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Family Train Holiday: Surat to Jodhpur, Jaisalmer & Mount Abu — 7–9 Day Relaxed Itinerary

Viewed by 66 travelers
Day 1 · Mon, Dec 8
Surat → Ahmedabad

Travel Day — Surat to Ahmedabad (Rail Connection Start)

05:00 AM:

Wake up, finish light packing and double-check train documents (tickets, ID cards, PNR). Place snacks, medicines, kids' comfort items and a small activity bag for each child in an easy-to-reach spot.

05:45 AM:

Have a simple breakfast at home or nearby — poha/uttapam and fresh fruit; pack a thermos of tea/coffee for adults and warm milk for the kids to take on the train.

06:30 AM:

Drive/taxi to Surat Railway Station (plan 30-45 min depending on your area). Keep printed and digital tickets ready and confirm platform info using NTES/IRCTC app.

07:15 AM:

Arrive at Surat station, check platform display for train details, use station restrooms and settle the kids with a short walk on the platform to stretch before boarding.

07:40 AM:

Board the Ahmedabad-bound train (confirm train number and coach/berth). Stow large luggage in the luggage racks and keep a small daypack with essentials under the seat.

08:00 AM:

Settle into seats/berths; offer children breakfast boxes (homemade sandwiches, fruit, biscuits). Use this quieter time to go over the day plan with your wife and kids.

09:30 AM:

Enjoy the changing scenery: read city guides about Ahmedabad and Jodhpur to the kids, play a family travel game (I-spy or map spotting) to keep them engaged.

11:00 AM:

Tea/snack service on the train — purchase from pantry or station vendors; serve packaged fruit and bottled water you brought. Stretch legs and let kids move a little in the coach aisle under supervision.

12:30 PM:

Lunch on train — eat pre-packed warm meal or buy at a major station stop. Confirm arrival time at Ahmedabad with conductor to plan onward transfer.

02:00 PM:

Short rest: kids nap or watch movies on tablet with headphones. Adults can review Ahmedabad arrival details and check connecting train options to Jodhpur (if planning same-day onward or reserving hotel).

03:30 PM:

Prepare to disembark at Ahmedabad: gather all luggage, check berths and racks, and give children a last restroom break before the station stop.

04:00 PM:

Arrival at Ahmedabad Junction. Disembark and proceed to the pre-booked taxi or app cab (Ola/Uber) for transfer to your Ahmedabad hotel or the station-area guesthouse.

04:45 PM:

Check in at a family-friendly hotel in Ahmedabad (suggestions: The House of MG for heritage feel, Lemon Tree Premier for family comfort, or Ginger Ahmedabad for budget). Freshen up and unpack essentials.

05:30 PM:

Short walk or drive to nearby snack spot — try Manek Chowk for evening munchies (if open) or Gordhan Thal for quick Gujarati thali (family-friendly). Let kids try light local snacks like khakhra or dhokla.

06:30 PM:

Optional short outing: drive to Sabarmati Riverfront for an easy evening stroll and river views. Kids can run safely on promenades while you enjoy sunset views and photo ops.

07:30 PM:

Dinner at a nearby family restaurant: recommend Agashiye (for a relaxed Rajasthani/Gujarati experience — call ahead for family seating), or Rajwadu for an experiential meal, or casual Domino's/Bigg Boss Pizza if kids prefer familiar food.

09:00 PM:

Return to hotel; pack an overnight bag for the next leg to Jodhpur (ticket/PNR, chargers, medicines, kids' favourite blanket/toy). Confirm next-day train timing and platform on IRCTC/NTES.

09:30 PM:

Family wind-down: read a short story or play quiet games with the kids in-room so they settle early. Parents can finalize travel documents and note emergency contacts.

10:30 PM:

Lights out: aim for an early sleep to be rested for tomorrow’s rail journey to Jodhpur. Set alarms and arrange a wake-up call with reception for comfortable morning departure.

Day 2 · Tue, Dec 9
Jodhpur

Rail Journey to Jodhpur — Arrival and Easy First Day

05:30 AM:

Wake up early, finish last-minute packing and place passports/IDs, train tickets/PNR, medicines and kids’ comfort items in an easy-to-grab bag; confirm taxi to Ahmedabad Railway Station if catching an early connection.

06:15 AM:

Have a light breakfast at the hotel (parathas/eggs and fruit) and prepare warm drinks in a thermos for the children and adults to take on the train.

06:45 AM:

Check out and board the pre-booked taxi to Ahmedabad Junction; keep a printed copy of your onward train details to Jodhpur accessible and confirm platform on NTES/IRCTC.

07:30 AM:

Arrive at Ahmedabad Junction early to avoid rush, use station restrooms, buy any last-minute snacks (khakhra, biscuits, fruit) and help kids stretch before boarding.

08:00 AM:

Board the Ahmedabad-Jodhpur train (confirm coach/berth). Stow large luggage in the luggage racks and keep a daypack with medicines, wipes, water and entertainment under the seat.

08:30 AM:

Settle in for the journey — hand out breakfast boxes (idli/poha or sandwiches) and decide on a simple activity schedule with the kids (colouring, games, tablet time).

10:30 AM:

Enjoy window views and a relaxed family game of I-spy or storytelling about Mehrangarh Fort to build excitement for Jodhpur’s sights.

12:30 PM:

Lunch on the train — serve pre-packed warm dal-roti or buy a meal at a station pantry stop; ensure children stay hydrated and take short supervised aisle walks to stretch.

02:30 PM:

Short rest: kids nap or watch a favourite movie; parents can review the Jodhpur plan, check hotel transfer arrangements and tap into offline maps for arrival navigation.

04:00 PM:

Prepare for arrival — gather luggage, check berths, give children a restroom break, and confirm the arrival platform and pre-booked cab or hotel pickup at Jodhpur Junction.

04:30 PM:

Arrive at Jodhpur Junction. Disembark and meet your taxi/cab driver; aim for a family-friendly hotel such as Ajit Bhawan Palace (heritage, but check family rooms), Pal Haveli, or WelcomHotel by ITC for comfort.

05:15 PM:

Check in and freshen up at the hotel; let the kids relax and change into comfortable clothes for an easy evening outing.

06:00 PM:

Drive to Umaid Bhawan Palace (viewpoint) for photos of the palace façade and a relaxed stroll in the gardens; this is a gentle introduction to Jodhpur’s royal vibe without tiring the children.

07:00 PM:

Head to the Clock Tower & Sardar Market area for a short sensory walk — kids will enjoy the colourful stalls selling spices, sweets and traditional Rajasthani toys; pick up a few light souvenirs like mojris or puppets.

07:45 PM:

Dinner at Gypsy Restaurant (family-friendly, North Indian favorites) or Indique (terrace dining with Mehrangarh views) — request a quieter table for the kids and order mild dishes they’ll enjoy, like butter naan and paneer.

09:00 PM:

Return to the hotel for bedtime routine; read a short story or review photos from the day with the children so they wind down comfortably.

09:30 PM:

Parents finalize next day’s plan: early visit to Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada; set alarms, pack small day backpacks with water, sunscreen, hats and snacks.

10:00 PM:

Lights out — aim for a full night’s rest so the family is refreshed for a full day of sightseeing in Jodhpur tomorrow.

Day 3 · Wed, Dec 10
Jodhpur

Explore Jodhpur — Forts, Markets & Family-Friendly Sights

06:30 AM:

Wake up and enjoy a hearty hotel breakfast (suggested: parathas, fresh fruit, tea/coffee) so the kids are energized for the morning; pack a small day bag with water, sunscreen, hats and kid snacks.

07:15 AM:

Leave hotel for Mehrangarh Fort — short drive to the fort entrance; aim to arrive early to beat crowds and heat and to get quieter photo spots.

07:30 AM:

Enter Mehrangarh Fort and take the ramp/walk or the elevator lift (family-friendly option) up to the museum and battlements; kids will enjoy the cannons, royal artifacts and panoramic city views.

08:15 AM:

Guided walkthrough of Mehrangarh Museum galleries (hire a local guide or use the audio guide) to see royal costumes, arms and the famous opium chest; pause at the ramparts for photos of the blue city below.

09:00 AM:

Short visit to Jaswant Thada (a 10-15 minute drive) — stroll the marble cenotaph gardens and let the kids explore the lawns while you enjoy the tranquil setting and more views of the fort.

09:45 AM:

Return toward the old city and stop at Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park entrance for a quick 30-45 minute nature walk — easy trails and interesting rock formations are kid-friendly and educational.

10:45 AM:

Head to a mid-morning snack break at Café Royale or Janta Sweet Home near Clock Tower for cool drinks, lassi and Rajasthani snacks; let kids refuel with some fresh fruit or a sweet treat.

11:30 AM:

Explore the Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar) and Sardar Market — wander colorful spice stalls, sweet shops and toy vendors; let children see puppet shops and try small purchases like puppets or mojris.

12:15 PM:

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at Gypsy Restaurant (family-friendly, North Indian menu) or step up for a rooftop meal at Indique for mild dishes and a view of the fort; order kid-friendly options like dal, butter naan and paneer.

01:30 PM:

Return to the hotel for a short rest/nap time for the kids and to recharge devices; parents can review the afternoon plan and confirm the driver for any onward local trips.

03:00 PM:

Drive to Toorji Ka Jhalra (Toorji’s Step Well) — let the children see the colorful restored stepwell and the nearby cafés; great spot for photos and a calm stroll.

03:30 PM:

Visit the Umaid Bhawan Palace outer gardens and museum (pre-check timings) — explore the museum’s vintage car collection and relaxed lawns which are enjoyable and educational for kids.

04:30 PM:

Stop by the Shahi Samosa or local street vendors for an early-evening snack (samosa, kachori or sugar cane juice) while strolling quieter lanes of the old city.

05:00 PM:

Optional short camel or horse ride arranged through a trusted local operator near the fort area (confirm safety and child seat requirements) — a fun, gentle experience for the kids before sunset.

05:30 PM:

Drive up to a viewpoint for sunset photos — suggestions: Ghanta Ghar rooftop restaurants or the viewpoint near Chamunda Mata Temple for wide-angle views of the Blue City as the sun sets.

06:15 PM:

Dinner at Risala or Darikhana (check family-friendly hours) or return to Indique for a relaxed rooftop meal with fewer crowds; choose milder dishes for the children and sample local Rajasthani thalis for adults.

07:30 PM:

Leisurely post-dinner walk near the hotel or a short drive through illuminated city lanes; stop for gelato or kulfi if the kids want a treat.

08:15 PM:

Back at the hotel: family wind-down with photos from the day, a short bedtime story and layout of tomorrow’s plan to Jaisalmer (train preparations, luggage checklist and wake-up time).

09:00 PM:

Pack an overnight bag and confirm next-day transfer to the station; parents should verify train PNR/boarding time and set alarms for an early departure if catching an overnight or morning train to Jaisalmer.

09:30 PM:

Lights out — ensure children have their favourite comfort items and meds handy; rest well for the travel day ahead to Jaisalmer.

Day 4 · Thu, Dec 11
Jaisalmer

Train to Jaisalmer — Sunset & Relaxation

05:30 AM:

Wake up, finish packing and place train tickets/PNR, IDs, medicines and kids’ comfort items in an easy-to-grab bag; confirm hotel checkout and a pre-booked taxi to Jodhpur Junction.

06:00 AM:

Hearty hotel breakfast (parathas, fruit, chai/coffee) so the children are energized for travel; fill thermoses and give kids an activity pack for the train journey.

06:30 AM:

Check out and board your cab to Jodhpur Railway Station (allow traffic buffer); review platform info and carriage/berth details on NTES/IRCTC while en route.

07:15 AM:

Arrive at Jodhpur Junction, use restrooms and a short walk on the platform to stretch the kids’ legs before boarding the Jodhpur-Jaisalmer train.

07:45 AM:

Board the train to Jaisalmer (confirm coach/seat); stow large luggage securely and keep a small daypack with snacks, water, basic medicines and chargers under the seat.

08:15 AM:

Settle in with breakfast boxes or station-bought snacks; play a family game or read a short story to help the kids relax into the journey.

09:30 AM:

Scenic train time — watch the landscape change toward the Thar region and tell the kids about Jaisalmer Fort and the golden city to build excitement.

11:30 AM:

Light lunch on the train (pre-packed dal/roti or station meal); let children have a snack break and a supervised aisle stroll to stretch their legs.

01:30 PM:

Quiet time: kids nap or watch a movie on tablet with headphones while parents confirm arrival time and pre-booked hotel pickup in Jaisalmer.

03:00 PM:

Prepare to disembark: gather all luggage, tidy the seating area, give children a restroom break and collect any last-minute station purchases like water and fresh fruit.

03:30 PM:

Arrival at Jaisalmer Railway Station; meet your driver and transfer to a family-friendly hotel—suggestions: Gorbandh Palace (heritage feel), Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa (comfort) or Hotel Rang Mahal.

04:15 PM:

Check in and freshen up at the hotel; let the kids relax and change into comfortable clothes for an easy evening out to enjoy the golden light of the city.

05:00 PM:

Drive or walk to Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Quila) for an early evening stroll through narrow lanes; kids will enjoy exploring the fortress alleyways and small shops selling puppets and camel-themed souvenirs.

05:45 PM:

Head to one of the fort rooftop cafés such as Sunset Cafe or Cafe The Trio for tea and snacks while watching the warm sunset wash over the golden sandstone—great family photo opportunity.

06:30 PM:

Walk down to Patwa Haveli area and explore a couple of ornate havelis (Patwon Ki Haveli) — keep the visit short and engaging for children by pointing out carved balconies and jharokhas.

07:15 PM:

Dinner at Trio or Desert Boy’s Dhani (family-friendly; try mild dal-baati and vegetarian thali) or opt for Camel Club Restaurant for kid-friendly pizzas and Indian options.

08:30 PM:

Leisurely post-dinner stroll through illuminated fort lanes or return to the hotel for a short game or family photo review; pick up a small sweet treat like ghevar or rabri for the kids.

09:15 PM:

Back in the hotel room: bedtime routine, set out clothes and daypacks for tomorrow’s desert excursion, and remind the driver/hotel about the early pickup for the Sam Sand Dunes if booked.

09:45 PM:

Parents review next-day plans: camel safari or jeep safari timings, recommended operators (e.g., Mandir Palace Safari or Desert Chill), and confirm dinner arrangements at the dune camp if pre-booked.

10:15 PM:

Lights out: restful night’s sleep to be ready for a full day of Jaisalmer highlights and a family-friendly desert experience tomorrow.

Day 5 · Fri, Dec 12
Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer Highlights — Fort, Havelis & Desert Evening

06:30 AM:

Wake up and enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel (suggested: Jaisalmer Marriott or Gorbandh Palace buffet) — fuel the kids with fruit, eggs and parathas and pack sunscreen, hats and refillable water bottles for the day.

07:15 AM:

Walk or short drive to Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Quila) to enter before the crowds — explore the fort’s narrow lanes, rooftop views and small shops while the morning light makes the sandstone glow.

08:00 AM:

Visit the Fort’s key spots: the Raj Mahal courtyard, the temples inside the fort and the Archaeological Museum — kids will enjoy spotting carved balconies and old weapon displays.

09:00 AM:

Head to Patwon Ki Haveli and Salim Singh Ki Haveli (a short walk from the fort) — admire the intricate stone carvings and let the children hear stories about merchants and royal life while you capture photos.

10:00 AM:

Stop at Trio Cafe or Sunset Cafe near the fort for a mid-morning refreshment — try mango lassi or masala chai and give the kids a break with biscuits or a light sandwich.

10:30 AM:

Explore the Desert Culture Centre & Museum (near the fort) for an engaging educational stop — children can learn about Thar wildlife, traditional crafts and local textiles in a compact, family-friendly visit.

11:15 AM:

Walk down to the marketplaces around the Clock Tower and Sadar Bazaar — browse colourful textiles, puppets, mojris and spice shops; pick a small souvenir like a puppet or camel toy for each child.

12:00 PM:

Lunch at Desert Boy’s Dhani or Camel Club Restaurant for family-friendly options — order mild dal, butter naan, paneer and a child-friendly pizza so everyone has familiar choices.

01:00 PM:

Return to the hotel for a short rest and cooling off time so the kids can nap or watch a movie while you prepare for the desert afternoon and evening.

02:30 PM:

Depart by pre-booked vehicle for Sam Sand Dunes (approx. 40-60 minutes depending on traffic and route) — confirm your dune-camp or jeep/ camel safari operator such as Desert Chill or Mandir Palace Safari.

03:30 PM:

Arrive at the dune area and take a short camel ride (20-30 minutes) arranged through a trusted operator — children usually love the gentle ride and the novelty of being on a camel in the Thar.

04:15 PM:

Return to the jeep for a short desert jeep safari around the sand dunes (if booked) — this is a fun, bumpy ride to spot open desert views and small nomadic settlements, suitable for older kids with seat belts.

05:00 PM:

Settle at a family-friendly dune camp before sunset (suggested camps: Sam Sand Dunes Desert Camp or private family tents at trusted operators) — freshen up, sip tea and let kids run safely in the sand under supervision.

05:30 PM:

Enjoy a memorable desert sunset on the dunes — take family photos as the golden light deepens and the Thar landscape glows; servers may offer light snacks like roasted peanuts and chai.

06:15 PM:

At the camp, join a short cultural program: folk music (manganiyar or kalbeliya) and simple dance performances — kids often love the lively music and colourful costumes.

07:00 PM:

Family dinner at the dune camp with Rajasthani specialities (dal-baati-churma, gatte ki sabzi) and kid-friendly options (roti, rice, mild curries) — request mild spice levels for children.

08:15 PM:

Stargazing and quiet time at the camp after dinner — the clear desert sky is perfect for showing kids constellations; some camps provide small telescopes or torches for storytelling.

09:15 PM:

Head back to your vehicle for the transfer to Jaisalmer town (or sleep overnight at the dune camp if you pre-booked an overnight stay) — ensure children are warm with extra blankets as desert nights are cooler.

10:00 PM:

Arrive back at your hotel in Jaisalmer, or settle into your camp tent; follow the bedtime routine, give kids any needed medicine, and lay out clothes and essentials for the next day’s travel to Mount Abu.

10:30 PM:

Lights out: rest after a full day of exploration and desert fun—parents can review the onward travel plan (road transfer or train timing) and confirm cab bookings for the next morning.

Day 6 · Sat, Dec 13
Mount Abu

Travel to Mount Abu (via road from Jaisalmer/Jodhpur) — Hill Resort Arrival

05:00 AM:

Wake up early, finish final packing and consolidate travel documents (train/coach receipts, IDs, hotel confirmations) into a single easy-to-grab folder; give the kids a quick wash and light snack to start the day.

05:30 AM:

Enjoy a hearty hotel breakfast in Jaisalmer/Jodhpur (eggs, parathas, fruit and chai) and prepare travel thermoses and an activity bag for each child with colouring books and headphones for the road.

06:00 AM:

Check out of the hotel and meet your pre-booked private car/tempo traveller driver for the road transfer to Mount Abu (confirm vehicle phone number, driver’s name and route — commonly via NH62/NH25 depending on pickup city).

06:15 AM:

Start the drive toward Mount Abu; secure luggage in the boot, seat children with seat belts or child seats, and set up a rotation of short stops planned en route for comfort breaks and photos.

08:30 AM:

Stop at a highway dhaba or trusted restaurant (suggestion: a clean family-friendly stop near Pali/Phalodi depending on route) for fresh filter coffee, restrooms and a mid-morning snack to stretch legs and refresh the kids.

09:00 AM:

Resume the drive; use this quieter time for kids to nap or watch a downloaded movie while parents enjoy the changing landscape from Thar plains toward the Aravalli foothills.

11:30 AM:

Arrive in the outskirts of Mount Abu region — take a short scenic stop at a roadside viewpoint as the hills become visible, offering photo opportunities and a chance for the children to move around.

12:15 PM:

Reach Mount Abu town and head straight to a family-friendly hotel (suggestions: Hotel Hillock, Hotel Mount View, or Cama Rajputana Club) to check in and freshen up before lunch.

12:45 PM:

Lunch at the hotel restaurant or a well-known spot like Arbuda Restaurant (family-friendly Indian and continental options) — order mild dishes for kids (roti, dal, paneer) and local delicacies for adults.

01:30 PM:

Short rest/quiet time in the room so the children can nap or relax after the drive while parents confirm afternoon sightseeing plans and request a hotel driver or local taxi for short transfers.

02:30 PM:

Drive to Nakki Lake for a relaxed family outing — walk along the lakeside promenade, hire a paddle boat if the kids are comfortable (life jackets provided) and enjoy the serene hill-lake views.

03:15 PM:

Stroll to the nearby Toad Rock viewpoint (a short uphill walk from Nakki Lake) for panoramic photos; children will enjoy the easy scramble and the novelty of a rock shaped like a toad.

03:45 PM:

Visit the Dilwara Jain Temples (allow 45-60 minutes) — admire the extraordinary marble carvings and take a quiet, respectful walkthrough; carry water and remind kids about the calm atmosphere and photo rules.

04:45 PM:

Stop by the Mount Abu Market near Nakki Lake to browse local handicrafts, colourful shawls and small souvenirs like miniature marble items and puppet toys for the children.

05:15 PM:

Drive up to Sunset Point (or Honeymoon Point if you prefer slightly quieter views) and enjoy the golden hour as the sun dips behind the Aravalli hills — perfect time for family photos and gentle exploration.

06:00 PM:

Return to the hotel for a quick freshen-up and warm clothing — Mount Abu evenings are cooler, so layer up the kids and bring light jackets for the family.

06:45 PM:

Dinner at a recommended family restaurant such as Arbuda Restaurant (if you didn’t dine earlier) or Hotel Hillock’s multi-cuisine restaurant; order a mix of Rajasthani specialties for adults and familiar kid-friendly meals like pasta or grilled sandwiches.

08:00 PM:

After dinner, take a gentle post-meal walk near the hotel or Nakki Lake promenade to enjoy the calm night air and perhaps pick up a warm dessert like rabri or gulab jamun for the children.

08:45 PM:

Back in your room: family wind-down with photos from the day, a bedtime story and layout of tomorrow’s sightseeing plan (Nakki Lake boat, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary or Guru Shikhar if you wish to extend).

09:30 PM:

Prepare kids’ clothes and daypacks for tomorrow, set alarms and confirm any transfers the hotel arranged; parents should check phone chargers and emergency contacts before bed.

10:00 PM:

Lights out: rest well after a long travel day and enjoy a cooler, peaceful night in Mount Abu to be refreshed for a full day of hill-station sightseeing tomorrow.

Day 7 · Sun, Dec 14
Mount Abu

Mount Abu Sightseeing — Nakki Lake & Peaceful Trails

06:30 AM:

Wake up and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel (suggested: Hotel Hillock or Cama Rajputana Club) with parathas, eggs, fresh fruit and warm chai to fuel a full day of sightseeing.

07:15 AM:

Walk down to Nakki Lake while the morning is calm; take in the lake reflections and hire a paddle boat for a gentle 20-30 minute ride — life jackets provided, perfect for the kids.

08:00 AM:

Stroll along the Nakki Lake promenade toward Toad Rock, stopping for photos and letting the children explore the paved paths and small gardens near the water’s edge.

08:30 AM:

Climb the short, family-friendly path to Toad Rock viewpoint for panoramic views of Mount Abu and an informal nature lesson for the kids about the Aravalli hills.

09:00 AM:

Return to the market near Nakki Lake and browse local handicraft stalls for souvenirs — consider picking up miniature marble items, colourful shawls or puppet toys for the children.

09:30 AM:

Visit Dilwara Jain Temples (10-15 minute drive or short taxi ride); take a respectful, guided walkthrough of the marble carvings and explain temple etiquette to the kids (quiet voices, no flash photography inside).

10:30 AM:

Head to Arbuda Restaurant or the hotel cafe for a mid-morning refreshment — order fresh fruit juices, masala chai and light snacks while the kids rest their legs and you plan the afternoon.

11:00 AM:

Drive to Sunset Point area and take the easy nature trails toward nearby viewpoints — enjoy a calm walk among the hills and let children look for local birds and interesting rock formations.

12:00 PM:

Visit the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary short trail (choice of family-friendly sections) for a gentle nature stroll and a chance to spot local flora and small fauna under the guidance of park signboards.

01:00 PM:

Lunch at Arbuda Restaurant or Hotel Hillock’s multi-cuisine restaurant — order a mix of local dishes for adults (thali or Rajasthani delicacies) and familiar kid-friendly meals (pasta, dal, roti).

02:00 PM:

Return to the hotel for quiet time: kids can nap or watch a favourite movie while parents recharge devices and prepare a light afternoon plan (pack water, hats and a small first-aid kit).

03:30 PM:

Take a short drive to Guru Shikhar viewpoint (if the family is up for a 30-40 minute excursion) for the highest point in the Aravallis and sweeping views — keep the visit brief and comfortable for the children.

04:30 PM:

Head back toward Nakki Lake and stop en route at the historic Raghunath Temple and some local viewpoints for photos and a calm walk through shaded lanes.

05:00 PM:

Arrive at Sunset Point for an early evening watch or choose Honeymoon Point for a quieter spot — enjoy the golden light, take family photos and let the kids collect a few smooth stones as keepsakes.

05:45 PM:

Descend to the town centre and enjoy a casual snack at a popular spot near Nakki Lake such as Lake View Restaurant or local vendors — try rabri or warm jalebi as a treat for the children.

06:15 PM:

Stroll through the evening market near Nakki Lake for last-minute souvenirs and warm shawls (evenings are cooler), picking up a small marble memento or handcrafted toy for each child.

07:00 PM:

Dinner at your hotel or Arbuda Restaurant — order comforting dishes like dal-baati (for adults to try) alongside kid-friendly options like butter naan, rice and mild paneer curries.

08:00 PM:

After dinner, take a gentle lakeside walk to help the kids unwind and enjoy the cool night air; stop for a warm dessert such as gulab jamun or rabri if the children want a sweet treat.

08:45 PM:

Return to your hotel room for family wind-down: review photos from the trip so far, lay out clothes and essentials for the next day’s return journey to Ahmedabad/Surat, and confirm pickup logistics with reception.

09:30 PM:

Prepare the children for bed with a short story and any needed medication; ensure travel documents and train/road transfer confirmations are in one easy-to-grab folder for tomorrow’s departure.

10:00 PM:

Lights out: rest for the return journey on 12/15, ensuring everyone is packed and has a small overnight bag ready with essentials for the travel day back to Ahmedabad and then Surat.

Day 8 · Mon, Dec 15
Mount Abu → Ahmedabad → Surat

Return Journey — Mount Abu to Ahmedabad (train/road) then Surat

05:00 AM:

Wake up, finish final packing and collect all travel documents (train/coach receipts, hotel confirmations, IDs, PNR) into one folder; give the kids a quick wash and a light snack.

05:30 AM:

Quick hotel breakfast or packed breakfast from reception (parathas, fruit, boiled eggs, chai) so children are fed for the trip; confirm the driver’s number and vehicle details for the transfer to the Mount Abu departure point or bus/rail connection.

06:00 AM:

Check out and load luggage into your pre-booked taxi/private car for the drive to Ahmedabad (if you pre-booked direct road transfer) or to the Mount Abu bus stand/nearest rail link for the onward connection; ensure children’s comfort items are accessible.

06:15 AM:

Begin the drive toward Ahmedabad — settle children with tablets/headphones and an activity bag; plan for regular short breaks so kids can stretch and use clean restrooms during the long drive.

08:30 AM:

Stop at a clean highway restaurant/dhaba (recommended: a trusted family-friendly stop near Abu Road) for a restroom break, chai/coffee and fresh fruit for the kids; let them run a few minutes under supervision to release energy.

08:50 AM:

Resume the journey toward Ahmedabad; use this quieter stretch for children to nap or watch a downloaded movie while parents double-check arrival timings and PNRs for the Ahmedabad-Surat onward train.

11:30 AM:

Arrive at Ahmedabad (approximate timing depending on traffic) and head directly to a short lunch stop near the station — recommended: Gordhan Thal or Agashiye (if you have time and want a sit-down meal) or a quick family-friendly option like Odhani Restaurant for familiar dishes.

12:15 PM:

Finish lunch quickly and proceed to Ahmedabad Junction (or the agreed drop-off point) to catch your pre-booked train/coach back to Surat; use station restrooms and confirm platform and coach information on the NTES/IRCTC app.

12:45 PM:

Arrive at Ahmedabad Railway Station, stow large luggage in the coach racks and keep a small daypack with medicines, water and kid snacks under the seat; let kids have a short walk on the platform to stretch before boarding.

01:15 PM:

Board the Ahmedabad-Surat train (confirm train number and coach/berth) and settle the children with light activities, colouring books or a favourite tablet show; distribute bottled water and small snacks.

01:45 PM:

Enjoy the train journey; parents can use this time to relax, look through photos from the trip and plan the last leg home — play a quiet family game like 'I-spy' to keep kids engaged without screens.

03:30 PM:

Tea/snack break on the train — purchase chai or snacks from the pantry or station vendors; give children a supervised aisle stroll to stretch their legs and use onboard restrooms if needed.

04:30 PM:

Short rest: kids nap or watch another short movie while you track the expected Surat arrival time on NTES/IRCTC and gather all personal items for disembarkation.

05:30 PM:

Prepare to disembark at Surat: collect luggage from racks, double-check for chargers/toys/medicines, and help kids use restrooms and put on jackets for the cooler evening outside the station.

06:00 PM:

Arrive at Surat Railway Station; disembark and meet your pre-booked cab or family driver — if coming from Ahmedabad earlier than expected, use this time for a relaxed handover and quick briefing with the driver on the route home.

06:20 PM:

Drive home from the station; keep a small bag of evening snacks for the kids and let them unwind with quiet activities in the car while you enjoy the final stretch of the journey.

07:00 PM:

Arrive home in Surat, unload luggage and freshen up; allow the kids a little time to play and for parents to unpack essential items and place travel documents and train receipts together for record-keeping.

07:30 PM:

Light dinner at home or order from a family-favourite nearby restaurant (suggestion: local Gujarati thali from Vishalla or a simple pizza if kids prefer familiar food) and share highlights from the trip with the children.

08:15 PM:

Family wind-down: review trip photos, put away souvenirs (puppets, mojris, small marble items) and ensure any medicines used during travel are restocked; note any feedback for future travel with operators/hotels if you booked through them.

09:00 PM:

Prepare children for bed with a short story and their favourite comfort items; lay out clothes for the next day and confirm that all charging devices are plugged in and phones have backups of train/booking receipts.

09:30 PM:

Parents finalize a quick trip recap (what worked well, what to change next time) and store travel documents and important receipts together; set an out-of-office if needed and relax after a fulfilling family holiday.

10:00 PM:

Lights out: aim for a restful night after travel — unwind, reflect on favourite moments (Mehrangarh, Jaisalmer dunes, Nakki Lake) and plan a gentle first day back home to recover from the journey.

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