Gujarat Grand Tour: Exploring Palaces, Beaches, and Wild Sanctuaries Tour

This Gujarat Grand Tour offers a rich blend of cultural exploration, spiritual visits, and wildlife adventures with an emphasis on the Statue of Unity and other iconic destinations across Gujarat. Starting from Delhi, the tour takes you through some of Gujarat’s most important cultural, religious, and natural attractions, providing a well-rounded experience of the state’s heritage and beauty.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Ahmedabad – The Gateway to Gujarat

Arrive in Ahmedabad: Upon arrival at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, meet our representative and transfer to your hotel for check-in.

Visit Sabarmati Ashram: Explore Sabarmati Ashram, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi, located on the banks of the Sabarmati River.

Explore Adalaj Stepwell: Visit the Adalaj Stepwell, an exquisite architectural marvel offering a glimpse into Gujarat's ancient craftsmanship.

Evening at Manek Chowk & Law Garden: In the evening, visit Manek Chowk for local snacks and street food. Then, explore Law Garden for vibrant handicrafts and souvenirs.

Overnight Stay: Stay overnight in Ahmedabad.

Day 2: Ahmedabad to Statue of Unity – The World’s Tallest Statue

Drive to Statue of Unity: After breakfast, drive to the Statue of Unity (approximately 3.5-4 hours drive). Check-in to your hotel near the Statue of Unity.

Visit the Statue of Unity: Visit the Statue of Unity, the world's tallest statue (182 meters), dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Explore the Sardar Patel Memorial, Museum, and Valley of Flowers around the statue.

Evening Light and Sound Show: Enjoy the light and sound show (optional) in the evening, telling the story of Sardar Patel's life and legacy.

Overnight Stay: Stay overnight in a hotel near the Statue of Unity.

Day 3: Statue of Unity to Bhavnagar – Royal Heritage and Scenic Beauty

Drive to Bhavnagar: After breakfast, drive to Bhavnagar (approximately 3-4 hours drive). Check-in to your hotel upon arrival in Bhavnagar.

Visit Narsinh Mehta no Choro: Explore this historical site with cultural significance linked to the famous poet and saint, Narsinh Mehta.

Takhteshwar Temple & Lakes: Visit Takhteshwar Temple for panoramic views of the city. Then, visit the serene Bavanishwar and Gaurishankar Lake for a relaxing evening.

Option to Visit Blackbuck National Park: Optionally, drive 30 minutes to Blackbuck National Park for a wildlife experience and peaceful surroundings.

Overnight Stay: Stay overnight in Bhavnagar.

Day 4: Bhavnagar to Gir National Park – The Land of Asiatic Lions

Drive to Gir National Park: After breakfast, drive to Gir National Park (approximately 3-4 hours drive). Check-in to your resort or lodge upon arrival.

Afternoon Safari in Gir: Embark on an afternoon safari in Gir National Park, famous for its Asiatic lions. Spot leopards, antelopes, and various bird species.

Evening Relaxation: Enjoy a relaxing evening at your resort, surrounded by nature.

Overnight Stay: Stay overnight in a resort in Gir National Park.

Day 5: Gir National Park – Full Day Safari and Wildlife Exploration

Morning Safari in Gir: Take an early morning safari in Gir National Park to observe Asiatic lions in their natural habitat.

Visit Devalia Safari Park: After lunch, visit Devalia Safari Park, a fenced section of Gir where you can see lions and other wildlife in a controlled environment.

Gir Interpretation Centre: Explore the Gir Interpretation Centre to learn about the park’s wildlife, flora, and conservation efforts.

Evening at Resort: Relax and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the forest at your resort.

Overnight Stay: Stay overnight in a resort in Gir National Park.

Day 6: Gir to Diu – Coastal Charm and Portuguese Heritage

Drive to Diu: After breakfast, drive to Diu (approximately 3-4 hours drive), a coastal town known for its pristine beaches and Portuguese colonial influence. Check-in to your beachside resort upon arrival.

Visit Diu Fort & St. Thomas Church: Explore Diu Fort, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Then, visit St. Thomas Church and Nagoa Beach for a peaceful retreat.

Evening at Nagoa Beach: Enjoy a sunset at Nagoa Beach and indulge in fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant.

Overnight Stay: Stay overnight in a resort in Diu.

Day 7: Diu to Somnath – Spiritual Exploration

Drive to Somnath: After breakfast, drive to Somnath (approximately 2.5-3 hours drive), a significant pilgrimage destination known for the Somnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas.

Visit Somnath Temple: Explore the Somnath Temple, known for its spiritual and historical significance. Take time to appreciate the temple’s surroundings.

Visit Prabhas Patan & Rath Yatra Museum: Explore Prabhas Patan, the site where Lord Krishna is believed to have left the mortal world. Also, visit the Rath Yatra Museum showcasing Somnath's famous annual procession.

Evening Aarti: Attend the Somnath Temple Evening Aarti, an uplifting spiritual experience with chanting and prayers by the priests.

Overnight Stay: Stay overnight in Somnath.

Day 8: Somnath to Dwarka – The Land of Lord Krishna

Drive to Dwarka: After breakfast, drive to Dwarka (approximately 4-5 hours drive), one of the holiest cities in India and a center of Lord Krishna’s childhood and life. Check-in to your hotel upon arrival in Dwarka.

Visit Dwarkadhish Temple: Explore the Dwarkadhish Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, known for its stunning architecture and spiritual significance.

Explore Rukmini Temple & Dwarka Beach: Visit the historic Rukmini Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna's consort. Relax at Dwarka Beach for a peaceful coastal retreat.

Evening Aarti at Dwarkadhish Temple: Attend the evening aarti at Dwarkadhish Temple, where the atmosphere is filled with devotion and tranquility.

Overnight Stay: Stay overnight in Dwarka.

Day 9: Departure from Dwarka to Ahmedabad

Visit Bet Dwarka & Nageshwar Jyotirlinga: In the morning, visit Bet Dwarka, a sacred island associated with Lord Krishna. Optionally, visit the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the twelve important Jyotirlingas.

Transfer to Ahmedabad: In the afternoon, transfer to Rajkot or Porbandar Airport for your flight back to Ahmedabad (approximately 1-1.5 hours flight).

Arrival in Ahmedabad: Upon arrival in Ahmedabad, take a connecting flight back home or continue your onward journey.

Know Before You Go

• This tour showcases Gujarat’s vibrant culture, historic architecture, scenic landscapes, and world-famous traditions, from the Rann of Kutch to the ancient temples of Somnath and Dwarka.
• Travel times between major destinations like Ahmedabad, Kutch, Sasan Gir, and Dwarka can vary, so be prepared for long road trips, especially in remote areas where infrastructure may be less developed.
• Entry fees to popular attractions, such as the Rann Utsav, the Sun Temple at Modhera, or the Gir National Park, are generally not included in tour packages, so plan for additional expenses.
• When visiting religious sites or temples in Gujarat, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees, and remove footwear before entering temple premises as a sign of respect for local customs.
• If visiting during the winter months (November to February), pack warm clothing for early mornings and evenings, as temperatures can drop significantly, especially in areas like the Rann of Kutch.
• Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen, especially when exploring the vast landscapes of Kutch or the sun-soaked beaches of Diu, as the heat can be intense during the day.
• Gujarat is famous for its flavorful cuisine, including snacks like dhokla, khakra, and fafda. If you're new to Gujarati food, try smaller portions first and be cautious with spicy dishes if you're sensitive to heat.
• Respect local customs and traditions, particularly during festivals like Navratri, when Gujarat comes alive with dance and music. If invited, you can join in the traditional Garba dance to experience the lively culture firsthand.
• Explore the bustling markets in Ahmedabad, Surat, and Kutch for unique textiles, handicrafts, and exquisite Bandhani fabric. Don't forget to haggle politely to get the best prices and enjoy the vibrant shopping experience.
• If you're a wildlife enthusiast, be sure to visit Gir National Park, the last home of the Asiatic lion. Be aware of strict park regulations and ensure you follow the guidelines for a safe and responsible safari experience.