Gujarat Heritage, Sacred Temples & Asiatic Lion Safari 11 days

Upon arrival at Ahmedabad Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel by private vehicle. After check-in, take some time to relax and recover from your journey.

Ahmedabad provides an excellent introduction to Gujarat, combining historic architecture, traditional culture, religious landmarks and modern urban life. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore the nearby markets or enjoy a short walk around the hotel vicinity.

The remainder of the day is at leisure, giving you time to settle in comfortably before beginning your journey through Gujarat.

Overnight at the hotel in Ahmedabad.

After breakfast at the hotel, begin your city tour of Ahmedabad, exploring some of its most important historical, cultural and architectural landmarks.

Start with Sabarmati Ashram, the peaceful residence associated with Mahatma Gandhi and an important centre of India’s freedom movement. Explore the surroundings and gain an insight into Gandhi’s life and his connection with Ahmedabad.

Continue to Jama Masjid, admired for its elegant Indo-Islamic architecture and historic character. Take time to appreciate its impressive pillars, detailed stonework and tranquil courtyard.

Proceed to Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, famous for its intricate stone latticework and celebrated Tree of Life jali. The delicate craftsmanship provides an excellent example of Ahmedabad’s historic architectural traditions.

Later, visit the beautifully carved Adalaj Stepwell, a remarkable historic structure known for its multiple levels, ornate pillars and detailed sculptures. Explore the stepwell and discover how engineering, architecture and decorative artistry were combined in this distinctive monument.

Continue to Hutheesing Jain Temple, renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship, detailed carvings and peaceful religious atmosphere. The temple offers another perspective on Gujarat’s diverse religious and architectural heritage.

Later, enjoy free time in the local markets to experience Ahmedabad’s vibrant atmosphere, traditional shopping and everyday city life.

Overnight at the hotel in Ahmedabad.

After breakfast, check out and begin your drive to Dasada, located on the edge of the Little Rann of Kutch. The journey takes you away from the urban environment of Ahmedabad towards the distinctive semi-arid landscapes of northern Gujarat.

En route, visit the magnificent Modhera Sun Temple, dedicated to Surya, the Sun God. Explore the temple complex and admire its intricate carvings, sculpted pillars and remarkable architectural design. The temple reflects the sophisticated artistic traditions of historic Gujarat.

Continue to Rani ki Vav, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Patan and one of India’s finest historic stepwells. Explore its beautifully carved levels and remarkable sculptural panels depicting deities, mythological themes and ornamental designs.

Continue to Panchasara Jain Temple, reflecting Gujarat’s rich Jain religious heritage and distinctive temple traditions.

Later, proceed to Dasada and check in at your resort. The evening is free to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the Little Rann region, where the open landscape offers a striking contrast to the historic monuments visited during the day.

Overnight at the hotel in Dasada.

Start early with a thrilling safari in the Little Rann of Kutch, a distinctive landscape of expansive salt flats and semi-arid terrain. The region is particularly known for the endangered Indian Wild Ass and its diverse birdlife.

During the safari, explore the unique ecosystem of the Little Rann and observe its wildlife against the dramatic open landscape. The experience provides an opportunity to understand the natural environment of this unusual region of Gujarat.

You may also visit nearby tribal villages, including Rabari and Bharwad communities, to gain an insight into local lifestyles, traditional practices and crafts.

After the safari, return for breakfast and continue your drive towards Rajkot, covering approximately 160 km.

Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. Later, begin a city tour of Rajkot with visits to the Watson Museum and Kaba Gandhi No Delo, the childhood home of Mahatma Gandhi. These sites provide an insight into the region’s cultural history and Gandhi’s early life.

Overnight at the hotel in Rajkot.

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and begin your drive to Dwarka, one of India’s most important pilgrimage destinations and a sacred city associated with Lord Krishna.

The journey takes you through the landscapes of rural Gujarat and towards the coastal region. Upon arrival in Dwarka, check in at your hotel and take some time to freshen up.

Later, begin your city tour with a visit to the revered Dwarkadhish Temple, one of the principal landmarks of Dwarka and an important centre of pilgrimage dedicated to Lord Krishna.

Continue to Gomti Ghat, located along the Gomti River, where the sacred river meets the Arabian Sea. The ghats provide an opportunity to experience the spiritual character of Dwarka and observe traditional religious practices.

Visit Rukmini Temple, dedicated to Rukmini, the consort of Lord Krishna. Admire its distinctive architectural details and peaceful surroundings.

In the evening, attend the temple Aarti, experiencing the devotional atmosphere and traditional rituals that form an important part of the spiritual life of Dwarka.

Return to the hotel after the evening experience.

Overnight at the hotel in Dwarka.

After breakfast, check out and drive towards Somnath, enjoying scenic views along the coastal route.

En route, visit Porbandar, the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi. Explore Kirti Mandir, the memorial associated with Gandhi’s birthplace and early life. The visit provides an opportunity to learn more about his connection with Gujarat.

Continue your journey to Somnath and check in at your hotel.

Later, visit the magnificent Somnath Temple, one of the most revered temples in India and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Spend time exploring the temple surroundings and experiencing its deeply spiritual atmosphere.

Continue to Bhalka Tirth, an important religious site associated with the final chapter of Lord Krishna’s earthly life, followed by Triveni Sangam, the confluence of three rivers and an important pilgrimage site.

In the evening, attend the temple Aarti or, depending on timing and availability, enjoy the light and sound show.

Overnight at the hotel in Somnath.

After breakfast, check out and drive to Gir National Park, the last natural habitat of the Asiatic lion. The short journey takes you from the sacred landscape of Somnath into one of Gujarat’s most important wildlife regions.

Upon arrival at Sasan Gir, check in at your resort and take some time to relax.

Later, proceed for a jeep safari in Gir National Park with a trained naturalist. Explore the forest and surrounding habitats while looking for wildlife including Asiatic lions, deer, leopards and a variety of bird species.

The safari offers an exciting opportunity to experience Gujarat’s wildlife in its natural surroundings while learning about the ecosystem and its inhabitants.

Return to the resort after the safari and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Overnight at the hotel in Sasan Gir.

Begin the day with an early morning safari in Gir National Park, offering another opportunity to explore the forest and observe wildlife in the cooler morning hours.

After the safari, return for breakfast before proceeding on an excursion to Junagadh, a historic city with a rich collection of archaeological and architectural landmarks.

Visit Uparkot Fort, an ancient fortification associated with the long history of Junagadh. Explore its historic structures and learn about the strategic importance of the fort.

Continue to Mahabat Maqbara, renowned for its elaborate architecture and distinctive decorative details. The monument provides a fascinating contrast to the region’s ancient Hindu and Buddhist heritage.

Visit the Ashokan Rock Edicts, important archaeological remains associated with Emperor Ashoka and an early chapter in the history of the region.

After completing the Junagadh sightseeing, return to Sasan Gir and relax at your resort.

Overnight at the hotel in Sasan Gir.

After breakfast, check out and drive to Diu, a charming coastal destination offering a refreshing change of scenery after the wildlife experiences of Gir.

Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax before beginning your sightseeing.

Visit Diu Fort, a historic coastal fortification offering impressive views of the Arabian Sea. Explore its historic surroundings while discovering the Portuguese influence that shaped the character of Diu.

Continue to St. Paul’s Church, known for its elegant architecture and historic significance.

Later, explore the Naida Caves, a fascinating natural and geological attraction near Diu. Continue to Nagoa Beach, where you can enjoy the peaceful coastline, sea breeze and relaxed coastal atmosphere.

The evening offers an opportunity to unwind and enjoy Diu at a leisurely pace.

Overnight at the hotel in Diu.

After breakfast, check out and begin your drive towards Bhavnagar.

En route, you may visit Palitana as an optional excursion to explore the famous Shatrunjaya Jain Temples, one of the most important Jain pilgrimage complexes in India. The temples are situated on Shatrunjaya Hill and are renowned for their intricate architecture and spiritual significance.

Continue to Bhavnagar and check in at your hotel upon arrival.

Later, visit Takhteshwar Temple, situated on an elevated location and offering views across the surrounding city. Continue to the Gandhi Smriti Museum, exploring another aspect of Gujarat’s connection with Mahatma Gandhi and the region’s modern history.

Enjoy the calm atmosphere of Bhavnagar after the day's journey and sightseeing.

Overnight at the hotel in Bhavnagar.

After breakfast, check out and begin your drive back towards Ahmedabad, covering approximately 175 km.

En route, visit Lothal, one of the most important archaeological sites associated with the Indus Valley Civilisation. Explore the ancient dockyard, museum and archaeological remains, gaining an insight into early urban planning, trade and settlement patterns.

Continue your journey to Ahmedabad and proceed to the airport for your onward flight.

Your journey concludes after an extensive exploration of Gujarat’s temples, historic cities, wildlife reserves, coastal landscapes and archaeological heritage.

End of tour.