Tour undiscovered Gujarat – 17 days
17 days | September to April | € 2245
Gujarat unraveled: Culture, history and tribal discoveries
Discover the forgotten corners of Gujarat on this 17-day journey – Tribal beauty and culture in their authentic glory
€ 2245 per person based on a trip for two people.
Highlights of the Trip
Ahmedabad
Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites and visit historical wonders like the Adelaj Stepwell and Sabarmati Ashram.
Poshina
Discover the unique terracotta horses and experience the traditional rituals of the Adivasi tribes.
![[Text Wrapping Break]Palais royal de Sant Sarovar, demeure patrimoniale entourée de nature, dans la campagne du Gujarat.](https://heartofindiatravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/sant-sarovar-palais-royal-gujarat-forts-palais-Inde-circuit-maharaja.webp)
Santrampur
Explore the historic havelis and temples and visit the vibrant tribal markets.
Chhota Udepur
Experience the authentic tribal markets and admire the colorful Pithora paintings.
Saputara
Explore the pristine beauty of the hill station and meet the Dangi and Warli tribes in their natural habitat.
Mumbai
Explore Dhobhi Ghat, experience life in Dharavi and enjoy an authentic meal with a local family.
This trip offers you the chance to discover an unknown and authentic part of India, where cultural wealth and untouched nature come together.
Tour description
Experience an unparalleled journey through the hidden gems of Gujarat, an adventure that takes you from the bustling city of Ahmedabad to the serene hill station of Saputara. Explore the impressive architecture of UNESCO World Heritage sites and delve into the rich tribal culture of remote Poshina and Santrampur. Discover the vibrant markets of Chhota Udepur, admire the colorful Pithora paintings and meet local Adivasi communities. In Saputara, far off the beaten track, discover a world untouched by mass tourism. Discover the hidden beauty of the Dangi and Warli tribes and experience their authentic lifestyle. This journey offers a unique opportunity to discover an authentic and unseen Gujarat, far off the beaten track. The journey ends with a fascinating exploration of Mumbai, from the iconic Dhobhi Ghat to the heart of Dharavi’s slums.
Each destination offers a unique glimpse into the diversity and richness of India, with a focus on culture, history and the authentic tribal experience.
This tour has a fixed departure day to take full advantage of the markets that take place on specific days.
Travel availability: September to April
Price 2245 euros per person based on a trip for two people.
Travel availability: September to April
Price 2245 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, perfect to relax after your journey.
The afternoon is at leisure, giving you time to rest and acclimatize. If you have the energy, you can visit Manek Chowk in the late afternoon. This lively square in the center of the city functions as a vegetable market in the morning and a jewelry market in the afternoon, the second largest in India, with an annual turnover of around Rs 3 million. Manek Chowk is especially famous for its food stalls that pop up around 20.00pm, where you can sample all sorts of local street food and delicacies.
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 heritage 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 also 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, 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-covered sanctum, 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 and 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 Santrampur, a historic town known for its rich cultural and architectural heritage. Santrampur is home to ancient havelis, temples and castles and has played a strategic role in the history of the region.
You will travel via the North Gujarat Tribal Route, a scenic route that offers spectacular views of the hills, forests and villages of the region. The drive through the green valleys and winding hill roads makes this experience particularly memorable. This route offers a unique opportunity to explore the lesser known but very rich tribal culture of North Gujarat and gain an in-depth insight into the life and traditions of the local communities.
Early afternoon you will arrive at your heritage home stay, one of the finest heritage hotels in Gujarat. Nestled amidst the lush lower Aravalli’s lies this hidden paradise, a majestic pool villa beautifully situated on a lake.
You will enjoy a buffet lunch upon arrival. Relax this afternoon by the pool or take a walk through the beautiful garden of the heritage. In the late afternoon, take a walk through the picturesque town of Sant. Explore the impressive Raj Mahal and the Hawa Mahal, two beautiful monuments that give a glimpse of the grandeur of times gone by. Admire the detailed architecture and learn more about the rich history of these historic buildings.
Enjoy dinner at the hotel and be pampered by the charm and hospitality of this historic accommodation.
Today you will visit the Tribal Haat (market) which offers an authentic experience of the tribal culture of North Gujarat. Here you will find handmade crafts such as colourful jewellery, woven fabrics and traditional artwork. The market also offers local produce, fresh vegetables and traditional street food. It is a vibrant social hub where you can enjoy the unique flavours and traditions of the region and a chance to connect with the local tribal communities.
You will visit the old havelis and temples of Santrampur. Admire the beautiful architecture and intricate carvings that adorn these historic buildings. Learn about Santrampur’s role in the region’s history as you stroll through the atmospheric streets. In the afternoon, you will return to the hotel where you can relax by the pool.
Lunch and dinner at the hotel.
In the morning you will head to Jambudghoda via a scenic route.
During the day you will arrive at your atmospheric 3 star heritage hotel with swimming pool. Dinner at the hotel.
After breakfast, visit Malaja, a charming Rathwa village beautifully situated in a hilly landscape surrounded by palm trees and local farmland. Meet one of the painter families who create the traditional Pithora paintings. Pithora paintings are colorful murals that often depict mythological and tribal themes. Explore the village on foot and experience the local life and culture of the Rathwa community. At the end of the day, you will be transferred back to your heritage homestay for dinner.
This morning you will visit the Tribal Museum in Chhota Udepur. This museum has a valuable collection of tribal items and model huts of the Rathwas and Nayakas, which give a glimpse into their lifestyle and culture. Here you will learn more about the different tribes and their traditions.
Next, visit a Rathwa house to see the traditional Pithora paintings. These ritual artworks are painted on the main walls of houses to bring good luck, well-being and health. The paintings often do not feature nature motifs but symbolic figures such as horses, bulls, elephants and goats, which represent the vision of God.
You will also stop at the workshop of potters who make terracotta horses. Here you will have the opportunity to learn more about this craft.
In the late afternoon you will visit Singala, a sacred place of the Rathwa. This is an important location for the local community, and you will learn more about their religious practices and the significance of this place for the tribe.
After a day full of culture and discoveries you return to your accommodation. Enjoy dinner at the hotel.
Early today you will visit the weekly cattle market of Chhota Udepur. Held every Saturday, this market attracts various tribes of Gujarat, such as the Rathwas, Bhils and Nayaks. The Rathwa tribe is particularly prominent in this area. Vegetables, grains and other produce are traded at the market, and animals such as cows, chickens and goats change hands. This lively market offers a fascinating insight into the local economy and culture.
In the morning, depart for the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This park is known for its impressive Indo-Saracensian architecture, including well-preserved mosques, palaces and forts dating back to the 15th century. Explore the ruins and enjoy the historical splendor and diversity of this ancient city, located at the foot of Pavagadh Hill.
After visiting Champaner-Pavagadh, head to Kevadiya where you will visit the impressive Statue of Unity, located on the banks of the Narmada River. This gigantic monument, which is 182 meters high, is in honor of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a key figure in the Indian independence movement. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the enormous statue that proudly rises above the landscape. You will take the elevator to the viewing platform at a height of 153 meters, from where you will have a breathtaking view of the river and the surrounding nature reserve. The panoramic view and the peaceful surroundings make this an unforgettable experience.
After exploring the statue and museum, prepare for a spiritual experience on the Narmada River. In the early evening, attend the Narmada Aarti, a traditional ceremony that takes place on the banks of the river. As the sun sets, the waters are illuminated by the soft glow of oils and lamps, and you are surrounded by the serene chants and prayers of local priests. The combination of the glowing lights, the rhythmic chanting and the soothing sound of the water creates a magical atmosphere that invites reflection and inner peace.
You will spend the night here in a cozy tent resort with a view of the Narmada River.
After breakfast drive to Vadodara and visit the Laxmi Vilas Palace and Museum which is an impressive example of Indo-Saracenic architecture and served as the residence of the Gaekwad Maharajas. Built in 1890 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, it is one of the largest private residences in the world, with opulent halls and beautiful gardens. The adjoining museum houses a rich collection of artefacts, weapons, and historical artifacts that provide a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region.
Next visit the Tambekar Wada. It is a three storied building which is a typical Maratha house and was once the residence of Bhau Tambekar. Inside the Wada are some of the most beautiful but dilapidated wall paintings from the 19th century. The building is almost 140 years old.
Then you head to Saputara where you will arrive in the afternoon. Saputara is a hill resort, known as the abode of snakes. It can serve as a base to visit various tribal villages in the area.
You will spend the night in a charming 3-star resort.
After breakfast full day excursion to tribal villages, visit Limba, Kosambia and other villages north of Saputara. Here you can observe the different lifestyles of Dangi tribe closely. On the way back visit Dangi Craft Studio which houses the local art of Dangi tribes.
Visit the famous Dangi tribe, considered the most primitive tribe of this region. Dang is located 40 km from Sapuatra. There are more than 300 villages, 94% of which are tribal.
Today you will also be looking for the Bhils – The Bhils are the third largest group in India and are found in four states: Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. One of the main needs of the Bhils is wood and bamboo, which they use for various purposes, such as house construction. The walls of their houses are either made of split bamboo covered with mud, or of wood woven with leaves and thatch. Their lifestyle is largely dependent on the forest.
After breakfast you will go on another full day safari in search of the different tribes that live in this area.
After breakfast, depart for Ahwa, located northwest of Saputara. You will have an enchanting experience by learning more about the lifestyle of the Dangi tribe. Then you will head to Mumbai where you will stay in a charming 3 star boutique hotel in the south of Mumbai.
Make sure to take an evening or night flight to your home airport so you can spend another exciting day in Mumbai!
After breakfast, set out to explore the essence of real Mumbai with an English-speaking guide. First, visit Dhobhi Ghat, Asia’s largest open-air laundry plaza, where you’ll see the fascinating washing techniques of Mumbai’s laundries. Then, board a famous local train to Dharavi. Upon arrival, explore the commercial heart of the slum, visiting factories involved in plastic recycling, leather production, garment manufacturing and more. Get a first-hand 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.
On this last day you will be transferred to Mumbai International Airport in the evening or early night. We will ensure that you arrive at the airport three hours before your scheduled return flight, so that you have enough time for check-in and security procedures.
Included in the price
Not included in the price
Estimated daily budget for items not included (meals, tours, tips) per person
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