Culture, Fort and Palaces of Rajasthan and Gujarat

Culture, Fort and Palaces of Rajasthan and Gujarat: Complete Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive Delhi
Arrive Delhi international airport, meet & greet with our office representative, assistance and transfer to hotel, check in. Rest day for relax, personal activities etc. Overnight at hotel.

Optional; Dances of India “The Essence of India's Rhythmic Heritage” with Dinner at Chor Bizarre - India's Restaurant. India's finest and longest running show since 1975, now in its consecutive 29th year of success. A Rich & Unique conglomeration of Classical, Folk & Tribal dances, this captivating show which comprises of 60 elaborate minutes of enchanting music, dance and song in all its authenticity and exquisite finesse is your mirror to the rich diversity of India. Each show performed by a troupe of 20 renowned artists is a pageant of popular Indian dances that touches the true spirit of India.

Repertoire include Kathak, Odissi, Manipuri, Dholcholam, Bhavai, Kathakali, Dandiyas Ras, Bhangara, Banjara, Chirmi, Naga, Kagalumbah, Garba, Bihu etc., 6-7 items are presented every night.

Day 02: Delhi – Agra (204kms/ 4hrs approx)
Breakfast at hotel, drive past Red Fort & Chandni Chowk Bazar, Khari Baoli spice market.

Visit Jama Masjid (Mosque) Shah Jahan (King of the World) founded the city of Shahjanabad, now referred to as Old Delhi, in 1648. Opposite the fort is the Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in the world, built by Shah Jahan to dominate his city. Raj Gath: The memorial of Mahatma Gandhi where he was cremated after his assassination. Qutab Minar: The building complex dated back on the onset of Muslim rule in India and are fine examples of Afghan architecture. Himayun’s Tomb: Build by wife of Humayun, the second mughal king. It is an early example of Mughal architecture. India Gate: The 42m high stone "Arch of Triumph", erected in the memory of Indian soldiers who died in the First World War; Drive through Rajpath "Kingsway" a VVIP area of Delhi including Rashtrapati Bhawan. Laxmi Narayan Temple: Garishly colored modern temple is erected by the industrialist Birla. This temple is dedicated to Laxmi - the goddess of wealth and Narayan - Lord Vishnu, husband of Laxmi. Lotus Temple: In the heart of New Delhi, the bustling capital of India, a lotus-shaped outline has etched itself on the consciousness of the city's inhabitants, capturing their imagination, fuelling their curiosity, and revolutionising the concept of worship. [Temple is closed on Monday's].

Afternoon drive to Agra, check in at hotel. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 03: Agra
Breakfast at hotel, visit Taj Mahal: One of the Seven Wonder of the World was build by Shah Jahan in 1631 AD and was completed in 1651. This symbol of love was build in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Described as the most extravagant monument ever build for love. It was constructed by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his queen Mumtaz Mahal, made out of white marble took 22 years to complete. Ustad Ahamad Lahori, a Parsian Architect, is said to be the main designer and planer of this magnificent memorial. On full moon night, the glory of the Taj is at its best. (Taj Mahal remain closed on every Friday)

Agra Fort: Built by the famed Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1565AD, the fort is predominantly of red sandstone. Construction of the massive red sandstone Agra Fort on the bank of the Yamuna River was begun by Emperor Akbar in 1565, though additions were made up until the rule of his grandson, Shah Jahan region it has partially become Palace. The fort presents a good sampling of their favoured architectural styles. Akbar drew on Islamic and Hindu traditions and the result is eclectic. By Shah Jahan's time the style had become so homogenized that it is impossible to separate the Hindu and Muslim strands. The Diwan-I-Am (public audience hall) the beautiful Diwan-I-Khas (private audience hall) were also added by Shah Jahan.

AItmad-ud-daulah's Tomb: Built between 1622 and 1628 by Empress Nur Jahan for her father, boasts of marble trellis work and inlaid with-precious stones, this mausoleum on the opposite bank of the Yamuna from the Taj, exhibits a strong Persian influence. Itmad-ud-Daula often describe as Jewel Box. The Tomb of Mir Ghias Beg, Vazir (minister) of Emperor Jahangir, was built between 1622 and 1628 from red sand stone with marble decorations as Akbar?s tomb in Sikendra in Agra. Itmad-ud-daula has important place in history as well as architecture. This is actually the very first tomb in India that is entirely made out of Marble. It is most important monument in Agra after Taj Mahal and Agra fort. Overnight at hotel.

Day 04: Agra – Fatehpur Sikri – Abhaneri – Jaipur (245kms/ 5hrs approx)
Breakfast at hotel drive to Jaipur, Enroute visit to Fatehpur Sikri: built by Emperor Akbar in 1569 and abandoned after 15 yrs. Due to scarcity of water. Predominately, a red sandstone construction sprawling over a huge area, the architectural style is very much in tune with emperor’s dream & partakes of both Hindu & Muslim styles. See the graceful buildings including Jama Masjid, Tomb of Salim Chisti, Panch Mahal & other places.

Salim Chishti Dargah: Built by Emperor Akbar in 1569 and abandoned after 15 yrs. Due to scarcity of water. Predominately, a red sandstone construction sprawling over a huge area, the architectural style is very much in tune with emperor’s dream & partakes of both Hindu & Muslim styles. Salim Chishti (1478-1572) was one of the famous Sufi saints of the Chishti Order in India. Salim Chishti was the descendant of the famous Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti whose tomb is in Ajmer, Rajasthan.
Your second stop enroute to Jaipur is Abhaneri; is a small village, situated at a distance of 95km from Jaipur, on Jaipur-Agra road. The place is popular for the amazing 'Baoris' (step wells) and Harshat Mata Temple. The village of Abhaneri is believed to be established by the King Raja Chand. Originally Abhaneri was named as Abha Nagri, which means the city of brightness, but due to mispronunciation of the term, it is changed to the present name. In the present day, this city of brightness is in ruins; still it attracts tourists from across the globe. Abhaneri is prominent for 'Baoris', which are the unique invention of the natives for harvesting rain water. Amongst the other step wells, Chand Baori is the most popular one. This colossal step well is located in front of the Harshat Mata Temple. Chand Baori is one of India's deepest and largest step wells. The huge tank with delicate carvings is certainly delightful to the eyes.

Continue drive to Jaipur, on arrival check in at hotel. Evening free to scroll the market. Overnight at hotel.

Day 05: Jaipur
Breakfast at hotel, visit Amber Fort and enjoy Elephant Ride (upto the hills). Raja Man Singh the Rajput commander of Akbar’s army constructed the fortress palace in the end  of 16th century. Amber is superb example of Rajput architecture, situated on a hilltop, overlooking a lake. Amber Fort is known for its unique artistic style, blending both Hindu and Muslim (Mughal) elements, and its ornate and breathtaking artistic mastery. The fort borders the Maota Lake. Amber was originally built by the Meenas in the town they consecrated to Amba, the Mother Goddess, whom they knew as `Gatta Rani' or `Queen of the Pass'. Built over the remnants of an earlier structure, the palace complex which stands today was commenced under the reign of Raja Man Singh, Commander in Chief of Akbar’s army and a member of the Emperor's inner circle of nine courtiers, in 1592. The initial structure of the fort was entirely completed by his descendant; Jai Singh I. Amber was modified by successive rulers over the next 150 years, until the Kachwahas shifted their capital to Jaipur during the time of Sawai Jai Singh II.

Jaigarh Fort; or Fort of Victory is located 15Km away from Jaipur. It is considered to be one of the most well fortified structures in India. The magnificent fort was constructed by Sawai Singh of Jaipur in 1726 in order to tighten the security of Amber and Jaipur. Situated on the top of the hill the fort provides the stunning view of the Jaipur town and magnificent amber fort. It was used as the treasury of the royal family of Jaipur. Jaigarh Fort is not that captivating as that of Amber Fort but it has its own charm that lures visitors. The main highlights of the fort are massive Cannon, fortification, museum, palaces, temples and the magnificent water tanks. Jai Van is claimed to be the largest cannon on wheels in the world. This massive cannon was manufactured in the Jaigarh gun foundry in 1720 AD. The length of the barrel of this cannon is 20 ft. 2 inches, the diameter 8 ft. 7 inches and it weighs 50 tons. The range of the gun is 22 miles and it consumes 100 kgs. of gunpowder for every shot.

City tour of Jaipur, the origins of the beautiful city of Jaipur can be traced back to the eighteenth century, during the reign of Jai Singh II who ascended the Amber throne in 1699. Jaipur today, epitomizes the spirit of Rajputana. In-spite of growing into a bustling metropolis, it still retains it's character and history - Beautiful fusion of the yesteryears and modernity. Popularly known as the Pink City because of the extensive use of the locally abundant pink plastered stone, painted so in honor of the visit of the royal consort of Queen Victoria Jaipur thrills the soul with its massive forts, magnificent palaces, exquisite temples and lush gardens. Main tourist attractions of Jaipur are City Palace with its fine collection of textiles, costumes and armory and the Hawa Mahal or Palace of the Winds. Maharaja Jai Singh was a great astronomer of his time. He built here extraordinary (and very accurate) stargazing Observatory here named as “Jantar Mantar”. Overnight at hotel.

Optional Evening; dinner at Chokhi Dhani (40kms/ 1hrs one way); Capturing the spirit of Rajasthan and ensuring the perfect Rajasthani experience is Chokhi Dhani, a unique Village Resort. Chokhi Dhani literally means a “fine hamlet” i.e. a quintessential village that offers an ideal pastoral experience. Away from the urban life the quaint mud and thatch dwellings in the resort give the right blend of traditions - modern amenities in typical ethnic environment.

Day 06: Jaipur – Ajmer/ Pushkar (141kms/ 3hrs approx)
Breakfast at hotel, drive to Pushkar, check in at hotel.

Breakfast at hotel, visit Brahma Temple: This is the only temple in the world where Lord Brahma is worshiped and the main attraction of Pushkar. The temple has a special position in Hindu pantheons. There is life-size four-armed idol of Lord Brahma - the creator in the vestibule. The temple has marble floors and stairs and coins have been put by the devotees to mark the birth or deaths of the loved ones. Pushkar Lake: According to the legends, the lake was dedicated to Lord Brahma after a lotus fell from his hands and dropped into this picturesque valley. A lake sprang up on the same spot latter on which is considered holy. The entire lake is supposed to be surrounded by 500 temples, 52 palaces, and 52 ghats. On the occasion of Kartik Purnima in November every year, devotees take holy bath in the lake and a fair is organized, known world over as the Pushkar Fair.

Savitri Temple: The temple is dedicated to Savitri, the wife of Lord Brahma and located on the top of the Ratnagiri Hill. According to the legends when Lord Brahma performed a Yagna (holy fire devoted to gods) along with Gayatri, a local milkmaid, furious Savitri cursed her husband that he would never be worshipped anywhere except in Pushkar and that too only once a year. Savitri left for the Ratnagiri Hill after cursing her husband and immolated herself there. There is beautiful statue of Goddess Savitri inside the temple.

Dargah of Sufi Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti; located at the end of a dusty alley in the main market, makes Ajmer an important pilgrim centre for Muslims from all parts of the world and Pushkar is the abode of Lord Brahma, which devout Hindus aspire to visit at least once in their lifetime. Adhai-din-ka-Jhonpara, In 1193 A.D, the Afghan Mohammad Ghori conquered Ajmer and converted a Sanskrit school into a mosque by adding a seven arched wall in front of the pillared hall in just two-and-a-half days. Ana Sagar Lake, This beautiful lake was built by King Anaji (AD 1135-1150), the grandfather of Prithvi Raj Chauhan at a picturesque site located to the north of Ajmer. Daulat Bagh Gardens, which was created by Jehangir, is located next to the lake. Baradari or the marble pavilion was added to the lake by Shahjahan. Overnight at hotel.

Day 07: Ajmer/ Pushkar – Bundi - Kota (250kms/ 5hrs approx)
Breakfast at hotel, drive to Kota Enroute visit Bundi.14th century Taragarh Fort. It is resplendent in white, with a big gateway, battlement and a rock reservoir.  The Bundi Palace next to the fort has some beautiful murals on display. At Chhattar Mahal of the many splendid structures the ancient water clock at Hathi Pol and the beautiful Diwan-e-Aam are a must see. The stables at Ratan Daulat offer a glimpse into medieval Rajput lifestyle.

You can quietly savour the serene surroundings of the beautiful gardens of Sukh Mahal and the artificial lake at Nawal Sagar. Chatra Mahal and Badal Mahal, a part of Garh Palace, is a treasury of miniature paintings in red, golden and blue. Phool Sagar Palace is another building which has wonderful murals. The area is famous for its step-wells such as the 17th century Raniji-ki-Baoli built by Rani Nathavatji. This is the largest of the baolis in Bundi.

Continue drive to Kota. Onarrival check in at hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 08: Kota - Chittorgarh (168kms/ 4hrs approx)
Breakfast at hotel, drive to Chittorgarh, check in at hotel.

Afternoon visit Chittogarh Fort: a massive structure with a 1kms zigzag accent to it. The road leads through seven gates to the main gate Rampol (meaning Gate of Ram). On the climb between the second and third gate you see two Chattris cenotaphs built to honour Jaimull and Kulla heroes of 1568 siege by Emperor Akbar. The main gate of the fort itself is Surajpol (meaning Sun Gate). Within the fort a circular runs around the ruins of the fort.

Tower of Victory-Vijay Stambh: Built in 1440.AD by Maharana Kumbha to commemorate his victory over Mohamed Khilji this 9-storyed tower is adorned by sculptures of Hindu deities around. There are around 157 narrow steps leading to the terrace where the balconies give a beautiful top angle view of the whole town.When illuminated in the evening, the tower reflects a mesmerizing effect and the view is worth capturing in the camera. This tower is the piece-de-resistance of chittaurgarh.

Tower of Fame - Kirti Stambh: Dedicated to Adinathji the 1stJain Teerthankar adorned by the naked figures of the Digambars [Adherents of the Digambar sect who does not believe in covering the natural body] A narrow stairway goes through seven stories of the tower to the top. The 22 metres high tower was build by a wealthy jain merchant in the 12th century A.D. Rana Kumbha Palace: The ruined edifice of great historical and architectural interest, being the most massive monument in the fort of Chittaur. The palace is believed to have underground cellars where Rani Padmini and other women committed Jauhar.

Padmini Palace; It is built beside the lotus pool with a historical pavilion that changed the history of Chittor. Ala-ud-din saw the reflection of Queen Padmini from here and so mesmerized was he, that the quest of possessing her led to a furious battle which saw the last of Maharana Ratan Singh (husband of Maharani Padmini) and the epitome of beauty-Cleopatra of Rajasthan, became an eternal legend in the history of chittor and also of the Mewar state. The feel still lingers on. A thing of beauty is a joy for ever- and now they don't say this for nothing.

Day 09: Chittorgarh - Udaipur (115kms/ 3hrs approx)
Breakfast at hotel, drive to Udaipur, on arrival check in at hotel. Evening sunset boat cruise in Lake Pichola.

Enjoy a Boat cruise on Lake Pichola on which the majestic Lake Palace Hotel is situated. See the ghats along the lake and the interesting buildings on the banks. The view of the city palace from the lake is spectacular. Lake Pichola, is an artificial fresh water lake, created in the year 1362 AD, named after the nearby Picholi village. It is one of the several contiguous lakes, and developed over the last few centuries in and around the famous Udaipur city. The lakes around Udaipur were primarily created by building dams to meet the drinking water and irrigation needs of the city and its neighborhood. Two islands, Jag Niwas and Jag Mandir are located within Pichola Lake, and have been developed with several palaces to provide views of the lake.

Three of the numerous lakes found in the vicinity of Udaipur which connect with the Pichola lake and the Saroop Sagar Lake connected by an arched bridge built by Maharana Swaroop Singh (1842-1861) which in turn connects to the Fateh Sagar Lake, the crystal watered lake in the midst of tree lined hills and the smaller Arsi vilas. Dock at the Jagmandir Island where the Maharana of Udaipur once gave shelter to Shah Jehan. Rest of the day free for independent activities. Overnight at hotel.

Day 10: Udaipur
Breakfast at hotel, guided city tour of Udaipur the city of Dawn, is the Jewel of Mewar -a kingdom ruled by the Sisodia Dynasty for 1200 years. Its kaleidoscope of fairy-tale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens and narrow lanes strewn with stalls, carry the flavour of a heroic past, epitomizing valour and chivalry. Their reflection of these building in the placid waters of the Lake Pichola is an enticing sight.

Morning: City tour of Udaipur. Visit the City Palace, a majestic architectural marvel that is perched on a hill and towers over Lake Pichola. The Palace is a majestic conglomeration of courtyards, pavilions, terraces, corridors, rooms and hanging gardens. Each palace within is an outstanding creation of art. Visit the Bharatiya Lok Kala Museum, which has an interesting collection of Indian folk art including costumes, ornaments, puppets, masks, dolls, musical instruments and deities. Later visit Saheliyon-ki-bari the "Ladies Garden", with its rich foliage and intricately designed fountains. Overnight at hotel.

Day 11: Udaipur – Ahmadabad (254kms/ 5hrs approx)
Breakfast at hotel, drive to Ahmadabad check in at hotel.

 Ahmadabad was founded by Sultan Ahmed Shah in 1411 AD and was graced with splendid monuments, mosques, pavilions and mausoleums, marking the beginning of the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture.  Modern day Ahmadabad, popularly known, as the capital of the State of Gujarat is the largest city and a leading industrial center in Gujarat.  It is also the sixth largest in India.

Popularly known as the Manchester of the East, Ahmadabad boasts of the largest denim production in the world. It is also home to several interesting museums. Many of Ahmadabad buildings bear the signatures of world-renowned architects like Le Corbusier, Louis Khan, Doshi and Correa. It is from the austere habitat of Sabarmati at Ahmedabad, that the 'Father of the Nation' - Mahatma Gandhi took on the mighty British Empire, and gave human race one of its most remarkable ways to fight oppression - non-violence. Overnight at hotel.

Day 12: Ahmadabad – Gondal (250kms/ 4hrs)
Breakfast at hotel half day city tour, visit the Shaking minarets, Calico textile museum, Sabarmati ashram, Vishala vichar museum and Kite museum. Later visit the famous Law gardens (for handicrafts) and C.J road for shopping.

Shaking minarets; are two minarets located at the Siddhi Bashir mosque. They are uniquely designed in a way that when one minaret is shaken the other one shakes too. Calico textile museum; is one of the finest textile museums in the world. Housed in one of Gujarat's famous carved wooden havelis, the museum displays a magnificent collection of rare textiles that date back to the 17th century. There is also an excellent reference library on textiles. Sabarmati Ashram; On a quiet stretch of the river Sabarmati, 7 kms north of the city, Mahatma Gandhi set up a simple retreat in 1915. This was his first Satyagraha Ashram and for many it was the nerve center of India's freedom movement. Hridaya Kunj, the cottage where he lived is preserved as it was in the Mahatma's lifetime. The Gandhi Ashram has a memorial center, library and a sound and light spectacle to offer its visitors.

Vishala Vichar museum; is a restaurant with traditional Gujarati food in village surroundings. It has Vichar Utensil Museum worth visiting. The museum houses a unique collection of utensils. Kite museum; houses a wonderful variety of kites that depict their colorful history and regional flavors. Afternoon drive to Gondal, check in at hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 13: Gondal
Gondal, the capital of the former princely state of Gondal, was ruled by the Jadeja Rajput clan, till the independence of India. Present day Gondal is a testimony to the great visionary ruler Sir Bhagwatsinhji, who introduced social reforms, planned the development of Gondal town and created a model state of Saurashtra in late 19th and early 20th century. Sir Bhagwatsinhji's high education and extensive tours to Europe enhanced his aesthetic tastes, which can be seen in the architecture and planning of public buildings, parks, bazaars and palaces built during his regime.

Navlakha Palace; One of the oldest and most beautiful of Gondal palaces, the Navlakha Palace complex, is situated on a riverbank, on a grand masonry base, rising to the monumental scale of at least 30 meters, above the riverbed. The palace is approached by the high gateway with the clock tower from the town side. The grand Darbar Hall, with a series of huge windows opening onto a long balcony supported by intricately carved brackets, overlooks the river. 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 Bhagwatsinhji, on his 50th birthday.

Riverside Palace; The riverside palace is located at the edge of the Gondali River; built in colonial style of architecture, amidst a garden with huge trees. The living room is decorated in European taste, while the Indian room has brassware, beadwork and paintings in typical Indian style. The series of galleries and terraces of the palace building bring nature close to the visitors of this heritage hotel. Orchard Palace; The Orchard Palace was originally a State guesthouse, built in colonial style with an arcade of semi circular arches, set in the midst of fruit orchards. The garden in the front, a beautiful fountain with lily pond and marble statues en chances the beauty of the palace. The main sitting room has a collection of paintings, antique furniture, bird eggs and many interesting art objects.

Vintage Car Collection; The rulers of Gondal were great lovers of automobiles and one can see several vintage and classic cars in the royal garage. Two rail saloons of the Gondal State were renovated, keeping the original décor and are available for accommodation in the Orchard Garden Palace. The stay at saloons provides a unique experience: a nostalgia of the great days of the Indian railways combined with royal grandeur. Overnight at hotel.

Day 14: Gondal – Junagarh – Gondal (65kms/ 1hrs one way)
Breakfast at hotel, full day excursion to visit Junagarh an ancient fortified city rich in myth and legend, Junagadh lies at the foot of the temple-studded Girnar Hill. It derives its name from the 'old fort', which circles the medieval town.

The Girnar Hills that landscape Junagadh are a holy sanctuary to the Jains. The history of Mount Girnar dates back to the awesome empire of Ashoka, one of India's greatest emperors. Ashoka inscribed 14 edicts on a huge boulder en-route to Mt. Girnar peak. Junagadh's main feature is the Uperkot fort (upper fort), a somber and inaccessible fortress.

Ashoka's Rock Edicts; On the way to Girnar, there is a huge boulder, housed in a small roadside building, on which are fourteen Rock Edicts inscribed by Emperor Ashoka. As was the tradition of Kings of yore, in his quest to expand his empire, Ashoka fought fierce wars. After one of his most ferocious battles, a victorious Ashoka visited the battlefield of Kalinga. But the sight of mass slaughter of human beings had a catalytic effect on his mind. Remorse-stricken, he turned to Buddhism for absolution. He devoted rest of his life for the propagation and practice of Buddha's teachings.

The inscriptions carry Brahmi script in Pali language and date back to 250 B.C. The fourteen edicts of Emperor Ashoka are moral lectures. These edicts, preserved in the Girnar hills, bear testimony to the benevolent attitude and activities of the Emperor. On the same rock are inscriptions in Sanskrit added around 150 A.D. by Rudradama and in about 450 A.D. by Skandagupta, the last emperor of the Mauryas.

Uperkot Fort; is believed to have been constructed by the Yadavas (the clan to which Lord Krishna belonged) when they came to settle in Dwarka. Famous in bygone times for its virtual inaccessibility, the Uperkot or upper fort is girdled by a wall that is, in some places, over 20m. high. An ornate entrance gateway leads to the ruins. The fort has many interesting exhibits like the two guns placed on the western wall and believed to have been cast in Egypt. The bigger one is called the Nilamtope and the other one is known as Kadanal. In and around the fort one can find several Buddhist caves belonging to the 200 B.C. to 200 A.D era.

In the Uperkot is a two storied cave said to belong to the first century which is believed to be a Buddhist Chaitya cave. There are also Buddhist caves at Bava Pyara Math found below the Southern walls of Uperkot arranged in three rows. Scholars believe that they are Buddhist caves possibly belonging to the period between 200 B.C to 200 A.D. Overnight at hotel in Gondal.

Day 15: Gondal – Bhuj (270kms/ 5hrs)
Breakfast at hotel drive to Bhuj, stopping along the way in Rajkot to see the Watson Museum which has some excellent examples of Gujarati craftsmanship and at Rashtriya Shala, a co-operative where local people are working to revive hand-weaving styles indigenous to this area.

On arrival in Bhuj, check into your hotel with the remainder of the day at leisure. Bhuj is an ancient centre of trade and commerce with some interesting historical sites, but tragically the city was very close to the epicenter of the January 2001 earthquake which cost thousands of lives around the Kutch area. As a result there was a tremendous amount of devastation so many of the monuments are in a rather poor state. However the resilience of people who live in such an inhospitable environment shouldn’t be underestimated and they have bounced back with a wonderful hardiness of spirit and Bhuj is once more a bustling market town. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 16 and 17: Bhuj - Tribal Village of Hodka (65kms/ 2hrs)
First thing in the morning you will need to obtain the special permit which is required in order to travel to tribal villages and  border areas deep in the Rann of Kutch. Heading out of Bhuj the landscape changes rapidly to semi-desert with pockets of scrub and thorn bush cover- not surprisingly this area is mainly populated by camel and goat herders. However there are many villages scattered around the region, each with a specialty which enables them to eke out a living from this harsh region. Many of the villages specialize in the creation of beautiful traditional arts and crafts- you will be able to visit a number of these and see leatherwork, embroidery, painting, wood carving, fabric dying and mud-work.You may see traditional charcoal production, sweet making and more besides. At the end of each day of exploration in the Kutch region, you will have the opportunity to stay at a resort in the desert- Shaam-E –Sarhad. This is an unforgettable place with accommodation in deluxe tents and traditional style Bhungas- mud-walled huts which are similar to those in the villages you will be visiting (but with important extras like attached bathrooms!) To spend a couple of nights here, dine under the stars and be entertained by local musicians and dancers, is one of the most rewarding experiences on offer anywhere in India.  Overnight at Shaam-E-Sarhad, Hodka District.

Day 18: Hodka – Mandvi (60kms/ 1hrs)
After breakfast depart from Shaam-E-Sarhad to Bhuj. En route you will be able to visit a village where the last surviving practitioners of an ancient painting style known as Rogan will beguile you with the brilliance of this art form. After leaving Bhuj, travel on to the coast at Mandvi and visit Rabari villages and the Mandvi Palace before checking into your accommodation for tonight- a deluxe tented camp virtually on the beach.

Free time in the afternoon and evening to relax and swim in the Arabian Sea on India’s longest private beach, overnight at hotel/ beach camp.

Day 19: Mandvi – Dasada (320kms/ 6hrs)
Breakfast at hotel, drive to Dasada passing picturesque old towns and villages and the colourful sight of various semi-nomadic communities of Rabari people who traverse the deserts and plains of Gujarat with their camel carts. Upon reaching Dasada, check in at, an eco-resort designed using local materials and handicrafts to resemble a village. In the afternoon, you have the choice of visiting local craftspeople in their villages, or for a change of pace and emphasis, you can take a jeep safari to the edge of the Rann of Kutch- a vast salt-marsh which is home to large herds of Indian Wild Ass (Khur) and other desert animals.  Overnight at resort.

Day 20: Dasada – Danta (160kms/ 3hrs)
After breakfast and optional morning safari in the Rann of Kutch to see the rich and diverse wildlife of this area, leave Dasada and drive to Danta via Patan. Patan is home to silk weavers who produce Patola fabric- one of the richest silk textiles in the world, woven using the rare double-ikat technique. Also at Patan you can visit the glorious 11th century Modhera Sun Temple complex and Rani-ki-vav, one of the most impressive step-wells in all of Gujarat.

Upon reaching the tiny town of Danta, check into Heritage Homestay, the ancestral home of the royal family of this former princely state. The welcome is warm and hospitable, and the views over the surrounding countryside expansive and peaceful. The Maharana will take you on an afternoon tour by jeep and you may be able to visit his horse stud. Dinner is a family affair here and accommodation comfortable and spacious.  Overnight at heritage hotel.

Day 21: Danta – Poshina – Ahmedabad (180kms/ 3hrs)
A dawn walk is on the cards today – one of the estate staff will escort you through scrub and rocky landscapes around the Villa to see village life and ancient agricultural techniques at first hand. After breakfast back at the Villa, depart for Poshina (70km) and visit Garasia tribal villages and a tribal shrine where Bhil and Garasia people from about 90 neighbouring villages visit.

Later drive to Ahmedabad, direct transfer to airport to board flight for your onward journeys.