Overnight rail travel to Ahmedabad lets you save daytime for sightseeing; book 3AC for comfort for a 5‑person group. Confirm exact train and platform when booking (many Mumbai–Ahmedabad overnight trains run nightly).
Arrive and transfer to the platform for the onward morning train to Palitana; use a pre-booked taxi if luggage is heavy. Expect 30–60 minutes for transfer and refreshments.
Take the daytime train from Ahmedabad to Palitana (several trains connect these cities). Trains are the most reliable, comfortable option for this leg as requested.
Check in to a mid‑range hotel (choose 1 triple + 1 double room for 5 people) and freshen up before lunch; many hotels allow early check‑in for a charge or luggage hold.
Eat a hearty Gujarati thali at a recommended local restaurant (many Palitana eateries are pure vegetarian). Good way to fuel up before light afternoon walking.
Walk the town streets, visit smaller temples and bazaars; this is a light afternoon stroll to acclimatize before the main Shatrunjaya climb (best done early morning). Check local temple opening times (many are open 9:00–17:00).
Dine locally — choose a recommended hotel restaurant or well‑reviewed local vegetarian spot to sample Gujarati snacks and sweets. Most eateries are open until 9–10pm.
Start early to climb Shatrunjaya (around 3,800 steps) to visit the famous cluster of Jain temples; early morning avoids heat and crowds. Alternatives: electric vehicle + fewer steps (available to base/top on paid basis). Many temples close around midday — begin early.
Option to drive to nearby Bhavnagar (Takhteshwar temple, GMT) or relax/shopping in Palitana; choose based on group energy. A short private taxi can be hired for half‑day local transfers.
Board the morning train back to Ahmedabad — traveling by train is requested and it’s the most direct option. Book seats in advance (2S/SL or 3A depending on availability).
Must‑visit: Akshardham (Gandhinagar area) — check current opening hours and exhibit/show times (typical hours ~09:30–19:30 but confirm online; some galleries/shows may have separate timings and charges). The complex and light/fountain shows are highlights and recommended in late afternoon/early evening.
INR200_per_person (exhibitions/show, estimate) — entry commonly free for the mandir itself; check online, 3h0m
Dine at a recommended place (e.g., popular thali restaurants or modern eateries). If you want a special New Year Eve meal, reserve in advance as 30 Dec / 31 Dec can be busy.
Catch the overnight train to Mumbai; ensure you arrive at the station 45–60 minutes prior to departure (this leg returns you toward Mumbai to arrive on 31 Dec).
Arrive back in Mumbai early morning. Collect luggage and head home or to onward plans. If you need a drop to the airport or home, book a taxi/cab in advance.
Breakdown and assumptions: 1) Train fares: Mumbai↔Ahmedabad 3AC ~INR1200/person each way (estimate) → INR12,000 total for both long legs for 5. 2) Ahmedabad↔Palitana trains (round trip) ~INR300/person each leg → INR3,000 total. 3) Accommodation (mid‑range, 2 rooms: 1 triple +1 double) ~INR5,500/night → 3 nights = INR16,500. 4) Meals (moderate) ~INR800/person/day × ~3 full days ≈ INR12,000. 5) Local taxis/transfers ≈ INR8,000. 6) Activities/entries (Akshardham exhibitions, Palitana battery car, guide) ≈ INR4,200. Subtotal ≈ INR55,700. Add ~10% contingency ≈ INR5,570 → Estimated Grand Total ≈ INR61,270 (≈ INR12,254 per person). Prices are estimates — book early (trains/hotels) for best rates, especially around New Year.
INR61270_total (approx for 5 people, mid-range), 0h0m