A 7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Somnath, Gir, Dwarka, and Statue of Unity
Sunday, December 24: Arrival in Ahmedabad
Welcome to Ahmedabad! Start your trip by visiting the Sabarmati Ashram in the morning, where Mahatma Gandhi once lived. Learn about India's struggle for independence and explore the peaceful surroundings. In the afternoon, head to Kankaria Lake for a relaxing boat ride and visit the nearby Zoo. In the evening, take a stroll along the Sabarmati Riverfront and enjoy the view of the illuminated cityscape.
Sabarmati Ashram: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Kankaria Lake and Zoo: Estimated cost: INR 10-50, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Sabarmati Riverfront: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Head to The Grand Bhagwati for a delicious breakfast buffet with a wide variety of options. Average cost for a meal is about 350 INR per person.
Enjoy a traditional Gujarati thali at Vishalla, a rustic open-air restaurant with a village-like ambience. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Indulge in a fine dining experience at Agashiye, a rooftop restaurant serving authentic Gujarati cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday, December 25: Vadodara Exploration
Head to Vadodara, also known as Baroda, in Gujarat. Start your day by visiting the Laxmi Vilas Palace, an architectural gem. In the afternoon, explore Sayaji Gardens, a beautiful park with a zoo and an aquarium. End your day with a visit to the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Laxmi Vilas Palace: Estimated cost: INR 225, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Sayaji Gardens: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Head to Cafe Fitoor for a hearty breakfast of delicious sandwiches and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Enjoy a traditional Gujarati thali at Mandap Restaurant for lunch, offering a wide variety of flavorful vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Indulge in a fine dining experience at Barbeque Nation for dinner, where you can savor unlimited grilled delicacies and mouthwatering desserts. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Tuesday, December 26: Journey to Somnath
Travel to Somnath and visit the famous Somnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. In the afternoon, relax at the Somnath Beach or take a dip in the Arabian Sea. Witness the mesmerizing Aarti ceremony at the temple in the evening.
Somnath Temple: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Somnath Beach: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Aarti ceremony: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
Enjoy a traditional Gujarati breakfast at Swati Snacks, known for their delicious dhoklas and fafdas. Average cost for a meal is about INR 150 per person.
Indulge in a classic thali lunch at Hotel Lemon Tree, where you can savor a variety of local dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
Treat yourself to a seafood dinner at The Oyster Restaurant, offering a wide selection of fresh seafood delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
Wednesday, December 27: Wildlife Encounter in Gir
Embark on a thrilling safari at Gir National Park, the only home of the Asiatic Lions. Explore the wilderness and spot various wildlife species. Enjoy a serene picnic amidst nature. In the evening, visit the Devalia Safari Park for a closer view of lions and other animals.
Gir National Park: Estimated cost: INR 1,000-2,500, Time spent: 5-6 hours
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at The Grand Bhagwati, located near Gir National Park. Indulge in a variety of options including Indian and continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For a scrumptious lunch, head to Aamantran Restaurant in Gir. Enjoy authentic Gujarati cuisine along with other North Indian delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Wrap up your day with a memorable dinner at Spice Villa, located near Gir National Park. Relish the delicious seafood and vegetarian dishes offered at this cozy eatery. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Thursday, December 28: Dwarka Pilgrimage
Head to Dwarka, an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. Start your day by visiting the Dwarkadhish Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna. Explore the nearby Rukmini Devi Temple and Gomti Ghat. In the evening, enjoy the sunset at the Dwarka Beach.
Dwarkadhish Temple: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Rukmini Devi Temple: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Gomti Ghat: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Dwarka Beach: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious Gujarati breakfast at Hotel Dwarkesh. This vegetarian restaurant offers a variety of traditional dishes like dhokla and khakra. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Govardhan Thal, a popular vegetarian restaurant near the Dwarkadhish Temple. They serve a wide range of Gujarati thalis with unlimited refills. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Enjoy a scrumptious dinner at Dwarka Darshan, a multi-cuisine restaurant offering Indian, Chinese, and continental dishes. Their rooftop seating area provides a nice view of the city. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Friday, December 29: Visit the Statue of Unity
Travel to Kevadia and marvel at the world's tallest statue, the Statue of Unity. Explore the exhibition hall and enjoy a panoramic view from the observation deck. Visit the Sardar Sarovar Dam, a major hydroelectric project, and enjoy boating in the picturesque surroundings.
Statue of Unity: Estimated cost: INR 350-1,000, Time spent: 4-5 hours
Sardar Sarovar Dam: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Boating: Estimated cost: INR 50-200, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Gopi Dining Hall. This restaurant is known for its wide range of Gujarati breakfast options including dhoklas, thepla, and khandvi. The average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to Rajwadu. This traditional Gujarati thali restaurant offers a wide variety of vegetarian dishes served in clay pots. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
End your day with a satisfying dinner at Agashiye, located at The House of MG. This rooftop restaurant offers a stunning view of the city along with a delectable menu of Gujarati and Rajasthani delicacies. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Saturday, December 30: Return to Ahmedabad
Return to Ahmedabad and spend the day exploring the Calico Museum of Textiles, showcasing a rich collection of Indian textiles. In the afternoon, visit the Adalaj Stepwell, a magnificent stepwell known for its intricate carvings. End your day with some shopping at Law Garden, famous for its traditional handicrafts and street food.
Calico Museum of Textiles: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Adalaj Stepwell: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Law Garden: Estimated cost: Varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Head to The Green House Cafe for a delicious breakfast. They offer a variety of breakfast options such as sandwiches, omelettes, and pancakes. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a tasty lunch, visit Vishalla Restaurant. They serve traditional Gujarati thali, which includes a variety of vegetarian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, try Agashiye. Located on the rooftop of a heritage haveli, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a breathtaking view of the city. They serve a thali-style dinner with traditional Gujarati dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Ahmedabad, don't miss a visit to the Sarkhej Roza, a stunning architectural complex with beautiful gardens. If you have extra time, take a day trip to the Rann of Kutch, famous for its white salt desert and vibrant culture. Additionally, try the local delicacies like Dhokla, Khandvi, and Fafda, which are popular Gujarati snacks.