Begin your road trip by arriving in Ahmedabad, the largest city in Gujarat. In the morning, visit the Sabarmati Ashram, where Mahatma Gandhi lived and practiced his principles of nonviolence. Explore the ashram's museum and learn about India's fight for independence. In the afternoon, indulge in the local flavors at Manek Chowk, a bustling street food market. Don't miss the famous Gujarati thali, a platter of various traditional dishes. Spend the evening at Kankaria Lake, enjoying the picturesque surroundings and fun activities like boating and the zoo.
Sabarmati Ashram: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Manek Chowk: Estimated cost: ₹500, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Kankaria Lake: Estimated cost: ₹200, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Grand Bhagwati. This restaurant offers a diverse menu with both Indian and continental options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, head to Vishalla, a traditional Gujarati restaurant known for its authentic flavors and lively ambiance. The unlimited Gujarati thali here is a must-try. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
In the evening, dine at Agashiye, a rooftop restaurant that serves delicious Gujarati and Rajasthani cuisine. Enjoy the beautiful view of the city while indulging in their Thali-style dinner. Average cost for a meal is about ₹1000 per person.
Thursday November 16: Dwarka
Embark on a spiritual journey to Dwarka, a sacred city associated with Lord Krishna. Start your day with a visit to Dwarkadhish Temple, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. Witness the morning aarti (prayer) and immerse yourself in the divine atmosphere. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Dwarka Beach and enjoy the serene coastline. End your day with a visit to Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Dwarkadhish Temple: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Dwarka Beach: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Nageshwar Jyotirlinga: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Dwarka is Madhuram Restaurant, serving traditional Gujarati breakfast items like dhokla and fafda. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For lunch, head to Shree Krishna Dining Hall, a vegetarian restaurant offering a variety of thalis and authentic Gujarati dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
In the evening, dine at Blue Coriander, a waterfront restaurant known for its seafood delicacies and stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Friday November 17: Somnath
Continue your pilgrimage to Somnath, home to the famous Somnath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Start your morning with a visit to the temple and witness the aarti against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, explore the Somnath Beach and enjoy the breathtaking views. Spend your evening at Dehotsarg, the final resting place of Lord Krishna, located near the temple.
Somnath Temple: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Somnath Beach: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Dehotsarg: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Somnath Sagar Restaurant, located near Somnath Temple. They offer a variety of delicious Indian breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try The Divine Dhaba, a popular restaurant known for its authentic Gujarati thali. Enjoy a sumptuous meal with a wide range of vegetarian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Triveni Restaurant, situated near Somnath Beach. They specialize in seafood and serve mouthwatering dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Saturday November 18: Rann of Kutch
Head towards the enchanting Rann of Kutch, a vast salt marsh located in the Thar Desert. In the morning, visit the White Rann and witness the stunning white salt desert stretching as far as the eye can see. Explore the nearby Kala Dungar (Black Hill), the highest point in Kutch, offering panoramic views of the Rann. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Kutch Museum to learn about the region's rich culture and heritage. End your day with a cultural performance showcasing the folk traditions of Gujarat.
White Rann: Estimated cost: ₹500, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Kala Dungar: Estimated cost: ₹200, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Kutch Museum: Estimated cost: ₹100, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious Indian breakfast at Ganesh Bhel, located just 10 minutes away from the Rann of Kutch. This popular street food joint offers a variety of savory and spicy snacks. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Toran Dining Hall, a vegetarian restaurant known for its authentic Gujarati thali. Enjoy a traditional meal with a variety of dishes served on a large silver platter. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Agashiye, a rooftop restaurant serving traditional Gujarati cuisine. Enjoy the serene ambiance and panoramic views while savoring a multicourse meal. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday November 19: Nathdwara
Continue your journey to Nathdwara, a town known for its sacred Shrinathji Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. Begin your day with a visit to the temple and witness the morning darshan (viewing) of the deity. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Eklingji Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and marvel at its intricate architecture. Spend your evening at nearby Haldighati, a historic battlefield known for the Battle of Haldighati fought between Maharana Pratap and the Mughal Empire.
Shrinathji Temple: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Eklingji Temple: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Haldighati: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Shreenathji Sweets and Snacks, a popular local eatery known for its delicious traditional Indian breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, try out Eklingji Restaurant, located near Eklingji Temple. They serve a variety of vegetarian dishes including Gujarati thali and Rajasthani specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, Indulge in a mouthwatering dinner at Haldighati Heritage Restaurant. This restaurant offers an extensive menu of Indian cuisine with an emphasis on Mewari flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Monday November 20: Return to Indore
On your way back to Indore, make a stop at Udaipur, the City of Lakes. In the morning, explore the majestic City Palace and enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola. In the afternoon, visit the famous Jag Mandir Palace, an island palace with stunning architecture. End your day with a leisurely stroll through the colorful markets of Udaipur, perfect for souvenir shopping. Continue your journey to Indore in the evening.
City Palace: Estimated cost: ₹250, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Jag Mandir Palace: Estimated cost: ₹300, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Shopping in Udaipur: Estimated cost: ₹500, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a family-friendly experience off the beaten path, visit the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Museum in Ahmedabad. It showcases the life and achievements of the great Indian leader. Another hidden gem is the Balaram Palace Resort in the outskirts of Danta, offering a royal experience amidst nature. Kids will love the Arna-Jharna: The Desert Museum in Jodhpur, which showcases the rich biodiversity of the Thar Desert through interactive exhibits and demonstrations.