GUJARAT TREAT-13NIGHTS/14 DAYS-AHMEDABAD-VADODARA-CHAMPANER-CHOTTAUDAIPUR-MODHERA-PATAN-LITTLE RANN OFKUTCH-BAJANA-BHUJ-HODKA-BANNYVILLAGES-DHAMADKA-RAJKOT-GONDAL-DWARKA-JUNAGADH-SASANGIR-DIU-PALITANAORBHAVNAGAR-LOTHAL-AHMEDABAD
DAY
01 : ARRIVAL AT AHMEDABAD TRANSFER TO HOTEL.
Arrival at Ahmedabad
and transfer to hotel. Ahmedabad, the city of Ahmed Shah (Medieval ruler of
Gujarat), is known for its rich past and its association with the Mahatma (Great
Soul), also known as Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi. The city offers the traveler a
unique style of architecture, which is a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles
(Indo-Saracenic style of architecture). The monuments of Ahmedabad mainly date
back to the 15th century. Ahmedabad has been known for its industry since
medieval times. Presently it is famous for its textile mills and is often
referred to as the 'Manchester of the East'. Rest of day
leisue.
Ovenight stay at
Ahmedabad.
DAY
02 : AHMEDABAD LOCAL SIGHT SEEING.
Sightseeing of
Ahmedabad is one of India’s fastest growing cities and the landscape is changing
continuously with modern glass and chrome building replacing traditional ones.
To experience the rich cultural heritage of the city, it is necessary to visit
the old quarter where the local government has set up a delightful heritage
walk. An early start from the hotel brings you to the starting of point for this
two hour walk that is guided by volunteers. Prior to the walk, there is a half
hour slide show of the city's history, unfolding back its birth from a 10th
century AD ancient site known as Ashaval to the present walled city re-founded
during the period of Ahmedshah and onwards. The walk begins from the
picturesque Swaminarayan Mandir in Kalupur and ends in the most glorious
architectural legacies of the Jumma Masjid, covering in between the numerous
pols (Lanes), havelis (villas), ornamental facades, workplaces of artisans and
number of magnificent Hindu and Jain temples.
Later visit,
Sabarmati Ashram that played home to Mahatma Gandhi from 1915 to 1933. Though
disbanded many years back, this Ashram has been brought back to life as a
tribute to the great man and his teachings. The Museum houses a large number of
photos, letters and documents of Mahatma Gandhi’s life.
Later evening visit
the Adalaj step-well situated 11 miles north of Ahmedabad. 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. It was made for the travelers and
caravans that frequented this trade route and acted not only as a well, but also
as a stopover. The bas relief on its walls and pillars include leaves, flowers,
birds, fish and other breathtaking ornamental designs.
Returned to hotel for
overnight
DAY
03 : AHMEDABAD TO VADODARA (125KMS/03HRS)
After breakfast drive
to Vadodara upon arrival check in hotel.
Afternoon local
sightseeing including visit Laxmi Villas Palace - The Royal Family's residence
is an extravagant building in Indo- Saracenic style. Pratap Vilas Palace - Built
as the residence of the royal family, this is a magnificent building in the Indo
- Sarcenic style, housing a collection of old armory and sculptures in bronze,
marble and terra cotta. The Baroda museum and art gallery and the Maharaja Fateh
Singh Museum boast of an excellent art collection of works by Indian artists and
European Masters, of Mughal miniatures and valuable palm leaf manuscripts of
Buddhist and Jain origin.
Overnight stay at
Hotel.
DAY
04 : VADODARA- CHOTTA UDEPUR VIA CHAMPANER (160Kms+60Kms)
After breakfast drive
to chotta udepur via champanaer
After Breakfast drive
to chotta udaipur enroute visiting Champaner is an ancient fortified city, The
town has a rich historical culture and was a major trade center dealing in fine
silk, woven and dyed textile, and sword manufacturing. But its decline started
after attacks by the Mughal Emperor Humayun in 1535 AD. The entire landscape of
Champaner has many ruins of fort walls, tombs, gardens, arches, pillars and
wells. It has been named the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, and is a
UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pavagarh Fort - 4 kms south east of Champaner,
another well known and ancient fort of Gujarat dominates the skyline and can be
seen from miles away. Spread over a large area, the fort rises in three stages:
first, the rained part, second, the palace and middle fort and, finally, the
upper fort with Jain and Hindu temples (important places of pilgrimage). The
temple at the summit had its spire replaced by a shrine to the Muslim saint,
Sadan Shah. Jami Masjid - This large, ornate mosque built in 1523 is a typical
example of Gujarati architecture.
Later Visit Chotta
Udaipur, most of the tribals living in and around Jambughoda are ‘Rathwas’ &
‘Nayaks’. They are superstitious and God-fearing people. The entrance to their
home is through a richly carved wooden door with figurines and tribal icons. The
front is usually decorated with Pithora paintings for which the ‘Rathwas are
known for. The tribals do not live in hamlets. Their dwellings are separated
from each other by considerable distance. The tribal museum of Chhota Udaipur
has a large collection of tribal artifacts.
Overnight stay at
hotel.
DAY
05 : VADODRA - BAJANA VIA PATAN & MODHERA (255Kms/06Hrs)
After breakfast drive
to Bajana enroute visit patan & 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.
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 entrance.
Overnight at
Bajana.
DAY
06 : BAJANA (LITTLE RANN OF KUTCH) + BAJANA - BHUJ
(280Kms/06Hrs)
Enjoy morning Safaris
in the Little Rann of Kutch.
The Wild Ass Sanctuary
of the Little Rann of Kutch, spreading across nearly 5000 square kilometers of
the Little Rann, is the only place on earth where the endangered Indian Wild Ass
(Equushemionuskhur), known locally as the ghudkhar, still lives. The only other
two subspecies of wild asses live in the high arid plateaus of Tibet, making
this the most accessible place to visit wild asses in their natural environs.
Standing more than a meter tall at the shoulder and two meters in length, wild
asses are very agile and can run long distances at a speed of 50 km/h, making
them more like wild horses, and far more captivating than their domesticated
cousins. Around 3000 of them live in the sanctuary, and are usually seen in
herds, especially around breeding season (foals can be seen with the herds
around October and November.)
Evening arrival at
Bhuj, Later time permit 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 07
: 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 08
: BHUJ - GONDAL VIA RAJKOT (258Kms/06Hrs)
Morning Drive to
Gondal via dhamadka village & Rajkot
Dhamadka villages to
see the textile village , The intricate art of printing fabrics using wooden
blocks thrives in the riverside town of Dhamadka and earns valuable foreign
exchange along side the more modern screen-printing workshops. Kutch also
specializes in block printing, and vegetable dyes, paraffin wax resist,
patricate-printing material. Bright ajrakh prints are still used though now
synthetic dyes and modern techniques have been adopted. Dhamadka are block
prints that derive their name from the village of origin, well known for its
river water that brightens the colours.
After Breakfast drive
to Rajkot Later proceed for local sight seeing including The Watson Museum &
Library in the Jubilee Gardens commemorates Colonel John Watson, Political Agent
from 1886-89. The entrance is flanked by two imperial lions and among the
exhibits are copies of artefacts from Mohenjodaro, 13th century carvings,
silverware, natural history exhibits and textiles as well as dioramas of local
Tribal costumes and housing styles. Perhaps the most startling piece is a huge
marble statue of Queen Victoria seated on a throne, decidedly not amused. The
museum is open daily except Wednesday from 9 am to 12.30 pm and 1.30 to 5.30 pm;
there's a small entry fee. Later visit to Kaba Gandhi no Delo - the house where
Gandhiji grew up.
Later proceed to
Gondal upon arrival check in & overnight at hotel.
DAY 09 : GONDAL –
DWARKA (250kms/5 hours)
After breakfast
proceed to Dwarka. Dwarka is one of the important Hindu Pilgrimage sites which
was the dwelling place of Shri Krishna. There was a time when the sacred city of
Dwarka was the capital of the Empire of Shri Krishna. It is believed that Lord
Krishna settled in Dwarka city after he left Mathura.
Post lunch, visit the
Beyt Dwarka, believed to be the original abode of Lord Krishna. The famous
'Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple' is home to one of the 12 Swayambhu Jyotirlingas
in the world. Later, visit the Gopi Talav, the lake where Gopis are said to have
reunited with Lord Krishna. Then there is this Rukmini Devi Temple, dedicated to
the wife of Lord Krishna. Stay overnight at the hotel in
Dwarka.
DAY
10 : DWARKA – JUNAGADH – SASANGIR (260 KMS/6 HRS)
Morning Sightseeing of
Dwarka
Later proceed o
Junagadh on arrival to see Uperkot Fort, Ashok Rock Edict, Mahabat Makabara and
Junagadh Museum & continue to Sasan Gir – the only place in the world where
you can still encounter Asiatic lions in the wild. The last census here recorded
a population of 411 lions, so our chances of spotting this endangered species
are reasonably high. We are also likely to see Leopards are another big-cat here
in good numbers – as are sambar and spotted deer (chital), blue bull (nilgai),
chousingha (the world’s only four-horned antelope), chinkara (Indian gazelle)
and wild boar.
Later proceed to
Sasangir upon arrival check in & overnight stay at
Hotel.
DAY
11 : SASANGIR – DIU VIA SOMNATH (120 kms/3.5 hours)
Morning(Optional)
excursion by Jeep safari into the Gir Forest National Park(closed from 15th june
to 15th oct) . Discover the lair of the extremely endangered Asiatic lion in
Gir, the small forest reserve that remains his last sanctuary. The Gir Forest
National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary (also known as Sasan-Gir) is the sole home
of the pure Asiatic Lions. The Hindi name Gir stands for forest. . The forest
also harbours a variety of smaller animals and birds. Other predators are the
Panther and the Hyena. The Indian Deer, Sambar, Chital (spotted deer), Nilgai
(blue bull), Chinkara and the Chowsingha (four horned antelope) are found here,
alongwith the bear and the long tailed langur.
Later proceed to
Somnath temple The legendary shore temple of Somnath is located near Veraval.
The Somnath temple is one of the twelve most sacred shrines dedicated to the
Lord Shiva. The temple contains the jyotirlinga of Lord
Shiva.
Continue drive to Diu
upon arrival check in & overnight stay at Hotel.
DAY
12 : DIU
After Breakfast local
sightseeing including St. Paul’s Church 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.
Later visit Diu Fort,
a massive structure with a moat and a remarkable collection of cannons. We also
take time to admire one of the grand Portuguese churches on the island, and
visit the vibrant fishing village of Vanakbara.
Diu Museum 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.
Rest of day enjoy the
beach area. Overnight stay at Hotel.
DAY
13 : DIU – PALITANA OR BHAVNAGAR (210kms/5-6 hours)
After breakfast
proceed to Bhavnagar, Check in Hotel.
Arrival at Palitana –
a hallowed city for followers of the Jain religion. By far the most significant
site here is the sacred Shatrunjaya Temple. To reach this extraordinary complex,
with its 863 marble temples(photography is strictly prohibited) , it is
necessary to ascend a hill, via a 4 km long pathway of stairs – an arduous task
for elderly pilgrims, who often chose to be carried in a dholi (a seat on poles
held by four bearers – on direct payment basis). This is also a popular choice
among the wealthy. Without doubt, visit to Palitana will be a highlight of our
Gujurat tour, with views you’ll remember forever.
Overnight at Palitana
or Bhavnagar.
Note :: if the
accommodation are not available at Palitana ( inventory is less) then we suggest
to stay at Bhavnagar which is 55 kms/1 hour from Palitana {{ sightseeing option
are 1) Evening Takhtehwar Temple Erected over a petite mound looking out on the
city, this Takheteshwar Temple has been dedicated to Lord Shiva. 2) And the
Barton Library one of the most ancient libraries in Gujarat. Among the oldest
monuments in Bhavnagar, this library is a popular among men of all age group.}}
incase if we stay at Palitana then Bhavnagar skipped.
Day 14 BHAVNAGAR TO
AHMEDABAD VIA PALITANA & LOTHAL (260KMS/06HRS)
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.
Later drive to Lothal
(Friday is 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.
Intime proceed to
Ahmedabad Airport for onward destination with sweet
memory.
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
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