Best Kept Secret: Gujarat's Architectural Marvels & History

Ahmedabad , India

Best Kept Secret: Gujarat's Architectural Marvels & History

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10d

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund. If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund. If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

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About this experience

Embark on a captivating exploration of Gujarat's architectural wonders and historical treasures with the "Best Kept Secret: Gujarat's Architectural Marvels & History" tour. Begin your journey in Ahmedabad, unraveling the cultural tapestry at Hutheesing Jain Temple and Bhadra Fort. Venture to Dholavira, an archaeological gem dating back to the Indus Valley Civilization, before immersing yourself in Bhuj's regal Aaina Mahal Palace and the splendid Prag Mahal. The tour continues to the vibrant White Rann, offering a surreal sunrise experience, and takes you through cultural odysseys in Mandvi and the artisanal villages of Kutch. Explore the Little Rann of Kutch's wildlife, historical landmarks, and charming villages, concluding the adventure with Ahmedabad's architectural marvels.

Available options

Price Using 5 Star Hotel

Stay in mix 5 & 4 star hotels: + Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary. Pickup included

Price Using 4 Star Hotel

Stay in 4 star hotels: + Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary. Pickup included

Tour Price Without Hotels

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary. Pickup included

Price using 3 star hotels

Stay in 3 star hotels: + Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary. Pickup included

What's included

Private AC car/van for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program.

Lunch

Government taxes.

Bottled drinking water in the car.

9 Nights' accommodation (if option selected) in selected price category hotels.

Dinner

Breakfast

Monument entrances and activity charges mentioned in the itinerary.

1 Time jeep safari in Little Rann of Kutch Wild Ass Sanctuary with a naturalist.

English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per the program

Assistance on arrival at the airport.

What's not included

Any flight ticket.

Camera charges at monuments if any.

Meals other than mentioned in inclusions.

Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet, etc.

Gratuities and optional activities.

Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Important notes

Hotels used or similar

Ahmedabad x 2 nights
3* - WelcomHeritage Mani Mansion/ Parker Lords Eco Inn
4* - Ramada Hotel/ Lemon Tree Premier
5* - The House of MG/ Le Meridien

Dholavira x 1 night
3*/4*/5* - Rann Resort Dholavira/ Dholavira Tourism Resort

Bhuj x 1 night
3* - Hotel Click by Suba/ Seven sky Clarks Exotica
4*/5* - The Fern Residency/ Hill View Resort

Hodka x 2 night
3*/4*/5*- Shaam-e-Sarhad Village Resort/ Kutir Craft Village Resort

Mandvi x 1 nights
3* - The Village Resort/ Seabreeze Resort Mandvi
4*/* - Serena Beach Resort/ Mandvi Beach Resort4

Little Rann Of Kutch x 1 night
3*/4*/5* - Rann Riders Dasada/ The Royal Safari Camps

Ahmedabad x 1 nights
3* - WelcomHeritage Mani Mansion/ Parker Lords Eco Inn
4* - Ramada Hotel/ Lemon Tree Premier
5* - The House of MG/ Le Meridien

About Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad, a vibrant city in Gujarat, is renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and architectural marvels. Known as the Manchester of India for its textile industry, it offers a blend of traditional charm and modern dynamism, making it a unique travel destination.

Top Attractions

Sabarmati Ashram

This ashram was the residence of Mahatma Gandhi from 1917 to 1930. It is a significant historical site that offers insights into Gandhi's life and philosophy.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Sabarmati Riverfront

This beautifully developed riverfront offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. It's a great place for walking, cycling, and picnicking.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Adalaj Stepwell

This intricately carved stepwell is a marvel of Indian architecture. It was built in 1499 and is one of the most famous stepwells in India.

Historical 1 hour ₹100 for foreigners, ₹10 for Indians

Sarkhej Roza

This beautiful mosque and tomb complex is a blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles. It was built in the 16th century and is a significant historical site.

Historical 1 hour ₹5 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners

Hutheesing Jain Temple

This stunning Jain temple is a masterpiece of marble architecture. It was built in 1848 and is dedicated to the 15th Jain Tirthankara, Dharmanatha.

Religious 30 minutes Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dhokla

A steamed savory cake made from fermented rice and chickpea flour, often served with green chutney.

Snack Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free

Faafda-Jalebi

A popular street food combination of crispy faafda (gram flour snack) and sweet jalebi (deep-fried sweet syrup-coated dough).

Snack Vegetarian, Contains gluten

Undhiyu

A mixed vegetable dish cooked with spices and gram flour, traditionally made during the winter season.

Main Course Vegetarian, Contains gluten

Khandvi

A soft and fluffy snack made from gram flour and yogurt, often served with green chutney or coconut chutney.

Snack Vegetarian, Contains gluten

Popular Activities

Cycling tours Hot air balloon rides Trekking in nearby forests Spa and wellness treatments Yoga and meditation classes Riverfront walks Heritage walks Cooking classes

Best Time to Visit

October to March

This period offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city hosts several festivals during this time, including the International Kite Festival in January.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Gujarati
Widely spoken: Hindi, English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

IST (GMT+5:30)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night

Ahmedabad is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and scams, can occur, so it's important to take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis and auto-rickshaws
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
• Keep your valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Ahmedabad Junction, Sabarmati Junction

By bus

Geeta Mandir Bus Stand, Sabarmati Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

The BRTS system is efficient and covers most parts of the city. Buses are air-conditioned and frequent.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Ahmedabad Sabarmati SG Highway

Day trips

Gandhinagar

30 km • Half day to full day

Gandhinagar, the capital of Gujarat, offers a mix of modern and historical attractions, including the Akshardham Temple and the Indroda Nature Park.

Lothal

80 km • Full day

Lothal is an ancient Indus Valley civilization site that offers a glimpse into India's rich history. The site features a museum, a dockyard, and a variety of artifacts.

Dholavira

250 km • Overnight

Dholavira is another significant Indus Valley civilization site, known for its well-preserved ruins and artifacts. The site offers a unique insight into ancient Indian history.

Festivals

International Kite Festival • January Navratri • October Diwali • November

Pro tips

Visit the Sabarmati Ashram early in the morning to avoid the crowds and heat.
Explore Old Ahmedabad on foot or by bicycle to discover its hidden gems and rich history.
Try a Gujarati thali at a local restaurant to experience the city's diverse and flavorful cuisine.
Shop for textiles and handicrafts at the Law Garden Night Market or the Pol House Shopping areas.
Attend a traditional dance performance or festival, such as the International Kite Festival, to immerse yourself in the city's vibrant culture.