7-Day Itinerary for Gujarat in November 2023 for Nature Lovers

1. Day 1: Gir National Park
   2 hours (62.4 miles) from Bhavnagar Airport

   Embark on a wildlife safari at Gir National Park, home to the endangered Asiatic lion and other wildlife species such as leopards, hyenas, and crocodiles.

2. Day 2: Saputara
   5 hours (165 miles) from Gir National Park

   Explore the serene hill station of Saputara, known for its natural beauty, including the tranquil Saputara Lake, the Artists' Village, and the Gandharvapur Artist Village.

3. Day 3: Great Rann of Kutch
   7 hours (255 miles) from Saputara

   Experience the vast and surreal salt desert of the Great Rann of Kutch, especially during sunrise and sunset. Visit the nearby Kala Dungar (Black Hill) for panoramic views of the desert.

4. Day 4: Mandvi Beach
   2 hours (60 miles) from Great Rann of Kutch

   Relax at the pristine Mandvi Beach, complete with golden sands, clear blue waters, and a view of the historic Mandvi Palace and Wind Farms.

5. Day 5: Sasan Gir National Park
   5 hours (145 miles) from Mandvi Beach

   Visit the Sasan Gir National Park, another habitat of the Asiatic lion, and explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region through a wildlife safari.

6. Day 6: Velavadar Blackbuck National Park
   3 hours (101 miles) from Sasan Gir National Park

   Discover the Velavadar Blackbuck National Park, home to the endangered Indian blackbuck and various bird species. Enjoy a bird-watching tour and a star-gazing session.

7. Day 7: Marine National Park
   6 hours (197 miles) from Velavadar Blackbuck National Park

   End the trip with a visit to the Marine National Park, a unique ecosystem consisting of 42 islands and various marine species such as dolphins, dugongs, and sea turtles. Go snorkelling or scuba diving to observe the marine life.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Gir National Park (4 hours, INR 1,500 per person)
• Saputara (2 days, INR 5,000 per person)
• Great Rann of Kutch (1 day, INR 2,000 per person)
• Mandvi Beach (1 day, INR 1,500 per person)
• Sasan Gir National Park (1 day, INR 3,000 per person)
• Velavadar Blackbuck National Park (1 day, INR 1,500 per person)
• Marine National Park (1 day, INR 5,000 per person)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 19,000 per person

Recommendations

Other notable nature destinations in Gujarat include the Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary, the Vansda National Park, and the Dang Forest, all of which are worth exploring if you have the time. To maximise your fun, consider carrying a good camera, binoculars, and comfortable outdoor clothing. Lastly, don't forget to try the local cuisine, especially the Gujarati thali and street food.