7-Day Family-Friendly Tour of Ahmedabad, Statue of Unity, Modhera, Patan, Kutch, Bhuj, Dwaraka, Somnath, Gir, Girnar, Nishkalank Mahadev
Tuesday, October 17: Ahmedabad Exploration
In the morning, start your trip by exploring the Sabarmati Ashram, where Mahatma Gandhi once lived. Afterward, visit the serene Kankaria Lake for a relaxing boat ride in the afternoon. Conclude your day by admiring the intricate carvings at the stunning Sidi Saiyyed Mosque in the evening.
Sabarmati Ashram: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
Kankaria Lake: Cost estimate: INR 50 per person for boat ride, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Sidi Saiyyed Mosque: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
In the morning, start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café De La Ville. This charming cafe offers a variety of breakfast options, including freshly brewed coffee, pastries, and omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Agashiye, a rooftop restaurant famous for its traditional Gujarati thali. Indulge in a flavorful spread of authentic Gujarati dishes, complemented by the stunning view of the city. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
End your day with dinner at Vishalla, a rustic village-themed restaurant that serves traditional Gujarati cuisine. Enjoy the unique dining experience in a serene ambiance, surrounded by lush gardens and folk performances. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Wednesday, October 18: The Majestic Statue of Unity
On this day, take a trip to the Statue of Unity, the world's tallest statue dedicated to Vallabhbhai Patel. Spend the morning exploring the statue and the surrounding area, marveling at the incredible views. In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic in the nearby Valley of Flowers. In the evening, witness the spectacular light and sound show at the statue.
Statue of Unity: Cost estimate: INR 350 per person (observation deck ticket), Time spent: 4-5 hours
Valley of Flowers: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Light and Sound Show: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Upper Crust, located near the Statue of Unity. They offer a variety of delicious options such as pancakes, omelettes, and sandwiches. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to The Dhaba. This restaurant, close to the valley of flowers, serves authentic Punjabi cuisine including butter chicken, naan bread, and biryani. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
In the evening, enjoy a memorable dinner at Narmada Restaurant, a fine dining establishment offering a fusion of Indian and international flavors. With a stunning view of the statue, this restaurant serves dishes like tandoori kebabs, seafood, and pasta. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Thursday, October 19: Architectural Marvels of Modhera and Patan
Start your day by visiting the breathtaking Sun Temple in Modhera, known for its intricate carvings and architectural brilliance. In the afternoon, explore the Rani ki Vav stepwell in Patan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. End your day with a visit to the nearby Sahastralinga Talav, an ancient water tank.
Sun Temple in Modhera: Cost estimate: INR 200 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Rani ki Vav stepwell in Patan: Cost estimate: INR 50 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Sahastralinga Talav: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Upper Crust, located near Modhera. This trendy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options, including pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Patang Restaurant in Patan, which serves authentic Gujarati thali. Enjoy a traditional meal with unlimited servings of dals, curries, rotis, and sweets. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Indulge in a dinner at Vishalla, a rustic restaurant in Ahmedabad. This unique eatery offers an outdoor seating area with traditional Gujarati decor and a buffet-style dinner. Relish the flavors of Gujarati cuisine at an average cost of 300 INR per person.
Friday, October 20: Discover the Rich Culture of Kutch
Embark on a journey to the captivating Rann of Kutch. In the morning, explore the White Desert, a vast expanse of salt flats. Witness the unique culture and craftsmanship at the Kutch Museum in Bhuj in the afternoon. Conclude your day by visiting the Bhujodi village to witness the traditional textile weaving.
Rann of Kutch: Cost estimate: INR 100 per person (entry fee), Time spent: 4-5 hours
Kutch Museum: Cost estimate: INR 20 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Bhujodi Village: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Baraco in Bhuj. This cozy café offers a variety of options including pancakes, sandwiches, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, try the Gujarati Thali at Toran Dining Hall in Bhuj. This restaurant serves a traditional thali with a wide range of vegetarian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, visit Noorani Mahal in Bhuj. This restaurant specializes in Mughlai cuisine and offers delicious kebabs, biryanis, and curries. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Saturday, October 21: Spiritual Journey to Dwaraka and Somnath
Start your day by visiting Dwaraka, a sacred city associated with Lord Krishna. Explore the Dwarkadhish Temple and take a dip in the holy Gomti River. In the afternoon, travel to Somnath and visit the iconic Somnath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. Enjoy the serene beachside atmosphere and witness the evening aarti ceremony.
Dwarkadhish Temple: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Somnath Temple: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Evening Aarti Ceremony: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Sunday, October 22: Wildlife Adventure at Gir Forest
Immerse yourself in nature by visiting the Gir Forest National Park. Embark on an exhilarating jungle safari in the morning, where you might spot the majestic Asiatic lions. In the afternoon, visit the famous Girnar Hills to witness the breathtaking views and explore the ancient Jain temples.
Gir Forest Jungle Safari: Cost estimate: INR 800 per person, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Girnar Hills and Jain Temples: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Monday, October 23: Nishkalank Mahadev and Departure
On your final day, visit the Nishkalank Mahadev Temple, located on an island in the Arabian Sea. Marvel at the unique architecture and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Afterward, depart from the region with wonderful memories of your journey.
Nishkalank Mahadev Temple: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When in Kutch, don't miss the opportunity to explore the vibrant and bustling Bhuj Bazaar. It's a great place to shop for traditional handicrafts, textiles, and ethnic wear. Additionally, consider visiting the ancient ruins of Lothal near Ahmedabad for a glimpse into the Indus Valley Civilization. These lesser-known attractions provide a unique insight into the local culture and history.