DAY 01: ARRIVAL AT AHMEDABAD

Arrives in Ahmedabad, meets and greet and transfer to hotel. Ahmedabad, founded in the year 1411 AD is located on the banks of river Sabarmati and has been named After Sultan Ahmed Shah, who was primarily responsible for building it. Today, this city is known as the 'Manchester of the East', one of the highly industrialized cities in India and is also India' Textile City.

Though the capital of Gujarat was shifted from Ahmedabad to Gandhinagar, it is still the second largest Industrial city in western India. The old city of Ahmedabad is dotted with labyrinthine by lanes called 'polls'. The exquisite carved wooden mansions and Havelis are in no manner less than their stone counterparts in Rajasthan. Stay overnight in Ahmedabad.

DAY 02: AHMEDABAD + SIGHTSEEING

Today after breakfast drive to visit Sidi Sayed mosque, built in 1573, is one of the most famous mosques of Ahmedabad. The mosque is entirely actuated. The mosque has ten screen windows(jails)on the side and rear arches.

Hathee Singh Jain Temple Hathee Singh Jain Temple is located just outside the Delhi Gate in the north of the old city. This Jain temple was built in 1850 by a rich Jain merchant and is one of the Ahmedabad's best ornated Jain temples. This temple is dedicated to Dharamanath, the 15th Jain Tirthankar. This temple is built of pure white marble and profusely decorated with rich carvings.

Gandhi Ashram: On a quiet peaceful stretch of the Sabarmati River, Mahatma Gandhi set up a simple retreat in 1915. This was his Satyagrah Ashram and for many years it was the nerve centre of India's freedom movement. It was from here, in 1930, that Mahatma began his famous Dandi March to the sea to protest against the Salt Tax imposed by the British.

Adalaj, The baoli or step-well at Adalaj Vav is one of the finest step well in India. Queen Rudabai built this well in 1499 to provide the traveler with a cool and pleasant refuge from the summer heat. A long flight of steps descends to the water. It has three entrances leading to a huge platform that rests on 16 pillars, with corners marked by shrines. Ornately carved pillars and cross beams create open spaces and four storey that are quite striking. The octagonal well is five storeys deep. The baoli is decorated with exquisite stone carvings, subjects range from eroticism to buttermilk. Stay overnight in Ahmedabad.

DAY 03: AHMEDABAD - VASO-CHAMPANER-PAVAGADH ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK - JAMBUGHODA (175 KMS / 3.5 HRS APPROX)

Today after breakfast drive to Vadodara, en-route visit Vaso – We will discover from the outside, the magnificent Haveli dating from the nineteenth century, including the residence of the Vithalbhai and the Darbar Gopal Das Haveli. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park

Champaner is an ancient fortified city. There are two stories about the origin of the name of this town. Some believe that is named after Champaraj who was the founder of the city, while others believe that the town was named after the champa tree that is found here. Visit one of world heritage site by UNESCO Champaner Fort is an ancient fort located at the foothills of Pavagdh. Mohammed Begada (The famous Muslim King of Gujarat) captured the fort in 15th Centuary after a long siege against the Khichi Chauhan Rajputs. Jama masjid, Kevda masjid, Saharwali masjid, Saat kaman etc. are worth visiting.

Nagina Masjid (meaning 'Jewel Mosque') is a mosque in Champaner, Gujarat state, western India. It was built during the time of Mahmud Begada, in the 15th century, as were several other masjids, such as the Kevada, Bawaman, Ek Minar, Jama, Khajuri, and Shahar Ki. It has minarets, globe-like domes, and narrow stairs. It is part of the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Later drive to visit Pavagadh Hill is located in the Panchmahal district of Gujarat, India, near the city of Vadodara. Pavagadh Hill is renowned for its religious and historical significance. It is home to the famous Kalika Mata Temple, a major pilgrimage site for Hindus. Dedicated to the goddess Kalika Mata, an incarnation of the Hindu goddess Durga. The temple is situated at an elevation of about 800 meters on the Pavagadh Hill. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, which are significant shrines and pilgrimage destinations in Shaktism. The hill and surrounding area are part of the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The region showcases a blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture from the 16th century. Visitors can reach the temple by a combination of trekking and using the ropeway, which offers a scenic view of the surroundings. The ropeway reduces the climb and provides an easy way for pilgrims and tourists to access the temple. The temple sees a large influx of devotees during the Navratri festival, celebrated with great fervor. Pilgrims visit year-round, seeking blessings from the goddess Kalika Mata. The hill offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and trekkers. The lush greenery and scenic beauty make it a great place for both spiritual and recreational visits. Continue drive to Jambughoda and transfer to hotel. Stay overnight in Jambughoda.

DAY 04: JAMBUGHODA - WEEKLY TRIBAL MARKET – STATUE OF UNITY (150 KMS / 3 HRS APPROX)

Morning after breakfast drives to visit villagea to see Weekly Tribal Market to see Rathwa and Dhanka tribes in and around the region. There's a town called Alirajpur of Rathore Rajput rulers and from Rathore came the region RATH and from Rath the tribal's are called Rathwa. The traditional dress of the Rathawa men is a loin cloth (Langoti) and headgear (phenta). Later visit Tribal Houses Pithora Paintings.

Pithora is a ritualistic painting done on the walls by the Rathwa, Bhils and Bhilala tribes. The name Pithora also refers to the Hindu deity of marriage and functions commonly popular in Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. The art from is carried forward through generations as a traditional occupation.

Historically, they were cave, wall and rock paintings. Baba Pithora is the tribal deity, on whose honor the paintings are made. Other local gods are also honored. It has religious and mythological relevance to the indigenous tribes which has slowly transformed into a vibrant occupation of the Bhilalas or Rathwas. In modern times, the paintings have evolved to include modern symbols like guns and planes too. The painters are usually males, called as 'Lakhindra'. As the menstruating females were traditionally held impure, they were not involved in the painting. Unmarried girls could get involved in plastering the background of walls with dung, water and chuna. The head priest involved is called a 'Bhadvo', a male shaman. Overall it is a male centric practice.

Bhasha Research and Publication Centre (Closed on Sunday & Public Holidays) was founded in 1996 with the purpose of giving 'voice' to Adivasi communities in India. The Adivasi Academy is founded by Bhasha at Tejgadh in Chhotaudepur district of Gujarat as an institute to combine the functions of the national academies, museums and literary bodies in the country, with respect to Adivasi culture, arts and literature. Over the years, the Adivasi communities with whom Bhasha has been actively involved, have voiced themselves through various spaces and mediums as arts, theatre, publishing, journalism and cultural activism

Bhasha has an extensive collection of audio-visual documentation being presented here in form of a free online resource created under the Scheme of Center of Excellence, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, for the study of Adivasis of India.

Later drive to visit Sankheda Village. Sankheda, a small town in the eastern region of Gujarat derives its name from sanghedu, the word for a lathe in the Gujarati language. The town has about 80-100 families belonging to the Kharadi-Suthar community identified with the occupation of wood turning. Lacquered, turned wood furniture with hand painted motifs and traditional method of ornamentation, popularly known as Sankheda furniture, is thought to have been produced in the town since 1855. The traditional craft process of making Sankheda furniture involves shaping and painting the members while the craftsperson is turning the lathe. The craftsperson wields the brush with great mastery to map the patterns freehand, achieving symmetric and even contours without using any measuring device or markings. As most of the craftspeople in Sankheda town are involved in this craft it gives them a strong sense of community identity and continuity. The ornate nature of the product lends itself to becoming a visible symbol of expression that has been identified as Gujarati within its local precincts and elsewhere. There is a wide range of furniture items produced including cradles, child's walkers, chairs, tables and large swings (a response unique to tropical and humid climate). It is produced by members of the Kharadi-Suthar caste residing in the town of Sankheda in Gujarat. Rana, Tadvi, Bariya are the castes of some of the hired craftsmen from the surrounding areas, who are traditionally associated with the sawing of timber. The primary users are from Gujarati community (all religious affiliations) in India and all over the world. Stay overnight in Kevadia.

DAY 05: AT KEVADIA - STATUE OF UNITY.

Breakfast at hotel. Proceed to visit Statue of Unity – Kevadia: Located near the sacred Narmada River, the Statue of Unity stands as an iconic symbol of national unity and pride. It is the tallest statue in the world, dedicated to the Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who played a pivotal role in the unification of India. A visit to this grand monument is sure to inspire a deep sense of patriotism and admiration.

Attractions and Activities in Kevadia Include:

• Statue of Unity Viewing Gallery
• Sardar Sarovar Nauka Vihar (Boating)
• Butterfly Garden & Cactus Garden
• Jungle Safari
• Arogya Van
• Vishwa Van
• Ekta Nursery

Important Notes:

• All the above-mentioned attractions are chargeable and must be booked online only.
• Once a particular activity is sold out, it cannot be availed, as no offline booking facility is available.
• The Statue of Unity remains closed every Monday. Additionally, closure dates may be changed without prior notice due to government visits or events. Stay overnight in Statue of Unity.

DAY 06: STATUE OF UNITY – DABHOI FORT – VADODARA (90 KMS / 2 HRS APPROX)

Today after breakfast drive to Vadodara, en-route visit Dabhoi Fort. Dabhoi was historically known as Darbhavati, Darbikagrama, Darbhavatipura, and Dabhohi. It is first mentioned in the sixth century astronomical treatise Romaka Siddhanta. It was an important pilgrim site for Hindus due to the Kalika temple and for Jains as well. It is also mentioned in several Jain works, such as Hemachandra's Yogartrevritti and Ramchandra's Vikramcharitra. Continue drive to Vadodara and transfer to hotel.

Later visit Laxmi Vilas Palace (Closed on Monday & Public Holidays) – The Laxmi Vilas Palace was built by Major Charles Mant. This palace was built in full throttle 19th century Indo-Saracenic style for Rs.6 million. The after early designs by the military engineer Mant, the facade of this extraordinary building is 150 m wide. The palace is faced in red Agra sandstone with dressings of blue trapstone from Pune and Rajasthani marble. The approach to the palace is very pleasant and the interior is spectacular. The Durbar Hall has walls and floor in Venetian mosaic and marble is used extensively through out, asisstained glass from London.

Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum (Closed on Monday & Public Holidays) – The Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum contains some fine European paintings. Sayaji Bagh (Closed on Thursday & Public Holidays) within this shady, pleasant park is the Baroda Museum, which houses some good Asian statues and carvings, mangy zoology exhibits and an Egyptian room. The gallery has lovely Mughal miniatures and a motley crew of European masters.

Tambekar Wada is located at Tambkear no Khancho, Raopura Area, Vadodara (Baroda). It is a three-storeyed building which is a typical Maratha Mansion, which was once the residence of Bhau Tambekar. Inside of Wada, there are some of the most beautiful but decaying 19th Century murals. The Building is almost 140+ Years Old.

Tambekar Wada is a spacious, four-storey building that has been constructed in an oblong fashion. It is originally the former residence of the Baroda State Diwan or Minister, Bhau Tambekar, who owned the responsibility of the administration of the state. The walls, doors and ceilings on the first and second floors of this old fashion building are adorned with the best specimens of mural paintings dating back to 17th and 18th centuries. Other wall paintings dating back to the first half of the 19th century represent epic scenes depicting the life of the people. The paintings are in poly-chrome and are of Maratha style of paintings of 19th century A.D. They are the best specimen of mural paintings in Gujarat. As the paintings have been made by some careless people, most of them had to be restored by the Archaeological Survey of India. The ASI still attend to the chemical treatments of these paintings on a frequent basis.

There are Paintings of Lord Krishna in childhood breaking Pot, Lord Krishna doing Raas with Gopi's, Lord Ganesha in childhood etc. Also it has British-Maratha Fight Paintings.

According to Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), paintings in Tambekar Wada are made during Year 1874. There are ~300 Paintings in Wada from 1st to 3rd floor. The Paintings are not only painted at wall, but also it is painted on door frames. Also there is nice design of Jali's and wood carving. Stay overnight in Vadodara.

DAY 07: VADODARA - LOTHAL - DARED (250 KMS / 5 HRS APPROX)

Today after breakfast drive to visit Lothal: A perfect place to get an insight of the Indus Valley civilization. The most dominating site at Lothal is the massive dockyard spanning an area of 37 meters by 22 meters perhaps the greatest work of Maritime Architecture. Lothal was also famous for its arterial streets, microbes of gold, ivory and coppersmiths' workshops, potteries and underground sanitary drainage. It is located at a distance of 78 kms from Ahmedabad. (Closed on Fridays). Continue drive to DARED and transfer to hotel.

Evening enjoy a village walk (approx. an hours walk) beginning with a short 5-minute walk from the hotel to witness skilled artisans polishing diamonds at a Diamond Polishing Workshop (Closed on Thursday & Also the visit will be subject to availability). This will be an excellent opportunity to see their craftsmanship up close.

Continue to visit the Maldhari houses, where we will get to observe the cow milking process and other cattle care activities. This will provide us with insight into the rural lifestyle of the locals. You will then proceed to the Mahadev temple, situated on the banks of the picturesque river Ghelo. The walk ends with a short 15 minutes' drive in a jeep or tractor to a river side location for a picnic sundowner. Head back to the hotel after sunset. Stay overnight at DARED.

DAY 08 DARED - PALITANA - DIU (240 KMS / 5.5 HRS APPROX)

Very early this morning you may wish to join the pilgrims and climb Palitana which is situated 60kms from Bhavnagar. The hills of Palitana are known as the 'Abode of the Gods' and are covered with 863 Jain temples spanning a period of over 900 years. Their finely carved spires and towers glisten in the sunlight as pilgrims make the uphill journey on foot. The climb will take about two hours each way so do carry water and a sun hat with you. Continue drive to Diu and transfer to hotel. Evening leisure at beach. Stay overnight in Diu.

DAY 09 DIU - SOMNATH - SASAN GIR (150 KMS / 3 HRS APPROX)

Today after breakfast visit Diu: A beautiful blend of sun, sand and sea, Diu is a God's gift to those in quest of a blessed land where the weary weight of this unintelligible world can, for a while, be lightened and the waking soul can hear the music of the nature. This tiny island of breeze, beauty and serenity situated off the southern tip of the Saurashtra (Kathiawad) peninsula of Gujarat, lapped by the Arabian Sea, is a picture of calmness with superb beaches and a fascinating history. Diu was ruled by many well-known kings and dynasties during the prehistoric, ancient and medieval times. It was a Portuguese colony until 1961. It is now a Union Territory, separated from Goa in 1987.It was an important trading post and naval base from where the rulers controlled the shipping routes in the northern part of the Arabian Sea between the 14-16th centuries.

In the late afternoon you will proceed to visit the St. Paul's church, Diu Fort & markets. St.Paul's church - St. Paul's church is dedicated to our Lady of Immaculate Conception. The construction of the church was started in 1601 and was completed in the year 1610. The main facade of the church is perhaps the most elaborate of all Portuguese churches in India. The façade has been illuminated by flood lights. The church adorned with curiously treated volutes and shell - like motifs and the magnificent wood carving is considered to be the most elaborate of all the Portuguese churches in India. St. Paul Church, built in 1691 is consecrated to our Lady of Immaculate Conception. In architectural style it resembles Bom Jesus Church at Goa. The dominant features are, no doubt, Gothic. The wood - paneling of the church is rated one of the best in church craftsmanship.

Diu Fort: It is an expansive and imposing structure, situated on the coast of the island. The fort commands a magnificent view of sea. It was constructed between 1535 and 1541 AD. The fort is skirted by the Sea on the three sides. On the fort stands a giant Light House. Several canons still stare menacingly from top. The main front wall is having five huge windows with stone galleries. The Fort has been creatively lit, which creates a breath taking views at night. Rugged yet gentle, fierce yet loving. The majestic structure stands on the coast of DIU as a sentinel. Once inside, you are overwhelmed by the gaunt majesty of the ancient stone work which transports you to a bygone era of gallant soldiers where time stands still. Continue drive to Sasan Gir, en-route visit Somnath Temple - A lord Shiva temple known as Jyotirlinga built by Moon God. Continue drive to Sasan Gir and transfer to hotel. Stay overnight in Sasan Gir.

DAY 10: AM SAFARI INTO SASAN GIR & LATER DRIVE TO GONDAL VIA JUNAGADH (120 KMS / 3 HRS APPROX)

AM safari at Gir Jungle Trail, [GIR NATIONAL PARK WILL CLOSE FROM 16TH JUNE TO 15THOCT EVERY YEAR. SAFARI WILL BE ON PRIOR TO PERMISSION] Sasan Gir Lion sanctuary is home of some

675 Asiatic Lions. Sasan Gir is only place in world outside African continent where lion can be seen in its natural habitat. Gir Wild life Sanctuary is the last refuge of Asiatic lions in India and the lion population residing in the park is a little over 300. The whole coverage area of Gir Sanctuary is about 560-square-mile (1,450-sq-kms). Gir is not just about Lions, the second most commonly found predator in the Gir is Leopard. Infect, Gir national park is also home to one of the largest Leopard populations in any park in India, and especially in the hotter season they can sometimes be seen at night close to the lodges. there animal residents of the Gir national park are Sambar Deer, Chital Spotted Deer, Nilgai Antelope, Chowsingha Four-Horned Antelope, Chinkara Gazelle, Wild Boar, Langur Monkey, Jackal, and Hyena and numerous birds like Paradise Flycatcher, Bonneli's Eagle, Crested Serpent Eagle, Woodpeckers Flamingo etc. bout 10, 000 years ago lions spanned vast sections of the globe, but as the human population started to increase, trees were cut and forests were cleared to make more land for people to live in. Now lions only in small fractions in some parts of the world. And Asiatic lions, a subspecies that split from African lions perhaps 100,000 years ago, are only found in the Gir wildlife Sanctuary.

Later drive to Gondal, en-route visit UPERKOT FORT is an ancient fort built by Chandr Gupta. The fort as been rebuilt & extended many times. Later visit of Ashokan Edicts, Mahabat Maqbara. The Ashoka's Rock edict is on the way of Girnar hill temple. The rock engraved with the Buddhist edicts of Ashoka. The edicts impart moral instruction on dharma, harmony, tolerance and peace. Continue drive to Gondal and transfer to hotel. Stay overnight in Gondal.

DAY 11: GONDAL - ANJAR MAKRET - BHUJ (280 KMS / 5 HRS APPROX)

Today after breakfast visit Gondal - Once the capital of a princely state, it was run by the Jadeja Rajputs, later overtaken by the Mughals and again recovered by the original rulers. It is a fortified town located on the river Gondali after which it was named. It was known as a model state of Saurashtra in late 19th and early 20th century. Specifically designed by Sir Bhagwatsinhiji, the ruler himself planned the development of the town which is reflected in the architecture, parks and buildings.

Later visit to the Naulakha Palace - The most attractive tourist spot in Gondal is the 17th century, Navlakha Palace complex, which is one of the oldest and most beautiful of Gondal's monuments. The Navlakha palace complex (17th century), is situated on a river bank, on a grand masonry base, rising to the monumental scale of at least 30 m above the river bed.

The palace is approached by the high gateway with the clock tower from the town side. The entrance leads to a huge open space with administrative blocks and a grand staircase with balustrade on the extreme left corner leading to the intricately carved pavilions on the open terrace. The grand Darbar Hall, with a series of huge windows opening onto a long balcony supported by intricately carved brackets, overlooks the river. The Darbar Hall has large chandeliers, stuffed panthers, gilt wooden furniture and antique Belgian mirrors. The private palace museum displays artifacts, gifts and messages received by Sir Bhagwatsinhiji, on his 50th birthday.

Gondal is like an ecstasy for the car lovers as the place highlights the Royal Garage that is pompous of gargantuan collection of vintage and classic cars which date back to the time of World War II on top of the post-war eon. The collection includes a pre-1910 New Engine that belonged to Maharaja Bhagwat Sinhji which is a real beauty with its superbly crafted gas-operated lamp, curved glass windscreen and woodwork interiors of the coach. The Delage D8, Daimler, and the grand 1935 Mercedes seven-seat saloon are examples of supercharged European cars of the 1920s and '30s known for their superbly crafted bodywork and high performance. Stylish American cars in the collection include a 1935 Packard two-door convertible coupe, the 1930s Buick convertible and the 1935 Ford convertible. Imposing American cars of the 1940s and '50s include a 1941 Cadillac saloon, a 1947 Cadillac convertible, a 1947 Buick convertible, a 1947 Oldsmobile, the 1940s Studebaker convertible, the 1947 Lincoln V12, and the 1950s Cadillac Eldorado limousine. The high-performance European cars of the late-1950s include the 1958 Mercedes 300SL two seat roadster, the 1959 Jaguar XK150 and other cars that Maharaja Jyotendra Sinhji and Maharaj Kumar Ghanadityasinhji raced to wins at many circuits. Also in the collection are muscle cars like the 1960s Chevolet Camaro and Surtees Formula 5000. Recent additions to the collection include the 1992 Corvette ZR1, the 1997 Chevrolet Camaro, the 1997 Buick Riviera, and a Dodge.

Also visit the nearby Bhuvaneshwari Ayurvedic which has been manufacturing herbal medicines according to ancient principles since 1910.

Udyog Bharti was established in 1957 in a very small room to give self-respected employment to the scorn & needy people by handspun & handwoven Khadi & Gramodyog (i.e.Village industries).

These days approximately 2,000 families are earning their bread with the help of Udyog Bharti Now-a-days the world is under the pressure of economical ups & downs, the distraction of environment & adverse effect of industrialization & many other factors. So, developed countries are trying to adopt "Gandhian Thoughts". Continue drive to Bhuj, en-route visit Anjar Market to see Rabari & Bharwad Community. Continue drive to Bhuj and transfer to hotel. Stay overnight in Bhuj.

DAY 12: EXCURSION OF BANNI VILLAGES & GREATER RANN OF KUTCH

Today after breakfast drive to visit Banni Village, stopping en route to obtain the necessary permits (required for all visitors). Visit different villages to meet the Jat, Harijan, Meghawal, and Mutwa communities, known for their traditional handicrafts and embroidery.

• Hodka Village – Famous for embroidery, mud work, and leather craft, with both men and women actively involved in preserving these traditions.
• Dhordo Village – Known for its beautiful Bhungas (mud houses) decorated with mirror work and fine Mutwa embroidery featuring intricate mirror designs.
• Ludiya Village – Home to Harijans and Muslim communities, skilled in wood carving, embroidery, and wall painting.
• Bhirandiyara Village – Meet Mr. Arjun Marwada and explore Paqo embroidery, patchwork, beadwork, and mirror embroidery.
• Gandhi Nu Gam – Visit traditional Bhungas, showcasing the region's unique architecture and craftsmanship.
• Nirona Village – Explore the 300-year-old Rogan art, a unique painting technique practiced by the Khatri family. You can also see lacquerware crafts and purchase handmade textiles.

Zura Village – Observe artisans practicing the traditional copper bell-making craft, an art passed down through generations. Return back to Bhuj and transfer to hotel. Stay overnight in Bhuj.

DAY 13 BHUJ - BHUJODI - AJRAKHPUR - BAJANA, LITTLE RANN OF KUTCH (250 KMS / 5 HRS APPROX)

Today after breakfast visit Bhuj Chhatardi: - Royal Chhatris or Cenotaphs, these are basically monuments dedicated to the lives of warrior Rajput rulers of the Kutch. The Chhatris in Bhuj were constructed in the 18th century by Jadeja ruler Rao Lakhpatji. The structure of these monuments is a unique mix of Rajputana and Mughal architectural styles. These umbrella-shaped dome structures are specimens of fine carvings in red sandstone. Almost all the Chhatardis has curved lines, domes and arches in their structure. The exterior walls are heavily ornamented, with sculptures of deities and panels depicting hunting scenes and couples in local costumes. Besides, the architecture of these structures shows a strong Islamic influence and is evident in the Mughal arches, the geometrical pattern of the jaalis and in the use of turquoise blue.

Many of the monuments are in ruins due to earthquake in 2001, but those of Lakhpatji, Raydhanji II and Desarji are still quite intact. Of these, the largest and the most outstanding one is the chhatri of Rao Lakha. Designed by Ram Singh Malam, it is polygonal in shape with balconies and a blue dome with jeweled work strongly influenced by Turkish architecture. It has two galleries with two entrances. The depictions in stone of his chhatri suggest that 15 of his wives gave up their lives at his funeral pyre.

Bhuj Chattardi also has a small surrounding lake which is adjoined by city's famous Hamirsar Lake. Watching the sunset from the complex is an amazing and memorable experience. However, some of its parts are damaged in 2001 Earthquake but still it gives you mesmerizing experience when you walk around. Renovation work still continues at these points though at a very slow pace.

Later visit The Aina Mahal: - It was built by Rao Lakhpatji (r. 1741–1760) in around 1750. The chief architect and designer of the palace was Ram Singh Malam, who lived in Europe for 18 years and mastered several European craft and architecture skills. The construction costed 80 lakh (8 million) koris or about Rs. 20 lakh (2 million); equalling three years of the state revenue in that period.

In 1830, Englishwoman Mrs Postnas visited the palace and noted her impressions in her memoir Cutch (1839). She remarked on the "motley and incongruous mélange of ornament" in a room illuminated with large candles where she found six musical clocks playing at once among jelly glasses and old vases.

The palace was converted into a museum in 1977. It was damaged in the 2001 Gujarat earthquake and part of the building was restored and now houses the Aina Mahal Trust.

Prag Mahal is named after Rao Pragmalji II, who commissioned it and construction began in 1865. It was designed by Colonel Henry St Clair Wilkins in what the local tourist office describes as the Italian Gothic style, although it would be better described as a Romanesque architecture twist on the Indo-Saracenic Revival style, and many Italian artisans were involved in its construction. The palace artisans' wages were paid in gold coins. Construction of the palace, which ultimately cost 3.1 million rupees, was completed in 1879 during the regency of Khengarji III (Pragmalji II's son) following Pragmalji II's death in 1875. The local Kutchi builder community (Mistris of Kutch) were also involved in construction of Prag Mahal along with Colonel Wilkins.

Kutch museum: - It was initially established as a part of the School of Arts established by Khengarji III, the Maharao of Cutch State. It was founded on 1 July 1877. At the time of Maharao Khengarji III's marriage on 19 February 1884 many new items were received and for exhibition of which, a need for new building was necessitated. As such, on 14 November 1884, the foundation stone for the present museum building was laid by the Governor of Bombay, Sir James Fergusson and named Fergusson Museum after him by Maharao of Cutch. The building consisting of two floors which cost Rs. 32000 to construct at that time. The museum, constructed in the Italian Gothic style, is located on the bank of Hamirsar Lake just opposite to the Nazar Bagh Garden. It was designed by the state engineer - Mc Lelland and built by local builders known as Mistris of Kutch under supervision of State Gaidher - Jairam Ruda Gajdhar. The museum remained the preserve of the Maharao of Cutch, till 1948, who showed it only to his personal guests. In those days, the museum was opened to the public only on important religious occasions.

Later drive to Dasada, en-route visit Bhujaodi 10 km out of Bhuj, artisans weave thick shawls and blankets on pit looms dug into the of crouch mud houses (Bhungas) decorated with garomati. The ancient tradition of weaving shawls and blankets from coarse sheep hair came into existence generations ago essentially as a form of barter between the "rabari" community or the nomadic grazing community and the vankars (weavers) — "the rabaris brought us the sheep hair from which we made blankets and shawls for them after spinning the sheep hair into wool.

Ajrakhpur to see the block printing by tribe, Dhaneti to observe the embroidery by the Ahir tribe and Bhujodi to view the weavers from the Vankar tribe. These block printing villages are home to the famous Ajrakh craftsmen of the region. The latter is far from Bhuj and was largely destroyed by the earthquake, but there are still some great craftsmen and their workshops to visit there. In Ajrakhpur, not so far from KHAMIR, the famous Dr. Ismail Katri (for most of the practitioners are Katris), and his sons are friendly and make incredibly beautiful prints. But walking around and meeting the other craftmen is a must – there is great diversity in the craft. Continue drive to Bajana and transfer to hotel. Stay overnight in Bajana.

DAY 14: SAFARI INTO WILD ASS SANCTUARY & LATER DRIVE TO AHMEDABAD VIA MODHERA & PATAN (240KMS / 5HRS APPROX)

Enjoy morning safari at Little Rann Of Kutch viewing rarest wild asses in the region. Wild ass sanctuary - The sanctuary is well known for its group of the stale joke brown Asiatic (Wild ass), which does not live elsewhere in Indian lowlands. We can see with Little Rann of Kutch blackbuck (Indian antelope), nilgai or blue bull (India's largest antelope) and the graceful chinkara (Indian gazelle) are other mammals. The main carnivores of the Little Rann of Kutch are the endangered Indian wolf, desert fox, Indian fox, jackals, desert and jungle cats, and a few hyenas; also we can see during the visits flamingoes, pelicans, ducks, cranes and storks.

Later visit to the Salt Pans. Meet Salt Pan Workers – Agariyas. Interact with them and learn why they are in this profession. Listen to challenges they face, their daily chores, etc. Involve into the sweat braking activity of ploughing salt. Return back to hotel & have breakfast.

Later drive to Ahmedabad, en-route visit MODHERA Sun Temple, Modhera Sun Temple dates bake to early 11th centuary CE and was built by King Bhimdev I in 1026 CE. The temple at Modhera is the most important of all sun temples built in the whole Gujarat. The temple is dedicated to the Sun God. The temple is magnificent and the finest example of the Hindus architecture in Gujarat. One of the most striking features of the Modhera Sun Temple that the first ray of the sun falls on the deity at the time of the equinoxes. In front of the temple is a colossal tank, which was once known as Surya Kund or Rama Kund. The tank has a series of the carved steps leading to the bottom.

Patan House, Patan is Famous for patola weaving, Salvi family is one of them who has continued this traditional art and has preserved it even today. Patola silk is often termed as the queen of all silk. The special technique of the handmade silk patola uses the same special technique for weaving from raw silk to the completion of the patola fabric. The weaver makes the special patola loom and colouring from indigenous natural materials. Patola from the area of patan in the north Gujarat region of western India glorifies this heritage with its unique gem like qualities, gorgeous colours, designing & durability Different colour and pattern matched exactly on horizontal and vertical threads in weaving. The patola was traditionally woven in a sari length of 5 to 9 yards by 45" to 54" width. The range now extends to include tablecloth borders scarves handkerchief.

PATAN - Rani ki Vav (Step well). It was built by the Queen Udaymati the wife of Bhimdev during 11-12th Century. It is the most magnificent and spectacular step well and the best example of such architecture for water wells. The Vav measuring about 64 mts. The stepwell has long stepped corridor descending down to the underground tank, it is having four pillars. The Pillars which support the roof have squire base decorated with Ghat Pallavas. It was one of the largest and the most sumptuous structure of its type.

Sidhpur to see the wonderful wooden havelies. Their old Havelis and mansions, some over 100 years old have a markedly European flavor and a walk through the 'Bohra Vad' is like a stroll through an England replete with the lamp lighters at dusk. So enamored were they by the style & existence of living in the 19th century Europe that as a sign of opulence and to gain respectability amongst the community they tried to create a slice of Europe in their hometown. This, they did by imitating the Victorian architecture. The facades are rich in variety and aesthetic expression with intricate details in wood. Thus the living spaces of the Bohra community or the so-called 'Bohra Havelis' represent a nostalgic visual straight out of a Dickenson novel. Continue drive to Ahmedabad and transfer to hotel. Stay overnight in Ahmedabad.

DAY 15: AHMEDABAD SIGHTSEEING + DEPARTURE

Today enjoy Private Heritage Walk – Explore the old city's unique 'Pols,' self-contained neighborhoods with narrow lanes, community wells, and Chabutro (bird-feeding structures). These historic settlements feature hidden passages and intricately carved mansions, offering a glimpse into Ahmedabad's rich past.

Rani no Hajiro – A historic courtyard built in 1445, housing eight beautifully carved marble tombs of the queens of Ahmed Shah I and other Gujarat Sultanate rulers.

Jama Masjid – Built in 1424 AD by Sultan Ahmed Shah I, this grand mosque features Gujarat-style architecture, a large paved courtyard, and an ablution tank.

Bhadra Fort – Built by Ahmed Shah in 1411 AD, this historic fort was named after the Bhadrakali Temple and was later used as a prison by the British.

Sarkhej Roza – Known as the "Acropolis of Ahmedabad," this mosque and tomb complex is a significant Sufi cultural center, where Shaikh Ahmed Ganj Baksh once lived. Later transfer to airport for onward journey.

***TOUR ENDS***

****WISHING YOU A VERY HAPPY JOURNEY****