Today to start with your The Best of Gujarat Textiles, Tribes, and Asiatic Lion Safari Tour India, you will be met from your flight to Mumbai International Airport by Summit Safari’s representative and driver, and we will transfer you to your hotel in Mumbai for 1 night. Rest of the day is free at leisure to relax after the flight.

Please Note: Instead of starting your tour in Mumbai, you can also begin in New Delhi, the capital of India, or Ahmedabad in Gujarat State. Ahmadabad, being an international airport, offers flights from U.K, Dubai (middle east Asia), Kualalumpur, Singapore ( South East Asia). If you are coming from U.K / Europe or from Australia you can get your direct or connecting flights from these places. We would like to discuss these things with you at the time of your booking of the holidays with us.

Meals Plan: Dinner is included.

After breakfast at the hotel we transfer you to Mumbai airport from where you will board your flight to Ahmedabad, which was once famous as ‘The Manchester of the East’ due to its importance as a textile town. On arrival at Ahmedabad, you will be greeted by our driver and we will transfer you to the hotel in Ahmedabad for 2 nights.

In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour of old Ahmedabad with your guide. Explore 600-year-old walled city of Ahmedabad, the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in India. This bustling metropolis in Gujarat, nestled on the banks of the Sabarmati River, is a treasure trove of architectural wonders. Discover the city's exquisite carved wooden mansions, historic Havelis, and intricate labyrinthine lanes. Immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage with visits to renowned museums, savoring delectable street food, and dining at top-notch restaurants.

We will visit the Swaminarayan Temple of Kalupur built in 1822, a place of worship for followers of the Swaminarayan sect of Hinduism. Renowned for its exquisite wood carvings, this historic Swaminarayan temple houses deities adorned in colorful attire and jewelry. Its a sacred complex that reflects remarkable craftsmanship attracted a British official Sir Dunlop so much that he had ordered for a 101 gun salute in its honour.

We do explore the bustling bazaars, historic mosques, and traditional mansions (havelis). The majestic Jama Masjid, constructed in 1423, incorporates materials salvaged from demolished Hindu and Jain temples.

Admire the intricate stone windows of the Sidi Saiyad Mosque, depicting intertwining tree branches.

Built between 1430 and 1440, Rani Rupmati’s Mosque is named after the sultan’s Hindu wife. Rani Sipri’s Mosque, also known as Masjid-e-Nagira, boasts an elegant blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles, with slender minarets.

The Shaking Minarets of Sidi Bashir’s Mosque are a captivating mystery—shake one, and the other resonates in harmony while the connecting terrace remains still. Sarkhej Roza features one of Ahmedabad's most elegant architectural complexes, notable for its unique pierced stone trellises and absence of arches.

Return back to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner are included

Morning Private Heritage Walk: Ahmedabad's old city is a unique treasure with its Pols-self-contained neighborhoods like small villages. These Pols are connected by narrow lanes and often open into squares called Chowks, which feature a community well and a Chabutro (a structure for feeding birds). The Pols were designed with gates, dead ends, and secret passages for protection. During the heritage walk, you'll learn detailed stories about these historical residential areas.

Rani no Hajiro: This historical site is a high enclosure entered through a grand gateway. Built around 1445, it features a courtyard surrounded by intricately carved stone screens. The courtyard houses eight beautifully decorated marble tombs of queens from the Gujarat Sultanate, with designs inlaid with mother-of-pearl and metal.

Jama Masjid: Also called 'Jumah or Jami' Masjid, this grand mosque was built in 1424 during the reign of Ahmad Shah I. Located near Teen Darwaza on Gandhi Road, the mosque is a striking example of Gujarat-style architecture. It features a vast paved courtyard with an ablution tank at its center and a prayer hall on the west side.

Shreyas Folk Museum (Closed on Sundays & Public Holidays, open 9 AM - 12 PM): Located 2.5 km west of Sabarmati, this museum showcases Gujarat's rich folk art and crafts. The collection includes textiles, costumes, puppets, masks, toys, musical instruments, and even an elephant skeleton. Photography is not allowed.

Sidi Sayed Mosque: Built in 1573, this mosque is famous for its intricate stone latticework on its windows, known as Jalis.

Gandhi Ashram: Also called Sabarmati Ashram, this serene complex is situated on the banks of the Sabarmati River, about 7 km north of Ahmedabad. It is an important historical site and a peaceful retreat for visitors.

Hathee Singh Jain Temple: Built in 1850, this stunning white marble temple is dedicated to Dharamanath, the 15th Jain Tirthankar. It is located near Delhi Gate and is famous for its intricate carvings.

Adalaj Stepwell (Adalaj Vav): Built in 1499 by Queen Rudabai, this beautifully designed stepwell provided travelers with a cool resting place during the scorching summers.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner are included

Siddhpur: Discover the beautiful wooden Bohra Havelis, old mansions that showcase European-inspired Victorian architecture. Built over 100 years ago, these houses reflect the Bohra community's fascination with 19th-century European lifestyles. A walk through Bohra Vad feels like stepping into a scene from a Charles Dickens novel, complete with intricate wooden facades and unique architectural details.

Patan: Patola Weaving: Visit the Salvi family, who have preserved the ancient art of Patola weaving. Known as the "Queen of Silk," Patola fabric is renowned for its vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and durability. The entire process, from raw silk to the finished product, is handmade using natural dyes and a special loom. The traditional sari length ranges from 5 to 9 yards, with newer creations like scarves, tablecloths, and handkerchiefs also available.

Rani ki Vav (Stepwell): Built by Queen Udaymati in the 11th–12th century, this magnificent stepwell is a masterpiece of water architecture. It features a stepped corridor leading to an underground tank and intricately carved pillars. Measuring 64 meters, this grand structure is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Modhera:Modhera Sun Temple: Built in 1026 CE by King Bhimdev I, this temple is dedicated to the Sun God. It's a fine example of Hindu temple architecture in Gujarat. During the equinoxes, the first rays of the sun illuminate the deity. In front of the temple lies the Surya Kund, a large stepwell with beautifully carved steps leading to its base.

After sightseeing continue driving to Bajana and check in at your hotel. Overnight stay at hotel in Bajana.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner are included

Begin your day with an exciting morning safari in the Wild Ass Sanctuary at Little Rann of Kutch, where you can see the rare Asiatic Wild Ass, found nowhere else in India. The sanctuary is also home to other fascinating wildlife, including the blackbuck (Indian antelope), the neelgai or blue bull (India’s largest antelope), and the chinkara (Indian gazelle). Carnivores like Indian wolves, desert foxes, jackals, jungle cats, and hyenas are also present in this unique habitat. Bird enthusiasts will enjoy spotting flamingos, pelicans, ducks, cranes, and storks during their visit.

Afterward, visit the salt pans and meet the hardworking Agariyas (salt pan workers). Engage with them to understand their daily lives, the challenges they face, and their traditional methods of salt production. You can even participate in the labor-intensive process of ploughing salt, a unique and enriching experience.

Return to the hotel and enjoy a hearty breakfast.

In the evening, embark on a village safari to explore the vibrant culture of the communities around the Rann of Kutch. Visit the pastoral settlements of the Vadiara and Kharapat Rabaris in Dasada, renowned for their intricate embroidery, and explore the silk weavers’ colony. Stop by Ambala village to meet the Bharward shepherds and goatherds, and witness the craftsmanship of artisans at a weaving cooperative in Bajana. The tour also provides an opportunity to learn about other fascinating communities, such as the Padhars, who are primarily fishing people, the Siddis, and the semi-nomadic Mirs, Jaths, and Bajanias. After an enriching day, return to the hotel. Overnight stay at hotel in Bajana.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner are included

After breakfast, begin your journey to Bhuj, stopping en route at Ajrakhpur and Bhujodi to explore the rich crafts and traditions of the region. In Ajrakhpur, experience the intricate art of block printing by the Ajrakh craftsmen, many of whom belong to the Khatri community. This village is home to renowned artisans like Dr. Ismail Katri and his family, who produce stunningly beautiful Ajrakh prints. The area also offers a chance to meet other craftsmen and witness the diversity of this ancient craft.

At Dhaneti, observe the fine embroidery of the Ahir tribe, showcasing their vibrant and detailed designs. Continue to Bhujodi, a village 10 km from Bhuj, where the Vankar tribe of weavers creates thick shawls and blankets using pit looms. This weaving tradition, passed down through generations, originated as a barter system with the nomadic Rabari community, who provided sheep wool in exchange for warm blankets and shawls.

Upon arrival in Bhuj, check in at your hotel. If time permits, visit the Kutch Museum (closed on Wednesdays and public holidays), established in 1877. The museum, built in an Italian Gothic style, houses a vast collection of artifacts, textiles, and relics of the region’s history. It stands on the banks of Hamirsar Lake and was once reserved for the Maharao’s private guests before opening to the public.

Also, explore the Prag Mahal, built between 1865 and 1879 in a unique fusion of Romanesque and Indo-Saracenic Revival styles. Commissioned by Rao Pragmalji II, the palace is a masterpiece of architecture designed by Colonel Henry St. Clair Wilkins and constructed with the expertise of Italian artisans and the local Kutchi builder community.

End the day with a visit to the local market to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Bhuj. Return to your hotel. Overnight stays at hotel in Bhuj.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner are included

After breakfast, drive to Banni Village, stopping en route to obtain the necessary permits. Banni, meaning "a cluster of villages," is home to communities such as the Jat, Harijan, Meghwal, and Mutwa. In this area, the Meghwal-Harijans, who migrated from Rajasthan, create intricate embroidery using stitches like Khambira, Kharek, and Kudi. Their work includes detailed mirror designs, similar to the famous Mutwa embroidery. They craft wall hangings, waistcoats, and pouches using the Kharek stitch and create beautiful beadwork, called "Moti Bharat," on items like fans, bracelets, toys, and belts.

At Hodka Village, named after the Gujarati word "Hodi," meaning boat, you can explore its renowned embroidery, mudwork, and leather crafts. Both men and women actively contribute to the village’s rich artistic traditions, creating unique and beautiful items.

Ludiya Village is home to Harijan and Muslim communities. The villagers are engaged in monsoon farming, cattle rearing, wood carving, intricate embroidery, and decorating their homes with mudwork and wall paintings. Men often focus on wood carving, while women handle embroidery and wall decorations.

In Khavda Village, discover the craft of pottery, which uses mud called "Rann ki Mitti" from a nearby lake. Artisans craft items like pots, bowls, and diyas. The men shape the terracotta, while women add designs, applying red geru soil and painting with natural black and white stripes and dots.

Visit Kalo Dungar, or the Black Hill, the highest point in Kutch at 462 meters above sea level, near the Indo-Pakistan border. From here, enjoy stunning views of the Great Rann of Kutch. At the top, visit a Hindu temple dedicated to Dattatreya, a deity representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, depicted with three heads and six hands, accompanied by a cow and four dogs.

Finally, explore Dhordo, known for its beautiful traditional mud houses called Bhungas, decorated with mirror work and featuring fine Mutwa embroidery with tiny mirrors.

Return to Bhuj in the evening to your hotel. Overnight stay at hotel in Bhuj.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner are included

Today after breakfast drive to Bhuj, en-route visit Anjar Market to see Rabari community.

Continue drive to Junagadh and check in to hotel. Overnight stay at hotel in Junagadh.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner are included

After breakfast, start your day by visiting Junagadh Fort, originally built in 319 BC by Chandragupta Maurya. Over the centuries, the fort has been rebuilt and expanded numerous times. Despite repeated attempts by various enemies, no ruler was able to hold the fort for long.

Within the fort, explore Uparkot, a structure over 2,300 years old. With walls as high as 20 meters in some places, Uparkot helped Junagadh withstand a 12-year siege. Dating back to the 1st-4th Century AD, Uparkot features remarkable pillars, entrances, water cisterns, horseshoe-shaped Chaitya windows, an assembly hall, and meditation cells. While there, also visit the Buddhist Caves, known for their historical and architectural significance.

Another highlight is the Mahabat Maqbara, a breathtaking mausoleum of one of Junagadh's Nawabs. This structure is an extraordinary example of Indo-Islamic architecture, showcasing intricate designs and grandeur.

On the way to Mount Girnar, stop at Ashoka’s Rock Edicts. These inscriptions, carved into a massive boulder housed in a small roadside building, feature the fourteen Edicts of Emperor Ashoka, offering a glimpse into ancient Indian history and Ashoka’s principles.

After exploring these iconic sites, continue your drive to Sasan Gir. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax. Overnight stay at hotel in Sasan Gir.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner are included

Today enjoy morning and afternoon game drives in the Sasan Gir sanctuary, immersing yourself in this remarkable ecosystem.

Spend your day exploring the Sasan Gir Wildlife Sanctuary, the only place in the world outside Africa where lions can be seen in their natural habitat. Home to over 400 Asiatic lions, this sanctuary is the last refuge for this majestic species in India. Covering an area of about 1,450 square kilometers (560 square miles), the sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to witness these incredible animals up close.

Sasan Gir is not just about lions. The park also boasts one of the largest populations of leopards in India, which are often spotted, especially during the warmer months. Other fascinating animals found here include Sambar Deer, Chital Spotted Deer, Nilgai Antelope, Chowsingha Four-Horned Antelope, Chinkara Gazelle, Wild Boar, Langur Monkeys, Jackals, and Hyenas.

Bird enthusiasts will also be delighted, as Gir is home to numerous bird species such as the Paradise Flycatcher, Bonelli's Eagle, Crested Serpent Eagle, Woodpeckers, and even Flamingos.

Interestingly, lions once roamed vast areas across the globe, but as human populations grew, forests were cleared, reducing their habitat significantly. Asiatic lions, a unique subspecies that diverged from African lions around 100,000 years ago, now survive only in the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary. After evening game drive at sanctuary return back to hotel. Overnight stay at hotel in Sasan Gir.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner are included

Start your day with a visit to the Somnath Temple, one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. This iconic temple, believed to have been originally built by the Moon God, holds immense spiritual significance and is a masterpiece of ancient architecture.

After visiting Somnath, continue your journey to Diu, a tranquil island offering a beautiful blend of sun, sand, and sea. Nestled off the southern tip of Gujarat’s Saurashtra Peninsula and surrounded by the Arabian Sea, Diu is a haven of natural beauty and serenity. This island, with its calm beaches and fascinating history, was once a Portuguese colony until 1961 and became a Union Territory in 1987. Diu was an important naval base and trading hub during the 14th to 16th centuries, controlling shipping routes in the northern Arabian Sea.

In the late afternoon, explore Diu's historical and cultural landmarks. Visit the St. Paul’s Church, a stunning example of Portuguese architecture dedicated to Our Lady of Immaculate Conception. Built between 1601 and 1610, the church features an elaborate façade illuminated by floodlights, intricate shell-like motifs, and exquisite wood carvings, making it one of the finest examples of church craftsmanship in India.

Next, visit the imposing Diu Fort, a coastal marvel constructed between 1535 and 1541. Skirted by the sea on three sides, the fort offers spectacular views and houses a giant lighthouse and remnants of ancient cannons. Its rugged architecture and creatively lit interiors transport you back in time, evoking the bravery and grandeur of a bygone era.

Conclude your day by strolling through the local markets, soaking in the charm of this serene island. Overnight stay at hotel in Diu.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner are included

Begin your day with an early morning visit to Vanakbara Fishing Village, a vibrant and bustling spot that offers a glimpse into the daily lives of local fishermen. This charming village is one of Diu's highlights, and its port is a lively scene filled with colorful fishing boats and energetic activity. The best time to visit is between 6:30 AM and 8:00 AM, when the fishing fleet returns to shore, and the fresh catch is sold. Wandering through this lively setting is a fascinating experience that captures the spirit of the island’s coastal life.

After your visit, return to your hotel to enjoy a hearty breakfast.

Later in the day, drive to Palitana, a town renowned for its spiritual significance and stunning Jain temples. Upon arrival, check into your hotel. Overnight stay at hotel in Palitana.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner are included

After breakfast, begin your day by joining the pilgrims on an inspiring climb up the hills of Palitana, located 60 km from Bhavnagar. Known as the "Abode of the Gods," these hills are adorned with 863 intricately carved Jain temples, some over 900 years old. Their spires and towers shimmer in the sunlight as pilgrims make the ascent on foot. The climb takes approximately two hours each way, so it’s advisable to carry water and a sun hat for comfort during the journey.

After the climb, proceed on a drive to Vadodara, with a stop at Lothal along the way. Lothal offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient Indus Valley Civilization. Its highlight is the massive dockyard, measuring 37 meters by 22 meters, a testament to remarkable maritime architecture. Lothal was also renowned for its arterial streets, gold and ivory artifacts, coppersmith workshops, pottery, and underground drainage systems. This historical site, located 78 km from Ahmedabad, is closed on Fridays.

Continue your drive to Vadodara, where you will check into your hotel upon arrival. Overnight stay at hotel in Vadodara.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner are included.

Start your day with a visit to the Laxmi Vilas Palace (Closed on Mondays and public holidays). Designed by Major Charles Mant, this magnificent palace was built in the 19th-century Indo-Saracenic style at a cost of ?6 million. The façade, stretching 150 meters wide, features red Agra sandstone, Pune’s blue trapstone, and Rajasthani marble. The palace’s interior is equally impressive, especially the Durbar Hall, adorned with Venetian mosaic walls and floors, extensive use of marble, and stained glass imported from London.

Next, visit the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum (Closed on Mondays and public holidays), which houses a remarkable collection of European paintings.

Stroll through Sayaji Bagh (Closed on Thursdays and public holidays), a serene park featuring the Baroda Museum. The museum showcases Asian statues, carvings, Mughal miniatures, zoology exhibits, and even an Egyptian room.

Proceed to the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient fortified city has a rich history and offers architectural gems such as Jama Masjid, Kevda Masjid, Saharwali Masjid, and the Saat Kaman. Don't miss the Nagina Masjid, or "Jewel Mosque," built during the reign of Mahmud Begada in the 15th century.

Visit the Pavagadh Hill, located in Gujarat's Panchmahal district. Renowned for its religious and historical importance, it is home to the Kalika Mata Temple, a significant Hindu pilgrimage site. Dedicated to Goddess Kalika Mata, the temple is perched 800 meters above sea level. As one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, it attracts many devotees, especially during Navratri. Visitors can trek or take a ropeway to reach the temple, enjoying stunning views of the lush landscape.

After your sightseeing, drive to Ahmedabad and check in at your hotel. Overnight stay at hotel in Ahmedabad.

Meal Plan : Breakfast & Dinner Included

After breakfast check out & we will transfer you to Ahmedabad airport to board your flight to Mumbai. Upon arrival in Mumbai, you'll be met by our driver and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Meals Plan: Breakfast + Dinner are included

Today morning after breakfast, check out from the hotel and as per your flight schedule we will transfer you to the international airport in Mumbai, from where you will board your flight back to home.

Meals Plan: Breakfast is included

End Of The tour and the services....!

This is the tour itinerary for the Best of Gujarat Textiles, Tribes, and Asiatic Lion Safari Tour India, which we run regularly. It can be altered & customised as we like to discuss plans with clients and can make suggestions about special places to visit depending on our clients’ interests, and available time. You can get an idea of your holidays from the mentioned tour. The itinerary is planned in such a way that while travelling you get a good time to experience India and see the real life of Indian people from much closer.

Whether you choose to be on a privately guided tour to India or set off on a more independent trip, with local guides available wherever required, you can travel reassured, knowing our vast experience and provide you with around-the-clock support to smooth out anything unexpected. The safety and well-being of our guests is paramount.