Day 1
Arrival in Ahmedabad
Arrive at Ahmedabad, Check into the hotel and after refreshment, we will visit Hutheesing Jain temple, Gandhi Ashram, Adalaj Step well, and Akshardham temple. Overnight stay at Ahmedabad.
Glorious Gujarat
12N / 13D
1N
Ahmedabad
→ 1N Bhuj
→ 2N Kutch
→ 2N Dwarka
→ 1N Somnath
→ 1N Diu
→ 1N Sasan Gir
→ 1N Bhavnagar
→ 1N Vadodara
→ 1N Kevadiya
View Gallery →
Included in this package
Meals
Hotels
Activities
Transfers
- Overview
- Tour Itinerary
- Accommodation
- Inclusions
- Policies
- Tour Destinations
Tour Description
The tour will start from Ahmedabad and will be ending in Vadodara. Gujarat is a blend of Temples, Wildlife, and of amazing architecture and a place full of enthusiasm and rich in culture and heritage.
Tour Highlights
Ahmedabad
- Hutheesing Jain temple
- Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple
- Gandhi Ashram
- Adalaj Stepwell
Bhuj
- Bhujodi
- Swaminarayan temple
- Aina Mahal
- Prag Mahal
Runn Kutch
- Kala Dungar
- White Desert
Dwarka
- Bala Hanuman temple(Jamnagar) (Enroute)
- Beyt Dwarka
- Nageshwar Temple
- Rukmani Temple
- Gopi Talav
- Shivrajpur beach
- Dwarkadhish Temple
- Gomti Ghat
Porbandar(Enroute)
- Kirti Mandir
- Sudama Temple
Somnath
- Somanth Mahadev Temple
- Bhalka Tirth
- Triveni Sangam
- Gita Mandir
Diu
- Diu Fort
- Naida Caves
- Gangeshwar temple
Sasan Gir
- Gir Jungle Safari
Bhavnagar
- Koliyak Nishkalank Mahadev temple
- Takhteshwar temple
Vadodara
- Lothal (Enroute)
- Laxmi Vilas Palace
Kevadiya
- Sardar Sarovar Dam
- Valley of Flowers
- Statue of unity
- Cactus and Butterfly park
Tour Plan
Day 2
Ahmedabad – Bhuj (350km/7hrs)
Today morning after refreshment and breakfast, we will depart to Bhuj. Check into the hotel and after refreshment, we will visit Bhujodi, Swaminarayan temple, Aina Mahal, and Prag Mahal. Overnight stay.
Meal Included
Breakfast & Dinner
Day 3
Bhuj – Rann Utsav (90km/2hrs)
Today morning after refreshment and breakfast, we will depart to Rann Utsav. Arrival at The Tent City, Dhordo.
12:30 PM Onwards Welcome & Check-in
12:30 PM to 02:30 PM Lunch at respective Dining Area
02:30 PM to 04:00 PM Enjoy in-house activities
04:00 PM to 05:00 PM High Tea
05:00 PM to 05:30 PM Transfer to White Rann to witness the grandeur of sunset. The mode of transfer can be through Bus/Camel Cart/both. 07:00 PM to 07:30 PM Return transfer to The Tent City, Dhordo
07:30 PM to 10:30 PM Dinner at respective Dining Area
09:00 PM to 10:30 PM Enjoy the Culture of Kutch along with entertaining activities at Cultural Activity Area.
Overnight at Dhordo.
Meal Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4
Rann Utsav
06:00 AM to 06:30 AM Morning Tea
06:30 AM to 07:30 AM Yoga Session
06:30 AM to 07:00 AM Transfer to White Rann to witness the grandeur of sunrise
07:30 AM to 10:30 AM Breakfast at respective Dining Area
10:00 AM to 12:30 PM Enjoy in-house activities
12:30 PM to 02:30 PM Lunch at respective Dining Area
03:00 PM to 07:30 PM Complimentary Tour to Kala Dungar (Black Hill) - the highest point of Kutch. On the route visit to handicraft village "Gandhi nu Gam". Tea/Coffee shall be provided at Kala Dungar. Complimentary refreshments will be served.
07:30 PM to 10:30 PM Dinner at respective Dining Area
09:00 PM to 10:30 PM Enjoy the Culture of Kutch along with entertaining activities at Cultural Activity Area.
Overnight at Dhordo.
Meal Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5
Rann Utsav - Dwarka (490km/10hrs)
Today morning after refreshment and breakfast, we will depart to Dwarka via Jamnagar sightseeing such as the Bala Hanuman temple. Check into the hotel and Overnight stay at Dwarka.
Meal Included
Breakfast & Dinner
Day 6
Dwarka
Today morning after refreshment and breakfast, we will visit Beyt Dwarka, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, Rukmani Temple, Gopi Talav, Shivrajpur beach, Dwarkadhish temple, and Gomti Ghat. Overnight stay at Dwarka.
Meal Included
Breakfast & Dinner
Day 7
Dwarka – Porbandar – Somnath (250km/05hrs)
Today morning after refreshment and breakfast, we will depart to Somnath via Porbandar sightseeing such as Kirti Mandir and Sudama Temple. Check into the hotel and after refreshment, we will visit Somnath Temple, Bhalka Tirth, Triveni Sangam, and Gita Mandir. Overnight stay at Somnath.
Meal Included
Breakfast & Dinner
Day 8
Somnath – Diu (120km/02hrs)
Today morning after refreshment and breakfast, we will depart to Diu. Check into the hotel and after refreshment, we will visit Diu Fort, Naida Caves, Gangeshwar temple, and evening leisure at the beach. And overnight stay.
Meal Included
Breakfast & Dinner
Day 9
Diu - Sasan gir(100km/02hrs)
Today morning after refreshment and breakfast, we will depart to Sasan Gir. Check into the hotel and after refreshment, we will do Gir Jungle Safari. Overnight stay at Sasan Gir.
Meal Included
Breakfast & Dinner
Day 10
Sasan gir – Bhavnagar(200km/04hrs)
Today morning after refreshment and breakfast, we will depart to Bhavnagar. Check into the hotel and we will visit Koliyak Nishkalank Mahadev temple and Takhteshwar temple. Overnight stay at Bhavnagar.
Meal Included
Breakfast & Dinner
Day 11
Bhavnagar – Lothal – Vadodara (230km/5hrs)
Today morning after refreshment and breakfast, we will depart to Vadodara. En route, we will visit Lothal – The archaeological remain of the Harrapan Civilization. Check into the hotel and we will visit Laxmi Vilas Palace. Overnight stay.
Meal Included
Breakfast & Dinner
Day 12
Vadodara – Kevadiya (100km/2hrs)
Today morning after refreshment and breakfast, we will depart to kevadiya. Check into the hotel and we will visit Sardar Sarovar Dam, Valley of Flowers, Statue of unity, cactus and butterfly park etc. and overnight stay.
Meal Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 13
SOU - Vadodara / Departure from Vadodara
Today morning after refreshment and breakfast, we will do check out and drop you off as per schedule.
Meal Included
Breakfast
Tour Accommodation
Hotel Aaram Orchard
Ahmedabad
NO OF NIGHTS
1 Night
ROOM TYPE
Executive
Regenta Central
Bhuj
NO OF NIGHTS
1 Night
ROOM TYPE
Executive
White Rann Camping And Hospitality
Kutch
NO OF NIGHTS
2 Nights
ROOM TYPE
Swiss Tent
Madhuvan Suites By Blues Hotels
Dwarka
NO OF NIGHTS
2 Nights
ROOM TYPE
Deluxe
Hotel Sun Plaza
Somnath
NO OF NIGHTS
1 Night
ROOM TYPE
Plaza Deluxe
Hotel Apaar
Diu
NO OF NIGHTS
1 Night
ROOM TYPE
Premium
Hotel Anil Farmhouse
Sasan Gir
NO OF NIGHTS
1 Night
ROOM TYPE
River view
Hotel 1589 Gen X
Bhavnagar
NO OF NIGHTS
1 Night
ROOM TYPE
Executive
Regenta Inn
Vadodara
NO OF NIGHTS
1 Night
ROOM TYPE
Deluxe
Unity Village Resort
Kevadiya
NO OF NIGHTS
1 Night
ROOM TYPE
Deluxe
Inclusions
- 1 Night stay in Ahmedabad
- 1 Night stay in Bhuj
- 2 Nights stay in Dhordo/Kutch
- 2 Nights stay in Dwarka
- 1 Night stay in Somnath
- 1 Night stay in Diu
- 1 Night stay in Sasan gir
- 1 Night stay in Bhavnagar
- 1 Night stay in Vadodra
- 1 Night stay in Kevadiya
- Welcome drink on arrival
- Daily Breakfast & Dinner at the Hotel
- All Meals at Tent city Dhordo & Kevadiya
- Transportation as per the itinerary inclusive of Driver Bata, Night Halt, and Parking & Toll Charges
- All Tours & Transfers by Dedicated Exclusive Vehicle
Exclusions
- Any Airfare, Entrance fees, Charges for Activities
- Early Check in/ Late Checkout & Any Extra Meals
- Camera Charges, Activity Fees & all other expenses which are in personal nature
- Vehicle will be as per itinerary not on disposable basis
- Guide, Tour Escort (Can be provided up on request with extra Charges)
- Any Surcharge, if applicable by the Hotel at the time of booking
- GST as applicable
Tour Activity
Pricing Calender
Booking Policies
- 50% of the Holiday Package Cost at the time of Booking.
- Balance 50% of Holiday Package Cost, 30 days prior to Departure.
- Non-Refundable items (if any) will be told in advance for full payment.
- Airfare to be paid full at one time in advance.
Cancellation Policies
- 25% of Holiday Package Cost will be applicable, Cancelled 51 Days or More
- 50% of Holiday Package Cost will be applicable, Cancelled between 50 – 36 Days
- 75% of Holiday Package Cost will be applicable, Cancelled between 35 – 21 Days
- 100% of Holiday Package Cost will be applicable, Cancelled 20 Days or less.
Important Notes
- Per person cost is calculated on the basis of Minimum 02 adults travelling together on Twin sharing basis.
- Extra adult is the 3rd person who shares the same double room and is provided with an extra bed or rollaway mattress.
- Mostly the hotels allow 03 adults in one double room with an extra bed or 02 adults and 02 children below 12 years of age with one extra bed.
- All the guests (husband, wife & adult children) are requested to carry their photo identity proof in original & a photocopy to be produced & handed over at the time of Check In at the resort. This is mandatory.
- Complimentary Arrival / departure transfers & sightseeing tours shall be provided as per schedule fixed by the hotel. However this may require you to wait at the airport for short duration until all the guests arriving at that time exit the airport.
- Selection of seats in Airline is subject to availability and is at sole discretion of the airlines.
- Transfers and Sightseeing tours are on SIC (seat in coach) / shared basis.
- As of now we are not holding any service, it is subject to availability upon your request. Booking process will start only after receiving booking amount.
- Above tour prices are subject to change in the event of increase in hotel room rates, Govt. Taxes levy by the hotel especially during Peak Season/Holiday surcharge and major events/fairs and convention.
- All Tours & Transfers are outsourced facility and the hotel has no control on the profile and behavior of fellow passengers on board, moreover the hotel is not responsible for the safety and security of the in-house guests availing the same.
- To avail the arrival transfers please check the hotel representative holding the placard of your name / hotel name.
- In hotels for an extra Adult / Child either Rollaway bed or mattress shall be provided.
- The request for an adjacent or an adjoining room will be on subject to availability.
- It is mandatory to carry the age proof of children (02 to 11 yrs) and infant (below 02yrs) along with other travel documents. Child above than 11 yrs shall be considered for an adult cost.
- Room allocation (Twin bed / Double bed) is at the discretion of the hotel. The check in and check out time of the hotel is 12 to 12 noon. Numbers of meals are always corresponding to the number of nights booked. Breakfast is not provided on the day of arrival.
- For early check in and late check out the payment is to be settled directly by the guest.
- Hotel has the right to claim the damages incurred by any of the guest.
- The guests are requested to take care of their personal belongings carefully and avoid leaving them unattended.
- Cost of additional services availed by the guest which are not part of our package inclusions are to be settled directly at the hotel.
- Mini bar facility available in the hotels is on chargeable basis.
- Buffet meal will be provided at fixed venue decided by the hotel.
- Timings: Breakfast: 0800 - 1000 hrs
- Lunch: 1300 - 1500 hrs
- Dinner: 1930 - 2200 hrs
- These are the standard buffet timings observed by the hotels. Still you are kindly requested to check the perfect buffet timings at the time of check in at the hotel. Once the buffet time is over the hotel might ask you to pay for your meals.
- This hotel is suggested on the basis of the feedback taken from our customers. Still we request you that before finalizing the tour with us kindly go through the website of the hotels and read the reviews.
Tour Destination
About City
Ahmedabad
"Manchester of the East"
A rapidly growing metropolis, an industrial hub, an educational hotspot, and a city with a magnificent past – Ahmedabad is one of the most important cities in Gujarat. Located on the banks of the Sabarmati River, Ahmedabad is the former capital of Gujarat, and its delicious food, colourful culture is making it a fast-growing tourist destination. The historic city of Ahmedabad or the old part of the city was declared as the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Home to a plethora of remarkable temples like Swaminarayan Temple, intriguing museums and classy markets, with a little bit of colonial history attached to it, Ahmedabad is an excellent example of how a city can still retain every bit of its old-world charm while still rapidly progressing on the path of globalisation.
Ahmedabad is famous for its textiles and its tie-dye bandhani handloom technique, which makes it a great place to shop. From bandhani sarees, dupattas to traditionally embroidered dress materials, and other local handicrafts.
Sabarmati Ashram, situated directly beside the Sabarmati river, is a quaint and peaceful ashram built by Mahatma Gandhi after he returned from South Africa. To this date, Gandhiji’s living quarters are preserved here and is now used as a museum where visitors can learn all about his life and his teachings. The infamous Dandi Salt March, which was a crucial point in India’s independence struggle, originated from this ashram.
Places To Visit In Ahmedabad
1. Sabarmati Riverfront
Sabarmati Riverfront is a waterfront developed on the banks of river Sabarmati in Ahmedabad. Started with an objective for sustainable development and environmental improvement, the pace has now become a major tourist attraction owing to its lush green promenades, beautiful parks and plazas and an all-around soothing ambience.
2. Dada Hari Wav
Built by a woman of Sultan Begara's harem in 1499 AD, these step-wells were made as a retreat during hot summers. Waiting to be filled with rain water, no matter what the weather is, it is always cooler within the Step-wells.
3. Swaminarayan Temple
Located in the Kalupur area of Ahmedabad, Shri Swaminarayan Temple was built on the instructions of Swaminarayan, the founder of this sect of Hinduism. Green and yellow sculptures of various Hindu gods and goddesses, with their bodies fitted in opulent dresses and ornaments cover the structure of this nineteenth-century temple.
4. Sabarmati Ashram
Once the residence of Mahatma Gandhi and his wife Kasturba, this undoubtedly is the biggest tourist attraction situated in the suburb of Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Located on the tranquil and serene stretch of Sabarmati River it was also referred to as the 'Satyagraha Ashram' as Gandhi began the famous 'Dandi March' from here. The museum is one of the most interesting sections of the ashram as it has on display some of Gandhi's personal letters and photographs.
5. Adalaj Step Well
Adalaj Stepwell is a magnificent structure built brilliantly to curb water crisis in and around Adalaj Village. The stepwell is located at a distance of 3 to 4 kilometres to the south-west of Gandhinagar, the capital city of Gujarat. The Adalaj Stepwell was built in 1498 and is one of the many step wells built in India to provide access to groundwater. The entire architecture is an excellent illustration of the intelligence of the engineers and architects India had even at that time. Walk in, and you will witness a sudden yet soothing drop in temperature. Breathe in the tranquillity, absorb the beauty of the intricate carvings, make a silent wish and rest for a while before you proceed with your plan for the day.
6. Kankaria Lake
One of the biggest lakes in Ahmadabad, this is a total magnet for tourists and locals alike due to its complete entertainment facilities - toy train, kids' city, balloon ride, water park, food stalls. Also famous for its Kankaria Carnival which is full of week-long fun and festivities held in the last week of December, it is an entertainment, fun and cultural hub. The lake and surroundings have been recently revamped and all its subparts (zoo, balvatika,etc.) are enhanced.
7. Hathisingh Jain Temple
Dedicated to the 15th Tirthankara of Jains, Dharmanath, this two-storied white marble structure provides a delightful experience and the tiled courtyard is another unique aspect of the temple.
8. Modhera Sun Temple
The Sun Temple in Modhera is a Hindu tempe built by the Chalukya dynasty. Built on the banks of river Pushpavati, the temple is dedicated to the solar deity Surya. It is now a historical site and no worshipped is performed at the temple. It is currently maintained by Archaeological Survey of India.
9. Rani ki Vav
Rani Ki Vav or 'Queen's Stepwell' is a distinctive form of water storage system located in the small town of Gujarat called Patan, on the banks of River Saraswati. The 900-year-old structure listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is displayed prominently in the new ₹100 currency note issued by the Reserve Bank of India.
10. Statue of Unity
Statue of Unity is a memorial to The Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The Bronze statue stands 182 metres tall and is the 'Tallest statue in the World'. The statue of Unity is located in Gujrat, by the banks of River Narmada on the River Island of Sadhu Bet overlooking the Narmada Dam (Sardar Sarovar Dam) from 3.2 km away.
11. Bhadra Fort & Teen Darwaza
The Bhadra Fort and its neighboring environment is the most scenic part of Ahmedabad. Located in the middle of lush greenery the huge 44 acre Fort got its name from the Bhadrakali Temple that it houses.
12. Jama Masjid
The Jama Masjid situated in Ahmedabad is one of the largest mosques in India built in the period of 1424 and was built by Emperor Sultan Ahmed Shah. To the west of the mosque built are the tombs of Ahmed Shah I, his son and his grandson followed by the graves of the queens of the king.
13. World Vintage Car Museum
A connoisseur of vintage cars converted his private collection of vintage cars into a museum. The collection comprises of the best of the world - Rolls Royce, Bentley, Jaguar, Cadillac, Austin and many more.
14. Sidi Saiyyed Mosque
Built by Sidi Saeed or Sidi Saiyyed in 1573, as the name suggests, the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, is one of the most famous mosques of Ahmedabad. The mosque is said to be built in the last year of the existence of the Sultanate of Gujarat. The intricately carved lattice stone window, in front of the mosque is known as the Sidi Saiyyed Jali, the unofficial symbol of city of Ahmedabad.
15. Sardar Vallabhai Patel National Museum
Situated in the premises of Moti Shahi Mahal at Shahibaug in Ahmedabad, Sardar Vallabhai Patel National Museum is a museum and a memorial dedicated to the 1st Deputy Prime Minister of India - Sardar Vallabhai Patel. The museum has exhibitions in English, Hindi and Gujarati.
16. Jhulta Minar
Located in Ahmedabad, Jhuta Minar is one of the most intriguing architectural wonders that the world has ever seen. They are still an unsolvable mystery. What makes the minarets unique is if one of the minarets is shaken then the other minaret shakes within a few seconds, while the connecting passage doesn't transmit any movements or vibrations. Many architects and historians have tried to understand the physics and logic behind the unrelated movements of the minarets. It is these movements that have led to its name, Jhulta Minar which translates to swinging minaret.
17. Vaishnodevi Temple
Located on Sarkhej-Gandhinagar highway Road, Vaishnodevi Temple in Ahmedabad is a true replica of the famous temple in Jammu-Kashmir.
18. Kamala Nehru Zoo
Popularly known as Kankaria Zoo, Kamala Nehru Zoo is located at Kankaria, Ahmedabad. By the majestic banks of the tranquil Kankaria Lake, this zoo has been the abode of different animals, reptiles, birds and mammals belonging to different species.
19. ISKCON Temple
Located close to the Gujarat Samachar Press, The ISKCON Temple in Ahmadabad is the best place to experience spirituality and mental bliss. Also referred to as the 'Hare Krishna Temple', the temple with its calm and peaceful atmosphere offers the perfect spot for meditation.
20. Lalbhai Dalpatbhai Museum
The Lalbhai Dalpatbhai Museum (also known as L. D. Museum) is museum of Indian Sculptures, Bronzes, Manuscripts Paintings, Drawings, Miniature Paintings, Wood works, Bead works and coins. (br) The Lalbhai Dalpatbhai Museum of the Lalbhai Dalpatbhai Bharatiya Sanskriti Vidyamandir is located in the premises of the L.D. Institute of Indology, Ahmedabad. It is situated on a sprawling campus in the western part of the city in an area dotted with educational and research institutes, and in the vicinity of Gujarat University. It is about 7 kilometers from the Railway Station and 12 kilometers from the Airport, therefore, it is easily accessible from any part of the Ahmedabad city.
21. Dada Bhagwan temple
Dada Bhagwan Temple (also known as Adalaj Trimandir) is a trimandir situated in the village of Adalaj on the Ahmedabad-Kalol highway, 20 kms from Ahmedabad. Built by Dada Bhagwan Foundation, the trimandir brings forth a unique religious concept where statues of all religious deities are placed on a common platform.
22. Gujarat Science City
Located on the Science City Road in Ahmedabad, Gujarat Science City is a remarkable initiative taken up by the Government of Gujarat to spread general awareness and a scientific temperament especially among the youth of the country. Spread over 107 hectares of land, the centre also holds frequent talk shows and workshops for students and science enthusiasts.
23. Shree Camp Hanuman Mandir
Situated in Shahibaug in Ahmedabad, Shree Camp Hanuman Mandir is one of the largest Hanuman temples in India. Believed to have been established by Pandit Gajanan Prasad at least a 100 years ago, the temple is still managed by the descendents of the Pandit family. Tuesdays and Saturdays are the most auspicious days of the week for the devotees.
24. Parimal Garden
Located on the Parimal Cross Road in Ambavadi, Parimal Garden is a beautiful well-maintained garden in the heart of Ahmedabad. Replete with swings and dotted with stone benches, the park is popular among both adults and kids alike. Mostly used for morning and evening walks, the garden also has routine laughing clubs for the elderly.
25. Lothal
If you are a history buff and ever so curious to peek into the lives of the older generations, you really need to visit Lothal because this is a place that ties the past and present together. Located at a distance of around 85 kms from the city of Ahmedabad, on the banks of the ancient mythical river Saraswati (which has now dried up), Lothal is a popular Indus Valley Site and a 4500 years old city discovered in 1954. Even though the place is not as thriving as it once used to be, the magic of the ruins are enough to tell you the colourful tales about the lives of the people who were inhabitants of this place. This place is full of surprises and holds a great deal of historical significance. Lothal was not only amongst one of the early successful civilization but was also a hub of industrialisation adjoining different nations. Due to its fascinating excavations and dramatic discovery, Lothal is popular among geologists, historians and archaeologists.
26. Sarkhej Roza
Situated in the village of Makarba, 7 kms from Ahmedabad, Sarkhej Roza is a mosque and tomb complex. Bosting of absolutely striking early Islamic architectural finesse with spacious corridors and pillared domes, and surrounded by a mesmerising water tank, the tomb houses the grave of Ahmad Khattu Ganj Baksh (the former resident of the place).
27. Nehru Bridge
Nehru Bridge is a massive bridge built over the river Sabarmati in Ahmedabad connecting the Real Old City (Kot Vistar) with West Ahmedabad. Open to public use in 1962, the bridge is dedicated to Indiaês first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. The bridge is considered one of the most scenic places in the city.
28. Vastrapur Lake
Situated in Western Ahmedabad, Vastrapur Lake is an ancient lake which was renovated and prettified in 2002. A huge statue of Narsinh Mehta (a famous poet-saint of Gujarat), was installed here and the lake was named after him as the Bhakt Kavi Narasinh Mehta Sarovar. It boasts of an open-air theatre which is used for organising several cultural events of the city.
29. Kite Museum
Housed in the premises of Sanskar Kendra in Paldi, Ahmedabad, Kite Museum was conceptualised and created by Bhanubhai Shah. Designed by the renowned architect Le Corbusier in 1954, the museum is an elaborate display of about 125 uniquely carved kites including mirror embroidered kites, block print kites and Japanese kites such as Rokuku.
30. Gotila Garden-Talav
Gotila Garden-Talav is a vibrant green garden situated in Sindhubhavan Road, Thaltej in Ahmedabad. Blessed with vibrant flowers, beautiful water sprinklers, quaint benches and shady trees, the garden is a haven for city dwellers as well as birds. People also come here to look at the numerous birds that flock the place at early morning or late evening.
Shopping in Ahmedabad
1. City Shopping
Even though pretty much everything is available in this city, Ahmedabad is especially famous for its textile industry. Hence, all kinds of fabrics are available here.
2. Manek Chawk
Manek Chowk is a notable city square in Old Ahmedabad which is a vegetable market in the morning, a bullion market in the noon and the street food market at night. It is most famous, however, for its food stalls that start to emerge around 8 in the evening, with various local street snacks and goodies.
3. Law Garden Night Market
One of the most famous gardens of Ahmedabad the Law Garden becomes a favorite place for shopaholics with vendors and shopkeepers bustling on the scene.
4. Calico Textile Museum
One of the foremost textile museums and a celebrated institute in Indian textiles around the world, Calico Textile Museum is famous for its remarkable collection of fabrics.
5. Lal Darwaza
With lots of hawkers selling various items from clothes to electronics items, Lal Darwaza is crowded yet one of the most famous markets of Ahmedabad.
6. Alpha One Mall
One of the largest multiplexes in Ahmedabad, Alpha One mall houses three anchor stores, a food-court and a movie hall.
7. Banascraft
One of the most famous boutiques of Ahmedabad, Banascraft offers a great variety of handmade items.
8. Kapasi Handicraft Emporium
While Handicrafts from Gujarat are exported to far off places all across the world, you can buy it all from Kapasi Handicraft Emporium
9. R3 The Mall
One of the most popular shopping malls and leisure destinations in the city, this mall houses about 200 shops, numerous food courts and a 4-screen multiplexes.
10. Radhe Shopping Mall
Enjoy shopping at Radhe Shopping Mall for a great experience and a variety of brands to choose from.
How to Reach Ahmedabad
The state of Gujarat, in general, is well-connected to nearby as well as faraway states in India. Hence, it is quite convenient to reach Ahmedabad. The city can be reached via flight, bus, train and even self-drive or taxi.
The Ahmedabad Airport, officially known as Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport caters to both domestic and international travel. Roadways are well-maintained as well. Bus options are plenty as the Ahmedabad Municipal Transport Service, or the AMTS is an interstate-bus network that has excellent connectivity with all the prominent states in the country.
The Ahmedabad Railway Station also known as the Kalupur Railway Station is efficiently connected with transit lines running across almost every major city in India. There are a bunch of expresses and superfast trains as well. Driving is also another option to reach Ahmedabad. A long drive to the city can be covered from starting points such as Mumbai, Udaipur and Indore.
Best time to visit Ahmedabad
October to March is the best time to visit Ahmedabad as the weather becomes mild and pleasant to road around the city. March to May is the time when summer sets in, the daily temperature peaks above a maximum level of 30 degrees, which is quite pleasant for sightseeing. This season is also a good time to explore the city, and there is also quite an inflow of events and activities such as the International Kite Festival in January. June to October is the monsoon season when the accomodation and travel costs reduce drastically, however, this season often brings in heavy torrential rains, thus flooding the river Sabarmati.
Food of Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad, being the glittering and unique city that it is, is brimming with options for food. You will find all kind of places to eat here, from branded chain outlets to 5-star hotels to the colourful street food joints. Do try out the Gujarati cuisine which is mainly vegetarian. When in Ahmedabad, you must try the Gujarati Thali, which typically consists of Roti, Dal or Kadhi, Rice and Vegetable Curries. You can also try out the famous Khichdi with Chaas (Buttermilk).
Gujarat is most famous for its mouthwatering snacks. Few of the most famous snack items are Chakri, Dhokla, Khakra, Fafda, Sev, Khandvi and Khaman. The Gujarati snacks are countrywide famous. Make sure to buy these at a local sweetmeat shop. One can also try the unauthentic, street-side Pizzas, Pao bhaji and the spicy Paani-Puri
The best part about street food in Ahmedabad is that they are not that unhygienic and tastes great while suiting your pocket. One must also try the traditional Gujarati sweets, while here, such as Basundi, Puran Poli, Shrikhand, Ghevar, Malpua and much more. The birthplace of Gandhi - Gujarat, is a dry state, so one cannot find any alcohol here.
Ahmedabad Tour Packages
About Ahmedabad Tourism: Ahmedabad, the capital of Gujarat, is a vital city in India, both because of its historical significance and industrialism. The metropolis welcomes you with its rich culture, popular tourist sites, delicious food and museums, all of which make for an incredible trip. Spend a fun couple of days exploring this wonderful city with wide range of Ahmedabad travel packages.
A heritage site that you must surely visit when you travel to Ahmedabad is the Sabarmati Ashram, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. Now a museum displaying some of his belongings, it is from here that he began the infamous Dandi March. Here you would also find the Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue, which stands tall at 182 m.
The city is also known for its impressive stepwells, such as the Dada Harir Vav. Built during the Mehmud Begda era, this octagonal stepwell was meant to provide some respite during the summer months. Adalaj Stepwell (dating back to the late 15th century) and Rani ki Vav (over 900 years old) are also other popular stepwells that you can visit here.
If you wish to learn more about the city’s heritage and culture, there are many museums that you can tour, including the Calico Textile Museum, Sardar Vallabhai Patel National Museum and Lalbhai Dalpatbhai Museum. Moreover, you can spend some relaxing time by the Sabarmati Waterfront, which has green parks and promenades or by the serene Kankaria Lake.
Ahmedabad is a city that is quite famous for its numerous religious establishments. The Modhera Sun Temple, Jama Masjid, Hutheesing Jain Temple and Sidi Saiyyed Mosque should be on your itinerary. Next, you must head over to the 15th century Bhadra Fort; known for its stunning carvings, it is set amidst lush greenery. Finally, the Jhulta Minar is another of the city’s architectural wonders that you should see.
Don’t forget to shop for cloth since Ahmedabad is renowned for its textile industry. What’s more, you drive about 85km away to explore Lothal, one of the sites of the Indus Valley Civilisation. The best time to plan your trip to Ahmedabad is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing. About two days are sufficient to tour the city. There are many hotels offering accommodation.
About City
Bhuj
"Ancient temples, tall hills and a deep sense of serenity"
Bhuj is known as a desert city, with a history dating back to kingdoms and empires, palaces from the rule of the Naga chiefs, the Jadeja Rajputs, the Gujarat Sultans and the British Raj. With numerous temples, small streets, and traditional handicrafts, Bhuj is one of the unique historical sites in India. It is a municipality in the Kutch district of Gujarat. The city was left in a state of devastation after the 2001 earthquake and is still in the recovery phase.
However, Bhuj connects its visitors to a range of civilisations and essential events in South Asian history through prehistoric archaeological finds, remnants of the Indus Valley Civilization (Harappan), places associated with the Mahabharata and Alexander the Great's march into India. The land of Bhuj is home to various historical sites, like the 2000-year-old Kshatrapa inscriptions in the kutch museum, hall of mirrors in the Aina Mahal, the bell tower of Prag Mahal, the sculptures in Ramakund stepwell, and the beautiful Hamirsar lake. Hence, Bhuj is a blend of vibrant history and ethnic cultures.
Places To Visit In Bhuj
1. White Desert of Kutch
Also known as the Great Rann of Kutch, the White Desert is a vast area of pristine white salt desert often explored for its natural beauty and ecological importance. It is also called the world's largest salt desert which stretches from the mouth of River Indus to the Gulf of Kutch. Besides being a filming location for several Bollywood movies, the White Desert of Kutch is strongly scrutinised as it lies on the northern India-Pak border. The White Desert is cited with numerous sanctuaries for wildlife, floral and wetland preservation.
2. Mandvi Beach
Standing near the Vijay Vilas palace estate in Bhuj, Mandvi Beach is a secluded and undiscovered beach destination with clean water and beautiful view. Take a long walk along the shore as you witness the sun setting over the horizon, or go for bird spotting and discover the beauty of Kutch through its fauna. With its tranquil surroundings being it's most alluring quality, Mandvi Beach makes for an enchanting rendezvous with nature and its beauty.
3. Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
Less than 100 km away from Bhuj, this sanctuary is spread over an area of about 7505.22 sq. km. in the Kutch District of Gujarat. This wildlife sanctuary is considered as one of the largest seasonal saline wetland areas.
4. Aina Mahal
The Aaina Mahal palace, or 'Hall of Mirrors' was built during the flamboyant rule of Lakhpatji in the middle of the 18th century. This beautiful palace also houses a handicraft museum where the crafts from various parts of Kutch is put.
5. Hamirsar Lake
Hamirsar Lake is located in the western end of Bhuj. Its water level depends on the time of the year. It might be dry and largely deserted, or full of water, and encircled by merry families. The lake is absolutely stunning in look and has a cheerful outlook. It is a must visit, for a happening and lovely get together.
6. Shri Swaminarayan Temple
Originally built in the year 1822, it was the first of many Sampradey Swaminarayan temples.
7. Kutch Bustard Sanctuary
Also known locally as the Lala Prajan Sanctuary, its primary aim is to conserve the Great Indian Bustard. Among many other different varieties of wildlife that can be found within the reserve, there are three different kinds of Bustards themselves in the sanctuary.
8. Pirotan Island
From the total 42 islands in the Arabian sea on the eastern coast of Jamnagar, only two islands are accessible for tourists. The most famous one from these two islands is, Pirotan islands.
9. Kutch Museum
Initially an integral part of School of Arts, Kutch Museum is the oldest museum in the state. It has a marvellous collection of antiques dating back to 1st century AD. The Kutch Museum was a private collection to display all the unique gifts Maharao Khengarji III received on his wedding, prior to opening the gates forever for the public, who were earlier allowed only on special occasions.
10. Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary
A 125km drive away from Bhuj, this sanctuary covers an area of about 444 sq. km. and is one of the distinct eco-system in the Kutch district of Gujarat state.
11. Mata no Madh
Located 138 km from the city of Bhuj, Mata No Madh is a historical temple dedicated to Jadeja deities and is situated west of Kakkadbhit. The original 1200 year old temple was demolished during the earthquake of 1819 AD.
12. Prag Mahal
Prag Mahal is a palace which was built in 19th century. It is located next to the popular Aina Mahal in Bhuj of Gujarat. Situated in the heart of the city, Prag Mahal is easily accessible. The entry fee is also nominal. Visitors are accompanied by one of the staff members as a guide to show them the intricate work at the mahal.
13. Banni Grassland Reseve
Spread across an area of 3,847 square kilometers, are currently legally protected under the status as a Protected or Reserve Forest in India. It has been identified as one of the last remaining habitants of Cheetah in India by Wildlife Institute Of India.
14. Clock Tower
With a height of 45 feet, Clock Tower is a prominent feature of Prag Mahal. Visitors are drawn to this 19th century Italian Gothic structure in large numbers for the stunning panoramic view it provides of the town. The architectural marvel has also been featured in numerous well-known Bollywood and Gujarati movies.
15. Kranti Tirth For Shyamji Krishna Varma
Kranti Tirth is a massive memorial complex built in the honour of Shyamji Krishna Varma who was a well-known Indian Freedom Fighter, Journalist and a Lawyer. The memorial complex houses important memories of Shyamji and his sacrifices. It provides a glimpse into the historic Indian Freedom Struggle that was fought to free the country from the British Reign.
16. Kutch Fossil Park
The Kutch Fossil Park was established in 2002 by Mohan Singh Sodha, an Army Veteran and a passionate fossil collector. He solely gathered and showcased this unique historic preserve for about half a century now.
17. Bharatiya Sanskruti Darshan Museum
Bharatiya Sanskruti Darshan Museum has an extensive collection of folk art, textile art, crafts, paintings, rural/traditional architecture and archaeological samples belonging to the region including the remote areas. The valuable articles were collected by a Government Servant who travelled to most areas of the region while in service and wished to display them together under one roof for the public to enrich their knowledge about the region.
18. Bhujia Hill
Overlooking the beautiful town, Bhujia Hill is a prominent natural formation considered to be of immense religious and historical importance. It is often associated with the legendary victory of Bhujanga against Bheria Kumar. It also served as a perfect location for Bhujia Fort that adds to the aesthetic appeal of the splendid Hill and defended the Jadeja Chiefs. The hill requires at least 200 stairs to reach the top.
19. Hill Garden
A hilltop amusement park, Hill Garden is a favourite picnic spot in the town. With some rides, boating facilities, a museum and a splendid little water park, the attraction is a youngsterês hub. The location is also perfect to get a beautiful panoramic view of the town and enjoy a mesmerising sunset amidst the beautiful natural surroundings.
20. Vande Mataram Memorial
Located at a distance of 10 kms from Bhuj, in the village of Bhujodi in Gujarat, Vande Mataram Memorial is a museum and one of the top tourist attractions in the city. Sprawling over 12 acres of land area, the memorial is built by the Ashapura Foundation to commemorate the most important struggles faced by the Indian soldiers right from the Revolt of 1857 to the Freedom Movement of 1947. It is a tribute to the brave and fearless freedom fighters of India.
The top sightseeing places in Bhuj are White Desert of Kutch, Mandvi Beach, Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, Aina Mahal, Hamirsar Lake, Shri Swaminarayan Temple.
How to Reach Bhuj
The Bhuj Airport, also known as the Rudra Mata Airport is the city's own airport. This domestic airport is situated about 5.5 to 9 km from the Bhuj city centre and can be covered by a 15 to 20-minute drive. The Bhuj Railway Station is just about 4 km from the city and can be reached through a 15-minute taxi ride.
There are quite a few bus stands in Bhuj, with the nearest ones at Lal Tekri, Ghanshyam Nagar and Sanskar Nagar. These bus stops are within a radius of 2 km from the city centre. The farther bus stations are at Mirjapur and Madhapur, which are about 4 to 5 km from the Bhuj city centre.
Best time to visit Bhuj
October to February is the best time to visit Bhuj and its nearby areas. The weather is pleasant, and it is also the time for the Rann Festival in Kutch. Summers (March-June) are quite hot and should be avoided. Monsoons are also warm and humid and make the sightseeing uncomfortable. However, if you have to go to Bhuj in the monsoons, you can visit this place if you don't mind a little rain.
Food of Bhuj
Most of the places here offer only vegetarian food. The town is popular for traditional fried snacks such as Khakhra, Papad as well as the sweet and crunchy Jalebi. Also try the tea available at the local stalls on the streets, which is usually served in saucers. Other than these don't miss out on the Gujarati thali, brimming with Rotlas, Vegetables, Sev Tomato, Lentils, Kadhi and much more.
Also find instances of popular South-Indian and Chinese cuisines. The other Gujarati delicacies include Dhokla, Thepala, Fafda, Khandvi, Hahdwoh, Ganthia, Oondhiya as well as sweets like Ghevar, Puran Poli, Basundi and more.
More about Bhuj
Apart from some temples and fort, the place has various other places one can visit. Places like Hiralakshmi Memorial Craft Park, Kutch Museum and Kutch Fossil Park are some sites depicting the richness of the area. If you are one of those people who would love to spend your day by the side of a beautiful water body, then head to Hamirsar lake or Narayan Sarovar.
Bhuj has a variety of things to offer for all the people interested in city shopping. With authentic handicraft items and clothes boasting Gujarati Embroidery, you are sure to get mesmerised while roaming around the street markets of Bhuj. Plan to visit this beautiful place while the great Rann Utsav is happening, and you will be sure to make the trip something you and your family won't be ever able to get off their mind.
Bhuj is a treat to the eyes of visitors. One can explore everything from white desert to beautiful temples, and from wildlife sanctuaries to the cultural landscape.
Who should visit Bhuj?
From people in groups to couples, and from families to just someone stung by the wanderlust bee, this place serves all. Anyone who wants to break their routine can head to Bhuj for an unforgettable experience.
About City
Kutch
"The White Desert of India"
Virtually an island that resembles the shape of a tortoise, Kutch is an erstwhile princely state of India holding onto its grandeur nature from the past. Kutch is probably one of the most beautiful, yet surreal places in India with the vast expanses of the white salt desert. The place comes to life during the winters when the Rann Festival is held during December-February everywhere in which there are huge camp settlements with cultural programs, functions and adventure activities like hot-air ballooning.
Kutch is also among the largest district of India with a terribly low population density. Also, Kutch lies on the India-Pakistan border and you can see parts of Pakistan from Kutch. Kutch is also famous for crafts and embroidery works, Flamingo Sanctuary and Wild Ass Sanctuary. Bhuj is an ideal starting point to visit the Rann of Kutch. Beautiful beaches of Mandvi near Bhuj are also totally worth visiting during your trip to Kutch. Don't miss to see the ancient town of Dholavira.
Places To Visit In Kutch
1. Great Rann of Kutch
Rann of Kutch, a large area of salt marshes is located in Gujarat, India. It is divided into : Great Rann of Kutch and Little Rann of Kutch.The name "Rann" has come from the Hindi word ran meaning "desert". The region has been so famous for its natural beauty that it was featured in numerous films in India, for example - Refugee, Magadheera, Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram Leela, Sarainodu etc. It has also been mentioned in several books including the Booker Prize-Winning Novel, Midnight's Children, written by Salman Rushdie.
2. Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
Less than 100 km away from Bhuj, this sanctuary is spread over an area of about 7505.22 sq. km. in the Kutch District of Gujarat. This wildlife sanctuary is considered as one of the largest seasonal saline wetland areas. Excessive salt deposits here give the sanctuary a pure white surface that attracts all the more uniqueness. However, since the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary lies on the Indo-Pak border, some parts of the sanctuary are restricted to the public. There are some BSF areas as well.
3. Kala Dungar
Marking the highest point of Kutch (462 m), Kalo Dungar is located north of the village of Khavda, Gujarat. Also known as The Black Hill, the area is famous for its panoramic view of the Rann of Kutch. Kalo Dungar is home to a 400-year-old temple devoted to Lord Dattatreya. The magnetic hills of Kalo Dungar mark for the perfect optical illusion, where vehicles seem to defy gravity and roll uphill.
4. Dholavira
It is one of the largest remarkable excavations of the Indus Valley Civilization which was one of the most developed civilization roughly 4500 years ago.
5. Kutch Museum
The oldest museum of Gujarat, the Kutch Museum boasts of its collection of the extinct Kutchi Script and ancient coins. Tribal artifacts are also a part of the museum along with many other kinds of objects on display exhibits of embroidery, paintings, arms, musical instruments, sculpture and precious metalwork.
6. Kutch Bustard Sanctuary
Also known locally as the Lala Prajan Sanctuary, its primary aim is to conserve the Great Indian Bustard. Among many other different varieties of wildlife that can be found within the reserve, there are three different kinds of Bustards themselves in the sanctuary.
7. Rann Utsav of Kutch
Celebrating the varied ethnic flavour of Gujarat through crafts, music, dance and people, Rann Utsav for 2020-2021 will be held from 12th November 2020 to 28th February 2021. An initiative by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited, the Rann Utsav is packed with leisure, delicious food and adventure spread over 5 Lakh sq metres with more than 350 luxurious tents. It is 100+ full-filled days of Kutch.
8. Mandvi Beach, Bhuj
The Mandvi beach is one of the most serene beaches on the Northwestern shore. Its the perfect destination to come and relax with family and friends during winter mornings.
9. Aaina Mahal, Bhuj
The Aina Mahal palace, or 'Hall of Mirrors' was built during the flamboyant rule of Lakhpatji in the middle of the 18th century and is very beautiful.
10. Kandla Port and Mudra port
The Kandla Port is one of the 11 most important ports of India. The Mudra Port is another important commercial port in the Kutch.
11. Narayan Sarovar, Bhuj
A combination of 5 holy lakes of Hinduism namely Man Sarovar, Pampa Sarovar, Bindu Sarovar, Narayan Sarovar and Pushkar Sarovar, this is one of the most significant religious sites for Hindus.
12. Hamirsar Lake, Bhuj
Named after the ruler of Jadeja - Rao Hamir, this man-made lake lies in the central area of Bhuj. With almost all the important sight-seeing destinations of Bhuj located to its eastern part, walking through the boundary of this 450-year-old lake is a pleasurable experience.
13. Anjar
Anjar is a town and municipality in Kutch District, Gujarat. With 1,400 years of history, it is known as the oldest town in Kutch. The desert climate in this region does not spare Anjar, sharing the same weather extremities. It has been a centre for trade and commerce in Kutch for eons, being a target of invasion in medieval times and during the British colonisation.
The top sightseeing places in Kutch are Rann of Kutch, Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, Dholavira, Kutch Museum, Kutch Bustard Sanctuary, Mandvi Beach, Bhuj.
How to Reach Kutch
The only way to reach Kutch is by road as it's mostly desert. Kutch city does not have a dedicated railway station or airport. The nearest airport and railway station is in Bhuj. You will have to take a vehicle from here to reach Kutch.
Best time to visit Kutch
Winters (November-Feb) are the best time to visit Kutch, mainly because of the full moon nights that turn the place into an absolute paradise. The Rann Festival is also organised at the same time. Summers should be avoided as temperatures can go as high as 45-degree Celcius.
Food of Kutch
The food in Kutch is mainly vegetarian, given a dominating influence of Jainism and Brahmanism, both of which follow strict vegetarianism and often avoid garlic, potatoes, yam and onion too. A local delicacy in the area is Bajra na Rotla which is usually accompanied by, like almost every other meal in the district, a refreshing glassful of Lassi, Chaas or Buttermilk. You can also relish a typical Gujarati Thali which would consist of Roti, Dal or Kadhi, Curd , Rice and Vegetable Curries The other Gujarati savouries that one cannot miss include Chakri, Dhokla, Papad, Kachumbar, Khakra, Fafda, Sev, Khandvi and Khaman. Most of these are dry snacks and are ideal while traveling or for taking some home. Along with these try traditional Gujarati sweets such as Ghevar, Malpua, Basundi and much more. Try Kutchi dabeli or Double Roti (A snack made by creating a mixture of boiled potatoes, a special dabeli masala and stuffing on a pav and served with a special chutney). Alcohol is not available here since Gujarat is a dry state.
About Kutch Tourism
Kutch, a district in Gujarat, is nearly an island shaped like a tortoise and a beautiful destination boasting sprawling white salt deserts and diverse flora and fauna. A former princely state, it’s known for its rich heritage, frequently attracting large crowds owing to its cultural events. We provide you with a plethora of choices when it comes to Kutch travel packages for a wonderful trip with friends and family.
The first attraction to add to your itinerary is undoubtedly Rann of Kutch, a salty marshland in the Thar Desert, synonymous with the three-month-long Rann Utsav featuring handicrafts, camel rides, hot air ballooning etc. Don’t forget to visit the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, Kutch Bustard Sanctuary and Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary to see blue bulls, shrikes, Great Indian Bustards, flamingoes etc.
Kutch is home to a significant site associated with the Indus Valley Civilisation known as Dholavira, where several remains of everyday items and buildings were found, indicating the lifestyle at the time. Your trip must include a visit to the Kutch Museum, where you can see exhibits on the extinct Kutchi script, coins, paintings, weapons and more. A crucial part of the district is the Kandla Port.
Kutch is a paradise for tourists from November to February because of the cool weather and Rann Utsav. Kutch tour packages often include destinations like Bhuj, Mandvi and Rajkot for you to explore. Rajkot is famous for its rich culture and traditions, visited extensively for its green parks, the Khambhalida Caves, palaces, museums like Gandhi museum, lakes and dams, handicrafts, yummy sweets and more.
Located within Kutch is the town of Bhuj that is home to several must-visit attractions like Mandvi Beach, a tranquil location with gorgeous views known for swimming, parasailing, camel riding, quad biking etc. Aina Mahal, or “Hall of Mirrors”, is famous for its magnificent architecture, featuring balconies, chandeliers, archways and stained glass. Moreover, make sure also to visit Hamirsar Lake, Prag Mahal and Narayan Sarovar. We offer many Kutch travel packages that are fully customisable and affordable, specially curated to ensure that you have an extraordinary trip!
Rann Utsav
Celebrating the varied ethnic flavour of Gujarat through crafts, music, dance and people, the Rann Utsav is packed with leisure, delicious food and adventure spread over 5 Lakh sq metres with more than 350 luxurious tents. It is 100+ full-filled days of Kutch. The festival celebrates the spellbound beauty and natural heritage of Kutch. You can engage in an array of indoor games like carrom board, ludo amongst others, savour the lip-smacking delicacies and enjoy the relishing traditional recipes of Kuch. Besides, you can also take a ride over the picturesque desert of Kutch with its seemingly boundless white sand.
Being held in the Dhordo village of Kutch, the Utsav is lined-up with ethnic tents that have just the right amenities for you to live in the midst of the desert region. An overnight stay is highly recommended as the visuals of the Rann of Kutch especially during full moon nights cannot be found in any other part of the world. The day times have a variety of colour sprinkled on the barren lands and offer visitors an excellent opportunity to experience the diverse traditions, the generosity and hospitality of Kutchi people.
About City
Dwarka
"The home of Lord Krishna"
Located on the western tip of the Saurashtra peninsula in Gujarat, Dwarka is believed to be the capital city of Lord Krishna's kingdom. Known as Devbhoomi Dwarka, Dwarka boasts of being the only city that is a part of both Char Dham (four principal holy places) and also Sapta Puris (seven sacred cities) mentioned in the Hindu religion. Dwarka was a part of the ancient kingdom of Krishna and Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, is also located in Dwarka. The beachside and the seashores are an added tourist attraction.
Legend has it that the city was once engulfed by the sea and recent excavations reveal that a city did exist here. The name Dwarka translates to dwar meaning 'door' and ka meaning 'moksha' meaning the ‘door to salvation'.
Places To Visit In Dwarka
1. Dwarkadhish Temple
Dwarkadhish Temple also known as the Jagat Mandir, is a Chalukya styled architecture, dedicated to Lord Krishna. The town of Dwarka has its history dated back to the Kingdom of Dwaraka in Mahabharata. The five storied main shrine is grand and marvelous in itself constructed of limestone and sand. The 2200-year-old architecture, is believed to be built by Vajranabha, who constructed it over the land reclaimed from the sea by Lord Krishna. The temple showcases intricate sculptural detailing done by the ancestral dynasties that ruled the region and the black magnificent idol of Lord Krishna. There are other shrines within the temple which are devoted to Subhadra, Balarama and Revathy, Vasudeva, Rukmini and many others.
The devotees are expected to take a dip in the Gomti river before proceeding into the temple through the Swarg Dwar. The eve of Janmashtmi is the most special occasion in any Krishna temple, the Dwarkadhish temple is adorned by thousands of devotees chanting prayers and rituals. The shrine is a hive of colours, voices and faith transforming itself into inner silence and sanctity.
2. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
One of the 12 famous self-existent temples, Nageshwara Jyotirlinga Temple too houses a curious myth about its origin. The giant, beautiful and artistic statue of Lord Shiva mesmerizes tourists and pilgrims alike with its aesthetic appeal. Unlike other Nageshwar Temples, the statue or the Linga here faces south. A major highlight of Nageshwar Temple is the massive 80 feet tall statue of Lord Shiva. The temple itself is characterised by typical Hindu architecture. The Nageshwar Shiva Linga is made up of stone, known as Dwarka Shila, having small chakras on it. It is in the shape of 3 mukhi Rudraksha.
3. Beyt Island
Located around 30 km from the main town of Dwarka Beyt Dwarka is a small island and was the main port in the region before the development of Okha. While the island is enclosed by a few temples, white sand beach and coral reefs, the beach is also popular among tourists for its marine life, sea excursions, camping and picnics.
4. Dwarka Beach
Along the Arabian Sea coast, Dwarka Beach is a good place to relax in the evenings. Popular among both the locals and tourists, Dwarka Beach is located quite close to the main temples in town.
5. Rukmani Temple
A small structure is an important shrine dedicated to Krishna's beloved consort, Rukmani Devi. Not as majestically gigantic , this shrine is an architectural masterpiece in itself. The Hindu mythical story behind this temple begins with Rukhmini Devi and her husband Lord Krishna, picking up the sage Durvesha for dinner. On the way, Rukhmini Devi stopped to quench her thirst at the Ganges, with the help of her husband. Known to be short-tempered, Durvesha Muni was quite enraged when she did not offer him any water. Thus he summoned Rukhmini Devi to be separated from Lord Krishna. Therefore, her temple lies at the outskirts, while Lord Krishna's temple is within the Dwarka city.
6. Lighthouse
The tower, 43m in height was inaugurated on 15th July 1962. Tourists can enjoy the panoramic view of the sunset.
7. Gomti Ghat
If the holy scriptures are to be believed, the Gomti River is none other than the Ganges, descending directly from heaven. The most sought after spots out of the various shrines and ghats this is the place where the river meets the mighty ocean.
8. Gopi Talav
Legend has it that this is the lake where Krishna used to entice his Gopis (young female inhabitants) with his youthful pranks and romantic nature. About 20km , the lake is surrounded by sandal like yellow sand which is used by the devotees to make tilaks on their bodies. It is quite a pretty sight.
9. Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Mandir
Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Mandir, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is an ancient temple, some 5000 years old, which was built around a self-manifested Shivaling found in the Arabian Sea.
10. Gita Temple
Built by the industrialist family of Birla in 1970, it is constructed using white marble resulting in a magnificent and awe inspiring structure. The temple was made to capture and preserve the teachings and values of the Bhagavad Gita, the religious book of the Hindus.
11. Sudama Setu
Sudama Setu Bridge is a stunning suspension bridge built for pedestrians to cross River Gomti. The bridge was named after Sudhama, Lord Krishna's childhood friend. It was inaugurated by Anandiben Patel, the CM of Gujarat in 2016.
12. ISKCON Dwarka
Located on Devi road, the ISKCON Temple in Dwarka is yet another manifestation of the Krishna Consciousness. Housing idols of Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha draped in rich attires and ornated in flowers, this is an entirely stone-built temple.
13. Swami Narayan Mandir
Located very close to the beautiful seashore and the Dwarkadish temple, Swami Narayan Mandir is a shrine dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan, an avatar of Lord Vishnu. The shrine is a relatively new structure, with intricate architecture expressed through sculptures and embossed wall work.
14. Dunny Point
Located at Dwarka Beyt, Dunny Point is a mesmerising island-like spot and a great place for water-based activities and bird watching. This uninhibited point is an eco-tourism site also offers an impressive marine camping and safari option along its coral-embedded water site.
How to Reach Dwarka
The nearest airport is Jamnagar, about 137 km away from Dwarka City. Dwarka has its own railway station, trains connecting Dwarka to all major cities (Jamnagar, Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, Mumbai, Goa, etc.) Dwarka is very well connected by road as well.
Best time to visit Dwarka
The ideal time to visit Dwarka is from November till the last of February when the city experiences cold winters. Nonetheless, if you specifically want to participate in the festivities of Dwarka's grandly celebrated Janmashtami Festival, visiting the town during August and September will be eventful. Hence, September to March are the best months to visit Dwarka. However, the city is equally enchanting throughout the year.
Food of Dwarka
There aren't many lavish restaurants in Dwarka. However, the ones that it houses serve delicious Gujarati, North-Indian and Chinese food. An elaborate Gujarati thali is a must, while here. Roti, Dal or Kadhi, Rice and Vegetable Curries make up this mouth-watering platter. You can also try out the famous Khichdi . Other than these, do try out the popular Gujarati snacks such as Khamman Dhokla, Khandvi, Thepala, Khakhra, Hahdwoh as well as the widespread and refreshing Lassi, Buttermilk and Chaas.
Dwarka Tour Packages
About Dwarka Tourism: Dwarka in Gujarat is said to be the capital of Lord Krishna’s kingdom and is therefore called the “home of Lord Krishna.” The only city to be part of both the Char Dham and Sapta Puris, Dwarka is known for its sacred sites and a shoreline that features few beaches.
The Dwarkadhish Temple, dating back over 2,500 years, is one of the city’s prime attractions admired for its Chalukya style of architecture, its intricate carvings as well as its mesmerising five-storey shrine. The Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, one of India’s 12 Jyotirlingas, another one of the city’s numerous wonders, is renowned for its 80 feet tall statue of Lord Shiva.
Some of the other temples you must visit in Dwarka include the Rukmini Devi Temple, Gita Temple and Swaminarayan Mandir. Also, see Gopi Talav, a calm lake where Lord Krishna supposedly performed “raas” for the Gopis. The serene Gomti Ghat is another must-visit place alongside Sudama Setu, which pedestrians use to cross the Gomti River.
Besides holy sites, Dwarka is also famous for the Dwarka Beach along the Arabian Sea coast. You can watch the sunset, admire the coral reefs, eat at a food stall or go looking for seashells. Dwarka Lighthouse also attracts crowds of tourists who visit the site for its architecture and views of the setting sun.
About 30km from the city is Beyt Island, where you can go beach camping, dolphin spotting, picnicking, etc. Situated at the mouth of the Gulf of Kutch, this island with its white-sand beaches and coral reefs is supposedly where Lord Krishna stayed when he was the king of Dwarka. Visit Dwarka between November and February when the weather is ideal for sightseeing. 1-2 days are sufficient to explore the city. You can stay in guesthouses, hotels, resorts etc.
Dwarka tour packages also include nearby destinations like Somnath, Diu and Ahmedabad. Somnath, meaning “Lord of the Moon,” is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas renowned for the Somnath Temple. You must visit the Paanch Pandav Gufa, Suraj Mandir and Laxminarayan Temple. Somnath Beach, great for relaxing, jogging and sunset watching, and Chorwad Beach are also famous here.
Ahmedabad, the state’s capital, is synonymous with the Sabarmati Ashram, where Mahatma Gandhi resided with his wife. Here you would also find the Statue of Unity which commemorates Vallabhai Patel and is the world’s tallest statue, as well as Dada Hari Vav and Rani ki Vav, which are prominent stepwells. In addition, a walk across the green promenades and parks on the Sabarmati Waterfront would undoubtedly be calming.
Once a Portuguese colony, Diu is famous for its beaches; Nagoa Beach, Ghoghla Beach and Gomtimata Beach are ideal for relaxing, sunset watching, parasailing, jet skiing, etc. Catch a glimpse of the setting sun from Sunset Point or visit Diu Fort, Naida Caves and Diu Museum. We have numerous customisable and affordable Dwarka travel packages for a remarkable trip!
About City
Somnath
"The town of the Lord of the Moon"
Somnath, literally meaning 'lord of the moon' is a pilgrim center and is home to one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. It is a town which derives much of its identity from the mythology, religion, and legends that surround it.
Primarily a temple town, Somnath is a place where a strong scent of religion and legends lingers around tourism and even daily life. Its spiritual environment is ornamented by the huge number of temples in the area, however, Somnath also offers beaches, museums and other attractions. While the Somnath temple and Somnath beach are the primary places to visit here, Gita Mandir, Balukha Tirtha, Kamnath Mahadev Temple, Somnath Museum are some of the other places that one can visit.
Places To Visit In Somnath
1. Somnath Temple
A highly revered religious site for Hindus, the Somnath Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of India. The Jyotirlinga is adorned with flowers, ornaments of silver and gold and people from far and wide come to worship it. It is first of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva. It has been mentioned in ancient texts like Shreemad Bhagavat Gita, Skandpuran, Shivpuran and Rig-Veda which signifies the importance of this temple as one of the most celebrated pilgrimage sites. The temple is located on the ancient Triveni Sangam or the confluence of three rivers - Kapila, Hiran, and Saraswati. The temple is known as an eternal shrine owing to its perseverance against the test of time. It has withstood several destructions in the past and still has not lost its beauty. It is said that the temple was looted and destroyed as many as seventeen times by emperors like Mahmud Ghazni, Alauddin Khilji, and Aurangzeb.
Timings : Darshan timing- 6:00 AM - 9:30 PM,
Arati timing- 7:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 7:00 PM,
Light and sound show- 7:45 PM
2. Bhalka Tirth
Bhalka Tirth is a renowned Hindu pilgrim centre which is believed to be the location where Lord Krishna was shot by a hunter's arrow. According to the sacred scripts, Lord Krishna's death marks the end of the Dvapara Yug and the beginning of the Kali Yug. The tirth has a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and is called Mahaprabhuji's Bethak.
3. Somnath Beaches
Beaches of Somnath, though crowded, have the power to lure you away in a different world of soothing waves. The beaches are not recommended for swimming but are definitely a great point to relax and unwind.
4. Paanch Pandav Gufa
Discovered by the late Baba Narayandas in the year 1949, the temple was dedicated to the five Pandava Brothers. The location of the temple is such that one can view the entire city and get mesmerized just by looking at it.
5. Laxminarayan Temple
Located on the Somnath shore, the presiding deity, Lord Laxminarayan is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Reflects modern architectural design, this temple is famous for the carvings on its 18 pillars which have the sacred message of Krishna in the form of Bhagwadgita.
6. Triveni Sangam Temple
The confluence of the three rivers Hiran, Kapila and Saraswati this is the point where the rivers meet the mighty Arabian Sea. Triveni Sangam is believed to be a very sacred Moksha Tirtha for Hindus.
7. Chorwad Beach
Located in Somnath, Chorwad Beach is one of the most serene and tranquil places to relax and enjoy. The whole place offers picture-perfect views especially during sunrise and sunset which are a must witness.
8. Suraj Mandir
Suraj Mandir too is situated near the Triveni Ghats and is one of the few temples dedicated to the Sun God. There are depictions of elephants, lions and various other birds and animals in the temple.
9. Parshuram Temple
The temple lies on the banks of the holy river Triveni where Lord Parshuram is believed to have conducted his penance. One of the rare temple dedicated to Lord Parshuram this temple provides visitors with a scenic surrounding and picturesque landscapes.
10. Dehotsarg Teerth
Dehotsarg Teerth is an important pilgrim centre for the Hindus as this is where Lord Krishna breathed his last after he was shot by Jara's arrow. The location is marked by Lord Krishna's footprints. It is also believed that Krishna's brother, Baldev, also accompanied him in the form of a serpent crawling through the Balramjiki Gufa nearby.
11. Shashibhushan Mahadev and Bhidbhanjan Ganpatiji Temple
Located about 4km away from the city on the highway along the beautiful sea shore. Bhidbhanjan is the savior form of Ganesha and is worshipped here along with Shiva.
12. Kamnath Mahadev Temple
This temple built nearly 200 years ago by a King is now one of the most popular temples of Somnath. The King believed that a dip in the pond in the vicinity could cure humans of any disease.
13. Gita Temple
Built at the Triveni Ghat, where three rivers meet the ocean, the Gita Temple is a beautiful structure dedicated to Lord Krishna built by the Birlas in the 70s. The beautifully capturing white marble structure has a depiction of the hymns of the Gita intricately engraved on the walls.
14. Prabhas Patan Museum
Prabhas Patan Museum was established in the mid-1900s and has a stunning collection of ancient temple remains, inscriptions, idols of deities, water from sacred rivers, etc. that signify the union of Saraswati, Kapila and Hiranya. One of the most important Shivalingas, the Kalbhairav Linga, is also believed to be hidden amidst the remains, which the Moon God worships. The attraction, therefore, has immense religious and archaeological importance.
15. Junagadh Gate
Junagadh Gate is a historic monument which is believed to be the gate that Mahmud of Gazni entered to loot and destroy the Somnath Temple. The splendid monument now serves as a landmark and is made of stone with chattris and sculpted tigers on top of it.
16. Prachi Tirth
Prachi Tirth is a religious centre important for performing the sacred rituals for the ancestors. According to a legend, Lord Krishna, who was a descendant of the Yaduvansh, performed rituals at the tirth for his ancestors. Religiously, Prachi tirth is considered just as important as Kashi for the Hindu ceremonies.
How to Reach Somnath
Travelling from cities like Mumbai, Jabalpur, Delhi from rail might turn out to be quite a challenging experience. A direct rail connection from Delhi isn't available. Koshed (55 km) and Diu (90 km) are the closest airports and it will take approximately Rs. 2000 to reach Somnath from these places by cab.
Best time to visit Somnath
September to March are the best months to visit Somnath, as the winters are quite cold. However, if you wish to avoid the crowd and tourists that flock to Somnath, you may be tempted to visit the place during the summer and monsoon season. Somnath is extremely hot and humid during these seasons and should most definitely be visited during the winter months when the heat is more bearable.
Food of Somnath
Somnath does not have many restaurants or lavish fine dining experiences to offer. There are a few popular eating places around the temple, as well as some local joints and Dhabas. Dairy products like Lassi, Buttermilk, Chaas, ice creams are popular and easily available.
You can also try Gujarati snacks in the area like Dhokla, Khakra, Fafda, Sev, Khandvi and Khaman as well as sweets like Ghevar, Malpua, Shrikhand, Puran Poli and more. Gujarat is a dry state, so you wouldn't find any alcohol here.
Somnath Tour Packages
About Somnath Tourism: Meaning the "Lord of the Moon," Somnath in Gujarat is a major pilgrimage centre and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. It finds its mention in several holy and mythological texts and is known for its numerous temples and legends! If you are a religious person, a trip to Somnath is an absolute must; We offer many affordable Somnath tour packages.
The Somnath Temple should be your first stop, the first Jyotirlinga shrine of the 12. It is one of the country's oldest and mentioned in the Bhagavad Gita, Rig-Vega and more. This temple came to be established when Soma, the Moon God, constructed a Shivalinga to seek Lord Shiva's assistance in removing a curse put on him by King Daksha, the father of his 27 wives.
Associated with Lord Krishna, Bhalka Tirth is an important pilgrimage site that is said to be where a hunter shot him. The Mahaprabhuji's Bethak temple is situated on the premises. Other temples to visit when travelling to Somnath include the Parshuram Temple, Suraj Mandir and Laxminarayan Temple. Also, see the serene Panch Pandav Gufa, which is dedicated to the 5 Pandavas.
Somnath is famous for its religious sites and its beaches like Somnath Beach and Chorwad Beach. Though unsuitable for swimming, you can relax here and watch the sunset. What's more, you must take the time to see the Junagadh Gate, which is what Mahmud of Ghazni entered through to loot the Somnath Temple. 2 days are enough to explore the city.
The best time to travel to Somnath is from September to March, when the weather is most pleasant for sightseeing. You can choose from numerous hotels to stay in. Furthermore, Somnath tour packages often feature other destinations such as Dwarka, Diu and Ahmedabad. A former Portuguese colony, Diu is famous for the Naida Caves, Diu Fort and Zampa Gateway.
Since Diu lies on the shore, it is home to many beaches where you can swim, relax or engage in water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, boating etc. Ahmedabad, the state's capital, should indeed be a part of your trip to Somnath because it is home to the Sabarmati Ashram, when Mahatma Gandhi resided.
You can visit Rani ki Vav, see the Statue of Unity, walk around near the Sabarmati Riverfront and explore Bhadra Fort. The city is also known for various religious sites like the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, Hutheesing Jain Temple and Modhera Sun Temple. Dwarka, on the other hand, is a profoundly spiritual city renowned for the Dwarkadhish Temple, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga and Gopi Talav. You must also visit Dwarka Beach.
We provide you with an opportunity to tour one of India's most holy destinations as well as others nearby with our customisable Somnath travel packages.
About City
Diu
"A mini-Goa"
Located near the port of Veraval, Diu is a small island which was earlier a Portuguese colony and is now guarded by beaches all around. Diu takes up most popularity given the ample number of beaches, along with Gujarat's southern coast such as the Nagoa beach, but has a lot more to offer too. Alcohol is legal in Diu.
The Diu Fort, a primary imprint of the Portuguese on the area's heritage and architecture makes up a popular tourist attraction. Another interesting place is the Vanakbara, a small fishing village whose charm has tints of colourful fishing boats and humming of day to day activity. This perfect add-on to a visit to Gujarat will complete your experience with interesting museums such as the Sea Shell Museum, temples and churches.
Places To Visit In Diu
1. Naida Caves
The Naida caves are located on the periphery of the Diu fort. These caves have a big network of tunnels with square hewn steps. Interestingly, these caves were formed due to geological irregularities and natural processes over time. The caves also have a natural opening that lets in sunlight, making it photogenic.
2. Nagoa Beach
Famous for its pristine beauty and swaying palm trees, Nagoa Beach in Diu is an ideal and a recommended place for tourists all over the world. The place is well connected with the resorts, hence it making it easy for the travellers to relax and explore its beauty at the same time. The beach is surrounded by beautiful palm trees swaying in the cool breeze which creates an exotic environment for the travellers to laze around. The serene beauty of the beach due to its white sands and quiet blue water is worth experiencing and enjoying. It is very much known for its water sports along with camel and pony riding. Sunbathing can turn out to be the most intoxicating experience at the Nagoa Beach. A walk along the shore mixed with witnessing the sunrise and sunset is a great way to relax one's mind.
3. Gangeshwar Mahadev Temple
Situated 3 km from Diu, Gangeshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has 5 Shivalingas that were supposedly laid by the Pandavas during their exile period. These Shivalingas are situated amidst rocks that are washed by waves continuously.
4. Diu Fort
Fort Diu, located on the Western coast of Indian was built by Portuguese during their colonial rule and is now under the administration of Indian government. The fort- cum - castle, is known as 'Praça de Diu' in Portuguese, is situated on the southern tip of Gujarat and is at the mouth of the Gulf of Khambhat.
5. Ghogla Beach
The Golden sand beach undulates into the horizon while the Arabian Sea laps away at the edge as though imploring the sands to let it find its own beach.
6. Sunset Point
A beautiful hillock located near the Chakritirath beach in Diu, offers its visitors a mesmerizing view of sunset from here. The hillock and the surrounding areas have been beautifully landscaped and illuminated. Chakratirth Beach is centrally located and contiguous to the Diu Town.
7. St. Paul Church
One of the most famous tourist attractions of Diu, this magnanimous structure is the St. Paul Church dedicated to 'Our Lady of Immaculate Conception'.
8. INS Khukri Memorial
INS Khukri Memorial is the memorial site of an Indian Naval Ship that sank during the Indo-Pak War of 1971.
9. Panikota Fort
Also known as Fortim-do-Mar, Panikota Fort is a former Diu Jail. This white coloured huge structure is located within the Diu Fort.
10. Zampa Gateway
The Zampa Gateway is another attraction. It is a major landmark of Diu and is carved with dedicated angels, lions and a priest. An artificial waterfall adds to its beauty.
11. Shell Museums in Diu
One of the few shell museums in the world is located in Diu. It houses collections of Captain Fulbari, a sailor, who during his voyages collected many unique, pretty and amazing shells.
12. Diu Museum
A famous tourist spot of the town, the Diu Museum has been set up in the St. Thomas Church. This church had been built in 1598 but was later converted into a museum.
13. Chakratirth Beach
Nestled amidst the picturesque hills meeting the Arabian Sea, the Chakratirth beach is the ideal place to soak up the sun or frolick in the enchanting waters while beating the heat and relaxing by the calming shores of Diu.
14. Jallandar Beach
Named after the demon, Jallandar, this sunny beach lies almost 1 km from Diu and has a temple and a memorial. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandrika while the memorial is atop a hill with a stone structure of the demon Jallandar. The beach also offers exciting water sports.
15. Gomptimata Beach
Located on the western end of the Diu in the village Vanakbara, this is one of the best beaches of the region. Secluded and with natural white sand, Gomtimata beach is a beautiful beach to just sit back and relax. You will also find a temple located at the beach.
16. Church of St. Fancis of Assisi
This church is one of the oldest churches in Diu. The church, constructed in 1593 was later converted into a hospital.
17. Simbor Beach
Located in the village of Simbor in Diu, the namesake beach boasts of unparalleled serenity, mesmerising surroundings and incapacitating beauty. Apart from the sweeping picturesque views of the sea and the sands, the highlight of the beach is also an old Portuguese fort called "Fort St. Anthony of Simbor."
18. Chapel of Our Lady Rosary
The Chapel of Our Lady Rosary is located in Old Moti Daman, Diu. The church dates back to the 17th century and is of great historical and religious significance. The structure of the church employs Gothic-style architecture, which displays an elegant Portuguese influence.
How to Reach Diu
Diu is connected to other parts of Gujarat and the country with good road network. Diu does not have its own railway station and the nearest railhead is at Veraval which is 90 km from Diu. One can take a taxi after Veraval to reach Diu. Diu also has its own airport and daily flights connect Diu to Mumbai and to Porbandar.
Best time to visit Diu
The best months to plan a trip to Diu are November to February during the Winter season because of its ideal weather and a host of activities that are sure to keep you engaged. From thrilling watersports, calm beaches, historic architecture, abandoned forts and lip-smacking food; Diu is a paradise in Winters.
Food of Diu
Diu is a unique and composite blend of Gujarat's and Portuguese cuisine. This blend then, leaves few food domains that are not covered in the island's menu. On one hand you find traditional Gujrati food, its flavors and elements derived from the state nearby and on the other hand you have an influence of the past with Portugeese cuisine only complimented by the sea around and a dominance of exotic sea food.
While these are the defining cultures, one can find a few more international cuisines as well as typical Indian food in the restaurants. The island is also popular because of availability of alcohol, givent the adjacent dry state of Gujrat.
Diu Tour Packages
About Diu Tourism: Part of the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Diu is a small island on India’s western coast bordered by Gujarat. The island with its beaches was once a Portuguese colony and is home to heritage sites dating back to the 16th century. We bring you great Diu tour packages so that you can discover its hidden gems with friends or family!
Situated along the Arabian Sea, Diu is known for its numerous beaches like the Nagoa Beach, Ghoghla Beach, Jallandhar Beach and Simbor Beach. These golden beaches boast gorgeous views and complete tranquillity, making them the perfect spot for relaxing, parasailing, boating, surfing, etc. Though the beaches undoubtedly provide excellent views of the sunset, you can always head over to Sunset Point, a breathtaking hillock near Chakratirth Beach.
Your trip to Diu might be incomplete without a visit to the Diu Fort built by the Portuguese. Also called “Praça de Diu”, the majestic structure was once one of Portugal’s seven wonders and overlooked the beautiful sea and a jetty used for trading. Moreover, the premises feature a lighthouse and several cannonballs, while on the periphery lie the Naida Caves, within which are tunnels for you to explore.
Other heritage sites to visit in Diu include the Panikota Fort, a former jail located within Diu Fort and the Zampa Gateway featuring carvings of angels, lions and a priest. When travelling to Diu, don’t skip out on its beautiful churches that date back to the colonial era, like the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, St. Paul Church and Chapel of Our Lady Rosary.
Diu Museum and the Sea Shell Museum make for a great cultural experience. Diu Museum used to be a church and contains inscriptions on fountains, ancient rulers and statues, wooden and marble statues. The Sea Shell Museum has shells collected by the sailor Captain Fulbari. The INS Khukri Memorial is a tribute to the Indian Naval Ship that sank during the 1971 Indo-Pak War.
The best time to visit Diu is during the wintertime, between November and February, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Diu tour packages also provide you with the opportunity to visit neighbouring cities like Ahmedabad and Dwarka. Ahmedabad is a major metropolitan city in Gujarat famous for attractions like Sabarmati Ashram, where Gandhi lived, Statue of Unity, Jhulta Minar, Kankaria Lake and Rani ki Vav.
Dwarka is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites and is an ancient city that is synonymous with the Dwarkadhish Temple, Dwarka Beach, Gomti Ghat, picturesque Dwarka Lighthouse and more. Customisable and affordable, Diu tour packages are the perfect choice for an enjoyable trip, no matter if you’re travelling alone or with someone.
About City
Gir National Park
"The land of Asiatic Lions"
Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is the only remaining home for the Asiatic Lions. Located in Talala Gir in Gujarat, the Sanctuary is a part of Kathiawar- Gir dry deciduous forests ecoregion. Gir National Park is closed from 16 June to 15 October every year and the best time for wildlife spotting is April and May.
Gir provides you with the unique experience of visiting a place which almost singularly plays a crucial and defining role in the preservation and sustaining of a certain species. The preservation of these lions was initiated by the Nawab of Junagadh when these were just about to enter the phase of extinction due to hunting.
The official count said that there were 411 lions in 2010. Also, there are roughly different 2375 species of fauna here with 38 species of mammals, over 300 species of birds, 37 species of reptiles and over 2000 species of insects. Other important wildlife forms found here are leopard, chausingha, spotted deer, hyena, sambar deer and chinkara.
Attractions in Gir National Park
Apart from the famous Gir jungle trail at the national park, Gir has many other attractions to offer to tourists. The Kamleshwar dam, which is the largest dam in Gir, is one such attraction, and it is often referred to as the ‘lifeline of Gir’. It is built over the Hiran river. The beautiful Tulsi Shyam temple located within the national park is also a must-visit. The crocodile breeding farm, located near the Sasan Gir reserve, is also a popular tourist destination.
Water Reserve
The Gir region has seven major rivers, and 4 reservoirs at 4 dams - one each on the Hiran, Machhundri, Raval and Shingoda rivers. The biggest reservoir is the Kamleshwar Dam, which is called as the lifeline of Gir. Droughts and water scarcity are a major challenge in the region, especially during peak summers.
Biodiversity of Gir
The dry deciduous forests of Gir are believed to house over 500 species of flora, with teak trees being the most populous. Other prominent species include jamun, babul and the flame of the forest. Casuarinas and Prosopis were planted along the coastal borders of Gir for under the afforestation program.
Gir is synonyms to the royal Asiatic lions that draws in the wildlife enthusiasts from all around the globe. The national park is the last abode of the endangered species of Asiatic lions that are the pride of India.
With the population of about 500 lions and 400 leopards in its premises, Gir is one of the biggest habitats of the wild cats and also a haven for the wildlife lovers. Apart from the leopards and lions, the national park also houses the various variety of species such as Deer, Sambhar, Cheetal, antelopes, blue bull, jackal, hyena and hare among the other species of fauna.
Devalia Safari Park
The Devalia Safari Park is also known as the Gir Interpretation Zone and was established to reduce the excess of tourists at the Gir National Park. It is an eco-tourism zone, known as ‘Gir in a nutshell’, which houses all the wildlife and habitats of Gir within its boundaries.
Prominent species that can be spotted here include - Blue Bull, Asiatic Lion, Leopard, Sambhar and Peafowl. The Savana habitat is also a popular attraction here. A tour of Devalia is cheaper, quicker and allows tourists to view the animals in their natural habitat.
Morning Timings
Bus - 7:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Gypsy - One hour ride slots between 7:00 AM and 11:00 AM
Evening Timings
Bus - 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Gypsy - One hour ride slots between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM
Gir Jungle Trail
Each safari at Gir (Gir Jugle Trail) would last for 3 hours covering a range of sections throughout the forest. Alongside a jeep and a guide, travellers could also take upfront pictures of the majestic Asiatic lions here. However, visitors would have to obtain permission from the Sinh Sadan Forest Lodge Office, which would be furthered by Gir Park itself.
Each safari slot requires at least 5 visitors. A typical safari would traverse through 300 lion species, 200 bird types, 30 different mammals and 24 kinds of reptiles.
Cost
A single jeep safari would cost INR 5300 for six adults and a child. However, the same package would cost about INR 13800 for foreign visitors.
Winter Timings (16th Oct - 28th/29th Feb)
Morning - 6:45 AM - 9:45 AM
Evening - 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Summer Timings (1st Mar - 15th June)
Morning - 6:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Evening - 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Restaurants and Local Food in Gir National Park
Gir has a number of resorts and lodges that serve food across various cuisines. These ensure that you won't run out of options for food while on your trip through adventure and excitement. Since it's a part of Gujarat, you might find local and elaborate Gujarati cuisine being served here. Typically vegetarian, Gujarati Thali would consist of Roti, Dal or Kadhi, Rice and Vegetable Curries. Gujarat is a dry state, so you wouldn't find any alcohol here.
Best Time To Visit Gir National Park
December and March is the best time to visit Gir National Park is during the winter season. It is during this period that the weather in Gir is pleasant and cool. The protected area of Gir National Park closes every year from 16th June to 15th October. A safari in this national park during the winter season will be a delightful experience as each, and every nook and cranny is open to visit and explore. April and May although a bit hot are considered the best times for wildlife spotting and photography.
How to Reach Gir National Park
The Gir National Park is easily accessible via roadways, railways and airways. The nearest airport to this national park is the Keshod Airport, at a distance of about 50 to 60 km.
The Sasan Gir railway station is the the closest railhead, just about a 10-minute walk away.
There is also a bus station in Sasan Gir, which is conveniently located to the Gir National Park.
How to reach Gir National Park by flight
The nearest airport to Gir National Park is Keshod, which lies approx 85 km away from Gir. The second nearest airport is Rajkot at 140 km away which can be easily accessed by other airports of the country. From the airport, the best way to reach Gir is by hiring a private taxi. You can also find a bus from Keshod to Gir.
Nearest Airport: Diu Airport (DIU) - 49 kms from Gir National Park
How to reach Gir National Park by road
Gir is well-connected with the roads with the nearby cities. Direct buses run from Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Dwarka, Rajkot, Surat etc to Junagadh from where you need to take a cab to Gir.
How to reach Gir National Park by train
Sasan Gir has its own railway station, which is not well-connected with the main cities of the country. The best is to catch a train to Junagadh or Rajkot and take a taxi to Gir from the railway station.
How to reach Gir National Park by bus
There are plenty of buses plying from various major starting points to the Gir National Park, also known as Sasan Gir. Buses can be booked via RedBus or any other trusted booking platform. Some of the most convenient routes to reach the park are via Ahmedabad, Junagadh, Rajkot and Jetpur.
About City
Bhavnagar
"The Hub of Diamond Industry"
Located at the southern tip of Gujarat peninsula, Bhavnagar is known as the cultural centre of the state of Gujarat. Literary achievers like Govardhan Tripathi, Kavi Kant, Narsihm Mehta and Ganga Sati have their roots in Bhavnagar. While on one side, you'd see the careless waves of Gulf of Khambat, on the other hand, you can see the busiest port of ocean trading in India.
It is located at a distance of 98 kilometres from the capital of Gandhinagar. This region has a rich legacy dating back to the 18th century. It was a major port city and had trade links with different countries across the globe. Presently, Bhavnagar is known for housing the diamond cutting and polishing industry in India.
Bhavnagar also houses one of the oldest educational institutions, Samaldas Arts College. In 1884 Mahatma Gandhi was the student of this college. Bhavnagar is one of the finest examples of architectural brilliance and houses iconic monuments that originated in the 19th century. Some of the major tourist attractions include Nilambag Palace, Takhteshwar Temple, Barton Library, Victoria Park, Bhav Vilas Palace and more.
Places To Visit In Bhavnagar
1. GauriShankar lake
A beautiful lake flowing amidst the hills, the view of this place is soothing. Sit by the lake side with your feet dipped in water, as the clear water of the lake flows through under your feet, the coldness of its touch makes you forget all your worries and surrender to the beauty of nature.
2. Nilambag Palace
Built in 1859, this palace has now been converted to a heritage hotel. The architectural design of the palace shows a fusion of Indian and western architecture done with sheer brilliance.
3. Victoria Park
Victoria park is a popular tourist place and is known as green lung of Bhavnagar. It is a man made forest situated in the state of Gujarat, Bhavnagar. It was established on 24th May 24, 1888. It is spread over an area of 500 acres, and well known for its water birds.
4. Takhteshwar Temple
Situated on the hill top near the railway station, the beauty of this temple is beyond words. Dedicated to lord Shiva, Takhteshwar is built of white marble and makes for a prime tourist spot.
5. Water lock gate
Located in the city dockyard, Water Lock Gate was constructed a 100 years ago. Visitors need special permission to visit the site.
6. Gandhi Smriti
This poignant memorial, located in New Delhi, is where Mahatma Gandhi was shot dead by a Hindu zealot on 30 January 1948, after campaigning against intercommunal violence. This memorial was constructed to honour his death and is now a major tourist attraction of the capital city.
7. Barton library and museum
The oldest library of the city, Barton has a huge collection of books from the genres of history and culture. With the fast paced life today, not many youngsters can be spotted in the library, you will mostly spot adults and elderly people coming over to the library with their newspapers and help in its maintenance.
8. Palitana
A small town located in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat, Palitana is noted as a popular pilgrimage site among the Jains. Another famous thing about Palitana is that the town strictly follows vegetarianism which makes it the first city in the world to abide by the vegetarian diet legally. It is no surprise that the town has listed selling of animal products (Fish, meat and eggs) or activities that involve the killing of animals to be illegal.
9. Bhavnagar Blackbuck National Park
Bhavnagar Blackbuck National Park, Velavadar is located in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat, India. This national park is known to provide a magical experience to its visitors. The wilderness of this national park is unrivalled. From grasslands to mud flats Bhavnagar Blackbuck National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers. Know that this sanctuary has been primarily declared for the conservation of Blackbucks. You can, however, find a horde of other mammals and birds.
Best time to visit Bhavnagar
October- January are the best months to visit Bhavnagar. Bhavnagar experiences hot and dry summers. June experiences heavy rainfall which adds to the high temperature resulting in humidity. Winters begin from October and go on till January- February. It is thus considered best to visit Bhavnagar during winters.
Food of Bhavnagar
Bhavnagar has, to its acclaim, some of the best and most delicious, tasty vegetarian food dishes to boast off in all of Gujarat. Starting from Fafda Ganthiya which is a crispy fried snack made with gram flour, topped with carom seeds and black pepper to Pav-Ganthiya, which is a speciality of Bhavnagar and can be found at Lachhus Cart, the city is every foodies delight. The 'khougali' at Ghogha Circle which is flocked by hundreds of people on a weekly basis, a testimony to that. Spend an afternoon here, indulging in a variety of food dishes and devouring street food like the Bhungda Bateta. Bhungda means deep fried yellow fryums and bateta means hot and spicy, potato garlic curry which are prepared separately but served together, making it lip smackingly delicious. If the spiciness gets to you, have some thirst quenching soda or a healthy milkshake made from dates and almonds, also available in and around Ghogha Circle.
The other must try are the local dishes of the state. Khakra, Thepla, Dhokla, Khandwi. These dishes might be available in the rest of the country too but they taste the best here.
The Gujarati Thali consists of various dishes like ringana methi nu shak, Gujarati khatti mithi daal, undhiyu, bhindi sambhariya, aloo rasila, steamed basmati rice, badshahi khichdi, Chapati, methi na thepla and bhakhri with kachumber salad along with various types of chutneys and buttermilk. There are many restaurants in Bhavnagar that make Gujarat's best a whole lot better!
How to Reach Bhavnagar
Bhavnagar city is well connected with all major cities and towns of India via air, rail and road. The Bhavnagar airport is the closest local airport, which is about 4 to 6 km from the city and can be covered through a 10 to 15-minute drive.
The Bhavnagar Railway Station, also known as the Bhavnagar Terminus at Madhia in Kumbharwada is about 2.6 to 3.2 km from Bhavnagar city. It can be reached via a 10 to 13-minute taxi or auto drop off.
There are quite a few bus stands in Bhavnagar. The Bhavnagar State Transport Bus Stand is about 2 to 4 km from the city and can be covered either through a 10-minute drive or a 30-minute walk.
Bhavnagar Tourism
Bhavnagar is an ancient city in Gujarat with volumes of history to speak throughout the city. Amid the amalgam of modern and ancient sites inclusive of religious and historical marks, Bhavnagar also hosts an array of national parks and ecological sites.
Some of the prominent picks of the several attractions in Bhavnagar are the Victoria Park; a secured wildlife forest, the Nilambagh Palace; a preserved colonial mansion-turned-hotel, Gaurishankar Lake; the city's major supply of water and a local sightseeing spot.
Home to over 1000 blackbucks, the Velavadar National Park is another popular haunt. The hilltop Takateshwar temple, Shri Adeshwar Temple and the Khodiyar Temple are some of the major religious sites in the city. The Gandhian remnants and relics at the Gandhi Smriti of the Barton Museum and the Barton Library are other significant mentions.
About City
Vadodara
Vadodara or Baroda is a cosmopolitan city located in Gujarat. Home to some of the most exemplary displays of architecture, Vadodara is a fitting memorial to Maratha leader Sayaji Rao Gaekwad III who had envisioned a dream to make this Big City an educational, industrial and commercial centre.
Known for one of the most lavish palaces in India- the Lakshmi Vilas Palace and plenty more legendary monuments, Vadodara is the cultural capital of Gujarat. With a prominent part of it being occupied by the Gujaratis, this place is the most sought after during the nine days of the Navratri festival. No city in India celebrates the festival of Navratri with as much zeal and exuberance as Vadodara does. It houses one of the premier universities of India- the Maharaja Sayajirao University.
The top sightseeing places in Vadodara are Laxmi Vilas Palace, Sayaji Baug (Kamati Baug), Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, Ajwa Nimeta Garden, Baps Sri Swaminarayan Mandir, Vadodara Museum and Picture Gallery.
Places To Visit In Vadodara
1. Laxmi Vilas Palace
Laxmi Vilas Palace is one of the most majestic structures in India and was the private residence of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. Known to be the largest private dwelling of the size equivalent to four times of the Buckingham Palace, this magnificent palace is a must-visit when in Vadodara.
2. Sayaji Baug/Gardens
Sayaji Gardens, as the name suggests is dedicated to Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III himself. It is the largest garden in the western region of India with a sprawling 45 hectares of land. That's not all; this park also houses two museums, a planetarium, a zoo, a toy train for children and a flower clock. So many utilities under one roof, make this attraction the most sought after in the state of Gujarat.
3. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park
Being included in the elite list of the World Heritage Sites across the globe, this marvelous archaeological park set in the heart of the city of Champaner and amidst the Pavagadh hills is one of the most sought after places in Gujarat.
4. Ajwa Nimeta Garden
Decked with green manicured lawns and adorned by towering palm trees, the Ajwa Nimeta Garden is the perfect destination to plan your leisurely weekend at. The crowd-puller here is the 100-meter row of perfectly aligned musical fountains that mesmerise us with coordinated water shoots in the background of lively colours.
5. Baps Sri Swaminarayan Mandir
Adorned with immaculate architecture, flawless design and awe-striking grandeur, the BAPS Sri Swaminarayan Mandir is like the palace of the lord. The tranquil vibe of the temple instils a revitalising and deeply energising calm within you. Right outside the temple is a small and clean eatery that sells mouth-watering Indian delicacies prepared without the use of any onion or garlic.
6. Vadodara Museum and Picture Gallery
Constructed by the Gaekwads in 1894, the Vadodara Museum and Picture Gallery is host to umpteen numbers of relics relating to a wide spectrum of fields right from archeology to geology.
7. Sursagar Lake
Decked with lush greenery on all sides, the Sursagar lake is an example of exemplary architecture and mesmerising beauty. Enjoy paddle-boating in these jade waters and go around the majestic 120-foot statue of Lord Shiva that looks upon the lake.
8. Kirti Mandir
Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III was so powerful and affluent that he had an entire monument built to commemorate the cremation of his family members. This monument was called the Kirti Mandir.
9. Maharaja Sayajirao University
The heart-wrenching separation from the Baroda College of Science in the year 1949, gave birth to one of the most elite institutions in India, the Maharaja Sayajirao University.
10. EME Temple
Short for Electrical and Mechanical Corps, in honour of the people who built the temple, the EME Temples is a symbol of the secularity practised in the Indian Army, the EME Temple in Vadodara is an aluminium-clad abode, constructed at the intersection of ancient and modern.
11. ISKCON Baroda
Spanning over a whopping 2500 ft in the city centre of Baroda, the ISKCON temple has been preserving Vaishnavism for decades now. Seek Lord Krishna's blessings at the Darshan Mandap which is adorned by tasteful traditional art on all sides. Right outside is a pure vegetarian restaurant - Govindas, that serves scrumptious Indian food without using any onion and garlic.
12. Sardar Patel Planetarium
With awe-striking video clips of space, state-of-the-art sound systems and a curved projection screen that imitates reality, this planetarium plays an hour-long session about the solar system, satellites and astronomical history thrice a day in English and Gujarati. All your curiosities about outer space are waiting to be answered right in Sayaji Baug at the Sardar Patel Planetarium.
13. Kabirvad
An awe-striking grove of banyan trees, Kabirvad, awaits you on the banks of River Narmada. This banyan grove is believed to have sprouted from a measly Datoon, and now spreads over more than 3 kms. Believed to have sheltered the famous poet Kabirdas for many years, this banyan grove holds tremendous religious significance and is ardently worshipped by the locals.
14. Zarwani Waterfalls
At a distance of about 90 km from Vadodara in Gujarat, Zarwani Waterfalls are amongst the most sought natural destinations in India. Huddled deep inside the heart of Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary near the district of Narmada, the perennial and gorgeous Zarwani Waterfalls provide you with an opportunity to trek, picnic, and indulge in wildlife photography.
15. Surya Mandir
Surya Mandir, Borsad is situated in the town of Borsad in Anand, Gujarat, dedicated primarily to the Sun God. People from all over the world visit the Sun Temple enthusiastically. The history behind this temple is quite of a vague kind, which dictated that the temple is built at the instance of God himself.
16. Khanderao Market
It pretty much seemed like Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, just needed a random reason to build an edifice. The Khanderao Market is an extravagant building built under his supervision in 1906 that was a gift to the municipality on the completion of 25 years of his authoritative administration.
17. Makarpura Palace
Makarpura Palace was initially constructed with the motive that it will serve as a summer palace for the royal family of the Gaekwads.
18. Aurobindo Ashram
Basically built as a residence to Aurobindo Ghose who was the private secretary to the then Maharaja of Baroda, HH Sayajirao Gaekwad III. Aurobindo Ghose was a multitalented man and during his tenure as a private secretary, he decided to follow his passion of teaching and was the Professor of English and vice-principal of Baroda College.
19. Nyaya Mandir
Nyaya Mandir, translates to 'Temple of Justice' is the District Court of Vadodara city in the state of Gujarat. Situated in the heart of the city, this marvelous piece of architecture was the brainchild of Madras architect Robert Fellowes Chisholm.
20. Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum
Originally built as a school for the Maharaja's children, the Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum now houses a wide range of antiques and art pieces that once belonged to the Maratha royal family. The exhibits range from portraits of the royal family and depictions of Hindu mythologies to flawless marble and bronze sculptures.
21. Statue of Unity
Statue of Unity is a memorial to The Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The statue has been erected to propagate Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's vision of India and to inspire the Citizens of India through his patriotism and freedom struggle. The Bronze statue of the founding father of the Republic of India stands 182 metres tall grabbing the attention of the whole world as the 'Tallest statue in the World'. The statue of Unity is Located in Gujrat, by the banks of River Narmada on the River Island of Sadhu Bet overlooking the Narmada Dam (Sardar Sarovar Dam) from 3.2 km away.
22. Mandvi Gate
Believed to be used to collect tolls from merchants and traders, the Mandvi Gate in Baroda is an important testimonial of the celebrated Mughal era. Resting at the centre of the city, this square-shaped pavilion screams regality with it bold arches on all four sides. The entire structure is illuminated during festivals and is truly a sight to behold.
23. Nadalay Temple
A Vaishnav Hindu Temple dedicated to Shrinathji, the Nandalay Temple is the perfect destressing destination in Baroda. Chanting slow and peaceful hymns in unison with the crowd as the tranquil aura of the temple calms you will revitalise you from within. Be sure to visit during morning or evening aarti and notice the temple's admirable architecture and Shrinathji's beautiful paintings.
24. Hazira Maqbara
Housing the tombs of Qutubbuddin Muhammad Khan- the tutor of Emperor Akbar's son; and his own son Naurang Khan- an influential administrator of Emperor Akbar's dynasty, is the Hazira Maqbara in Baroda. Displaying typical Mughal architecture styles with ostentatious arches and octagonal platforms, the real graves are inside an underground chamber while the replicas are in the tomb.
25. Hathni Waterfalls
Jambughoda is home to one of the most breathtaking and magnificent waterfalls you can visit in the Indian subcontinent. About a 100 metres in length and flowing with rich greenery, Hathni Waterfalls are surrounded by a variety of beautiful flora and fauna. If you find the peaceful sound of flowing water from streams and falls incredibly relaxing, then this is the spot for you.
27. Thol Bird Sanctuary
Thol Bird Sanctuary is an ecologically rich bird reserve located on Thol lake in the Mehsana district of Gujarat. It is nestled amidst dense deciduous vegetation and is one of the most popular places for bird-viewing in the state. The sanctuary welcomes vast varieties of endemic as well as migratory birds such as pelicans, flamingoes and mallards, which inhabit the area every year. The Thol lake augments the serenity of the sanctuary, making it a hotspot for nature lovers.
28. Sardar Patel Zoological Park
Sardar Patel Zoological Park is a newly inaugurated zoo situated in Kevadia, a town in the Narmada district of Gujarat. Located in the vicinity of the majestic Statue of Unity, this tremendous establishment hosts about 170 different species of wildlife from all across the globe, is home to a wide range of plant life and has a breathtaking aviary inhabited by endemic as well as foreign varieties of birds. The Royal Bengal Tigers, Zebras, Leopards etc. are only a few examples of wild animals one can explore here.
Best time to visit Vadodara
The best time to visit Vadodara is during the months of October to March. During this time, the widely celebrated Navratri Festival takes place in the city. Vadodara experiences hottest summers with temperatures going up to 42 degrees Celcius and heavy rainfall and hence April to September isn't a great time for sightseeing. However, if you don't mind a little rain, you could visit Vadodara during the early monsoons.
Food of Vadodara
Vadodara has a large range of restaurants serving typical Gujarati thalis and also other cuisines, which means that the tourists do not have limited options in terms of food. Though there are more vegetarian restaurants in this city than there are non vegetarian. But the Gujrati cuisine offers a lot of variety in food and with so much variety in eating vegetarian food, the famous Indian British cookbook writer Madhur Jaffrey has termed Gujarati cuisine as "the haute cuisine of vegetarianism" in one of her TV serials about Indian food.
How to Reach Vadodara
Vadodara is easily accessible by road, rail, air and waterways. Vadodara has an aerodrome of its own, though it currently operates domestic flights only. For international flights, the nearest airport is Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad which is located 100 km away. You can avail the facility of buses from the STC bus station which is in close proximity to the Vadodara Junction. The Vadodara Junction Railway Station is one of the most major railway stations in India and also the busiest in the state of Gujarat. Vadodara can also be accessed by travelling in river Mahi in a boat from Savli.
Vadodara Tour Packages
About Vadodara Tourism: Home to impressive architecture, Vadodara in Gujarat is a metropolitan city known for its rich culture, heritage, and modernity. It is famous for palaces, beautiful parks and gardens, temples and other tourist attractions, all of which make it a destination worth visiting. We provide you with an opportunity to explore this great city with its many Vadodara tour packages that are suitable for all travellers!
The Laxmi Vilas Palace is one of Vadodara’s gems. This magnificent palace, built in the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture, was once the private residence of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III and is about four times the size of Buckingham Palace. You must also see Makarpura Palace, which was the summer palace for the royal Gaekwads. Now used by the Indian Air Force, people aren’t allowed inside.
When you travel to Vadodara, head over to Sayaji Baug, dedicated to Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, it spans over an area of 45 hectares. It is the most extensive garden in western India. Next, visit the Ajwa Nimeta Garden to revel in the beauty of its manicured lawns and tall palm trees and enjoy its light and sound show featuring musical fountains. Sursagar Lake, surrounded by greenery, is known for boating and watching the sunset.
Vadodara travel packages also include temples like the BAPS Sri Swaminarayan Mandir, Kirti Mandir and Surya Mandir. What’s more, you can tour several museums to learn about the city’s heritage; the Vadodara Museum and Picture Gallery and Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum are quite famous. Furthermore, Mandvi Gate and Hazira Maqbara are some Mughal establishments to see.
Something you must experience on your trip to Vadodara, especially if you visit in October, is the festival of Navratri. You should try your hand at garba! The best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Numerous hotels offer accommodation. You need about 1-2 days to uncover most of the city’s gems.
Vadodara holiday packages enable you to explore nearby places like Ahmedabad, Dwarka and Somnath. Gujarat’s capital, Ahmedabad, is known for the Sabarmati Ashram where Mahatma Gandhi resided, the Statue of Unity and magnificent stepwells like the Dada Hari Vav and Rani ki Vav. Walk around the Sabarmati Ashram, tour the Calico Textile Museum, visit the Modhera Sun Temple, Shri Swaminarayan Temple, etc.
Dwarka is a pilgrimage centre, supposedly the capital of Lord Krishna’s kingdom. Here you can visit the Dwarkadhish Temple, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga and Gopi Talav. You can also spend some time at Dwarka Beach or visit the Dwarka Lighthouse. Somnath is home to another Jyotirlinga, the Somnath Temple, and the Paanch Pandav Gufa, Laxminarayan Temple and Suraj Mandir. A visit to Somnath or Chorwad Beach would be relaxing too! Our diverse Vadodara tour packages, which are customisable and affordable, assure you of a trip that you will never forget!
About City
Kevadiya
The tribal village of Kevadia is home to the Sardar Sarovar Dam built on the Narmada river and was a popular picnic spot even before the Statue of Unity came up. Nestled between the Satpura and Vindhyachal mountain ranges, the gigantic statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, built at a cost of Rs 2,989 crore, was inaugurated by Prime Minister, Narendra Modi in 2018. The project was carried out by the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Rashtriya Ekta Trust (SVPRET). Designed by the Indian Sculptor, Ram Vanji Sutar, the construction was taken up by the Indian company Larson & Toubro. It is the must-include place in Kevadiya tour packages.
Must Visit Places in Kevadiya
1.Statue of Unity
At a distance of 7 km from Kevadiya Railway Station, and 90 km from Vadodara, the Statue of Unity is a giant statue located on an islet on the Sardar Sarovar Dam at Kevadia village in Gujarat. Situated on Sadhu Bet Island, it is one of the most popular places Gujarat tourist places and among the must include places in Kevadiya tour packages.
Statue of Unity is a memorial to The Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The statue has been erected to propagate Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's vision of India and to inspire the Citizens of India through his patriotism and freedom struggle. The Bronze statue of the founding father of the Republic of India stands 182 metres tall grabbing the attention of the whole world as the 'Tallest statue in the World'. The statue of Unity is Located in Gujrat, by the banks of River Narmada on the River Island of Sadhu Bet overlooking the Narmada Dam (Sardar Sarovar Dam) from 3.2 km away.
The Statue of Unity will be well connected via expressways, improved rail system and helipads for the convenience of visitors. The surrounding of the statue is proposed to be a haven for clean Industries, Research facilities and educational institutions to improve the economic integrity in and around the region.
The monument compound is expected to get a 3-star hotel Shrestha Bharat Bhavan which is supposed to be a bridge between developing India and an environmentally conscious India. To increase the beauty of the surroundings by multiple folds, the 'Statue of Unity' will be accompanied by the 'Valley of Flowers' which was inaugurated on the same day as that of the Statue.
The Valley of Flowers is a product of the INR 12 crore exclusive grant. There will be a Museum, an Audio Visual hall to depict the life and struggles of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and a laser show on the Unification of India. The Monument will be providing Ferry services to reduce the traffic and effects on the environment due to vehicular pollution.
One of the main attractions of the Statue will be the viewing gallery integrated into the statue that can be reached by a heavy load lift with a panoramic view of the surroundings from an astounding height of nearly 400 feet.
About The Project
The monument compound is spread across 20,000 square metres, surrounded by a 12 km artificial lake. The project was carried out by a Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Rashtriya Ekta Trust (SVPRET) which was established for this purpose.
The magnanimous Statue is designed by the Indian Sculptor, Padma Bhushan awardee Ram Vanji Sutar. The construction of the final product was taken up by the Indian company Larson & Toubro and the total project was estimated to have cost 3000 Crore INR (420 million USD).
The Iron needed for the project was supposed to be collected from the used farming equipment from farmers all around the nation, who were the most cared by Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel. Due to some problems, nearly 5000 tonnes of iron collected was used for a different part of the same project but not the statue.
Along with the project in progress, SVPRET's Statue of Unity Movement organised the Suraaj Petition which included the ideas for good governance by the people and resulted in becoming the world's largest signed petition. These were some of the other essential features of the project.
How to Reach
The site of the Statue of Unity is about 90 km away from Vadodara and can be reached via State Highway 11 and State Highway 63. If you are coming from Mumbai, go north via the NH48 and change to SH64 near Mulad, but the journey from Mumbai via road will be about 420 km long.
Entry Fee
Without the access to Observation Deck
Adults - INR 150 per person
Children - INR 90 per Child
With the access to Observation Deck
INR 380 per person for Adults and Rs. 230 for Children & Rs. 830 for Foreign Adults, Rs.530 for Foreign Children
2. Sardar Sarovar Dam
Located near Navagam in Gujarat, Sardar Sarovar Dam is a massive gravity dam built on the River Narmada which was built to conserve water and help the environment and the people around. The foundation of the project was laid down by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru in 1961 and the construction work for the same was started in 1979. Today, this dam helps provide drinking water to the neighbouring villages and also helps with irrigation, and hydro-power for all of Gujarat.
Over the years, the height of the dam has been increased several times to extract maximum potential. Besides, the natural beauty at the spot- the gushing water of the river and lugh greenery of the littered trees, make it one of the most popular tourist spots in the city. People mostly come here to celebrate picnics and to relax and rejuvenate amidst bounteous nature and peaceful ambiance. There are also some temples at the spot which also draw a lot of tourists and devotees.
The best time to visit the Sardar Sarovar Dam is during the early winter months between October and December as the weather is the most pleasant and agreeable.
What to See at Sardar Sarovar Dam
You can find a guided tour and also a map available at the Sardar Sarovar Dam which can lets you explore the top five tourist spots in the region.
The Garden is the primary place to visit at the dam site. Here you can relax amidst green trees and velvety grass.
The Foundation Stone is another significant spot to visit which holds great historical importance.
The lake, however, draws the maximum tourists. It offers boating facility where you can enjoy a short tour of the lake.
The First Lock Gate is another point where the dam is closed shut. People tend to visit here and take pictures.
The last one is the Trekking Point. Here you can find people registering for nature camps and trekking expeditions.
3. Valley Of Flowers
Valley of Flowers is a flower garden situated along the bank of River Narmada. Also known as Bharat Van, it is one of the top places to visit as part of Statue of Unity tour packages. Valley of Flower is spread across 24 acres of land and is a haven for colorful flowering plants. The garden began with 48,000 plants in 2016 and has now reached up to 22,00,000 plants. More than 300 types of flowers are grown in this garden. A right blend of ornamental flowers, trees, shrubs, herbs, climbers, and creepers are planted along with various shades of foliage, which forms the green cover in this area. This vibrant landscape is also a site for a charismatic flower show every winter. The picturesque site and an enthralling view of the Statue of Unity certainly captivate the visitors always. This vibrant garden is also a site for a charismatic flower show every winter. Besides, several photo booths and selfie points have been developed to take back fond memories of the visit.
Timings: 9 AM - 5.30 PM, Closed on Mondays
Entry: It includes in Statue of Unity Ticket
4. Cactus Garden
The Cactus Garden has developed by GEER Foundation on the opposite end of the Statue of Unity on the bank of river Narmada. This botanical garden was created to exhibit a huge variety of Cacti and succulents, the true miracles of adaptation. The thought behind the development of the cactus garden is to provide an experience of the desert ecosystem amid a landmass well entrenched in an aquatic surrounding.
Spread across 25 acres of open land, the Cactus Garden contains 6 lakh plants of 450 species from 17 countries mainly from North & South America and African continents. Cactus Dome is one of the largest domes in India which contains about 836 Sq.m area. There is also a Selfie point along with a shop that sells Medicinal products of Cactus and souvenirs. The garden is a ravishing landscape of colorful cacti and succulent plants and also an educational and learning opportunity for students and enthusiasts to explore nature's wisdom.
Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM
Entry: Rs. 60 for Adults, & Rs. 40 for Children
5. Butterfly Garden
The Butterfly Garden is situated right next to the Cactus Garden on the bank of River Narmada in Kevadiya. Covering over an area of 10 acres, the garden harbors more than 70 species of butterflies. There are also 150 species of nectar plants and larval host plants as butterflies feed on the nectar of flowers. Special care has been taken in the landscaping of the park to support the diversity of butterfly species. The Butterfly Garden has been developed in a way to create an environment that attracts butterflies and gives them a habitat to proliferate. There are also suitable places for them to lay eggs and host plants for caterpillars to thrive. Walking through this beautifully designed park to get a close view of the different butterfly species along with the life stage of butterflies from laying eggs to caterpillar to chrysalis to adult emerges and finally becomes an adult butterfly. This experience will explore them and will give practical knowledge to kids.
Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM
Entry: Rs. 60 for Adults, & Rs. 40 for Children
6. Unity Glow Garden
Unity Glow Garde in Kevadia is probably the first Glow Garden in India creating a thousand reasons for Joy and Happiness. It has been developed with a glimmering array of installations, figures, and optical illusions. There are many botanical installations, various animals and birds, LED fountains inspired with glowing lights. This was intended to create a zone that gave a different feel and ambiance in the evenings and enable night-tourism to flourish in the vicinity of the Statue of Unity. And, also to boost the local economy by giving additional business to Hotels, Restaurants, Shopping Malls, Local Transportations, etc.
The Unity Glow Garden is a perfect spot to end your visit to the Statue of Unity, especially if you're with kids, as it comes alive once the sun goes down. Perfect to visit after the 7 pm Projection Mapping Show, get ready to be transported to a land of magical lights and light-based art installations at the Statue of Unity Glow Garden. It has earned the title of being a popular destination park already, as more and more tourists are pouring in to experience the beauty of Kevadia at night.
Timings: 8 AM - 10 PM
Entry: Rs. 100 for Adults, Rs. 50 for Children, & Rs. 500 for Foreigners
7. Arogya Van
Spread across 17 acres, Arogya Van houses over 500,000 ancient medicinal plants of 380 species. The main aim of this garden is to raise awareness about the important role played by plants in the holistic wellness of human beings. Emphasis is also laid on Yoga, Ayurveda, and Meditation for being an integral part of a person's well-being. Arogya Van is divided into 5 sections namely Garden of Colours, Aroma Garden, Yoga Garden, Alba Garden, and Leutea Garden.
The key highlight at Arogya Van is the Aushadh Manav, a giant three-dimensional layout of a human body in a resting posture. Each human organ is represented by a medicinal plant that is beneficial for that particular organ. So these plants are planted on the specific part of the body to make the visitors understand the specific plants used for the therapeutic treatment of that particular organ.
The entry gate of Arogya Van has all 12 postures of Surya Namaskar of human size, to emphasize the importance of yoga, which is to be practiced daily for healthy living. The digital information center has been set up to acknowledge visitors and make them understand the heritage and the importance of medicinal plants in our day-to-day life. The indoor plants' section has been created to spread awareness regarding the importance of interior landscape. Interior landscaping plays a vital role in providing a pleasant and tranquil environment in which one can walk and relax.
Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM
Entry: Rs. 30 for Adults, & Rs. 20 for Children
8. Children Nutrition Park
Envisioned & conceptualized by Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Children Nutrition Park has been developed as part of Kevadia Integrated Development to inspire children to eat healthily and understand the role of nutrition in their mental and physical growth. It is the first technologically driven theme park in the world. The Children Nutrition Park provides high-quality entertainment and vital knowledge to the children on healthy eating habits and nutritional values based on the theme of 'SAHI POSHAN DESH ROSHAN.' The entire park is designed and implemented for the benefit of the children and extensive use of state-of-the-art technology is being made, which gives a fascinating experience to the children visiting the park. The main feature of this park is the Nutri Train. Starting from Ekta Junction station, the train runs on a 600 meters long track and takes children to various stations.
The first Station on this route is aptly named Phalshaka Griham, where children should know about agriculture, sowing, caring, and harvesting. There are games and communication panels here, which points to the importance of fresh vegetables and fruits, how they contribute various essential nutrients, and also act as immunity warrior. PayoNagari is the second station where the mascot informs the children about the importance of milk and milk products. Some very engaging games are part of PayoNagari Station such as 'Feed the Cow', 'Churn The Butter', 'Cow Stands Out' and 'Milk Story in a Hologram Box'. There is a long Experience Tunnel between the 2nd & 3rd station that showcases a fantasy farm with a light and sound show.
The third station is Annapurna where a digital mascot - a Mother (Maa) welcomes children with a heart-warming and informative song through a Hologram projection. This song conveys to children, the importance of home-cooked food for great health. The fourth Station on this route is Poshan Puram where the mascot Shakti welcomes the children and points out the two most important elements to complete the wholesome nutrition for our bodies, nuts-seeds, and water. The fifth and the last station on the route is Swastha Bharatam which promotes the importance of physical activity in daily life and features Yoga and the concept of Guru Shishya Parampara in the Indian sports field. This Station has many games like Virtual Tennis, Cricket, a fun-filled dance platform, Ice hockey, etc.
Timings: 10 AM - 6 PM from Tuesday to Friday, & 9 AM - 9 PM on Saturdays & Sundays
Entry: Rs. 200 for Adults, & Rs. 125 for Children
9. Sardar Patel Zoological Park & Jungle
Sardar Patel Zoological Park covers 375 acres at seven different levels ranging from an altitude or elevation of 29 m to 180 m on the right bank of the Narmada River. The park is home to more than 186 species of fauna, covering various biogeographic regions of the world including Africa, Australia, Asia, and America. The main focus of the park is to provide education on the rich biodiversity of our planet, as well as a recreational place for all.
The zoo has 16 different enclosures for animals including carnivores and herbivores. One can spot India's endangered species, which includes the magnificent big cats such as Asiatic Lion, Royal Bengal Tiger, Black Panther, and Leopard here. The zoo is also home to 12 species of deer, antelopes, giraffes, zebras, rhinos, bison, wildebeest, onyx, as well as other exotic animals including alpacas, llamas, a wallaby, and a baby hippo!
The Zoo houses 2 Bird aviaries that are having a state-of-the-art geodesic design designated for Indian and exotic Birds. Covering over an area of 1.5 hectares, the eco domes are considered to be the world's largest geodesic domes for an aviary. These aviaries are housing over 1,000 of the most beautiful birds from India and across the World. Visitors can see the most colorful birds from India like the Red Jungle Fowl, Partridge, Pelican, Ibis, Parrots, along with some exotic birds like the Macaw, Cockatoo, Black Swan, Grey Parrot, Cape Crowned Crane, and more here.
The zoo also organizes Jungle Safari, an adventure ride, which allows exploring the unexplored trails and untouched natural horizons. The safari route has been designed such, that the visitors can view animal activities, spot reptiles, and watch birds. Another highlight is the walkthrough Aviary, harboring the finest of indigenous birds. Here the visitors can walk amidst the birds specific to varied habitats, which have been created simulating the natural habitat of each of the species. Besides, one can enjoy the scenic beauty of the hills surrounding the zoo.
Timings: 8 AM - 5 PM
Entry: Rs. 200 for Adults, & Rs. 125 for Children
10. Ekta Cruise
Ekta Cruise Service was flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 30th October 2020 to mark Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, the birth anniversary of Sri Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The ferry ride starts from Shrestha Bharat Bhavan, behind Ramada Encore to the Statue of Unity. The 6 km-long navigation channel in the river especially is constructed for extending a unique experience to the tourists visiting the Statue of Unity.
The distance between Shreshtha Bharat Bhavan and the Statue is about 6 km which will be covered in 40 minutes by UNITY 1 and 25 minutes by UNITY 2. UNITY 1, 26 m long and 9 m wide, is a Catamaran Type Vessel with two decks and currently carries 200 passengers on the lower deck with fixed seats. UNITY 2 is a monohull boat that can operate at a very high speed. The boat can accommodate up to 25 passengers. There is an additional space on the upper deck for the passengers for an unobstructed and mesmerizing view of the statue and to experience the most hypnotic scenery along the Narmada River. The cruise stops 15-20 minutes at the Statue of Unity.
The guests onboard can enjoy the magnificent view of the World's tallest statue while cruising along with some chilling background music, and cultural programs. This cruise also provides a gripping experience of the 'On Board dinner' during the cruise sailing while the forest night sets in Kevadia and attractive lighting takes over the hearts of the thousands of tourists. The dinner is a lifetime experience as very delicious cuisines are available adding value to the naturally rich surroundings. A Souvenir shop and a food stall are available for the guests to shop on the lower deck.
Tickets are available on location or can be booked in advance on the Statue of Unity tickets website.
Timings: 9 AM - 5.20 PM for Day Cruise, & 5.30 PM - 9.30 PM for Dinner Cruise
Entry: Rs. 413 for Adults, & Rs. 125 for Children (6 -12 years) for Day Cruise, Rs. 1400 for Adults & Rs. 700 for Children (6 -12 years) for Dinner Cruise
11. Khalwani Eco Tourism & River Rafting
Khalwani is located along the bank of a perennial stream fed by the waters released from the Godbole Gate. The area is surrounded by hillocks bearing typical deciduous forests of this area. The chirping of birds, the flowing waters of Narmada, the undulating terrain, and the various shades of green foliage make this place ideal for camping and hiking. The nearby Shoolpaneshwar Sanctuary is a treasure trove for wildlife enthusiasts. Khalwani also provides accommodation in the form of tree houses and tents. It also offers several activities for tourists including bird-watching, breakfast with butterflies, tree walks, and cycling. There are also activities like River Rafting, Trekking, Rock Climbing, botanical exploration, and Selfie on Burma Bridge for adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can get first-hand knowledge of apiary, poultry, pottery, archery, and painting using herbal colors.
River Rafting is undoubtedly one of the most enthralling adventure sports one must try in Kevadiya. Narmada, the largest west-flowing river in the country, has now ushered in the thrilling experience for the adventure enthusiasts who can now enjoy river rafting in a 5 km stretch with whirlpools, rapids, and many turns which provide an exciting and unforgettable rafting experience for the first time in Gujarat. Eligibility of Age for admission is above 14 years to a maximum of 55 years.
Rating Timings: 8 AM - 3.30 PM
Entry: Rs. 300 per Person for Rafting
12. Dino Trail Park
Recent excavations in the Narmada valley, have revealed that Rajasaurus Narmadensis, a species of a carnivorous abelisaurid theropod dinosaur, was existing in the Narmada valley during the Cretaceous period or 'K-period'. The K-period spanned between the Jurassic period (145 million years ago) and Paleogene Period (66 million years ago). The bones of these species were excavated from the Lameta Formation (a sedimentary rock formation found in Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, India) in the Gujarat state of Western India, probably inhabiting what is now the Narmada River Valley.
The Dino Trail is home to a replica of the endemic dinosaur with a distinctive horn. Measuring over 75 feet in length, and 25 feet in height, the replica is about 3 times the estimated size of the original dinosaur. The positioning of the sculptures is in such a way that one can feel the presence of these extinct formidable beasts at this place. A nature trail amidst the forests of Vindyachal takes you to the Rajasarus Narmadensis and a treasurable moment to relive the primeval era when these colossal beasts used to roam in the prehistoric woodlands of Narmada valley.
Entry: Free
Timings: 10 AM - 5 PM
13. Zarwani Waterfalls
Huddled deep inside the heart of Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, the perennial and gorgeous Zarwani Waterfall is one of the most sought natural spots among tourists and nature lovers from Gujarat. It cascades down from a height of about 25 m into a pool. The water is so clean that one can see through and spot small fish at the bottom. Visitors can take a dip in the flowing waters or simply absorb the calmness and serenity around. The waterfall is in full swing during the monsoon.
If you are looking for absolute tranquility and serenity amid nature, then this is the best place. The place also offers activities like camping, hiking, and trekking. Apart from the splendid waterfall, the place also boasts an eco-tourism campsite, the allied treks in the jungle, and an Adventure Park. This is a must-visit place for the thrill-seekers! One can also spot a gamut of flora & fauna as it is situated inside the Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary. The waterfall is about 7 km from the Thawadia checkpost, where visitors need to pay the entry fee for the vehicles. Local guides are available at the site. One can arrange for day picnics or treks with the help of the forest department, with the forest, waterfalls, and other natural beauty within easy reach.
Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM
Entry: Rs. 400 for Car, Rs. 270 for Bike
14. Panchmuli Lake
Sardar Sarovar Dam has outlet the canal from the medium of 3 lakes on the leftmost side of the dam. Panchmuli Lake is one of them. Also known as 'Dyke-3' of the Sardar Sarovar Dam, it was developed for tourists visiting the Statue of Unity. The Panchmuli Lake features calm waters flanked by the jagged Vindhya mountains range, offering a picturesque and serene experience to all visitors. Gujarat State Forest Development Corporation Ltd. (GSFDC) has initiated a Boat ride in Panchmuli Lake as a part of eco-tourism activity. The duration of each boat ride is for 45 minutes and in a day eight rides are operated. This ride takes you to the waters of dyke-4 as well as the entire waterbody is surrounded by lush green forests. The area is lush with local flora and fauna, offering the unique opportunity to observe the innumerable species in their natural habitat. You may sometimes see the landing and takeoff of the seaplane. However, the lake is home to a large number of crocodiles which was a threat to visitors. In 2019-21, the authorities relocated 194 crocodiles. There are still many crocodiles on the lake, so be careful while visiting the lake.
Boating Timings: 9.30 AM - 6 PM
Entry: Free, Rs. 413 for Boating
15. Vishwa Van
The Global Forest of Vishwa Van is home to herbs, shrubs, and trees native to all 7 continents signifying the underlying theme of 'Unity in Diversity' in context global context. The thought of Vishwa Van was conceptualized by the Hon'ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, who after guiding the construction of the Statue of Unity in just 46 months. The motive is to educate the visitors about biogeography - the study of the distribution of species and ecosystems in geographic space. Spread across 5 acres, Vishwa Van symbolizes the life-sustaining potion of forests in the context of all life forms on the planet. It has a diverse assemblage of flora representing every continent of the world. The wavy borders of the blocks representing the continents are shaped to represent the outlines of the continent's map and are painted similar to the colors of the Olympic rings, specific to each continent. The vegetation is arranged in a way to resemble the natural forest of a particular zone. Structures representing the traditional abodes of dwellers from the remotest corners of the world have been created here to introduce visitors to their living. Here one can see a Fiji House, Bali House, African-Louisiana Conference Area, Maloca House, and Pagoda. There is also a Souvenir shop run by tribal self-help groups.
Timings: 8 AM - 6.30 PM
Entry: Rs. 30 for Adults, & Rs. 20 for Children
How to reach Kevadiya
By Air: Nearest Airport: Vadodara - Vadodara International Airport (89 Kms)
By Train: Nearest Train Station: Kevadiya Railway Station (0 Kms)
By Bus: Nearest Bus Station: Kevadiya Bus Station (2 Kms)
Best time to visit Kevadiya
The best time to visit Kevadiya is during the winter months i.e. from October to March. The temperatures are mild and the weather is pleasant during these months. Better to avoid visiting Vadodara during the monsoon and summer months as the town experiences heavy rains between June to September and an extremely hot and humid climate during the summer months.
Glorious Gujarat
×
Glorious Gujarat
(12 Nights / 13 Days)
Glorious Gujarat
1N
Ahmedabad
→ 1N Bhuj
→ 2N Kutch
→ 2N Dwarka
→ 1N Somnath
→ 1N Diu
→ 1N Sasan Gir
→ 1N Bhavnagar
→ 1N Vadodara
→ 1N Kevadiya
12N / 13D
Included in this package
Meals
Hotels
Activities
Transfers
- Overview
- Tour Itinerary
- Hotels
- Inclusions
- Policies
- Tour Destinations
Description
The tour will start from Ahmedabad and will be ending in Vadodara. Gujarat is a blend of Temples, Wildlife, and of amazing architecture and a place full of enthusiasm and rich in culture and heritage.
Tour Highlights
Ahmedabad
- Hutheesing Jain temple
- Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple
- Gandhi Ashram
- Adalaj Stepwell
Bhuj
- Bhujodi
- Swaminarayan temple
- Aina Mahal
- Prag Mahal
Runn Kutch
- Kala Dungar
- White Desert
Dwarka
- Bala Hanuman temple(Jamnagar) (Enroute)
- Beyt Dwarka
- Nageshwar Temple
- Rukmani Temple
- Gopi Talav
- Shivrajpur beach
- Dwarkadhish Temple
- Gomti Ghat
Porbandar(Enroute)
- Kirti Mandir
- Sudama Temple
Somnath
- Somanth Mahadev Temple
- Bhalka Tirth
- Triveni Sangam
- Gita Mandir
Diu
- Diu Fort
- Naida Caves
- Gangeshwar temple
Sasan Gir
- Gir Jungle Safari
Bhavnagar
- Koliyak Nishkalank Mahadev temple
- Takhteshwar temple
Vadodara
- Lothal (Enroute)
- Laxmi Vilas Palace
Kevadiya
- Sardar Sarovar Dam
- Valley of Flowers
- Statue of unity
- Cactus and Butterfly park
Tour Plan
Day 1
Arrival in Ahmedabad
Arrive at Ahmedabad, Check into the hotel and after refreshment, we will visit Hutheesing Jain temple, Gandhi Ashram, Adalaj Step well, and Akshardham temple. Overnight stay at Ahmedabad.
Meal Included
Dinner
Day 2
Ahmedabad – Bhuj (350km/7hrs)
Today morning after refreshment and breakfast, we will depart to Bhuj. Check into the hotel and after refreshment, we will visit Bhujodi, Swaminarayan temple, Aina Mahal, and Prag Mahal. Overnight stay.
Meal Included
Breakfast & Dinner
Day 3
Bhuj – Rann Utsav (90km/2hrs)
Today morning after refreshment and breakfast, we will depart to Rann Utsav. Arrival at The Tent City, Dhordo.
12:30 PM Onwards Welcome & Check-in
12:30 PM to 02:30 PM Lunch at respective Dining Area
02:30 PM to 04:00 PM Enjoy in-house activities
04:00 PM to 05:00 PM High Tea
05:00 PM to 05:30 PM Transfer to White Rann to witness the grandeur of sunset. The mode of transfer can be through Bus/Camel Cart/both. 07:00 PM to 07:30 PM Return transfer to The Tent City, Dhordo
07:30 PM to 10:30 PM Dinner at respective Dining Area
09:00 PM to 10:30 PM Enjoy the Culture of Kutch along with entertaining activities at Cultural Activity Area.
Overnight at Dhordo.
Meal Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4
Rann Utsav
06:00 AM to 06:30 AM Morning Tea
06:30 AM to 07:30 AM Yoga Session
06:30 AM to 07:00 AM Transfer to White Rann to witness the grandeur of sunrise
07:30 AM to 10:30 AM Breakfast at respective Dining Area
10:00 AM to 12:30 PM Enjoy in-house activities
12:30 PM to 02:30 PM Lunch at respective Dining Area
03:00 PM to 07:30 PM Complimentary Tour to Kala Dungar (Black Hill) - the highest point of Kutch. On the route visit to handicraft village "Gandhi nu Gam". Tea/Coffee shall be provided at Kala Dungar. Complimentary refreshments will be served.
07:30 PM to 10:30 PM Dinner at respective Dining Area
09:00 PM to 10:30 PM Enjoy the Culture of Kutch along with entertaining activities at Cultural Activity Area.
Overnight at Dhordo.
Meal Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5
Rann Utsav - Dwarka (490km/10hrs)
Today morning after refreshment and breakfast, we will depart to Dwarka via Jamnagar sightseeing such as the Bala Hanuman temple. Check into the hotel and Overnight stay at Dwarka.
Meal Included
Breakfast & Dinner
Day 6
Dwarka
Today morning after refreshment and breakfast, we will visit Beyt Dwarka, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, Rukmani Temple, Gopi Talav, Shivrajpur beach, Dwarkadhish temple, and Gomti Ghat. Overnight stay at Dwarka.
Meal Included
Breakfast & Dinner
Day 7
Dwarka – Porbandar – Somnath (250km/05hrs)
Today morning after refreshment and breakfast, we will depart to Somnath via Porbandar sightseeing such as Kirti Mandir and Sudama Temple. Check into the hotel and after refreshment, we will visit Somnath Temple, Bhalka Tirth, Triveni Sangam, and Gita Mandir. Overnight stay at Somnath.
Meal Included
Breakfast & Dinner
Day 8
Somnath – Diu (120km/02hrs)
Today morning after refreshment and breakfast, we will depart to Diu. Check into the hotel and after refreshment, we will visit Diu Fort, Naida Caves, Gangeshwar temple, and evening leisure at the beach. And overnight stay.
Meal Included
Breakfast & Dinner
Day 9
Diu - Sasan gir(100km/02hrs)
Today morning after refreshment and breakfast, we will depart to Sasan Gir. Check into the hotel and after refreshment, we will do Gir Jungle Safari. Overnight stay at Sasan Gir.
Meal Included
Breakfast & Dinner
Day 10
Sasan gir – Bhavnagar(200km/04hrs)
Today morning after refreshment and breakfast, we will depart to Bhavnagar. Check into the hotel and we will visit Koliyak Nishkalank Mahadev temple and Takhteshwar temple. Overnight stay at Bhavnagar.
Meal Included
Breakfast & Dinner
Day 11
Bhavnagar – Lothal – Vadodara (230km/5hrs)
Today morning after refreshment and breakfast, we will depart to Vadodara. En route, we will visit Lothal – The archaeological remain of the Harrapan Civilization. Check into the hotel and we will visit Laxmi Vilas Palace. Overnight stay.
Meal Included
Breakfast & Dinner
Day 12
Vadodara – Kevadiya (100km/2hrs)
Today morning after refreshment and breakfast, we will depart to kevadiya. Check into the hotel and we will visit Sardar Sarovar Dam, Valley of Flowers, Statue of unity, cactus and butterfly park etc. and overnight stay.
Meal Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 13
SOU - Vadodara / Departure from Vadodara
Today morning after refreshment and breakfast, we will do check out and drop you off as per schedule.
Meal Included
Breakfast
Tour Accommodation
Ahmedabad
Hotel Aaram Orchard
NO OF NIGHTS
1 Night
ROOM TYPE
Executive
Bhuj
Regenta Central
NO OF NIGHTS
1 Night
ROOM TYPE
Executive
Kutch
White Rann Camping And Hospitality
NO OF NIGHTS
2 Nights
ROOM TYPE
Swiss Tent
Dwarka
Madhuvan Suites By Blues Hotels
NO OF NIGHTS
2 Nights
ROOM TYPE
Deluxe
Somnath
Hotel Sun Plaza
NO OF NIGHTS
1 Night
ROOM TYPE
Plaza Deluxe
Diu
Hotel Apaar
NO OF NIGHTS
1 Night
ROOM TYPE
Premium
Sasan Gir
Hotel Anil Farmhouse
NO OF NIGHTS
1 Night
ROOM TYPE
River view
Bhavnagar
Hotel 1589 Gen X
NO OF NIGHTS
1 Night
ROOM TYPE
Executive
Vadodara
Regenta Inn
NO OF NIGHTS
1 Night
ROOM TYPE
Deluxe
Kevadiya
Unity Village Resort
NO OF NIGHTS
1 Night
ROOM TYPE
Deluxe
Inclusions
- 1 Night stay in Ahmedabad
- 1 Night stay in Bhuj
- 2 Nights stay in Dhordo/Kutch
- 2 Nights stay in Dwarka
- 1 Night stay in Somnath
- 1 Night stay in Diu
- 1 Night stay in Sasan gir
- 1 Night stay in Bhavnagar
- 1 Night stay in Vadodra
- 1 Night stay in Kevadiya
- Welcome drink on arrival
- Daily Breakfast & Dinner at the Hotel
- All Meals at Tent city Dhordo & Kevadiya
- Transportation as per the itinerary inclusive of Driver Bata, Night Halt, and Parking & Toll Charges
- All Tours & Transfers by Dedicated Exclusive Vehicle
Exclusions
- Any Airfare, Entrance fees, Charges for Activities
- Early Check in/ Late Checkout & Any Extra Meals
- Camera Charges, Activity Fees & all other expenses which are in personal nature
- Vehicle will be as per itinerary not on disposable basis
- Guide, Tour Escort (Can be provided up on request with extra Charges)
- Any Surcharge, if applicable by the Hotel at the time of booking
- GST as applicable
Tour Activity
Pricing Calender
Booking Policies
- 50% of the Holiday Package Cost at the time of Booking.
- Balance 50% of Holiday Package Cost, 30 days prior to Departure.
- Non-Refundable items (if any) will be told in advance for full payment.
- Airfare to be paid full at one time in advance.
Cancellation Policies
- 25% of Holiday Package Cost will be applicable, Cancelled 51 Days or More
- 50% of Holiday Package Cost will be applicable, Cancelled between 50 – 36 Days
- 75% of Holiday Package Cost will be applicable, Cancelled between 35 – 21 Days
- 100% of Holiday Package Cost will be applicable, Cancelled 20 Days or less.
Important Notes
- Per person cost is calculated on the basis of Minimum 02 adults travelling together on Twin sharing basis.
- Extra adult is the 3rd person who shares the same double room and is provided with an extra bed or rollaway mattress.
- Mostly the hotels allow 03 adults in one double room with an extra bed or 02 adults and 02 children below 12 years of age with one extra bed.
- All the guests (husband, wife & adult children) are requested to carry their photo identity proof in original & a photocopy to be produced & handed over at the time of Check In at the resort. This is mandatory.
- Complimentary Arrival / departure transfers & sightseeing tours shall be provided as per schedule fixed by the hotel. However this may require you to wait at the airport for short duration until all the guests arriving at that time exit the airport.
- Selection of seats in Airline is subject to availability and is at sole discretion of the airlines.
- Transfers and Sightseeing tours are on SIC (seat in coach) / shared basis.
- As of now we are not holding any service, it is subject to availability upon your request. Booking process will start only after receiving booking amount.
- Above tour prices are subject to change in the event of increase in hotel room rates, Govt. Taxes levy by the hotel especially during Peak Season/Holiday surcharge and major events/fairs and convention.
- All Tours & Transfers are outsourced facility and the hotel has no control on the profile and behavior of fellow passengers on board, moreover the hotel is not responsible for the safety and security of the in-house guests availing the same.
- To avail the arrival transfers please check the hotel representative holding the placard of your name / hotel name.
- In hotels for an extra Adult / Child either Rollaway bed or mattress shall be provided.
- The request for an adjacent or an adjoining room will be on subject to availability.
- It is mandatory to carry the age proof of children (02 to 11 yrs) and infant (below 02yrs) along with other travel documents. Child above than 11 yrs shall be considered for an adult cost.
- Room allocation (Twin bed / Double bed) is at the discretion of the hotel. The check in and check out time of the hotel is 12 to 12 noon. Numbers of meals are always corresponding to the number of nights booked. Breakfast is not provided on the day of arrival.
- For early check in and late check out the payment is to be settled directly by the guest.
- Hotel has the right to claim the damages incurred by any of the guest.
- The guests are requested to take care of their personal belongings carefully and avoid leaving them unattended.
- Cost of additional services availed by the guest which are not part of our package inclusions are to be settled directly at the hotel.
- Mini bar facility available in the hotels is on chargeable basis.
- Buffet meal will be provided at fixed venue decided by the hotel.
- Timings: Breakfast: 0800 - 1000 hrs
- Lunch: 1300 - 1500 hrs
- Dinner: 1930 - 2200 hrs
- These are the standard buffet timings observed by the hotels. Still you are kindly requested to check the perfect buffet timings at the time of check in at the hotel. Once the buffet time is over the hotel might ask you to pay for your meals.
- This hotel is suggested on the basis of the feedback taken from our customers. Still we request you that before finalizing the tour with us kindly go through the website of the hotels and read the reviews.
Tour Destination
About City
Ahmedabad
"Manchester of the East"
A rapidly growing metropolis, an industrial hub, an educational hotspot, and a city with a magnificent past – Ahmedabad is one of the most important cities in Gujarat. Located on the banks of the Sabarmati River, Ahmedabad is the former capital of Gujarat, and its delicious food, colourful culture is making it a fast-growing tourist destination. The historic city of Ahmedabad or the old part of the city was declared as the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Home to a plethora of remarkable temples like Swaminarayan Temple, intriguing museums and classy markets, with a little bit of colonial history attached to it, Ahmedabad is an excellent example of how a city can still retain every bit of its old-world charm while still rapidly progressing on the path of globalisation.
Ahmedabad is famous for its textiles and its tie-dye bandhani handloom technique, which makes it a great place to shop. From bandhani sarees, dupattas to traditionally embroidered dress materials, and other local handicrafts.
Sabarmati Ashram, situated directly beside the Sabarmati river, is a quaint and peaceful ashram built by Mahatma Gandhi after he returned from South Africa. To this date, Gandhiji’s living quarters are preserved here and is now used as a museum where visitors can learn all about his life and his teachings. The infamous Dandi Salt March, which was a crucial point in India’s independence struggle, originated from this ashram.
Places To Visit In Ahmedabad
1. Sabarmati Riverfront
Sabarmati Riverfront is a waterfront developed on the banks of river Sabarmati in Ahmedabad. Started with an objective for sustainable development and environmental improvement, the pace has now become a major tourist attraction owing to its lush green promenades, beautiful parks and plazas and an all-around soothing ambience.
2. Dada Hari Wav
Built by a woman of Sultan Begara's harem in 1499 AD, these step-wells were made as a retreat during hot summers. Waiting to be filled with rain water, no matter what the weather is, it is always cooler within the Step-wells.
3. Swaminarayan Temple
Located in the Kalupur area of Ahmedabad, Shri Swaminarayan Temple was built on the instructions of Swaminarayan, the founder of this sect of Hinduism. Green and yellow sculptures of various Hindu gods and goddesses, with their bodies fitted in opulent dresses and ornaments cover the structure of this nineteenth-century temple.
4. Sabarmati Ashram
Once the residence of Mahatma Gandhi and his wife Kasturba, this undoubtedly is the biggest tourist attraction situated in the suburb of Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Located on the tranquil and serene stretch of Sabarmati River it was also referred to as the 'Satyagraha Ashram' as Gandhi began the famous 'Dandi March' from here. The museum is one of the most interesting sections of the ashram as it has on display some of Gandhi's personal letters and photographs.
5. Adalaj Step Well
Adalaj Stepwell is a magnificent structure built brilliantly to curb water crisis in and around Adalaj Village. The stepwell is located at a distance of 3 to 4 kilometres to the south-west of Gandhinagar, the capital city of Gujarat. The Adalaj Stepwell was built in 1498 and is one of the many step wells built in India to provide access to groundwater. The entire architecture is an excellent illustration of the intelligence of the engineers and architects India had even at that time. Walk in, and you will witness a sudden yet soothing drop in temperature. Breathe in the tranquillity, absorb the beauty of the intricate carvings, make a silent wish and rest for a while before you proceed with your plan for the day.
6. Kankaria Lake
One of the biggest lakes in Ahmadabad, this is a total magnet for tourists and locals alike due to its complete entertainment facilities - toy train, kids' city, balloon ride, water park, food stalls. Also famous for its Kankaria Carnival which is full of week-long fun and festivities held in the last week of December, it is an entertainment, fun and cultural hub. The lake and surroundings have been recently revamped and all its subparts (zoo, balvatika,etc.) are enhanced.
7. Hathisingh Jain Temple
Dedicated to the 15th Tirthankara of Jains, Dharmanath, this two-storied white marble structure provides a delightful experience and the tiled courtyard is another unique aspect of the temple.
8. Modhera Sun Temple
The Sun Temple in Modhera is a Hindu tempe built by the Chalukya dynasty. Built on the banks of river Pushpavati, the temple is dedicated to the solar deity Surya. It is now a historical site and no worshipped is performed at the temple. It is currently maintained by Archaeological Survey of India.
9. Rani ki Vav
Rani Ki Vav or 'Queen's Stepwell' is a distinctive form of water storage system located in the small town of Gujarat called Patan, on the banks of River Saraswati. The 900-year-old structure listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is displayed prominently in the new ₹100 currency note issued by the Reserve Bank of India.
10. Statue of Unity
Statue of Unity is a memorial to The Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The Bronze statue stands 182 metres tall and is the 'Tallest statue in the World'. The statue of Unity is located in Gujrat, by the banks of River Narmada on the River Island of Sadhu Bet overlooking the Narmada Dam (Sardar Sarovar Dam) from 3.2 km away.
11. Bhadra Fort & Teen Darwaza
The Bhadra Fort and its neighboring environment is the most scenic part of Ahmedabad. Located in the middle of lush greenery the huge 44 acre Fort got its name from the Bhadrakali Temple that it houses.
12. Jama Masjid
The Jama Masjid situated in Ahmedabad is one of the largest mosques in India built in the period of 1424 and was built by Emperor Sultan Ahmed Shah. To the west of the mosque built are the tombs of Ahmed Shah I, his son and his grandson followed by the graves of the queens of the king.
13. World Vintage Car Museum
A connoisseur of vintage cars converted his private collection of vintage cars into a museum. The collection comprises of the best of the world - Rolls Royce, Bentley, Jaguar, Cadillac, Austin and many more.
14. Sidi Saiyyed Mosque
Built by Sidi Saeed or Sidi Saiyyed in 1573, as the name suggests, the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, is one of the most famous mosques of Ahmedabad. The mosque is said to be built in the last year of the existence of the Sultanate of Gujarat. The intricately carved lattice stone window, in front of the mosque is known as the Sidi Saiyyed Jali, the unofficial symbol of city of Ahmedabad.
15. Sardar Vallabhai Patel National Museum
Situated in the premises of Moti Shahi Mahal at Shahibaug in Ahmedabad, Sardar Vallabhai Patel National Museum is a museum and a memorial dedicated to the 1st Deputy Prime Minister of India - Sardar Vallabhai Patel. The museum has exhibitions in English, Hindi and Gujarati.
16. Jhulta Minar
Located in Ahmedabad, Jhuta Minar is one of the most intriguing architectural wonders that the world has ever seen. They are still an unsolvable mystery. What makes the minarets unique is if one of the minarets is shaken then the other minaret shakes within a few seconds, while the connecting passage doesn't transmit any movements or vibrations. Many architects and historians have tried to understand the physics and logic behind the unrelated movements of the minarets. It is these movements that have led to its name, Jhulta Minar which translates to swinging minaret.
17. Vaishnodevi Temple
Located on Sarkhej-Gandhinagar highway Road, Vaishnodevi Temple in Ahmedabad is a true replica of the famous temple in Jammu-Kashmir.
18. Kamala Nehru Zoo
Popularly known as Kankaria Zoo, Kamala Nehru Zoo is located at Kankaria, Ahmedabad. By the majestic banks of the tranquil Kankaria Lake, this zoo has been the abode of different animals, reptiles, birds and mammals belonging to different species.
19. ISKCON Temple
Located close to the Gujarat Samachar Press, The ISKCON Temple in Ahmadabad is the best place to experience spirituality and mental bliss. Also referred to as the 'Hare Krishna Temple', the temple with its calm and peaceful atmosphere offers the perfect spot for meditation.
20. Lalbhai Dalpatbhai Museum
The Lalbhai Dalpatbhai Museum (also known as L. D. Museum) is museum of Indian Sculptures, Bronzes, Manuscripts Paintings, Drawings, Miniature Paintings, Wood works, Bead works and coins. (br) The Lalbhai Dalpatbhai Museum of the Lalbhai Dalpatbhai Bharatiya Sanskriti Vidyamandir is located in the premises of the L.D. Institute of Indology, Ahmedabad. It is situated on a sprawling campus in the western part of the city in an area dotted with educational and research institutes, and in the vicinity of Gujarat University. It is about 7 kilometers from the Railway Station and 12 kilometers from the Airport, therefore, it is easily accessible from any part of the Ahmedabad city.
21. Dada Bhagwan temple
Dada Bhagwan Temple (also known as Adalaj Trimandir) is a trimandir situated in the village of Adalaj on the Ahmedabad-Kalol highway, 20 kms from Ahmedabad. Built by Dada Bhagwan Foundation, the trimandir brings forth a unique religious concept where statues of all religious deities are placed on a common platform.
22. Gujarat Science City
Located on the Science City Road in Ahmedabad, Gujarat Science City is a remarkable initiative taken up by the Government of Gujarat to spread general awareness and a scientific temperament especially among the youth of the country. Spread over 107 hectares of land, the centre also holds frequent talk shows and workshops for students and science enthusiasts.
23. Shree Camp Hanuman Mandir
Situated in Shahibaug in Ahmedabad, Shree Camp Hanuman Mandir is one of the largest Hanuman temples in India. Believed to have been established by Pandit Gajanan Prasad at least a 100 years ago, the temple is still managed by the descendents of the Pandit family. Tuesdays and Saturdays are the most auspicious days of the week for the devotees.
24. Parimal Garden
Located on the Parimal Cross Road in Ambavadi, Parimal Garden is a beautiful well-maintained garden in the heart of Ahmedabad. Replete with swings and dotted with stone benches, the park is popular among both adults and kids alike. Mostly used for morning and evening walks, the garden also has routine laughing clubs for the elderly.
25. Lothal
If you are a history buff and ever so curious to peek into the lives of the older generations, you really need to visit Lothal because this is a place that ties the past and present together. Located at a distance of around 85 kms from the city of Ahmedabad, on the banks of the ancient mythical river Saraswati (which has now dried up), Lothal is a popular Indus Valley Site and a 4500 years old city discovered in 1954. Even though the place is not as thriving as it once used to be, the magic of the ruins are enough to tell you the colourful tales about the lives of the people who were inhabitants of this place. This place is full of surprises and holds a great deal of historical significance. Lothal was not only amongst one of the early successful civilization but was also a hub of industrialisation adjoining different nations. Due to its fascinating excavations and dramatic discovery, Lothal is popular among geologists, historians and archaeologists.
26. Sarkhej Roza
Situated in the village of Makarba, 7 kms from Ahmedabad, Sarkhej Roza is a mosque and tomb complex. Bosting of absolutely striking early Islamic architectural finesse with spacious corridors and pillared domes, and surrounded by a mesmerising water tank, the tomb houses the grave of Ahmad Khattu Ganj Baksh (the former resident of the place).
27. Nehru Bridge
Nehru Bridge is a massive bridge built over the river Sabarmati in Ahmedabad connecting the Real Old City (Kot Vistar) with West Ahmedabad. Open to public use in 1962, the bridge is dedicated to Indiaês first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. The bridge is considered one of the most scenic places in the city.
28. Vastrapur Lake
Situated in Western Ahmedabad, Vastrapur Lake is an ancient lake which was renovated and prettified in 2002. A huge statue of Narsinh Mehta (a famous poet-saint of Gujarat), was installed here and the lake was named after him as the Bhakt Kavi Narasinh Mehta Sarovar. It boasts of an open-air theatre which is used for organising several cultural events of the city.
29. Kite Museum
Housed in the premises of Sanskar Kendra in Paldi, Ahmedabad, Kite Museum was conceptualised and created by Bhanubhai Shah. Designed by the renowned architect Le Corbusier in 1954, the museum is an elaborate display of about 125 uniquely carved kites including mirror embroidered kites, block print kites and Japanese kites such as Rokuku.
30. Gotila Garden-Talav
Gotila Garden-Talav is a vibrant green garden situated in Sindhubhavan Road, Thaltej in Ahmedabad. Blessed with vibrant flowers, beautiful water sprinklers, quaint benches and shady trees, the garden is a haven for city dwellers as well as birds. People also come here to look at the numerous birds that flock the place at early morning or late evening.
Shopping in Ahmedabad
1. City Shopping
Even though pretty much everything is available in this city, Ahmedabad is especially famous for its textile industry. Hence, all kinds of fabrics are available here.
2. Manek Chawk
Manek Chowk is a notable city square in Old Ahmedabad which is a vegetable market in the morning, a bullion market in the noon and the street food market at night. It is most famous, however, for its food stalls that start to emerge around 8 in the evening, with various local street snacks and goodies.
3. Law Garden Night Market
One of the most famous gardens of Ahmedabad the Law Garden becomes a favorite place for shopaholics with vendors and shopkeepers bustling on the scene.
4. Calico Textile Museum
One of the foremost textile museums and a celebrated institute in Indian textiles around the world, Calico Textile Museum is famous for its remarkable collection of fabrics.
5. Lal Darwaza
With lots of hawkers selling various items from clothes to electronics items, Lal Darwaza is crowded yet one of the most famous markets of Ahmedabad.
6. Alpha One Mall
One of the largest multiplexes in Ahmedabad, Alpha One mall houses three anchor stores, a food-court and a movie hall.
7. Banascraft
One of the most famous boutiques of Ahmedabad, Banascraft offers a great variety of handmade items.
8. Kapasi Handicraft Emporium
While Handicrafts from Gujarat are exported to far off places all across the world, you can buy it all from Kapasi Handicraft Emporium
9. R3 The Mall
One of the most popular shopping malls and leisure destinations in the city, this mall houses about 200 shops, numerous food courts and a 4-screen multiplexes.
10. Radhe Shopping Mall
Enjoy shopping at Radhe Shopping Mall for a great experience and a variety of brands to choose from.
How to Reach Ahmedabad
The state of Gujarat, in general, is well-connected to nearby as well as faraway states in India. Hence, it is quite convenient to reach Ahmedabad. The city can be reached via flight, bus, train and even self-drive or taxi.
The Ahmedabad Airport, officially known as Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport caters to both domestic and international travel. Roadways are well-maintained as well. Bus options are plenty as the Ahmedabad Municipal Transport Service, or the AMTS is an interstate-bus network that has excellent connectivity with all the prominent states in the country.
The Ahmedabad Railway Station also known as the Kalupur Railway Station is efficiently connected with transit lines running across almost every major city in India. There are a bunch of expresses and superfast trains as well. Driving is also another option to reach Ahmedabad. A long drive to the city can be covered from starting points such as Mumbai, Udaipur and Indore.
Best time to visit Ahmedabad
October to March is the best time to visit Ahmedabad as the weather becomes mild and pleasant to road around the city. March to May is the time when summer sets in, the daily temperature peaks above a maximum level of 30 degrees, which is quite pleasant for sightseeing. This season is also a good time to explore the city, and there is also quite an inflow of events and activities such as the International Kite Festival in January. June to October is the monsoon season when the accomodation and travel costs reduce drastically, however, this season often brings in heavy torrential rains, thus flooding the river Sabarmati.
Food of Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad, being the glittering and unique city that it is, is brimming with options for food. You will find all kind of places to eat here, from branded chain outlets to 5-star hotels to the colourful street food joints. Do try out the Gujarati cuisine which is mainly vegetarian. When in Ahmedabad, you must try the Gujarati Thali, which typically consists of Roti, Dal or Kadhi, Rice and Vegetable Curries. You can also try out the famous Khichdi with Chaas (Buttermilk).
Gujarat is most famous for its mouthwatering snacks. Few of the most famous snack items are Chakri, Dhokla, Khakra, Fafda, Sev, Khandvi and Khaman. The Gujarati snacks are countrywide famous. Make sure to buy these at a local sweetmeat shop. One can also try the unauthentic, street-side Pizzas, Pao bhaji and the spicy Paani-Puri
The best part about street food in Ahmedabad is that they are not that unhygienic and tastes great while suiting your pocket. One must also try the traditional Gujarati sweets, while here, such as Basundi, Puran Poli, Shrikhand, Ghevar, Malpua and much more. The birthplace of Gandhi - Gujarat, is a dry state, so one cannot find any alcohol here.
Ahmedabad Tour Packages
About Ahmedabad Tourism: Ahmedabad, the capital of Gujarat, is a vital city in India, both because of its historical significance and industrialism. The metropolis welcomes you with its rich culture, popular tourist sites, delicious food and museums, all of which make for an incredible trip. Spend a fun couple of days exploring this wonderful city with wide range of Ahmedabad travel packages.
A heritage site that you must surely visit when you travel to Ahmedabad is the Sabarmati Ashram, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. Now a museum displaying some of his belongings, it is from here that he began the infamous Dandi March. Here you would also find the Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue, which stands tall at 182 m.
The city is also known for its impressive stepwells, such as the Dada Harir Vav. Built during the Mehmud Begda era, this octagonal stepwell was meant to provide some respite during the summer months. Adalaj Stepwell (dating back to the late 15th century) and Rani ki Vav (over 900 years old) are also other popular stepwells that you can visit here.
If you wish to learn more about the city’s heritage and culture, there are many museums that you can tour, including the Calico Textile Museum, Sardar Vallabhai Patel National Museum and Lalbhai Dalpatbhai Museum. Moreover, you can spend some relaxing time by the Sabarmati Waterfront, which has green parks and promenades or by the serene Kankaria Lake.
Ahmedabad is a city that is quite famous for its numerous religious establishments. The Modhera Sun Temple, Jama Masjid, Hutheesing Jain Temple and Sidi Saiyyed Mosque should be on your itinerary. Next, you must head over to the 15th century Bhadra Fort; known for its stunning carvings, it is set amidst lush greenery. Finally, the Jhulta Minar is another of the city’s architectural wonders that you should see.
Don’t forget to shop for cloth since Ahmedabad is renowned for its textile industry. What’s more, you drive about 85km away to explore Lothal, one of the sites of the Indus Valley Civilisation. The best time to plan your trip to Ahmedabad is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing. About two days are sufficient to tour the city. There are many hotels offering accommodation.
About City
Bhuj
"Ancient temples, tall hills and a deep sense of serenity"
Bhuj is known as a desert city, with a history dating back to kingdoms and empires, palaces from the rule of the Naga chiefs, the Jadeja Rajputs, the Gujarat Sultans and the British Raj. With numerous temples, small streets, and traditional handicrafts, Bhuj is one of the unique historical sites in India. It is a municipality in the Kutch district of Gujarat. The city was left in a state of devastation after the 2001 earthquake and is still in the recovery phase.
However, Bhuj connects its visitors to a range of civilisations and essential events in South Asian history through prehistoric archaeological finds, remnants of the Indus Valley Civilization (Harappan), places associated with the Mahabharata and Alexander the Great's march into India. The land of Bhuj is home to various historical sites, like the 2000-year-old Kshatrapa inscriptions in the kutch museum, hall of mirrors in the Aina Mahal, the bell tower of Prag Mahal, the sculptures in Ramakund stepwell, and the beautiful Hamirsar lake. Hence, Bhuj is a blend of vibrant history and ethnic cultures.
Places To Visit In Bhuj
1. White Desert of Kutch
Also known as the Great Rann of Kutch, the White Desert is a vast area of pristine white salt desert often explored for its natural beauty and ecological importance. It is also called the world's largest salt desert which stretches from the mouth of River Indus to the Gulf of Kutch. Besides being a filming location for several Bollywood movies, the White Desert of Kutch is strongly scrutinised as it lies on the northern India-Pak border. The White Desert is cited with numerous sanctuaries for wildlife, floral and wetland preservation.
2. Mandvi Beach
Standing near the Vijay Vilas palace estate in Bhuj, Mandvi Beach is a secluded and undiscovered beach destination with clean water and beautiful view. Take a long walk along the shore as you witness the sun setting over the horizon, or go for bird spotting and discover the beauty of Kutch through its fauna. With its tranquil surroundings being it's most alluring quality, Mandvi Beach makes for an enchanting rendezvous with nature and its beauty.
3. Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
Less than 100 km away from Bhuj, this sanctuary is spread over an area of about 7505.22 sq. km. in the Kutch District of Gujarat. This wildlife sanctuary is considered as one of the largest seasonal saline wetland areas.
4. Aina Mahal
The Aaina Mahal palace, or 'Hall of Mirrors' was built during the flamboyant rule of Lakhpatji in the middle of the 18th century. This beautiful palace also houses a handicraft museum where the crafts from various parts of Kutch is put.
5. Hamirsar Lake
Hamirsar Lake is located in the western end of Bhuj. Its water level depends on the time of the year. It might be dry and largely deserted, or full of water, and encircled by merry families. The lake is absolutely stunning in look and has a cheerful outlook. It is a must visit, for a happening and lovely get together.
6. Shri Swaminarayan Temple
Originally built in the year 1822, it was the first of many Sampradey Swaminarayan temples.
7. Kutch Bustard Sanctuary
Also known locally as the Lala Prajan Sanctuary, its primary aim is to conserve the Great Indian Bustard. Among many other different varieties of wildlife that can be found within the reserve, there are three different kinds of Bustards themselves in the sanctuary.
8. Pirotan Island
From the total 42 islands in the Arabian sea on the eastern coast of Jamnagar, only two islands are accessible for tourists. The most famous one from these two islands is, Pirotan islands.
9. Kutch Museum
Initially an integral part of School of Arts, Kutch Museum is the oldest museum in the state. It has a marvellous collection of antiques dating back to 1st century AD. The Kutch Museum was a private collection to display all the unique gifts Maharao Khengarji III received on his wedding, prior to opening the gates forever for the public, who were earlier allowed only on special occasions.
10. Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary
A 125km drive away from Bhuj, this sanctuary covers an area of about 444 sq. km. and is one of the distinct eco-system in the Kutch district of Gujarat state.
11. Mata no Madh
Located 138 km from the city of Bhuj, Mata No Madh is a historical temple dedicated to Jadeja deities and is situated west of Kakkadbhit. The original 1200 year old temple was demolished during the earthquake of 1819 AD.
12. Prag Mahal
Prag Mahal is a palace which was built in 19th century. It is located next to the popular Aina Mahal in Bhuj of Gujarat. Situated in the heart of the city, Prag Mahal is easily accessible. The entry fee is also nominal. Visitors are accompanied by one of the staff members as a guide to show them the intricate work at the mahal.
13. Banni Grassland Reseve
Spread across an area of 3,847 square kilometers, are currently legally protected under the status as a Protected or Reserve Forest in India. It has been identified as one of the last remaining habitants of Cheetah in India by Wildlife Institute Of India.
14. Clock Tower
With a height of 45 feet, Clock Tower is a prominent feature of Prag Mahal. Visitors are drawn to this 19th century Italian Gothic structure in large numbers for the stunning panoramic view it provides of the town. The architectural marvel has also been featured in numerous well-known Bollywood and Gujarati movies.
15. Kranti Tirth For Shyamji Krishna Varma
Kranti Tirth is a massive memorial complex built in the honour of Shyamji Krishna Varma who was a well-known Indian Freedom Fighter, Journalist and a Lawyer. The memorial complex houses important memories of Shyamji and his sacrifices. It provides a glimpse into the historic Indian Freedom Struggle that was fought to free the country from the British Reign.
16. Kutch Fossil Park
The Kutch Fossil Park was established in 2002 by Mohan Singh Sodha, an Army Veteran and a passionate fossil collector. He solely gathered and showcased this unique historic preserve for about half a century now.
17. Bharatiya Sanskruti Darshan Museum
Bharatiya Sanskruti Darshan Museum has an extensive collection of folk art, textile art, crafts, paintings, rural/traditional architecture and archaeological samples belonging to the region including the remote areas. The valuable articles were collected by a Government Servant who travelled to most areas of the region while in service and wished to display them together under one roof for the public to enrich their knowledge about the region.
18. Bhujia Hill
Overlooking the beautiful town, Bhujia Hill is a prominent natural formation considered to be of immense religious and historical importance. It is often associated with the legendary victory of Bhujanga against Bheria Kumar. It also served as a perfect location for Bhujia Fort that adds to the aesthetic appeal of the splendid Hill and defended the Jadeja Chiefs. The hill requires at least 200 stairs to reach the top.
19. Hill Garden
A hilltop amusement park, Hill Garden is a favourite picnic spot in the town. With some rides, boating facilities, a museum and a splendid little water park, the attraction is a youngsterês hub. The location is also perfect to get a beautiful panoramic view of the town and enjoy a mesmerising sunset amidst the beautiful natural surroundings.
20. Vande Mataram Memorial
Located at a distance of 10 kms from Bhuj, in the village of Bhujodi in Gujarat, Vande Mataram Memorial is a museum and one of the top tourist attractions in the city. Sprawling over 12 acres of land area, the memorial is built by the Ashapura Foundation to commemorate the most important struggles faced by the Indian soldiers right from the Revolt of 1857 to the Freedom Movement of 1947. It is a tribute to the brave and fearless freedom fighters of India.
The top sightseeing places in Bhuj are White Desert of Kutch, Mandvi Beach, Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, Aina Mahal, Hamirsar Lake, Shri Swaminarayan Temple.
How to Reach Bhuj
The Bhuj Airport, also known as the Rudra Mata Airport is the city's own airport. This domestic airport is situated about 5.5 to 9 km from the Bhuj city centre and can be covered by a 15 to 20-minute drive. The Bhuj Railway Station is just about 4 km from the city and can be reached through a 15-minute taxi ride.
There are quite a few bus stands in Bhuj, with the nearest ones at Lal Tekri, Ghanshyam Nagar and Sanskar Nagar. These bus stops are within a radius of 2 km from the city centre. The farther bus stations are at Mirjapur and Madhapur, which are about 4 to 5 km from the Bhuj city centre.
Best time to visit Bhuj
October to February is the best time to visit Bhuj and its nearby areas. The weather is pleasant, and it is also the time for the Rann Festival in Kutch. Summers (March-June) are quite hot and should be avoided. Monsoons are also warm and humid and make the sightseeing uncomfortable. However, if you have to go to Bhuj in the monsoons, you can visit this place if you don't mind a little rain.
Food of Bhuj
Most of the places here offer only vegetarian food. The town is popular for traditional fried snacks such as Khakhra, Papad as well as the sweet and crunchy Jalebi. Also try the tea available at the local stalls on the streets, which is usually served in saucers. Other than these don't miss out on the Gujarati thali, brimming with Rotlas, Vegetables, Sev Tomato, Lentils, Kadhi and much more.
Also find instances of popular South-Indian and Chinese cuisines. The other Gujarati delicacies include Dhokla, Thepala, Fafda, Khandvi, Hahdwoh, Ganthia, Oondhiya as well as sweets like Ghevar, Puran Poli, Basundi and more.
More about Bhuj
Apart from some temples and fort, the place has various other places one can visit. Places like Hiralakshmi Memorial Craft Park, Kutch Museum and Kutch Fossil Park are some sites depicting the richness of the area. If you are one of those people who would love to spend your day by the side of a beautiful water body, then head to Hamirsar lake or Narayan Sarovar.
Bhuj has a variety of things to offer for all the people interested in city shopping. With authentic handicraft items and clothes boasting Gujarati Embroidery, you are sure to get mesmerised while roaming around the street markets of Bhuj. Plan to visit this beautiful place while the great Rann Utsav is happening, and you will be sure to make the trip something you and your family won't be ever able to get off their mind.
Bhuj is a treat to the eyes of visitors. One can explore everything from white desert to beautiful temples, and from wildlife sanctuaries to the cultural landscape.
Who should visit Bhuj?
From people in groups to couples, and from families to just someone stung by the wanderlust bee, this place serves all. Anyone who wants to break their routine can head to Bhuj for an unforgettable experience.
About City
Kutch
"The White Desert of India"
Virtually an island that resembles the shape of a tortoise, Kutch is an erstwhile princely state of India holding onto its grandeur nature from the past. Kutch is probably one of the most beautiful, yet surreal places in India with the vast expanses of the white salt desert. The place comes to life during the winters when the Rann Festival is held during December-February everywhere in which there are huge camp settlements with cultural programs, functions and adventure activities like hot-air ballooning.
Kutch is also among the largest district of India with a terribly low population density. Also, Kutch lies on the India-Pakistan border and you can see parts of Pakistan from Kutch. Kutch is also famous for crafts and embroidery works, Flamingo Sanctuary and Wild Ass Sanctuary. Bhuj is an ideal starting point to visit the Rann of Kutch. Beautiful beaches of Mandvi near Bhuj are also totally worth visiting during your trip to Kutch. Don't miss to see the ancient town of Dholavira.
Places To Visit In Kutch
1. Great Rann of Kutch
Rann of Kutch, a large area of salt marshes is located in Gujarat, India. It is divided into : Great Rann of Kutch and Little Rann of Kutch.The name "Rann" has come from the Hindi word ran meaning "desert". The region has been so famous for its natural beauty that it was featured in numerous films in India, for example - Refugee, Magadheera, Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram Leela, Sarainodu etc. It has also been mentioned in several books including the Booker Prize-Winning Novel, Midnight's Children, written by Salman Rushdie.
2. Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
Less than 100 km away from Bhuj, this sanctuary is spread over an area of about 7505.22 sq. km. in the Kutch District of Gujarat. This wildlife sanctuary is considered as one of the largest seasonal saline wetland areas. Excessive salt deposits here give the sanctuary a pure white surface that attracts all the more uniqueness. However, since the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary lies on the Indo-Pak border, some parts of the sanctuary are restricted to the public. There are some BSF areas as well.
3. Kala Dungar
Marking the highest point of Kutch (462 m), Kalo Dungar is located north of the village of Khavda, Gujarat. Also known as The Black Hill, the area is famous for its panoramic view of the Rann of Kutch. Kalo Dungar is home to a 400-year-old temple devoted to Lord Dattatreya. The magnetic hills of Kalo Dungar mark for the perfect optical illusion, where vehicles seem to defy gravity and roll uphill.
4. Dholavira
It is one of the largest remarkable excavations of the Indus Valley Civilization which was one of the most developed civilization roughly 4500 years ago.
5. Kutch Museum
The oldest museum of Gujarat, the Kutch Museum boasts of its collection of the extinct Kutchi Script and ancient coins. Tribal artifacts are also a part of the museum along with many other kinds of objects on display exhibits of embroidery, paintings, arms, musical instruments, sculpture and precious metalwork.
6. Kutch Bustard Sanctuary
Also known locally as the Lala Prajan Sanctuary, its primary aim is to conserve the Great Indian Bustard. Among many other different varieties of wildlife that can be found within the reserve, there are three different kinds of Bustards themselves in the sanctuary.
7. Rann Utsav of Kutch
Celebrating the varied ethnic flavour of Gujarat through crafts, music, dance and people, Rann Utsav for 2020-2021 will be held from 12th November 2020 to 28th February 2021. An initiative by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited, the Rann Utsav is packed with leisure, delicious food and adventure spread over 5 Lakh sq metres with more than 350 luxurious tents. It is 100+ full-filled days of Kutch.
8. Mandvi Beach, Bhuj
The Mandvi beach is one of the most serene beaches on the Northwestern shore. Its the perfect destination to come and relax with family and friends during winter mornings.
9. Aaina Mahal, Bhuj
The Aina Mahal palace, or 'Hall of Mirrors' was built during the flamboyant rule of Lakhpatji in the middle of the 18th century and is very beautiful.
10. Kandla Port and Mudra port
The Kandla Port is one of the 11 most important ports of India. The Mudra Port is another important commercial port in the Kutch.
11. Narayan Sarovar, Bhuj
A combination of 5 holy lakes of Hinduism namely Man Sarovar, Pampa Sarovar, Bindu Sarovar, Narayan Sarovar and Pushkar Sarovar, this is one of the most significant religious sites for Hindus.
12. Hamirsar Lake, Bhuj
Named after the ruler of Jadeja - Rao Hamir, this man-made lake lies in the central area of Bhuj. With almost all the important sight-seeing destinations of Bhuj located to its eastern part, walking through the boundary of this 450-year-old lake is a pleasurable experience.
13. Anjar
Anjar is a town and municipality in Kutch District, Gujarat. With 1,400 years of history, it is known as the oldest town in Kutch. The desert climate in this region does not spare Anjar, sharing the same weather extremities. It has been a centre for trade and commerce in Kutch for eons, being a target of invasion in medieval times and during the British colonisation.
The top sightseeing places in Kutch are Rann of Kutch, Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, Dholavira, Kutch Museum, Kutch Bustard Sanctuary, Mandvi Beach, Bhuj.
How to Reach Kutch
The only way to reach Kutch is by road as it's mostly desert. Kutch city does not have a dedicated railway station or airport. The nearest airport and railway station is in Bhuj. You will have to take a vehicle from here to reach Kutch.
Best time to visit Kutch
Winters (November-Feb) are the best time to visit Kutch, mainly because of the full moon nights that turn the place into an absolute paradise. The Rann Festival is also organised at the same time. Summers should be avoided as temperatures can go as high as 45-degree Celcius.
Food of Kutch
The food in Kutch is mainly vegetarian, given a dominating influence of Jainism and Brahmanism, both of which follow strict vegetarianism and often avoid garlic, potatoes, yam and onion too. A local delicacy in the area is Bajra na Rotla which is usually accompanied by, like almost every other meal in the district, a refreshing glassful of Lassi, Chaas or Buttermilk. You can also relish a typical Gujarati Thali which would consist of Roti, Dal or Kadhi, Curd , Rice and Vegetable Curries The other Gujarati savouries that one cannot miss include Chakri, Dhokla, Papad, Kachumbar, Khakra, Fafda, Sev, Khandvi and Khaman. Most of these are dry snacks and are ideal while traveling or for taking some home. Along with these try traditional Gujarati sweets such as Ghevar, Malpua, Basundi and much more. Try Kutchi dabeli or Double Roti (A snack made by creating a mixture of boiled potatoes, a special dabeli masala and stuffing on a pav and served with a special chutney). Alcohol is not available here since Gujarat is a dry state.
About Kutch Tourism
Kutch, a district in Gujarat, is nearly an island shaped like a tortoise and a beautiful destination boasting sprawling white salt deserts and diverse flora and fauna. A former princely state, it’s known for its rich heritage, frequently attracting large crowds owing to its cultural events. We provide you with a plethora of choices when it comes to Kutch travel packages for a wonderful trip with friends and family.
The first attraction to add to your itinerary is undoubtedly Rann of Kutch, a salty marshland in the Thar Desert, synonymous with the three-month-long Rann Utsav featuring handicrafts, camel rides, hot air ballooning etc. Don’t forget to visit the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, Kutch Bustard Sanctuary and Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary to see blue bulls, shrikes, Great Indian Bustards, flamingoes etc.
Kutch is home to a significant site associated with the Indus Valley Civilisation known as Dholavira, where several remains of everyday items and buildings were found, indicating the lifestyle at the time. Your trip must include a visit to the Kutch Museum, where you can see exhibits on the extinct Kutchi script, coins, paintings, weapons and more. A crucial part of the district is the Kandla Port.
Kutch is a paradise for tourists from November to February because of the cool weather and Rann Utsav. Kutch tour packages often include destinations like Bhuj, Mandvi and Rajkot for you to explore. Rajkot is famous for its rich culture and traditions, visited extensively for its green parks, the Khambhalida Caves, palaces, museums like Gandhi museum, lakes and dams, handicrafts, yummy sweets and more.
Located within Kutch is the town of Bhuj that is home to several must-visit attractions like Mandvi Beach, a tranquil location with gorgeous views known for swimming, parasailing, camel riding, quad biking etc. Aina Mahal, or “Hall of Mirrors”, is famous for its magnificent architecture, featuring balconies, chandeliers, archways and stained glass. Moreover, make sure also to visit Hamirsar Lake, Prag Mahal and Narayan Sarovar. We offer many Kutch travel packages that are fully customisable and affordable, specially curated to ensure that you have an extraordinary trip!
Rann Utsav
Celebrating the varied ethnic flavour of Gujarat through crafts, music, dance and people, the Rann Utsav is packed with leisure, delicious food and adventure spread over 5 Lakh sq metres with more than 350 luxurious tents. It is 100+ full-filled days of Kutch. The festival celebrates the spellbound beauty and natural heritage of Kutch. You can engage in an array of indoor games like carrom board, ludo amongst others, savour the lip-smacking delicacies and enjoy the relishing traditional recipes of Kuch. Besides, you can also take a ride over the picturesque desert of Kutch with its seemingly boundless white sand.
Being held in the Dhordo village of Kutch, the Utsav is lined-up with ethnic tents that have just the right amenities for you to live in the midst of the desert region. An overnight stay is highly recommended as the visuals of the Rann of Kutch especially during full moon nights cannot be found in any other part of the world. The day times have a variety of colour sprinkled on the barren lands and offer visitors an excellent opportunity to experience the diverse traditions, the generosity and hospitality of Kutchi people.
About City
Dwarka
"The home of Lord Krishna"
Located on the western tip of the Saurashtra peninsula in Gujarat, Dwarka is believed to be the capital city of Lord Krishna's kingdom. Known as Devbhoomi Dwarka, Dwarka boasts of being the only city that is a part of both Char Dham (four principal holy places) and also Sapta Puris (seven sacred cities) mentioned in the Hindu religion. Dwarka was a part of the ancient kingdom of Krishna and Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, is also located in Dwarka. The beachside and the seashores are an added tourist attraction.
Legend has it that the city was once engulfed by the sea and recent excavations reveal that a city did exist here. The name Dwarka translates to dwar meaning 'door' and ka meaning 'moksha' meaning the ‘door to salvation'.
Places To Visit In Dwarka
1. Dwarkadhish Temple
Dwarkadhish Temple also known as the Jagat Mandir, is a Chalukya styled architecture, dedicated to Lord Krishna. The town of Dwarka has its history dated back to the Kingdom of Dwaraka in Mahabharata. The five storied main shrine is grand and marvelous in itself constructed of limestone and sand. The 2200-year-old architecture, is believed to be built by Vajranabha, who constructed it over the land reclaimed from the sea by Lord Krishna. The temple showcases intricate sculptural detailing done by the ancestral dynasties that ruled the region and the black magnificent idol of Lord Krishna. There are other shrines within the temple which are devoted to Subhadra, Balarama and Revathy, Vasudeva, Rukmini and many others.
The devotees are expected to take a dip in the Gomti river before proceeding into the temple through the Swarg Dwar. The eve of Janmashtmi is the most special occasion in any Krishna temple, the Dwarkadhish temple is adorned by thousands of devotees chanting prayers and rituals. The shrine is a hive of colours, voices and faith transforming itself into inner silence and sanctity.
2. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
One of the 12 famous self-existent temples, Nageshwara Jyotirlinga Temple too houses a curious myth about its origin. The giant, beautiful and artistic statue of Lord Shiva mesmerizes tourists and pilgrims alike with its aesthetic appeal. Unlike other Nageshwar Temples, the statue or the Linga here faces south. A major highlight of Nageshwar Temple is the massive 80 feet tall statue of Lord Shiva. The temple itself is characterised by typical Hindu architecture. The Nageshwar Shiva Linga is made up of stone, known as Dwarka Shila, having small chakras on it. It is in the shape of 3 mukhi Rudraksha.
3. Beyt Island
Located around 30 km from the main town of Dwarka Beyt Dwarka is a small island and was the main port in the region before the development of Okha. While the island is enclosed by a few temples, white sand beach and coral reefs, the beach is also popular among tourists for its marine life, sea excursions, camping and picnics.
4. Dwarka Beach
Along the Arabian Sea coast, Dwarka Beach is a good place to relax in the evenings. Popular among both the locals and tourists, Dwarka Beach is located quite close to the main temples in town.
5. Rukmani Temple
A small structure is an important shrine dedicated to Krishna's beloved consort, Rukmani Devi. Not as majestically gigantic , this shrine is an architectural masterpiece in itself. The Hindu mythical story behind this temple begins with Rukhmini Devi and her husband Lord Krishna, picking up the sage Durvesha for dinner. On the way, Rukhmini Devi stopped to quench her thirst at the Ganges, with the help of her husband. Known to be short-tempered, Durvesha Muni was quite enraged when she did not offer him any water. Thus he summoned Rukhmini Devi to be separated from Lord Krishna. Therefore, her temple lies at the outskirts, while Lord Krishna's temple is within the Dwarka city.
6. Lighthouse
The tower, 43m in height was inaugurated on 15th July 1962. Tourists can enjoy the panoramic view of the sunset.
7. Gomti Ghat
If the holy scriptures are to be believed, the Gomti River is none other than the Ganges, descending directly from heaven. The most sought after spots out of the various shrines and ghats this is the place where the river meets the mighty ocean.
8. Gopi Talav
Legend has it that this is the lake where Krishna used to entice his Gopis (young female inhabitants) with his youthful pranks and romantic nature. About 20km , the lake is surrounded by sandal like yellow sand which is used by the devotees to make tilaks on their bodies. It is quite a pretty sight.
9. Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Mandir
Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Mandir, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is an ancient temple, some 5000 years old, which was built around a self-manifested Shivaling found in the Arabian Sea.
10. Gita Temple
Built by the industrialist family of Birla in 1970, it is constructed using white marble resulting in a magnificent and awe inspiring structure. The temple was made to capture and preserve the teachings and values of the Bhagavad Gita, the religious book of the Hindus.
11. Sudama Setu
Sudama Setu Bridge is a stunning suspension bridge built for pedestrians to cross River Gomti. The bridge was named after Sudhama, Lord Krishna's childhood friend. It was inaugurated by Anandiben Patel, the CM of Gujarat in 2016.
12. ISKCON Dwarka
Located on Devi road, the ISKCON Temple in Dwarka is yet another manifestation of the Krishna Consciousness. Housing idols of Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha draped in rich attires and ornated in flowers, this is an entirely stone-built temple.
13. Swami Narayan Mandir
Located very close to the beautiful seashore and the Dwarkadish temple, Swami Narayan Mandir is a shrine dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan, an avatar of Lord Vishnu. The shrine is a relatively new structure, with intricate architecture expressed through sculptures and embossed wall work.
14. Dunny Point
Located at Dwarka Beyt, Dunny Point is a mesmerising island-like spot and a great place for water-based activities and bird watching. This uninhibited point is an eco-tourism site also offers an impressive marine camping and safari option along its coral-embedded water site.
How to Reach Dwarka
The nearest airport is Jamnagar, about 137 km away from Dwarka City. Dwarka has its own railway station, trains connecting Dwarka to all major cities (Jamnagar, Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, Mumbai, Goa, etc.) Dwarka is very well connected by road as well.
Best time to visit Dwarka
The ideal time to visit Dwarka is from November till the last of February when the city experiences cold winters. Nonetheless, if you specifically want to participate in the festivities of Dwarka's grandly celebrated Janmashtami Festival, visiting the town during August and September will be eventful. Hence, September to March are the best months to visit Dwarka. However, the city is equally enchanting throughout the year.
Food of Dwarka
There aren't many lavish restaurants in Dwarka. However, the ones that it houses serve delicious Gujarati, North-Indian and Chinese food. An elaborate Gujarati thali is a must, while here. Roti, Dal or Kadhi, Rice and Vegetable Curries make up this mouth-watering platter. You can also try out the famous Khichdi . Other than these, do try out the popular Gujarati snacks such as Khamman Dhokla, Khandvi, Thepala, Khakhra, Hahdwoh as well as the widespread and refreshing Lassi, Buttermilk and Chaas.
Dwarka Tour Packages
About Dwarka Tourism: Dwarka in Gujarat is said to be the capital of Lord Krishna’s kingdom and is therefore called the “home of Lord Krishna.” The only city to be part of both the Char Dham and Sapta Puris, Dwarka is known for its sacred sites and a shoreline that features few beaches.
The Dwarkadhish Temple, dating back over 2,500 years, is one of the city’s prime attractions admired for its Chalukya style of architecture, its intricate carvings as well as its mesmerising five-storey shrine. The Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, one of India’s 12 Jyotirlingas, another one of the city’s numerous wonders, is renowned for its 80 feet tall statue of Lord Shiva.
Some of the other temples you must visit in Dwarka include the Rukmini Devi Temple, Gita Temple and Swaminarayan Mandir. Also, see Gopi Talav, a calm lake where Lord Krishna supposedly performed “raas” for the Gopis. The serene Gomti Ghat is another must-visit place alongside Sudama Setu, which pedestrians use to cross the Gomti River.
Besides holy sites, Dwarka is also famous for the Dwarka Beach along the Arabian Sea coast. You can watch the sunset, admire the coral reefs, eat at a food stall or go looking for seashells. Dwarka Lighthouse also attracts crowds of tourists who visit the site for its architecture and views of the setting sun.
About 30km from the city is Beyt Island, where you can go beach camping, dolphin spotting, picnicking, etc. Situated at the mouth of the Gulf of Kutch, this island with its white-sand beaches and coral reefs is supposedly where Lord Krishna stayed when he was the king of Dwarka. Visit Dwarka between November and February when the weather is ideal for sightseeing. 1-2 days are sufficient to explore the city. You can stay in guesthouses, hotels, resorts etc.
Dwarka tour packages also include nearby destinations like Somnath, Diu and Ahmedabad. Somnath, meaning “Lord of the Moon,” is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas renowned for the Somnath Temple. You must visit the Paanch Pandav Gufa, Suraj Mandir and Laxminarayan Temple. Somnath Beach, great for relaxing, jogging and sunset watching, and Chorwad Beach are also famous here.
Ahmedabad, the state’s capital, is synonymous with the Sabarmati Ashram, where Mahatma Gandhi resided with his wife. Here you would also find the Statue of Unity which commemorates Vallabhai Patel and is the world’s tallest statue, as well as Dada Hari Vav and Rani ki Vav, which are prominent stepwells. In addition, a walk across the green promenades and parks on the Sabarmati Waterfront would undoubtedly be calming.
Once a Portuguese colony, Diu is famous for its beaches; Nagoa Beach, Ghoghla Beach and Gomtimata Beach are ideal for relaxing, sunset watching, parasailing, jet skiing, etc. Catch a glimpse of the setting sun from Sunset Point or visit Diu Fort, Naida Caves and Diu Museum. We have numerous customisable and affordable Dwarka travel packages for a remarkable trip!
About City
Somnath
"The town of the Lord of the Moon"
Somnath, literally meaning 'lord of the moon' is a pilgrim center and is home to one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. It is a town which derives much of its identity from the mythology, religion, and legends that surround it.
Primarily a temple town, Somnath is a place where a strong scent of religion and legends lingers around tourism and even daily life. Its spiritual environment is ornamented by the huge number of temples in the area, however, Somnath also offers beaches, museums and other attractions. While the Somnath temple and Somnath beach are the primary places to visit here, Gita Mandir, Balukha Tirtha, Kamnath Mahadev Temple, Somnath Museum are some of the other places that one can visit.
Places To Visit In Somnath
1. Somnath Temple
A highly revered religious site for Hindus, the Somnath Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of India. The Jyotirlinga is adorned with flowers, ornaments of silver and gold and people from far and wide come to worship it. It is first of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva. It has been mentioned in ancient texts like Shreemad Bhagavat Gita, Skandpuran, Shivpuran and Rig-Veda which signifies the importance of this temple as one of the most celebrated pilgrimage sites. The temple is located on the ancient Triveni Sangam or the confluence of three rivers - Kapila, Hiran, and Saraswati. The temple is known as an eternal shrine owing to its perseverance against the test of time. It has withstood several destructions in the past and still has not lost its beauty. It is said that the temple was looted and destroyed as many as seventeen times by emperors like Mahmud Ghazni, Alauddin Khilji, and Aurangzeb.
Timings : Darshan timing- 6:00 AM - 9:30 PM,
Arati timing- 7:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 7:00 PM,
Light and sound show- 7:45 PM
2. Bhalka Tirth
Bhalka Tirth is a renowned Hindu pilgrim centre which is believed to be the location where Lord Krishna was shot by a hunter's arrow. According to the sacred scripts, Lord Krishna's death marks the end of the Dvapara Yug and the beginning of the Kali Yug. The tirth has a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and is called Mahaprabhuji's Bethak.
3. Somnath Beaches
Beaches of Somnath, though crowded, have the power to lure you away in a different world of soothing waves. The beaches are not recommended for swimming but are definitely a great point to relax and unwind.
4. Paanch Pandav Gufa
Discovered by the late Baba Narayandas in the year 1949, the temple was dedicated to the five Pandava Brothers. The location of the temple is such that one can view the entire city and get mesmerized just by looking at it.
5. Laxminarayan Temple
Located on the Somnath shore, the presiding deity, Lord Laxminarayan is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Reflects modern architectural design, this temple is famous for the carvings on its 18 pillars which have the sacred message of Krishna in the form of Bhagwadgita.
6. Triveni Sangam Temple
The confluence of the three rivers Hiran, Kapila and Saraswati this is the point where the rivers meet the mighty Arabian Sea. Triveni Sangam is believed to be a very sacred Moksha Tirtha for Hindus.
7. Chorwad Beach
Located in Somnath, Chorwad Beach is one of the most serene and tranquil places to relax and enjoy. The whole place offers picture-perfect views especially during sunrise and sunset which are a must witness.
8. Suraj Mandir
Suraj Mandir too is situated near the Triveni Ghats and is one of the few temples dedicated to the Sun God. There are depictions of elephants, lions and various other birds and animals in the temple.
9. Parshuram Temple
The temple lies on the banks of the holy river Triveni where Lord Parshuram is believed to have conducted his penance. One of the rare temple dedicated to Lord Parshuram this temple provides visitors with a scenic surrounding and picturesque landscapes.
10. Dehotsarg Teerth
Dehotsarg Teerth is an important pilgrim centre for the Hindus as this is where Lord Krishna breathed his last after he was shot by Jara's arrow. The location is marked by Lord Krishna's footprints. It is also believed that Krishna's brother, Baldev, also accompanied him in the form of a serpent crawling through the Balramjiki Gufa nearby.
11. Shashibhushan Mahadev and Bhidbhanjan Ganpatiji Temple
Located about 4km away from the city on the highway along the beautiful sea shore. Bhidbhanjan is the savior form of Ganesha and is worshipped here along with Shiva.
12. Kamnath Mahadev Temple
This temple built nearly 200 years ago by a King is now one of the most popular temples of Somnath. The King believed that a dip in the pond in the vicinity could cure humans of any disease.
13. Gita Temple
Built at the Triveni Ghat, where three rivers meet the ocean, the Gita Temple is a beautiful structure dedicated to Lord Krishna built by the Birlas in the 70s. The beautifully capturing white marble structure has a depiction of the hymns of the Gita intricately engraved on the walls.
14. Prabhas Patan Museum
Prabhas Patan Museum was established in the mid-1900s and has a stunning collection of ancient temple remains, inscriptions, idols of deities, water from sacred rivers, etc. that signify the union of Saraswati, Kapila and Hiranya. One of the most important Shivalingas, the Kalbhairav Linga, is also believed to be hidden amidst the remains, which the Moon God worships. The attraction, therefore, has immense religious and archaeological importance.
15. Junagadh Gate
Junagadh Gate is a historic monument which is believed to be the gate that Mahmud of Gazni entered to loot and destroy the Somnath Temple. The splendid monument now serves as a landmark and is made of stone with chattris and sculpted tigers on top of it.
16. Prachi Tirth
Prachi Tirth is a religious centre important for performing the sacred rituals for the ancestors. According to a legend, Lord Krishna, who was a descendant of the Yaduvansh, performed rituals at the tirth for his ancestors. Religiously, Prachi tirth is considered just as important as Kashi for the Hindu ceremonies.
How to Reach Somnath
Travelling from cities like Mumbai, Jabalpur, Delhi from rail might turn out to be quite a challenging experience. A direct rail connection from Delhi isn't available. Koshed (55 km) and Diu (90 km) are the closest airports and it will take approximately Rs. 2000 to reach Somnath from these places by cab.
Best time to visit Somnath
September to March are the best months to visit Somnath, as the winters are quite cold. However, if you wish to avoid the crowd and tourists that flock to Somnath, you may be tempted to visit the place during the summer and monsoon season. Somnath is extremely hot and humid during these seasons and should most definitely be visited during the winter months when the heat is more bearable.
Food of Somnath
Somnath does not have many restaurants or lavish fine dining experiences to offer. There are a few popular eating places around the temple, as well as some local joints and Dhabas. Dairy products like Lassi, Buttermilk, Chaas, ice creams are popular and easily available.
You can also try Gujarati snacks in the area like Dhokla, Khakra, Fafda, Sev, Khandvi and Khaman as well as sweets like Ghevar, Malpua, Shrikhand, Puran Poli and more. Gujarat is a dry state, so you wouldn't find any alcohol here.
Somnath Tour Packages
About Somnath Tourism: Meaning the "Lord of the Moon," Somnath in Gujarat is a major pilgrimage centre and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. It finds its mention in several holy and mythological texts and is known for its numerous temples and legends! If you are a religious person, a trip to Somnath is an absolute must; We offer many affordable Somnath tour packages.
The Somnath Temple should be your first stop, the first Jyotirlinga shrine of the 12. It is one of the country's oldest and mentioned in the Bhagavad Gita, Rig-Vega and more. This temple came to be established when Soma, the Moon God, constructed a Shivalinga to seek Lord Shiva's assistance in removing a curse put on him by King Daksha, the father of his 27 wives.
Associated with Lord Krishna, Bhalka Tirth is an important pilgrimage site that is said to be where a hunter shot him. The Mahaprabhuji's Bethak temple is situated on the premises. Other temples to visit when travelling to Somnath include the Parshuram Temple, Suraj Mandir and Laxminarayan Temple. Also, see the serene Panch Pandav Gufa, which is dedicated to the 5 Pandavas.
Somnath is famous for its religious sites and its beaches like Somnath Beach and Chorwad Beach. Though unsuitable for swimming, you can relax here and watch the sunset. What's more, you must take the time to see the Junagadh Gate, which is what Mahmud of Ghazni entered through to loot the Somnath Temple. 2 days are enough to explore the city.
The best time to travel to Somnath is from September to March, when the weather is most pleasant for sightseeing. You can choose from numerous hotels to stay in. Furthermore, Somnath tour packages often feature other destinations such as Dwarka, Diu and Ahmedabad. A former Portuguese colony, Diu is famous for the Naida Caves, Diu Fort and Zampa Gateway.
Since Diu lies on the shore, it is home to many beaches where you can swim, relax or engage in water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, boating etc. Ahmedabad, the state's capital, should indeed be a part of your trip to Somnath because it is home to the Sabarmati Ashram, when Mahatma Gandhi resided.
You can visit Rani ki Vav, see the Statue of Unity, walk around near the Sabarmati Riverfront and explore Bhadra Fort. The city is also known for various religious sites like the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, Hutheesing Jain Temple and Modhera Sun Temple. Dwarka, on the other hand, is a profoundly spiritual city renowned for the Dwarkadhish Temple, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga and Gopi Talav. You must also visit Dwarka Beach.
We provide you with an opportunity to tour one of India's most holy destinations as well as others nearby with our customisable Somnath travel packages.
About City
Diu
"A mini-Goa"
Located near the port of Veraval, Diu is a small island which was earlier a Portuguese colony and is now guarded by beaches all around. Diu takes up most popularity given the ample number of beaches, along with Gujarat's southern coast such as the Nagoa beach, but has a lot more to offer too. Alcohol is legal in Diu.
The Diu Fort, a primary imprint of the Portuguese on the area's heritage and architecture makes up a popular tourist attraction. Another interesting place is the Vanakbara, a small fishing village whose charm has tints of colourful fishing boats and humming of day to day activity. This perfect add-on to a visit to Gujarat will complete your experience with interesting museums such as the Sea Shell Museum, temples and churches.
Places To Visit In Diu
1. Naida Caves
The Naida caves are located on the periphery of the Diu fort. These caves have a big network of tunnels with square hewn steps. Interestingly, these caves were formed due to geological irregularities and natural processes over time. The caves also have a natural opening that lets in sunlight, making it photogenic.
2. Nagoa Beach
Famous for its pristine beauty and swaying palm trees, Nagoa Beach in Diu is an ideal and a recommended place for tourists all over the world. The place is well connected with the resorts, hence it making it easy for the travellers to relax and explore its beauty at the same time. The beach is surrounded by beautiful palm trees swaying in the cool breeze which creates an exotic environment for the travellers to laze around. The serene beauty of the beach due to its white sands and quiet blue water is worth experiencing and enjoying. It is very much known for its water sports along with camel and pony riding. Sunbathing can turn out to be the most intoxicating experience at the Nagoa Beach. A walk along the shore mixed with witnessing the sunrise and sunset is a great way to relax one's mind.
3. Gangeshwar Mahadev Temple
Situated 3 km from Diu, Gangeshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has 5 Shivalingas that were supposedly laid by the Pandavas during their exile period. These Shivalingas are situated amidst rocks that are washed by waves continuously.
4. Diu Fort
Fort Diu, located on the Western coast of Indian was built by Portuguese during their colonial rule and is now under the administration of Indian government. The fort- cum - castle, is known as 'Praça de Diu' in Portuguese, is situated on the southern tip of Gujarat and is at the mouth of the Gulf of Khambhat.
5. Ghogla Beach
The Golden sand beach undulates into the horizon while the Arabian Sea laps away at the edge as though imploring the sands to let it find its own beach.
6. Sunset Point
A beautiful hillock located near the Chakritirath beach in Diu, offers its visitors a mesmerizing view of sunset from here. The hillock and the surrounding areas have been beautifully landscaped and illuminated. Chakratirth Beach is centrally located and contiguous to the Diu Town.
7. St. Paul Church
One of the most famous tourist attractions of Diu, this magnanimous structure is the St. Paul Church dedicated to 'Our Lady of Immaculate Conception'.
8. INS Khukri Memorial
INS Khukri Memorial is the memorial site of an Indian Naval Ship that sank during the Indo-Pak War of 1971.
9. Panikota Fort
Also known as Fortim-do-Mar, Panikota Fort is a former Diu Jail. This white coloured huge structure is located within the Diu Fort.
10. Zampa Gateway
The Zampa Gateway is another attraction. It is a major landmark of Diu and is carved with dedicated angels, lions and a priest. An artificial waterfall adds to its beauty.
11. Shell Museums in Diu
One of the few shell museums in the world is located in Diu. It houses collections of Captain Fulbari, a sailor, who during his voyages collected many unique, pretty and amazing shells.
12. Diu Museum
A famous tourist spot of the town, the Diu Museum has been set up in the St. Thomas Church. This church had been built in 1598 but was later converted into a museum.
13. Chakratirth Beach
Nestled amidst the picturesque hills meeting the Arabian Sea, the Chakratirth beach is the ideal place to soak up the sun or frolick in the enchanting waters while beating the heat and relaxing by the calming shores of Diu.
14. Jallandar Beach
Named after the demon, Jallandar, this sunny beach lies almost 1 km from Diu and has a temple and a memorial. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandrika while the memorial is atop a hill with a stone structure of the demon Jallandar. The beach also offers exciting water sports.
15. Gomptimata Beach
Located on the western end of the Diu in the village Vanakbara, this is one of the best beaches of the region. Secluded and with natural white sand, Gomtimata beach is a beautiful beach to just sit back and relax. You will also find a temple located at the beach.
16. Church of St. Fancis of Assisi
This church is one of the oldest churches in Diu. The church, constructed in 1593 was later converted into a hospital.
17. Simbor Beach
Located in the village of Simbor in Diu, the namesake beach boasts of unparalleled serenity, mesmerising surroundings and incapacitating beauty. Apart from the sweeping picturesque views of the sea and the sands, the highlight of the beach is also an old Portuguese fort called "Fort St. Anthony of Simbor."
18. Chapel of Our Lady Rosary
The Chapel of Our Lady Rosary is located in Old Moti Daman, Diu. The church dates back to the 17th century and is of great historical and religious significance. The structure of the church employs Gothic-style architecture, which displays an elegant Portuguese influence.
How to Reach Diu
Diu is connected to other parts of Gujarat and the country with good road network. Diu does not have its own railway station and the nearest railhead is at Veraval which is 90 km from Diu. One can take a taxi after Veraval to reach Diu. Diu also has its own airport and daily flights connect Diu to Mumbai and to Porbandar.
Best time to visit Diu
The best months to plan a trip to Diu are November to February during the Winter season because of its ideal weather and a host of activities that are sure to keep you engaged. From thrilling watersports, calm beaches, historic architecture, abandoned forts and lip-smacking food; Diu is a paradise in Winters.
Food of Diu
Diu is a unique and composite blend of Gujarat's and Portuguese cuisine. This blend then, leaves few food domains that are not covered in the island's menu. On one hand you find traditional Gujrati food, its flavors and elements derived from the state nearby and on the other hand you have an influence of the past with Portugeese cuisine only complimented by the sea around and a dominance of exotic sea food.
While these are the defining cultures, one can find a few more international cuisines as well as typical Indian food in the restaurants. The island is also popular because of availability of alcohol, givent the adjacent dry state of Gujrat.
Diu Tour Packages
About Diu Tourism: Part of the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Diu is a small island on India’s western coast bordered by Gujarat. The island with its beaches was once a Portuguese colony and is home to heritage sites dating back to the 16th century. We bring you great Diu tour packages so that you can discover its hidden gems with friends or family!
Situated along the Arabian Sea, Diu is known for its numerous beaches like the Nagoa Beach, Ghoghla Beach, Jallandhar Beach and Simbor Beach. These golden beaches boast gorgeous views and complete tranquillity, making them the perfect spot for relaxing, parasailing, boating, surfing, etc. Though the beaches undoubtedly provide excellent views of the sunset, you can always head over to Sunset Point, a breathtaking hillock near Chakratirth Beach.
Your trip to Diu might be incomplete without a visit to the Diu Fort built by the Portuguese. Also called “Praça de Diu”, the majestic structure was once one of Portugal’s seven wonders and overlooked the beautiful sea and a jetty used for trading. Moreover, the premises feature a lighthouse and several cannonballs, while on the periphery lie the Naida Caves, within which are tunnels for you to explore.
Other heritage sites to visit in Diu include the Panikota Fort, a former jail located within Diu Fort and the Zampa Gateway featuring carvings of angels, lions and a priest. When travelling to Diu, don’t skip out on its beautiful churches that date back to the colonial era, like the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, St. Paul Church and Chapel of Our Lady Rosary.
Diu Museum and the Sea Shell Museum make for a great cultural experience. Diu Museum used to be a church and contains inscriptions on fountains, ancient rulers and statues, wooden and marble statues. The Sea Shell Museum has shells collected by the sailor Captain Fulbari. The INS Khukri Memorial is a tribute to the Indian Naval Ship that sank during the 1971 Indo-Pak War.
The best time to visit Diu is during the wintertime, between November and February, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Diu tour packages also provide you with the opportunity to visit neighbouring cities like Ahmedabad and Dwarka. Ahmedabad is a major metropolitan city in Gujarat famous for attractions like Sabarmati Ashram, where Gandhi lived, Statue of Unity, Jhulta Minar, Kankaria Lake and Rani ki Vav.
Dwarka is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites and is an ancient city that is synonymous with the Dwarkadhish Temple, Dwarka Beach, Gomti Ghat, picturesque Dwarka Lighthouse and more. Customisable and affordable, Diu tour packages are the perfect choice for an enjoyable trip, no matter if you’re travelling alone or with someone.
About City
Gir National Park
"The land of Asiatic Lions"
Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is the only remaining home for the Asiatic Lions. Located in Talala Gir in Gujarat, the Sanctuary is a part of Kathiawar- Gir dry deciduous forests ecoregion. Gir National Park is closed from 16 June to 15 October every year and the best time for wildlife spotting is April and May.
Gir provides you with the unique experience of visiting a place which almost singularly plays a crucial and defining role in the preservation and sustaining of a certain species. The preservation of these lions was initiated by the Nawab of Junagadh when these were just about to enter the phase of extinction due to hunting.
The official count said that there were 411 lions in 2010. Also, there are roughly different 2375 species of fauna here with 38 species of mammals, over 300 species of birds, 37 species of reptiles and over 2000 species of insects. Other important wildlife forms found here are leopard, chausingha, spotted deer, hyena, sambar deer and chinkara.
Attractions in Gir National Park
Apart from the famous Gir jungle trail at the national park, Gir has many other attractions to offer to tourists. The Kamleshwar dam, which is the largest dam in Gir, is one such attraction, and it is often referred to as the ‘lifeline of Gir’. It is built over the Hiran river. The beautiful Tulsi Shyam temple located within the national park is also a must-visit. The crocodile breeding farm, located near the Sasan Gir reserve, is also a popular tourist destination.
Water Reserve
The Gir region has seven major rivers, and 4 reservoirs at 4 dams - one each on the Hiran, Machhundri, Raval and Shingoda rivers. The biggest reservoir is the Kamleshwar Dam, which is called as the lifeline of Gir. Droughts and water scarcity are a major challenge in the region, especially during peak summers.
Biodiversity of Gir
The dry deciduous forests of Gir are believed to house over 500 species of flora, with teak trees being the most populous. Other prominent species include jamun, babul and the flame of the forest. Casuarinas and Prosopis were planted along the coastal borders of Gir for under the afforestation program.
Gir is synonyms to the royal Asiatic lions that draws in the wildlife enthusiasts from all around the globe. The national park is the last abode of the endangered species of Asiatic lions that are the pride of India.
With the population of about 500 lions and 400 leopards in its premises, Gir is one of the biggest habitats of the wild cats and also a haven for the wildlife lovers. Apart from the leopards and lions, the national park also houses the various variety of species such as Deer, Sambhar, Cheetal, antelopes, blue bull, jackal, hyena and hare among the other species of fauna.
Devalia Safari Park
The Devalia Safari Park is also known as the Gir Interpretation Zone and was established to reduce the excess of tourists at the Gir National Park. It is an eco-tourism zone, known as ‘Gir in a nutshell’, which houses all the wildlife and habitats of Gir within its boundaries.
Prominent species that can be spotted here include - Blue Bull, Asiatic Lion, Leopard, Sambhar and Peafowl. The Savana habitat is also a popular attraction here. A tour of Devalia is cheaper, quicker and allows tourists to view the animals in their natural habitat.
Morning Timings
Bus - 7:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Gypsy - One hour ride slots between 7:00 AM and 11:00 AM
Evening Timings
Bus - 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Gypsy - One hour ride slots between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM
Gir Jungle Trail
Each safari at Gir (Gir Jugle Trail) would last for 3 hours covering a range of sections throughout the forest. Alongside a jeep and a guide, travellers could also take upfront pictures of the majestic Asiatic lions here. However, visitors would have to obtain permission from the Sinh Sadan Forest Lodge Office, which would be furthered by Gir Park itself.
Each safari slot requires at least 5 visitors. A typical safari would traverse through 300 lion species, 200 bird types, 30 different mammals and 24 kinds of reptiles.
Cost
A single jeep safari would cost INR 5300 for six adults and a child. However, the same package would cost about INR 13800 for foreign visitors.
Winter Timings (16th Oct - 28th/29th Feb)
Morning - 6:45 AM - 9:45 AM
Evening - 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Summer Timings (1st Mar - 15th June)
Morning - 6:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Evening - 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Restaurants and Local Food in Gir National Park
Gir has a number of resorts and lodges that serve food across various cuisines. These ensure that you won't run out of options for food while on your trip through adventure and excitement. Since it's a part of Gujarat, you might find local and elaborate Gujarati cuisine being served here. Typically vegetarian, Gujarati Thali would consist of Roti, Dal or Kadhi, Rice and Vegetable Curries. Gujarat is a dry state, so you wouldn't find any alcohol here.
Best Time To Visit Gir National Park
December and March is the best time to visit Gir National Park is during the winter season. It is during this period that the weather in Gir is pleasant and cool. The protected area of Gir National Park closes every year from 16th June to 15th October. A safari in this national park during the winter season will be a delightful experience as each, and every nook and cranny is open to visit and explore. April and May although a bit hot are considered the best times for wildlife spotting and photography.
How to Reach Gir National Park
The Gir National Park is easily accessible via roadways, railways and airways. The nearest airport to this national park is the Keshod Airport, at a distance of about 50 to 60 km.
The Sasan Gir railway station is the the closest railhead, just about a 10-minute walk away.
There is also a bus station in Sasan Gir, which is conveniently located to the Gir National Park.
How to reach Gir National Park by flight
The nearest airport to Gir National Park is Keshod, which lies approx 85 km away from Gir. The second nearest airport is Rajkot at 140 km away which can be easily accessed by other airports of the country. From the airport, the best way to reach Gir is by hiring a private taxi. You can also find a bus from Keshod to Gir.
Nearest Airport: Diu Airport (DIU) - 49 kms from Gir National Park
How to reach Gir National Park by road
Gir is well-connected with the roads with the nearby cities. Direct buses run from Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Dwarka, Rajkot, Surat etc to Junagadh from where you need to take a cab to Gir.
How to reach Gir National Park by train
Sasan Gir has its own railway station, which is not well-connected with the main cities of the country. The best is to catch a train to Junagadh or Rajkot and take a taxi to Gir from the railway station.
How to reach Gir National Park by bus
There are plenty of buses plying from various major starting points to the Gir National Park, also known as Sasan Gir. Buses can be booked via RedBus or any other trusted booking platform. Some of the most convenient routes to reach the park are via Ahmedabad, Junagadh, Rajkot and Jetpur.
About City
Bhavnagar
"The Hub of Diamond Industry"
Located at the southern tip of Gujarat peninsula, Bhavnagar is known as the cultural centre of the state of Gujarat. Literary achievers like Govardhan Tripathi, Kavi Kant, Narsihm Mehta and Ganga Sati have their roots in Bhavnagar. While on one side, you'd see the careless waves of Gulf of Khambat, on the other hand, you can see the busiest port of ocean trading in India.
It is located at a distance of 98 kilometres from the capital of Gandhinagar. This region has a rich legacy dating back to the 18th century. It was a major port city and had trade links with different countries across the globe. Presently, Bhavnagar is known for housing the diamond cutting and polishing industry in India.
Bhavnagar also houses one of the oldest educational institutions, Samaldas Arts College. In 1884 Mahatma Gandhi was the student of this college. Bhavnagar is one of the finest examples of architectural brilliance and houses iconic monuments that originated in the 19th century. Some of the major tourist attractions include Nilambag Palace, Takhteshwar Temple, Barton Library, Victoria Park, Bhav Vilas Palace and more.
Places To Visit In Bhavnagar
1. GauriShankar lake
A beautiful lake flowing amidst the hills, the view of this place is soothing. Sit by the lake side with your feet dipped in water, as the clear water of the lake flows through under your feet, the coldness of its touch makes you forget all your worries and surrender to the beauty of nature.
2. Nilambag Palace
Built in 1859, this palace has now been converted to a heritage hotel. The architectural design of the palace shows a fusion of Indian and western architecture done with sheer brilliance.
3. Victoria Park
Victoria park is a popular tourist place and is known as green lung of Bhavnagar. It is a man made forest situated in the state of Gujarat, Bhavnagar. It was established on 24th May 24, 1888. It is spread over an area of 500 acres, and well known for its water birds.
4. Takhteshwar Temple
Situated on the hill top near the railway station, the beauty of this temple is beyond words. Dedicated to lord Shiva, Takhteshwar is built of white marble and makes for a prime tourist spot.
5. Water lock gate
Located in the city dockyard, Water Lock Gate was constructed a 100 years ago. Visitors need special permission to visit the site.
6. Gandhi Smriti
This poignant memorial, located in New Delhi, is where Mahatma Gandhi was shot dead by a Hindu zealot on 30 January 1948, after campaigning against intercommunal violence. This memorial was constructed to honour his death and is now a major tourist attraction of the capital city.
7. Barton library and museum
The oldest library of the city, Barton has a huge collection of books from the genres of history and culture. With the fast paced life today, not many youngsters can be spotted in the library, you will mostly spot adults and elderly people coming over to the library with their newspapers and help in its maintenance.
8. Palitana
A small town located in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat, Palitana is noted as a popular pilgrimage site among the Jains. Another famous thing about Palitana is that the town strictly follows vegetarianism which makes it the first city in the world to abide by the vegetarian diet legally. It is no surprise that the town has listed selling of animal products (Fish, meat and eggs) or activities that involve the killing of animals to be illegal.
9. Bhavnagar Blackbuck National Park
Bhavnagar Blackbuck National Park, Velavadar is located in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat, India. This national park is known to provide a magical experience to its visitors. The wilderness of this national park is unrivalled. From grasslands to mud flats Bhavnagar Blackbuck National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers. Know that this sanctuary has been primarily declared for the conservation of Blackbucks. You can, however, find a horde of other mammals and birds.
Best time to visit Bhavnagar
October- January are the best months to visit Bhavnagar. Bhavnagar experiences hot and dry summers. June experiences heavy rainfall which adds to the high temperature resulting in humidity. Winters begin from October and go on till January- February. It is thus considered best to visit Bhavnagar during winters.
Food of Bhavnagar
Bhavnagar has, to its acclaim, some of the best and most delicious, tasty vegetarian food dishes to boast off in all of Gujarat. Starting from Fafda Ganthiya which is a crispy fried snack made with gram flour, topped with carom seeds and black pepper to Pav-Ganthiya, which is a speciality of Bhavnagar and can be found at Lachhus Cart, the city is every foodies delight. The 'khougali' at Ghogha Circle which is flocked by hundreds of people on a weekly basis, a testimony to that. Spend an afternoon here, indulging in a variety of food dishes and devouring street food like the Bhungda Bateta. Bhungda means deep fried yellow fryums and bateta means hot and spicy, potato garlic curry which are prepared separately but served together, making it lip smackingly delicious. If the spiciness gets to you, have some thirst quenching soda or a healthy milkshake made from dates and almonds, also available in and around Ghogha Circle.
The other must try are the local dishes of the state. Khakra, Thepla, Dhokla, Khandwi. These dishes might be available in the rest of the country too but they taste the best here.
The Gujarati Thali consists of various dishes like ringana methi nu shak, Gujarati khatti mithi daal, undhiyu, bhindi sambhariya, aloo rasila, steamed basmati rice, badshahi khichdi, Chapati, methi na thepla and bhakhri with kachumber salad along with various types of chutneys and buttermilk. There are many restaurants in Bhavnagar that make Gujarat's best a whole lot better!
How to Reach Bhavnagar
Bhavnagar city is well connected with all major cities and towns of India via air, rail and road. The Bhavnagar airport is the closest local airport, which is about 4 to 6 km from the city and can be covered through a 10 to 15-minute drive.
The Bhavnagar Railway Station, also known as the Bhavnagar Terminus at Madhia in Kumbharwada is about 2.6 to 3.2 km from Bhavnagar city. It can be reached via a 10 to 13-minute taxi or auto drop off.
There are quite a few bus stands in Bhavnagar. The Bhavnagar State Transport Bus Stand is about 2 to 4 km from the city and can be covered either through a 10-minute drive or a 30-minute walk.
Bhavnagar Tourism
Bhavnagar is an ancient city in Gujarat with volumes of history to speak throughout the city. Amid the amalgam of modern and ancient sites inclusive of religious and historical marks, Bhavnagar also hosts an array of national parks and ecological sites.
Some of the prominent picks of the several attractions in Bhavnagar are the Victoria Park; a secured wildlife forest, the Nilambagh Palace; a preserved colonial mansion-turned-hotel, Gaurishankar Lake; the city's major supply of water and a local sightseeing spot.
Home to over 1000 blackbucks, the Velavadar National Park is another popular haunt. The hilltop Takateshwar temple, Shri Adeshwar Temple and the Khodiyar Temple are some of the major religious sites in the city. The Gandhian remnants and relics at the Gandhi Smriti of the Barton Museum and the Barton Library are other significant mentions.
About City
Vadodara
Vadodara or Baroda is a cosmopolitan city located in Gujarat. Home to some of the most exemplary displays of architecture, Vadodara is a fitting memorial to Maratha leader Sayaji Rao Gaekwad III who had envisioned a dream to make this Big City an educational, industrial and commercial centre.
Known for one of the most lavish palaces in India- the Lakshmi Vilas Palace and plenty more legendary monuments, Vadodara is the cultural capital of Gujarat. With a prominent part of it being occupied by the Gujaratis, this place is the most sought after during the nine days of the Navratri festival. No city in India celebrates the festival of Navratri with as much zeal and exuberance as Vadodara does. It houses one of the premier universities of India- the Maharaja Sayajirao University.
The top sightseeing places in Vadodara are Laxmi Vilas Palace, Sayaji Baug (Kamati Baug), Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, Ajwa Nimeta Garden, Baps Sri Swaminarayan Mandir, Vadodara Museum and Picture Gallery.
Places To Visit In Vadodara
1. Laxmi Vilas Palace
Laxmi Vilas Palace is one of the most majestic structures in India and was the private residence of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. Known to be the largest private dwelling of the size equivalent to four times of the Buckingham Palace, this magnificent palace is a must-visit when in Vadodara.
2. Sayaji Baug/Gardens
Sayaji Gardens, as the name suggests is dedicated to Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III himself. It is the largest garden in the western region of India with a sprawling 45 hectares of land. That's not all; this park also houses two museums, a planetarium, a zoo, a toy train for children and a flower clock. So many utilities under one roof, make this attraction the most sought after in the state of Gujarat.
3. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park
Being included in the elite list of the World Heritage Sites across the globe, this marvelous archaeological park set in the heart of the city of Champaner and amidst the Pavagadh hills is one of the most sought after places in Gujarat.
4. Ajwa Nimeta Garden
Decked with green manicured lawns and adorned by towering palm trees, the Ajwa Nimeta Garden is the perfect destination to plan your leisurely weekend at. The crowd-puller here is the 100-meter row of perfectly aligned musical fountains that mesmerise us with coordinated water shoots in the background of lively colours.
5. Baps Sri Swaminarayan Mandir
Adorned with immaculate architecture, flawless design and awe-striking grandeur, the BAPS Sri Swaminarayan Mandir is like the palace of the lord. The tranquil vibe of the temple instils a revitalising and deeply energising calm within you. Right outside the temple is a small and clean eatery that sells mouth-watering Indian delicacies prepared without the use of any onion or garlic.
6. Vadodara Museum and Picture Gallery
Constructed by the Gaekwads in 1894, the Vadodara Museum and Picture Gallery is host to umpteen numbers of relics relating to a wide spectrum of fields right from archeology to geology.
7. Sursagar Lake
Decked with lush greenery on all sides, the Sursagar lake is an example of exemplary architecture and mesmerising beauty. Enjoy paddle-boating in these jade waters and go around the majestic 120-foot statue of Lord Shiva that looks upon the lake.
8. Kirti Mandir
Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III was so powerful and affluent that he had an entire monument built to commemorate the cremation of his family members. This monument was called the Kirti Mandir.
9. Maharaja Sayajirao University
The heart-wrenching separation from the Baroda College of Science in the year 1949, gave birth to one of the most elite institutions in India, the Maharaja Sayajirao University.
10. EME Temple
Short for Electrical and Mechanical Corps, in honour of the people who built the temple, the EME Temples is a symbol of the secularity practised in the Indian Army, the EME Temple in Vadodara is an aluminium-clad abode, constructed at the intersection of ancient and modern.
11. ISKCON Baroda
Spanning over a whopping 2500 ft in the city centre of Baroda, the ISKCON temple has been preserving Vaishnavism for decades now. Seek Lord Krishna's blessings at the Darshan Mandap which is adorned by tasteful traditional art on all sides. Right outside is a pure vegetarian restaurant - Govindas, that serves scrumptious Indian food without using any onion and garlic.
12. Sardar Patel Planetarium
With awe-striking video clips of space, state-of-the-art sound systems and a curved projection screen that imitates reality, this planetarium plays an hour-long session about the solar system, satellites and astronomical history thrice a day in English and Gujarati. All your curiosities about outer space are waiting to be answered right in Sayaji Baug at the Sardar Patel Planetarium.
13. Kabirvad
An awe-striking grove of banyan trees, Kabirvad, awaits you on the banks of River Narmada. This banyan grove is believed to have sprouted from a measly Datoon, and now spreads over more than 3 kms. Believed to have sheltered the famous poet Kabirdas for many years, this banyan grove holds tremendous religious significance and is ardently worshipped by the locals.
14. Zarwani Waterfalls
At a distance of about 90 km from Vadodara in Gujarat, Zarwani Waterfalls are amongst the most sought natural destinations in India. Huddled deep inside the heart of Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary near the district of Narmada, the perennial and gorgeous Zarwani Waterfalls provide you with an opportunity to trek, picnic, and indulge in wildlife photography.
15. Surya Mandir
Surya Mandir, Borsad is situated in the town of Borsad in Anand, Gujarat, dedicated primarily to the Sun God. People from all over the world visit the Sun Temple enthusiastically. The history behind this temple is quite of a vague kind, which dictated that the temple is built at the instance of God himself.
16. Khanderao Market
It pretty much seemed like Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, just needed a random reason to build an edifice. The Khanderao Market is an extravagant building built under his supervision in 1906 that was a gift to the municipality on the completion of 25 years of his authoritative administration.
17. Makarpura Palace
Makarpura Palace was initially constructed with the motive that it will serve as a summer palace for the royal family of the Gaekwads.
18. Aurobindo Ashram
Basically built as a residence to Aurobindo Ghose who was the private secretary to the then Maharaja of Baroda, HH Sayajirao Gaekwad III. Aurobindo Ghose was a multitalented man and during his tenure as a private secretary, he decided to follow his passion of teaching and was the Professor of English and vice-principal of Baroda College.
19. Nyaya Mandir
Nyaya Mandir, translates to 'Temple of Justice' is the District Court of Vadodara city in the state of Gujarat. Situated in the heart of the city, this marvelous piece of architecture was the brainchild of Madras architect Robert Fellowes Chisholm.
20. Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum
Originally built as a school for the Maharaja's children, the Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum now houses a wide range of antiques and art pieces that once belonged to the Maratha royal family. The exhibits range from portraits of the royal family and depictions of Hindu mythologies to flawless marble and bronze sculptures.
21. Statue of Unity
Statue of Unity is a memorial to The Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The statue has been erected to propagate Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's vision of India and to inspire the Citizens of India through his patriotism and freedom struggle. The Bronze statue of the founding father of the Republic of India stands 182 metres tall grabbing the attention of the whole world as the 'Tallest statue in the World'. The statue of Unity is Located in Gujrat, by the banks of River Narmada on the River Island of Sadhu Bet overlooking the Narmada Dam (Sardar Sarovar Dam) from 3.2 km away.
22. Mandvi Gate
Believed to be used to collect tolls from merchants and traders, the Mandvi Gate in Baroda is an important testimonial of the celebrated Mughal era. Resting at the centre of the city, this square-shaped pavilion screams regality with it bold arches on all four sides. The entire structure is illuminated during festivals and is truly a sight to behold.
23. Nadalay Temple
A Vaishnav Hindu Temple dedicated to Shrinathji, the Nandalay Temple is the perfect destressing destination in Baroda. Chanting slow and peaceful hymns in unison with the crowd as the tranquil aura of the temple calms you will revitalise you from within. Be sure to visit during morning or evening aarti and notice the temple's admirable architecture and Shrinathji's beautiful paintings.
24. Hazira Maqbara
Housing the tombs of Qutubbuddin Muhammad Khan- the tutor of Emperor Akbar's son; and his own son Naurang Khan- an influential administrator of Emperor Akbar's dynasty, is the Hazira Maqbara in Baroda. Displaying typical Mughal architecture styles with ostentatious arches and octagonal platforms, the real graves are inside an underground chamber while the replicas are in the tomb.
25. Hathni Waterfalls
Jambughoda is home to one of the most breathtaking and magnificent waterfalls you can visit in the Indian subcontinent. About a 100 metres in length and flowing with rich greenery, Hathni Waterfalls are surrounded by a variety of beautiful flora and fauna. If you find the peaceful sound of flowing water from streams and falls incredibly relaxing, then this is the spot for you.
27. Thol Bird Sanctuary
Thol Bird Sanctuary is an ecologically rich bird reserve located on Thol lake in the Mehsana district of Gujarat. It is nestled amidst dense deciduous vegetation and is one of the most popular places for bird-viewing in the state. The sanctuary welcomes vast varieties of endemic as well as migratory birds such as pelicans, flamingoes and mallards, which inhabit the area every year. The Thol lake augments the serenity of the sanctuary, making it a hotspot for nature lovers.
28. Sardar Patel Zoological Park
Sardar Patel Zoological Park is a newly inaugurated zoo situated in Kevadia, a town in the Narmada district of Gujarat. Located in the vicinity of the majestic Statue of Unity, this tremendous establishment hosts about 170 different species of wildlife from all across the globe, is home to a wide range of plant life and has a breathtaking aviary inhabited by endemic as well as foreign varieties of birds. The Royal Bengal Tigers, Zebras, Leopards etc. are only a few examples of wild animals one can explore here.
Best time to visit Vadodara
The best time to visit Vadodara is during the months of October to March. During this time, the widely celebrated Navratri Festival takes place in the city. Vadodara experiences hottest summers with temperatures going up to 42 degrees Celcius and heavy rainfall and hence April to September isn't a great time for sightseeing. However, if you don't mind a little rain, you could visit Vadodara during the early monsoons.
Food of Vadodara
Vadodara has a large range of restaurants serving typical Gujarati thalis and also other cuisines, which means that the tourists do not have limited options in terms of food. Though there are more vegetarian restaurants in this city than there are non vegetarian. But the Gujrati cuisine offers a lot of variety in food and with so much variety in eating vegetarian food, the famous Indian British cookbook writer Madhur Jaffrey has termed Gujarati cuisine as "the haute cuisine of vegetarianism" in one of her TV serials about Indian food.
How to Reach Vadodara
Vadodara is easily accessible by road, rail, air and waterways. Vadodara has an aerodrome of its own, though it currently operates domestic flights only. For international flights, the nearest airport is Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad which is located 100 km away. You can avail the facility of buses from the STC bus station which is in close proximity to the Vadodara Junction. The Vadodara Junction Railway Station is one of the most major railway stations in India and also the busiest in the state of Gujarat. Vadodara can also be accessed by travelling in river Mahi in a boat from Savli.
Vadodara Tour Packages
About Vadodara Tourism: Home to impressive architecture, Vadodara in Gujarat is a metropolitan city known for its rich culture, heritage, and modernity. It is famous for palaces, beautiful parks and gardens, temples and other tourist attractions, all of which make it a destination worth visiting. We provide you with an opportunity to explore this great city with its many Vadodara tour packages that are suitable for all travellers!
The Laxmi Vilas Palace is one of Vadodara’s gems. This magnificent palace, built in the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture, was once the private residence of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III and is about four times the size of Buckingham Palace. You must also see Makarpura Palace, which was the summer palace for the royal Gaekwads. Now used by the Indian Air Force, people aren’t allowed inside.
When you travel to Vadodara, head over to Sayaji Baug, dedicated to Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, it spans over an area of 45 hectares. It is the most extensive garden in western India. Next, visit the Ajwa Nimeta Garden to revel in the beauty of its manicured lawns and tall palm trees and enjoy its light and sound show featuring musical fountains. Sursagar Lake, surrounded by greenery, is known for boating and watching the sunset.
Vadodara travel packages also include temples like the BAPS Sri Swaminarayan Mandir, Kirti Mandir and Surya Mandir. What’s more, you can tour several museums to learn about the city’s heritage; the Vadodara Museum and Picture Gallery and Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum are quite famous. Furthermore, Mandvi Gate and Hazira Maqbara are some Mughal establishments to see.
Something you must experience on your trip to Vadodara, especially if you visit in October, is the festival of Navratri. You should try your hand at garba! The best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Numerous hotels offer accommodation. You need about 1-2 days to uncover most of the city’s gems.
Vadodara holiday packages enable you to explore nearby places like Ahmedabad, Dwarka and Somnath. Gujarat’s capital, Ahmedabad, is known for the Sabarmati Ashram where Mahatma Gandhi resided, the Statue of Unity and magnificent stepwells like the Dada Hari Vav and Rani ki Vav. Walk around the Sabarmati Ashram, tour the Calico Textile Museum, visit the Modhera Sun Temple, Shri Swaminarayan Temple, etc.
Dwarka is a pilgrimage centre, supposedly the capital of Lord Krishna’s kingdom. Here you can visit the Dwarkadhish Temple, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga and Gopi Talav. You can also spend some time at Dwarka Beach or visit the Dwarka Lighthouse. Somnath is home to another Jyotirlinga, the Somnath Temple, and the Paanch Pandav Gufa, Laxminarayan Temple and Suraj Mandir. A visit to Somnath or Chorwad Beach would be relaxing too! Our diverse Vadodara tour packages, which are customisable and affordable, assure you of a trip that you will never forget!
About City
Kevadiya
The tribal village of Kevadia is home to the Sardar Sarovar Dam built on the Narmada river and was a popular picnic spot even before the Statue of Unity came up. Nestled between the Satpura and Vindhyachal mountain ranges, the gigantic statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, built at a cost of Rs 2,989 crore, was inaugurated by Prime Minister, Narendra Modi in 2018. The project was carried out by the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Rashtriya Ekta Trust (SVPRET). Designed by the Indian Sculptor, Ram Vanji Sutar, the construction was taken up by the Indian company Larson & Toubro. It is the must-include place in Kevadiya tour packages.
Must Visit Places in Kevadiya
1.Statue of Unity
At a distance of 7 km from Kevadiya Railway Station, and 90 km from Vadodara, the Statue of Unity is a giant statue located on an islet on the Sardar Sarovar Dam at Kevadia village in Gujarat. Situated on Sadhu Bet Island, it is one of the most popular places Gujarat tourist places and among the must include places in Kevadiya tour packages.
Statue of Unity is a memorial to The Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The statue has been erected to propagate Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's vision of India and to inspire the Citizens of India through his patriotism and freedom struggle. The Bronze statue of the founding father of the Republic of India stands 182 metres tall grabbing the attention of the whole world as the 'Tallest statue in the World'. The statue of Unity is Located in Gujrat, by the banks of River Narmada on the River Island of Sadhu Bet overlooking the Narmada Dam (Sardar Sarovar Dam) from 3.2 km away.
The Statue of Unity will be well connected via expressways, improved rail system and helipads for the convenience of visitors. The surrounding of the statue is proposed to be a haven for clean Industries, Research facilities and educational institutions to improve the economic integrity in and around the region.
The monument compound is expected to get a 3-star hotel Shrestha Bharat Bhavan which is supposed to be a bridge between developing India and an environmentally conscious India. To increase the beauty of the surroundings by multiple folds, the 'Statue of Unity' will be accompanied by the 'Valley of Flowers' which was inaugurated on the same day as that of the Statue.
The Valley of Flowers is a product of the INR 12 crore exclusive grant. There will be a Museum, an Audio Visual hall to depict the life and struggles of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and a laser show on the Unification of India. The Monument will be providing Ferry services to reduce the traffic and effects on the environment due to vehicular pollution.
One of the main attractions of the Statue will be the viewing gallery integrated into the statue that can be reached by a heavy load lift with a panoramic view of the surroundings from an astounding height of nearly 400 feet.
About The Project
The monument compound is spread across 20,000 square metres, surrounded by a 12 km artificial lake. The project was carried out by a Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Rashtriya Ekta Trust (SVPRET) which was established for this purpose.
The magnanimous Statue is designed by the Indian Sculptor, Padma Bhushan awardee Ram Vanji Sutar. The construction of the final product was taken up by the Indian company Larson & Toubro and the total project was estimated to have cost 3000 Crore INR (420 million USD).
The Iron needed for the project was supposed to be collected from the used farming equipment from farmers all around the nation, who were the most cared by Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel. Due to some problems, nearly 5000 tonnes of iron collected was used for a different part of the same project but not the statue.
Along with the project in progress, SVPRET's Statue of Unity Movement organised the Suraaj Petition which included the ideas for good governance by the people and resulted in becoming the world's largest signed petition. These were some of the other essential features of the project.
How to Reach
The site of the Statue of Unity is about 90 km away from Vadodara and can be reached via State Highway 11 and State Highway 63. If you are coming from Mumbai, go north via the NH48 and change to SH64 near Mulad, but the journey from Mumbai via road will be about 420 km long.
Entry Fee
Without the access to Observation Deck
Adults - INR 150 per person
Children - INR 90 per Child
With the access to Observation Deck
INR 380 per person for Adults and Rs. 230 for Children & Rs. 830 for Foreign Adults, Rs.530 for Foreign Children
2. Sardar Sarovar Dam
Located near Navagam in Gujarat, Sardar Sarovar Dam is a massive gravity dam built on the River Narmada which was built to conserve water and help the environment and the people around. The foundation of the project was laid down by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru in 1961 and the construction work for the same was started in 1979. Today, this dam helps provide drinking water to the neighbouring villages and also helps with irrigation, and hydro-power for all of Gujarat.
Over the years, the height of the dam has been increased several times to extract maximum potential. Besides, the natural beauty at the spot- the gushing water of the river and lugh greenery of the littered trees, make it one of the most popular tourist spots in the city. People mostly come here to celebrate picnics and to relax and rejuvenate amidst bounteous nature and peaceful ambiance. There are also some temples at the spot which also draw a lot of tourists and devotees.
The best time to visit the Sardar Sarovar Dam is during the early winter months between October and December as the weather is the most pleasant and agreeable.
What to See at Sardar Sarovar Dam
You can find a guided tour and also a map available at the Sardar Sarovar Dam which can lets you explore the top five tourist spots in the region.
The Garden is the primary place to visit at the dam site. Here you can relax amidst green trees and velvety grass.
The Foundation Stone is another significant spot to visit which holds great historical importance.
The lake, however, draws the maximum tourists. It offers boating facility where you can enjoy a short tour of the lake.
The First Lock Gate is another point where the dam is closed shut. People tend to visit here and take pictures.
The last one is the Trekking Point. Here you can find people registering for nature camps and trekking expeditions.
3. Valley Of Flowers
Valley of Flowers is a flower garden situated along the bank of River Narmada. Also known as Bharat Van, it is one of the top places to visit as part of Statue of Unity tour packages. Valley of Flower is spread across 24 acres of land and is a haven for colorful flowering plants. The garden began with 48,000 plants in 2016 and has now reached up to 22,00,000 plants. More than 300 types of flowers are grown in this garden. A right blend of ornamental flowers, trees, shrubs, herbs, climbers, and creepers are planted along with various shades of foliage, which forms the green cover in this area. This vibrant landscape is also a site for a charismatic flower show every winter. The picturesque site and an enthralling view of the Statue of Unity certainly captivate the visitors always. This vibrant garden is also a site for a charismatic flower show every winter. Besides, several photo booths and selfie points have been developed to take back fond memories of the visit.
Timings: 9 AM - 5.30 PM, Closed on Mondays
Entry: It includes in Statue of Unity Ticket
4. Cactus Garden
The Cactus Garden has developed by GEER Foundation on the opposite end of the Statue of Unity on the bank of river Narmada. This botanical garden was created to exhibit a huge variety of Cacti and succulents, the true miracles of adaptation. The thought behind the development of the cactus garden is to provide an experience of the desert ecosystem amid a landmass well entrenched in an aquatic surrounding.
Spread across 25 acres of open land, the Cactus Garden contains 6 lakh plants of 450 species from 17 countries mainly from North & South America and African continents. Cactus Dome is one of the largest domes in India which contains about 836 Sq.m area. There is also a Selfie point along with a shop that sells Medicinal products of Cactus and souvenirs. The garden is a ravishing landscape of colorful cacti and succulent plants and also an educational and learning opportunity for students and enthusiasts to explore nature's wisdom.
Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM
Entry: Rs. 60 for Adults, & Rs. 40 for Children
5. Butterfly Garden
The Butterfly Garden is situated right next to the Cactus Garden on the bank of River Narmada in Kevadiya. Covering over an area of 10 acres, the garden harbors more than 70 species of butterflies. There are also 150 species of nectar plants and larval host plants as butterflies feed on the nectar of flowers. Special care has been taken in the landscaping of the park to support the diversity of butterfly species. The Butterfly Garden has been developed in a way to create an environment that attracts butterflies and gives them a habitat to proliferate. There are also suitable places for them to lay eggs and host plants for caterpillars to thrive. Walking through this beautifully designed park to get a close view of the different butterfly species along with the life stage of butterflies from laying eggs to caterpillar to chrysalis to adult emerges and finally becomes an adult butterfly. This experience will explore them and will give practical knowledge to kids.
Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM
Entry: Rs. 60 for Adults, & Rs. 40 for Children
6. Unity Glow Garden
Unity Glow Garde in Kevadia is probably the first Glow Garden in India creating a thousand reasons for Joy and Happiness. It has been developed with a glimmering array of installations, figures, and optical illusions. There are many botanical installations, various animals and birds, LED fountains inspired with glowing lights. This was intended to create a zone that gave a different feel and ambiance in the evenings and enable night-tourism to flourish in the vicinity of the Statue of Unity. And, also to boost the local economy by giving additional business to Hotels, Restaurants, Shopping Malls, Local Transportations, etc.
The Unity Glow Garden is a perfect spot to end your visit to the Statue of Unity, especially if you're with kids, as it comes alive once the sun goes down. Perfect to visit after the 7 pm Projection Mapping Show, get ready to be transported to a land of magical lights and light-based art installations at the Statue of Unity Glow Garden. It has earned the title of being a popular destination park already, as more and more tourists are pouring in to experience the beauty of Kevadia at night.
Timings: 8 AM - 10 PM
Entry: Rs. 100 for Adults, Rs. 50 for Children, & Rs. 500 for Foreigners
7. Arogya Van
Spread across 17 acres, Arogya Van houses over 500,000 ancient medicinal plants of 380 species. The main aim of this garden is to raise awareness about the important role played by plants in the holistic wellness of human beings. Emphasis is also laid on Yoga, Ayurveda, and Meditation for being an integral part of a person's well-being. Arogya Van is divided into 5 sections namely Garden of Colours, Aroma Garden, Yoga Garden, Alba Garden, and Leutea Garden.
The key highlight at Arogya Van is the Aushadh Manav, a giant three-dimensional layout of a human body in a resting posture. Each human organ is represented by a medicinal plant that is beneficial for that particular organ. So these plants are planted on the specific part of the body to make the visitors understand the specific plants used for the therapeutic treatment of that particular organ.
The entry gate of Arogya Van has all 12 postures of Surya Namaskar of human size, to emphasize the importance of yoga, which is to be practiced daily for healthy living. The digital information center has been set up to acknowledge visitors and make them understand the heritage and the importance of medicinal plants in our day-to-day life. The indoor plants' section has been created to spread awareness regarding the importance of interior landscape. Interior landscaping plays a vital role in providing a pleasant and tranquil environment in which one can walk and relax.
Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM
Entry: Rs. 30 for Adults, & Rs. 20 for Children
8. Children Nutrition Park
Envisioned & conceptualized by Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Children Nutrition Park has been developed as part of Kevadia Integrated Development to inspire children to eat healthily and understand the role of nutrition in their mental and physical growth. It is the first technologically driven theme park in the world. The Children Nutrition Park provides high-quality entertainment and vital knowledge to the children on healthy eating habits and nutritional values based on the theme of 'SAHI POSHAN DESH ROSHAN.' The entire park is designed and implemented for the benefit of the children and extensive use of state-of-the-art technology is being made, which gives a fascinating experience to the children visiting the park. The main feature of this park is the Nutri Train. Starting from Ekta Junction station, the train runs on a 600 meters long track and takes children to various stations.
The first Station on this route is aptly named Phalshaka Griham, where children should know about agriculture, sowing, caring, and harvesting. There are games and communication panels here, which points to the importance of fresh vegetables and fruits, how they contribute various essential nutrients, and also act as immunity warrior. PayoNagari is the second station where the mascot informs the children about the importance of milk and milk products. Some very engaging games are part of PayoNagari Station such as 'Feed the Cow', 'Churn The Butter', 'Cow Stands Out' and 'Milk Story in a Hologram Box'. There is a long Experience Tunnel between the 2nd & 3rd station that showcases a fantasy farm with a light and sound show.
The third station is Annapurna where a digital mascot - a Mother (Maa) welcomes children with a heart-warming and informative song through a Hologram projection. This song conveys to children, the importance of home-cooked food for great health. The fourth Station on this route is Poshan Puram where the mascot Shakti welcomes the children and points out the two most important elements to complete the wholesome nutrition for our bodies, nuts-seeds, and water. The fifth and the last station on the route is Swastha Bharatam which promotes the importance of physical activity in daily life and features Yoga and the concept of Guru Shishya Parampara in the Indian sports field. This Station has many games like Virtual Tennis, Cricket, a fun-filled dance platform, Ice hockey, etc.
Timings: 10 AM - 6 PM from Tuesday to Friday, & 9 AM - 9 PM on Saturdays & Sundays
Entry: Rs. 200 for Adults, & Rs. 125 for Children
9. Sardar Patel Zoological Park & Jungle
Sardar Patel Zoological Park covers 375 acres at seven different levels ranging from an altitude or elevation of 29 m to 180 m on the right bank of the Narmada River. The park is home to more than 186 species of fauna, covering various biogeographic regions of the world including Africa, Australia, Asia, and America. The main focus of the park is to provide education on the rich biodiversity of our planet, as well as a recreational place for all.
The zoo has 16 different enclosures for animals including carnivores and herbivores. One can spot India's endangered species, which includes the magnificent big cats such as Asiatic Lion, Royal Bengal Tiger, Black Panther, and Leopard here. The zoo is also home to 12 species of deer, antelopes, giraffes, zebras, rhinos, bison, wildebeest, onyx, as well as other exotic animals including alpacas, llamas, a wallaby, and a baby hippo!
The Zoo houses 2 Bird aviaries that are having a state-of-the-art geodesic design designated for Indian and exotic Birds. Covering over an area of 1.5 hectares, the eco domes are considered to be the world's largest geodesic domes for an aviary. These aviaries are housing over 1,000 of the most beautiful birds from India and across the World. Visitors can see the most colorful birds from India like the Red Jungle Fowl, Partridge, Pelican, Ibis, Parrots, along with some exotic birds like the Macaw, Cockatoo, Black Swan, Grey Parrot, Cape Crowned Crane, and more here.
The zoo also organizes Jungle Safari, an adventure ride, which allows exploring the unexplored trails and untouched natural horizons. The safari route has been designed such, that the visitors can view animal activities, spot reptiles, and watch birds. Another highlight is the walkthrough Aviary, harboring the finest of indigenous birds. Here the visitors can walk amidst the birds specific to varied habitats, which have been created simulating the natural habitat of each of the species. Besides, one can enjoy the scenic beauty of the hills surrounding the zoo.
Timings: 8 AM - 5 PM
Entry: Rs. 200 for Adults, & Rs. 125 for Children
10. Ekta Cruise
Ekta Cruise Service was flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 30th October 2020 to mark Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, the birth anniversary of Sri Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The ferry ride starts from Shrestha Bharat Bhavan, behind Ramada Encore to the Statue of Unity. The 6 km-long navigation channel in the river especially is constructed for extending a unique experience to the tourists visiting the Statue of Unity.
The distance between Shreshtha Bharat Bhavan and the Statue is about 6 km which will be covered in 40 minutes by UNITY 1 and 25 minutes by UNITY 2. UNITY 1, 26 m long and 9 m wide, is a Catamaran Type Vessel with two decks and currently carries 200 passengers on the lower deck with fixed seats. UNITY 2 is a monohull boat that can operate at a very high speed. The boat can accommodate up to 25 passengers. There is an additional space on the upper deck for the passengers for an unobstructed and mesmerizing view of the statue and to experience the most hypnotic scenery along the Narmada River. The cruise stops 15-20 minutes at the Statue of Unity.
The guests onboard can enjoy the magnificent view of the World's tallest statue while cruising along with some chilling background music, and cultural programs. This cruise also provides a gripping experience of the 'On Board dinner' during the cruise sailing while the forest night sets in Kevadia and attractive lighting takes over the hearts of the thousands of tourists. The dinner is a lifetime experience as very delicious cuisines are available adding value to the naturally rich surroundings. A Souvenir shop and a food stall are available for the guests to shop on the lower deck.
Tickets are available on location or can be booked in advance on the Statue of Unity tickets website.
Timings: 9 AM - 5.20 PM for Day Cruise, & 5.30 PM - 9.30 PM for Dinner Cruise
Entry: Rs. 413 for Adults, & Rs. 125 for Children (6 -12 years) for Day Cruise, Rs. 1400 for Adults & Rs. 700 for Children (6 -12 years) for Dinner Cruise
11. Khalwani Eco Tourism & River Rafting
Khalwani is located along the bank of a perennial stream fed by the waters released from the Godbole Gate. The area is surrounded by hillocks bearing typical deciduous forests of this area. The chirping of birds, the flowing waters of Narmada, the undulating terrain, and the various shades of green foliage make this place ideal for camping and hiking. The nearby Shoolpaneshwar Sanctuary is a treasure trove for wildlife enthusiasts. Khalwani also provides accommodation in the form of tree houses and tents. It also offers several activities for tourists including bird-watching, breakfast with butterflies, tree walks, and cycling. There are also activities like River Rafting, Trekking, Rock Climbing, botanical exploration, and Selfie on Burma Bridge for adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can get first-hand knowledge of apiary, poultry, pottery, archery, and painting using herbal colors.
River Rafting is undoubtedly one of the most enthralling adventure sports one must try in Kevadiya. Narmada, the largest west-flowing river in the country, has now ushered in the thrilling experience for the adventure enthusiasts who can now enjoy river rafting in a 5 km stretch with whirlpools, rapids, and many turns which provide an exciting and unforgettable rafting experience for the first time in Gujarat. Eligibility of Age for admission is above 14 years to a maximum of 55 years.
Rating Timings: 8 AM - 3.30 PM
Entry: Rs. 300 per Person for Rafting
12. Dino Trail Park
Recent excavations in the Narmada valley, have revealed that Rajasaurus Narmadensis, a species of a carnivorous abelisaurid theropod dinosaur, was existing in the Narmada valley during the Cretaceous period or 'K-period'. The K-period spanned between the Jurassic period (145 million years ago) and Paleogene Period (66 million years ago). The bones of these species were excavated from the Lameta Formation (a sedimentary rock formation found in Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, India) in the Gujarat state of Western India, probably inhabiting what is now the Narmada River Valley.
The Dino Trail is home to a replica of the endemic dinosaur with a distinctive horn. Measuring over 75 feet in length, and 25 feet in height, the replica is about 3 times the estimated size of the original dinosaur. The positioning of the sculptures is in such a way that one can feel the presence of these extinct formidable beasts at this place. A nature trail amidst the forests of Vindyachal takes you to the Rajasarus Narmadensis and a treasurable moment to relive the primeval era when these colossal beasts used to roam in the prehistoric woodlands of Narmada valley.
Entry: Free
Timings: 10 AM - 5 PM
13. Zarwani Waterfalls
Huddled deep inside the heart of Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, the perennial and gorgeous Zarwani Waterfall is one of the most sought natural spots among tourists and nature lovers from Gujarat. It cascades down from a height of about 25 m into a pool. The water is so clean that one can see through and spot small fish at the bottom. Visitors can take a dip in the flowing waters or simply absorb the calmness and serenity around. The waterfall is in full swing during the monsoon.
If you are looking for absolute tranquility and serenity amid nature, then this is the best place. The place also offers activities like camping, hiking, and trekking. Apart from the splendid waterfall, the place also boasts an eco-tourism campsite, the allied treks in the jungle, and an Adventure Park. This is a must-visit place for the thrill-seekers! One can also spot a gamut of flora & fauna as it is situated inside the Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary. The waterfall is about 7 km from the Thawadia checkpost, where visitors need to pay the entry fee for the vehicles. Local guides are available at the site. One can arrange for day picnics or treks with the help of the forest department, with the forest, waterfalls, and other natural beauty within easy reach.
Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM
Entry: Rs. 400 for Car, Rs. 270 for Bike
14. Panchmuli Lake
Sardar Sarovar Dam has outlet the canal from the medium of 3 lakes on the leftmost side of the dam. Panchmuli Lake is one of them. Also known as 'Dyke-3' of the Sardar Sarovar Dam, it was developed for tourists visiting the Statue of Unity. The Panchmuli Lake features calm waters flanked by the jagged Vindhya mountains range, offering a picturesque and serene experience to all visitors. Gujarat State Forest Development Corporation Ltd. (GSFDC) has initiated a Boat ride in Panchmuli Lake as a part of eco-tourism activity. The duration of each boat ride is for 45 minutes and in a day eight rides are operated. This ride takes you to the waters of dyke-4 as well as the entire waterbody is surrounded by lush green forests. The area is lush with local flora and fauna, offering the unique opportunity to observe the innumerable species in their natural habitat. You may sometimes see the landing and takeoff of the seaplane. However, the lake is home to a large number of crocodiles which was a threat to visitors. In 2019-21, the authorities relocated 194 crocodiles. There are still many crocodiles on the lake, so be careful while visiting the lake.
Boating Timings: 9.30 AM - 6 PM
Entry: Free, Rs. 413 for Boating
15. Vishwa Van
The Global Forest of Vishwa Van is home to herbs, shrubs, and trees native to all 7 continents signifying the underlying theme of 'Unity in Diversity' in context global context. The thought of Vishwa Van was conceptualized by the Hon'ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, who after guiding the construction of the Statue of Unity in just 46 months. The motive is to educate the visitors about biogeography - the study of the distribution of species and ecosystems in geographic space. Spread across 5 acres, Vishwa Van symbolizes the life-sustaining potion of forests in the context of all life forms on the planet. It has a diverse assemblage of flora representing every continent of the world. The wavy borders of the blocks representing the continents are shaped to represent the outlines of the continent's map and are painted similar to the colors of the Olympic rings, specific to each continent. The vegetation is arranged in a way to resemble the natural forest of a particular zone. Structures representing the traditional abodes of dwellers from the remotest corners of the world have been created here to introduce visitors to their living. Here one can see a Fiji House, Bali House, African-Louisiana Conference Area, Maloca House, and Pagoda. There is also a Souvenir shop run by tribal self-help groups.
Timings: 8 AM - 6.30 PM
Entry: Rs. 30 for Adults, & Rs. 20 for Children
How to reach Kevadiya
By Air: Nearest Airport: Vadodara - Vadodara International Airport (89 Kms)
By Train: Nearest Train Station: Kevadiya Railway Station (0 Kms)
By Bus: Nearest Bus Station: Kevadiya Bus Station (2 Kms)
Best time to visit Kevadiya
The best time to visit Kevadiya is during the winter months i.e. from October to March. The temperatures are mild and the weather is pleasant during these months. Better to avoid visiting Vadodara during the monsoon and summer months as the town experiences heavy rains between June to September and an extremely hot and humid climate during the summer months.
On Request
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