Begin your adventure in Gujarat by exploring the vibrant city of Ahmedabad. In the morning, visit the Sabarmati Ashram, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi, and learn about the father of the nation's life and teachings. In the afternoon, head to Kankaria Lake and enjoy a leisurely boat ride. As evening falls, visit the Manek Chowk, a bustling night market famous for its street food, and savor the local delicacies.
Sabarmati Ashram: Free, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Manek Chowk: Cost of food: varies, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The House of MG, a heritage hotel that offers a variety of traditional Gujarati dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Agashiye, a rooftop restaurant that serves authentic Gujarati thali in a tranquil setting. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Vishalla, an ethnic village-style restaurant known for its rustic ambiance and traditional Gujarati cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday September 28: Gir National Park
On the second day, embark on a safari adventure at Gir National Park, the last remaining home of the Asiatic lions. Start your morning with an exhilarating game drive through the wilderness, spotting wildlife including lions, leopards, and deer. In the afternoon, take a guided nature walk to explore the park's diverse flora and fauna. As the evening approaches, enjoy a tranquil sunset by the Hiran River.
Gir National Park Safari: Cost: INR 800-1,200 per person, estimated time spent: 6-7 hours
Guided Nature Walk: Cost: INR 500-800 per person, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Sunset by Hiran River: Free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Saffron Restaurant. Indulge in traditional Gujarati dishes like dhokla and thepla. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Spice Villa. Enjoy their wide range of North Indian and Chinese cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Zesty Bites. Feast on their delectable seafood and barbecue dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday September 29: Rann of Kutch
Continue your adventure by exploring the vast white salt desert of the Rann of Kutch. In the morning, visit the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary and observe the unique wildlife including flamingos and wild asses. In the afternoon, head to the expansive salt flats of the Rann and enjoy thrilling activities such as camel rides and off-road driving. As the evening sets in, witness the mesmerizing sunset over the salt desert.
Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary: Entrance fee: INR 200 per person, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Rann of Kutch Activities: Costs vary (camel rides, off-road driving), estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
Sunset at Rann of Kutch: Free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near the Rann of Kutch is Cafe Foliage, known for its delicious vegetarian dishes and relaxed atmosphere. Expect to spend around 150 rupees per person for a meal.
If you're looking for a good lunch option, check out Sankalp Restaurant, offering a variety of Indian and Gujarati cuisine. You can enjoy a filling meal here for approximately 200 rupees per person.
For dinner, head to Toral Dining Hall, a local favorite known for its authentic Gujarati thali. A typical meal here costs around 300 rupees per person.
Saturday September 30: Saputara
Conclude your adventure in Gujarat with a trip to the hill station of Saputara. Begin your morning with a visit to the Saputara Lake, where you can enjoy boating amidst the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, hike to the Sunset Point and witness breathtaking views of the Sahyadri mountain range. As the evening approaches, explore the local markets for handicrafts and souvenirs.
Saputara Lake: Boating cost: INR 60 per person, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Hike to Sunset Point: Free, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Exploring Local Markets: Costs vary (shopping, snacks), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Hotel Savshanti Lake Resort. Enjoy a wide range of authentic Gujarati dishes while overlooking the beautiful Saputara Lake. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Purohit's Restaurant. Indulge in their delicious thali meals, which include a variety of vegetarian delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Hotel Lake View. Relish their diverse menu featuring Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines, all while enjoying the enchanting view of the Saputara Lake. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For adventurers seeking off the beaten path attractions in Gujarat, be sure to visit the Dholavira archaeological site, an ancient Harappan city with fascinating ruins. Another hidden gem is the Mandvi Beach, located near Kutch, offering a serene coastal experience away from the crowds. Adventure enthusiasts can also explore the rugged landscapes of the Dwarka Marine National Park, home to diverse marine life and beautiful coral reefs.
Check out prices for hotels and flights to Gujarat on Kayak.