Exploration trip Gujarat – 17 days
17 days | October to May | € 2895
Gujarat exploration tour by chauffeured car and iconic train ride
Explore the hidden beauties of Gujarat and experience an unforgettable train journey to the heart of Mumbai
€ 2895 per person based on a trip for two people.
Highlights of the trip
Explore Ahmedabad
Discover the historical splendor of this UNESCO World Heritage city with its impressive mosques and ancient stepwells.
Discover Poshina
Experience Gujarat’s heritage in a charming heritage hotel and meet local artisans practicing the traditional art of terracotta and embroidery.
Safari in little rann of kutch
Take an exhilarating safari through the salt marshes of Little Rann of Kutch, where you can spot rare wild asses and an abundance of water birds. This unique wildlife sanctuary offers a fascinating glimpse into the Gujarat wilderness.
Explore the villages of kutch
Visit authentic villages and admire the rich handicrafts of the Banni tribes, known for their beautiful embroidery and traditional textiles.
Gondal’s royal charm
Explore Gondal’s historic palaces and museums.
Safari in Sasan Gir
Experience a thrilling safari in Sasan Gir National Park, the last refuge of the Asiatic lion. Spot the majestic lions on a private jeep safari and discover the rich flora and fauna of the park.
Spectacular train journey
Travel in 2 AC class from Ahmedabad to Mumbai, an experience that shows you the daily life of India in all its diversity. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the changing landscape and experience an authentic side of India as you travel between two dynamic cities.
Authentic Mumbai experience
Explore the Dharavi Slum with a local guide, the first female guide from the slum. Explore the commercial heart of Dharavi, visit factories, and experience the daily life of the residents. Enjoy a hygienic vegetarian lunch with a local family and immerse yourself in their culture and lifestyle.
General description
Explore Gujarat, India’s hidden gem, and experience an adventurous journey through rich culture and untouched nature. From the historical splendor of Ahmedabad to the bustling villages of Kutch, discover the unique traditions and crafts of this fascinating region. Experience the thrill of a safari in Sasan Gir, where you can admire the majestic Asiatic lions in their natural habitat.
Enjoy a panoramic train journey from Ahmedabad to Mumbai, offering a unique view of Indian daily life in all its diversity. End your adventure in Mumbai with an authentic experience of local life, on a special excursion to the Dharavi Slum and a lunch with locals.
Travel availability: October to May
Price 2895 euros per person based on a trip for two people.
Travel availability: October to May
Price 2895 euros per person based on a trip for two people.
Travel schedule
Today you start your adventure with an (often evening) flight from your home airport to Ahmedabad, the vibrant capital of Gujarat.
Upon arrival at Ahmedabad Airport, you will be welcomed by our English speaking driver, who will take you to an atmospheric haveli hotel. This charming hotel offers an authentic and cozy atmosphere, ideal to relax after your journey.
The afternoon is at leisure, giving you time to rest and acclimatize. You can explore the area, or simply enjoy a moment of relaxation before exploring Ahmedabad.
Today you will explore the old part of Ahmedabad during a fascinating heritage walk through the UNESCO World Heritage city. You will walk through the colorful and narrow streets, where the guide will introduce you to impressive historical buildings.
After this, visit the Siddi Sayed Mosque, famous for its beautiful carvings and unique architecture. Then explore the Jumma Masjid, located in the heart of the old city, one of the largest mosques in India and a masterpiece of Mughal architecture.
After the walk, head to Sabarmati Ashram, where the museum takes you through the historical era of India’s freedom struggle. The light and sound show at the ashram offers an in-depth insight into the life of Mahatma Gandhi and his influence on the independence movement.
In the afternoon visit the Adelaj Stepwell, one of the most beautiful stepwells in India. This over 500 year old stepwell is an architectural marvel, beautifully decorated with detailed sculptures spread over five levels.
After breakfast, depart Ahmedabad for the picturesque village of Poshina, located on the Rajasthan-Gujarat border in Gujarat. This drive through the rural landscape offers an authentic experience of the region and its cultural richness.
Poshina is known for its rich heritage and traditional crafts. During your visit, you can admire the unique terracotta horses, which are crafted with great skill and are an important part of the local art and culture.
Upon arrival at Poshina, you will be warmly welcomed by the Maharaja family who run the heritage hotel. This historic hotel has been preserved in its original state, with authentic details that reflect the rich history and charm of the region. The hotel features a swimming pool, ideal for relaxing and exploring the peaceful surroundings.
The evening ends with a home-cooked Indian dinner prepared by the hotel’s hospitable staff. Enjoy the authentic flavors of local cuisine while relaxing in the unique atmosphere of this traditional retreat.
After breakfast you will go on a jeep safari. You will visit indigenous villages and meet the Adivasi tribes.
You will visit the Terracotta Temple, dedicated to a local village deity, and admire the thousands of terracotta horses carefully crafted by the local community. Each with unique details and designs, these horses are not only artistically impressive but also an important cultural symbol. They are considered an offering to the deity and represent a centuries-old tradition of crafts in the region. The temple itself offers a mesmerizing experience, with the many terracotta statues providing a visual spectacle and a deep insight into the religious and cultural practices of the local people.
After lunch, visit the holy town of Ambaji, where you can see the Garcia girls carrying wood from the jungle to sell at the market. The Garcias, who live in the mountains of both Rajasthan and Gujarat, are known for their colorful clothing, while the Adivasis live more simply. Both tribes depend on agriculture and livestock.
Next, you will visit the impressive Ambaji Temple, a holy place dedicated to the Goddess of Power. This temple is famous for its extraordinary gold-plated sanctum sanctorum, which contains a whopping 400 kg of gold. The dazzling gold on the temple emphasizes the immense devotion and wealth of the worshippers. During your visit, you will also see some friendly tribal women and girls selling local fruits and vegetables.
Before returning to your hotel, visit the Ambaji Jain Temple which is a holy place of great religious significance to the Jain community. This impressive temple, dedicated to the goddess Ambaji, is known for its beautiful architecture and richly decorated interior.
After a day of exploring, enjoy dinner at the hotel, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s experiences.
After an early breakfast, depart for Patan, where you will explore the impressive Rani Ki Vav (the old well). These architectural masterpieces offer a fascinating insight into the rich history and culture of the region.
In Patan you will visit one of the families who are still master weavers of the colorful Potala silk and custodians of the ancient art of double ikat. This visit offers you a unique opportunity to learn more about these traditional weaving techniques and the art of silk weaving.
After visiting Patan, drive to Sidhpur, a charming town known for its beautiful historical buildings and traditional architecture. Here you can admire the unique Havelis adorned with artistic craftsmanship and colorful details that give a glimpse of the rich heritage of the region.
After Sidhpur, continue your journey to the Sun Temple in Modhera, situated on the banks of the Pushpavati River. This beautiful temple is known for its impressive architecture and the lively ceremonies that take place. Here you will see women of all ages, dressed in bright yellow, orange and red clothes, representing and honoring the sun.
In the afternoon you drive to Zainabad, located in the vicinity of the Little Rann of Kutch. This salt marsh, which is part of the larger Rann of Kutch, is known as the last refuge for the Indian wild ass (Khur). The area has been declared the Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary, where you can see these wild asses in their natural environment, often galloping in small herds.
You will arrive in Zainabad early evening at your lodge, which is built in authentic style. Here you will enjoy dinner, while you can relax and let the experiences of the day sink in. The lodge offers a unique experience in the heart of nature.
This morning you will go on an early morning safari in the Little Rann of Kutch, a birdwatcher’s paradise. During the winter months (October to March) you can see an abundance of water birds here, including Steppe and Imperial Eagles, Houbara Bustards, Flamingos, Pelicans, Storks and Cranes. The area is also known for its wild asses (Khur), which can often be spotted during your early morning safari. The area is also home to several unique mammals, such as the Indian Wolf, Desert Fox and Nilgai.
After breakfast and lunch at the lodge, you will go on safari again at the end of the afternoon. The area, surrounded by indigenous villages, offers a fascinating stay. In the late afternoon or early evening you will make an excursion to the nearby villages to observe local life and get to know the lifestyle of the inhabitants.
At the end of the day you will go on another safari.
Dinner at the lodge.
Today you will head to Bhuj, the main town of Kutch. This ancient walled city offers a fascinating panorama of the past, with walls within walls, attractive gateways, ancient palaces with intricate carvings and striking brightly coloured Hindu temples. Here you will experience authentic India, far away from the tourist invasion.
After breakfast, you will depart for Dhamaeka, a picturesque village known for its traditional block printing. On the way, you will stop for lunch at a cozy restaurant in Shyamakyali (payable locally). After lunch, you will continue your journey to Bhujodi Village, where you will have the chance to meet the nomadic Rabari people. This community artistically processes camel wool on looms into beautiful blankets and shawls.
You will visit the LLDC Museum in Bhuj, also known as the Lakhpat Lake Development Corporation Museum. This important cultural and educational centre showcases a wide range of regional arts and crafts. The museum focuses on preserving and promoting traditional art forms of the Kutch region and offers a fascinating glimpse into Gujarat’s rich cultural heritage. Please note that the LLDC Museum is closed on Mondays, so if your visit falls on this day, the museum will be visited on another day.
After your visit to the museum you will drive to your charming homestay.
After breakfast, visit Aina Mahal (Palace of Mirrors), an 18th century palace built by Rao Lakhpatji. The palace is famous for its exquisite interiors, decorated with mirrors and inlaid shells, and offers a fascinating insight into the artistic splendor and grandeur of its time.
En route to the White Desert (Rann of Kutch), stop at a charming village to explore the local culture and traditional crafts. Upon arrival at the White Desert, known for its breathtaking beauty and vast white salt marsh, enjoy panoramic views of the pristine plain. As the sun sets, the horizon transforms into a spectacular palette of colours. The contrast between the golden sun and the sparkling white plain creates a mesmerising scene.
Today is a full day of exploring the fascinating indigenous villages around Bhuj. Each village has its own unique traditional dress and specialises in a specific form of handicraft. You will see a variety of crafts including textiles, vegetable dyes, Rogan art (wax impressions), stained glass, woollen shawls, leather goods and more.
The Banni (also called Kutch) tribal dwellings consist of round mud huts called ‘bhungas’, with a single central support pole and a thatched or tiled roof, surrounding a large communal courtyard. The women are often shy of male visitors, but are hospitable and will welcome you into their homes. They have a wonderful personal collection of embroidered blankets and garments. The walls, shelves, grain storage rooms and cupboards are made of mud with decorative designs washed with lime paste and decorated with mirrors that give hundreds of glittering reflections.
After breakfast, visit Nirona Village with its fantastic Rogan art (wax prints).
Next, visit Bhirandiyara Village, a beautiful Kutch village where each member is an artisan in a particular art medium.
After lunch at Hodka Village (pay locally), just a short drive away, visit the picturesque Ludiya (also called Gandhi Gram), the village of the Meghwai tribe of Kutch. Admire the huts that make the village so unique.
Then drive to Sumarsar Village where you will meet some local weavers who are famous for their Scoof embroidery. This village is known for its fine embroidery art.
If time permits, you will also visit the Kala Raksha Vidyalaya (Institute of Design).
You return to Bhuj in the late afternoon.
Today you will depart from Bhuj and travel to Junagadh via Gondal, a charming town with a rich history dating back to the 17th century. The town is known for its beautiful palaces and traditional architecture, as well as the vibrant local culture. In the late morning, visit the Naulakha Palace where you will visit the Naulakha Museum. Housed in the 17th century palace of the Gondal royal family, this museum houses an impressive collection of ancient coins, weapons, and textiles. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the royal lifestyle and the art and culture of the time. The elegant Rajput architecture of the palace adds an authentic historical feel to your visit.
Then visit Vijay Vilas Palace, located on the outskirts of the city. This palace is famous for its elegant combination of Rajput and Mughal architecture.
In the afternoon, drive to Junagadh, where you first check in at your hotel. Then visit the Mahabat Maqbara, an impressive tomb known for its striking mix of Islamic and Gothic architecture.
After an early breakfast, depart for Girnar Hill, a sacred mountain and an important pilgrimage site in Gujarat. Comprising seven peaks, Girnar Hill is home to an impressive complex of temples, including Jain and Hindu shrines. The mountain offers breathtaking views of the surrounding plains and is a place of deep religious importance, attracting thousands of pilgrims each year to strengthen their faith. A climb to the top rewards you with panoramic views and an unforgettable experience of the spiritual and cultural richness of the region.
After exploring Girnar Hill, continue your journey to Sasan Gir, where you will stay in a cozy lodge where you can relax.
Sasan Gir, is best known as home to the last remaining population of Asiatic lions in the wild. Established in 1965, the Gir National Park covers an area of about 1.412 square kilometers and provides a protected area for these majestic animals. The park is also home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including the Indian leopard, wild boar, and several species of birds. Gir’s unique ecosystem includes vast forests, grasslands, and hilly areas.
In the late afternoon, you will embark on an exclusive safari in a private jeep, giving you the chance to spot the majestic Asiatic lions in their natural habitat. This safari offers you an intimate and personal experience, allowing you to observe the impressive lions up close as they roam the beautiful landscape of Sasan-Gir.
Early in the morning you will go on safari again. After this exciting experience you will enjoy breakfast at the hotel and then head towards Ahmedabad where you will spend the night in a luxurious 5-star hotel with swimming pool, where you can relax and enjoy the tranquility by the pool this afternoon, in preparation for your train adventure tomorrow.
This morning after breakfast, your driver will drop you off at the station. Since Indian stations can be quite chaotic, your driver will accompany you until you are on the train. You will travel in 2 AC class to Mumbai, which promises to be a unique and memorable experience.
You’ll board a comfortable train connecting Ahmedabad and Mumbai. As you travel through the vast plains and scenic landscapes, you’ll experience an authentic and vibrant picture of India. The train journey not only offers stunning views of the changing landscape, but also the chance to observe Indian daily life up close. Savor local cuisine, interact with fellow passengers, and feel the rhythm of train life. It’s an ideal way to explore the diversity and beauty of rural India as you travel towards Mumbai.
Upon arrival in Mumbai, you will be met at the station and transferred to your hotel, where you will spend the last two nights of your trip in India.
You will be picked up from your hotel around 08:00 this morning to explore the essence of real Mumbai in a private car with driver and an English-speaking guide. First, you will visit Dhobhi Ghat, Asia’s largest open-air laundry plaza, where you will see the fascinating washing techniques of Mumbai’s laundries. Then, you will board a famous local train to Dharavi. Upon arrival, you will explore the commercial heart of the slum, where you will visit factories involved in plastic recycling, leather production, garment manufacturing and more. Get a direct insight into the lives of the workers and their daily routines.
Afterwards, you will head to the residential area to see how the Dharavi people live, including the oldest community known for making earthenware pots and clay items. This walking tour offers an in-depth insight into the resilience and creativity of the Dharavi people. Following your slum tour, you will enjoy a simple, hygienic vegetarian lunch with a local family, where you can chat with the family and deepen your understanding of life in Dharavi.
This morning you will have time to do some last minute shopping before you depart for your home destination tonight or tonight. Optionally, you can have lunch today at Mirchi & Mime, a trendy restaurant serving modern Indian cuisine, prepared by hearing and speech impaired staff. Enjoy seasonal and classic dishes with a contemporary twist, presented in a calm and unique atmosphere. You will be picked up from your hotel approximately 4 hours before your return flight and dropped off at Mumbai airport.
Included in the price
Not included in the price
Estimated daily budget for items not included (meals, tours, tips) per person
Meals
Tours
Visa
Tips
Other Heritage and Exploration Tours in India
Slow exploration of Rajasthan
12 days | € 995 – € 1095 per person
Rajasthan adventure 19 days
19 days | € 2095 € per person
Luxury Rajasthan adventure 19 Days
19 days | € 3595 per person