DETAILED ITY - GUJARAT TOUR 14N/15DAYS = (AMD 2/VADODARA 2/BAJANA1/BHUJ2/ RAJKOT 1/DWARKA 2/ GIR 1/ DIU 2/ BHAVNAGAR 1)

DETAILED ITY - GUJARAT TOUR 14N/15DAYS = (AMD 2/VADODARA 2/BAJANA1/BHUJ2/ RAJKOT 1/DWARKA 2/ GIR 1/ DIU 2/ BHAVNAGAR 1)

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 (355Kms/07Hrs)

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 - RAJKOT (258Kms/06Hrs)

Morning Drive to Rajkot via dhamadka village.  

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.

Later 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.

Upon arrival check in & overnight at hotel.

DAY 09 : RAJKOT – 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 SIGHTSEEING

Visit Dwarkadeesh Temple. Take a holy dip in Gomti river, later leave to visit Nageshwar Jyotirling, Gopi Talav, Bet Dwarka, and on way back do visit Rukmani Temple, evening visit other temples on coastal area, attend evening aarti at Dwarkadish temple. Overnight stay at the hotel

DAY 11 : DWARKA – JUNAGADH – SASANGIR (260 KMS/6 HRS)

Mornining Proced 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.

Arrival at Sasangir - Upon arrival check in & overnight stay at Hotel.

DAY 12 : 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 13 : DIU SINGHTSEEING

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 14 : DIU – PALITANA OR BHAVNAGAR (210kms/5-6 hours)

After breakfast proceed to Palitana/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 15 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.

In time proceed to Ahmedabad Airport for onward destination with sweet memory.

END OF THE TOUR

With Best Regards

LIJU MATHEW

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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

Mobile : 0091 9712970354 / 9426070354
Email : tours@jelgroup.in or jel.tours@gmail.com
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CIN.N0- U63040GJ2009PTC056540