its intriguing
volutes and shell like motifs are the sight to behold. This apart, you will also
be mesmerized by seeing the lavish wood carving. In fact glancing through this
exquisite work you will realize why this is touted to be the most elaborate of
all the Portuguese churches in India. St Paul’s Church in Diu is around 400 year
old church. It was constructed in the year 1691. It is dedicated to our Lady of
Immaculate Conception.
Then Overnight at Diu.
Day 07 Diu – Sasangir ( 120 kms/4 hrs) + pm
Game drive (1500-1800 hrs) optional . Stay at Sasangir
After breakfast driver to Sasangir upon arrival check in
hotel.
Enjoy the Afternoon Safari that is 03pm to 06pm [ OPTIONAL ]. It
is the sole home of the Asiatic Lions and is considered to be one of the most
important protected areas in Asia due to its supported species. The ecosystem of
Gir, with its diverse flora and fauna, is protected as a result of the efforts
of the government forest department, wildlife activists and NGOs. The forest
area of Gir and its lions were declared as "protected" in the early 1900s by the
Nawab of the princely state of Junagadh. You may also find Indian Leopards,
Sloth bears, Indian Cobras, Jungle cats, Striped Hyenas, Golden Jackals, Indian
Mongoose, Indian Palm Civets, Ratels, Chital, Nilgai (or Bluebull), Sambar,
Four-horned Antelope, Chinkara and Wild boar. It Also has around 300 Species of
Birds.
Note = National park – Sasangir is closed for Monsoon from 15th
June to 15th October – Every year.
Overnight Stay at Hotel.
Day 08 Sasangir – Junagadh – Rajkot (170
kms/5-6 hours)
After breakfast proceed to Rajkot on way visit Junagadh
on arrival to see Jama Masjid is built inside the Upperkot Fort in
Junagadh. This mosque was built from a demolished Hindu temple and has an
interior filled with columns. Then visit Durbar Hall Museum houses a
large collection of silver chains, chandeliers, thrones, palanquins, weapons and
armour from the days of the Nawabs. There is also a portrait gallery of
theNawabs. This museum was once the hall where the Nawabs held their Darbars
(assemblies).
Later proceed to Mahabat Maqbara
Mahabat Maqbara is a stunning mausoleum of one of the Nawabs of
Junagadh. This mausoleum is one of the Gujarat's most glorious examples of
Indo-Islamic architecture. This mausoleum was built in 1892 and topped with
silver doors and intricate architecture, including minarets encircled by
spiraling stairways.
Narsinh Mehta's Choro
Narsinh Mehta's Choro is a great revered place where the great
poet and saint Narsinh Mehta used to hold his assemblies, religious discourses
and Bhajans in the 15th century. There is a small temple of Gopinath later
visit Mahabat Maqbara, Junagadh and the idol of Shri Damodar Raiji and Narsinh
Mehta. Narsinh Mehta was one of the great poets of India. He was a great devotee
of Lord Krishna and a scholar,philosopher and a social reformer.
Then proceed to Rajkot upon arrival check in hotel, Overnight
stay at Hotel.
Day 09 Rajkot-Bhuj (250 kms/6 hours)
After breakfast drive to Bhuj upon arrival check in hotel
Afternoon local sight seeing of Bhuj City (if time permit) :
Aina Mahal - The Aina Mahal, currently a museum, was built under Rao
Lakhpatji. It now stands as a storehouse of the culture and history of Kachchh.
The building bears the mark of its architect, Ramsang Malam, who was influenced
by European style during his long stay in Holland. Pragmal Palace - The
palace, on the other side of Aina Mahal, was built in 1797. the building
displays a strong British influence through the floral patterns on its tower and
Corinthian pillars. Kachchh Museum - Established in 1877, the Kachchh
Museeum is the oldest in Gujrat. It has the largest collection of Kshatrapa
inscriptions, and diplays textiles, armoury, gold and silver ornaments and other
exhibits belonging to the region.
Overnight stay at Hotel.
Day 10 In Bhuj
After Breakfast full day visiting Banny villages
Hodka – a cultural village is located in the Banni
Grassland, right on the edge of the great Salt Desert – the Rann. The name Hodka
is derived from the Gujarati word “Hodi” meaning Boat, as the shape of the Jheel
is believed to be in the shape of a Boat. It is believed to have been set up by
the Halepotra clan. ‘Halepotra’ literally means the ‘Son or the descendant of
Halaji’, who is believed to have immigrated from Sindh. The village is now a
part of National project. The village is famous for its craft like Decorative
Mirrors, Lamps, Hand Fans, Letter Boxes, Wall Hanging, Lather, Clay, Wood, Metal
and Mud Work especially the exquisite Silver Jewellery. The artisans sell their
goods directly from their artistic Huts.
Bhirandiyara – is a favourite Tea stop for locals and
visitors alike on the road to Khavda. The village boasts a delicious sweet –
fresh Maavo. This milk-based sweet is best when eaten hot. Most of the roadside
stalls sell Maavo. The local Meghwal Community has exquisite embroideries and
skillfully decorated, colorful Mud Bhungas. Artisan Mr. Arjan Vela (subject to
permission / confirmation) has lovely pieces of Leatherwork.
Visiting Nirona – Nirona is home to about six different
Crafts. Meet Mr. Abdul Gafur Khatri, (subject to permission / confirmation) who,
together with his five brothers, belongs to the last family of Rogan Painters.
Rogan Art involves using a Metal Stick and Castor-Oil based colors to create a
work of genius. Viewing a demonstration of the craft is sure to leave you in
awe.
Overnight stay at Hotel.
Day 11 Departure transfer to airport to board
flight to Bom.
Early morning drive to Bhuj airport to board a flight to your
home town from where you board a flight to your onward destination.
END OF TOUR
More Details contact
With Best Regards
LIJU MATHEW
============================================
JEL Tours Private Ltd
203, Crystal Arcade, C.G Road
Nr. Navrangpura Tel. Exchange
Navrangpura, Ahmedabad – 380 009 , Gujarat (INDIA)
Tel : 0091 79 26405607 / 40075607 / 40025607
Fax : 0091 79 26405608
Fax : 0091 79 26405608
Mobile : 0091 9712970354 / 9426070354
Email : tours@jelgroup.in or jel.tours@gmail.com
Website : https://jel-tours-pvt-ltd.business.site/
Email : tours@jelgroup.in or jel.tours@gmail.com
Website : https://jel-tours-pvt-ltd.business.site/
CIN.N0- U63040GJ2009PTC056540