Exploring the Wonders of Gujarat: A 7-Day Itinerary
Friday, December 1: Ahmedabad Arrival
Arrive in Ahmedabad, the largest city in Gujarat, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Start your day by visiting the Sabarmati Ashram, the former home of Mahatma Gandhi and now a museum dedicated to his life and teachings. In the afternoon, explore the Jama Masjid, a beautiful mosque known for its intricate architecture. Wrap up your evening with a walk along the Sabarmati Riverfront, enjoying the cool breeze and vibrant atmosphere.
Sabarmati Ashram: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Jama Masjid: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Sabarmati Riverfront: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Head to Cafe Upper Crust for breakfast, a cozy cafe known for its delicious sandwiches and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Vishala Restaurant, a traditional Gujarati thali restaurant offering a wide variety of vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at The House of MG's Agashiye, a rooftop restaurant serving delectable Gujarati and Rajasthani cuisine in a charming setting. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Saturday, December 2: Ahmedabad City Tour
Embark on a city tour of Ahmedabad to discover its architectural marvels and cultural landmarks. Start your morning at the stunning Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, famous for its intricate stone latticework. In the afternoon, visit the Calico Museum of Textiles to explore the rich textile heritage of Gujarat. End your day at the Akshardham Temple, a magnificent complex showcasing traditional Indian craftsmanship.
Sidi Saiyyed Mosque: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Calico Museum of Textiles: Estimated cost: INR 100, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Akshardham Temple: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
An ideal place for breakfast is Cafe Upper Crust, located in the heart of Ahmedabad. They offer a delicious assortment of freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try Vishalla, a traditional Gujarati thali restaurant. Experience the flavors of Gujarat with their unlimited vegetarian thali, complete with a variety of dishes and mouthwatering desserts. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Agashiye, situated in the House of MG. This rooftop restaurant offers authentic Gujarati cuisine in a charming setting. Enjoy a candlelit dinner while savoring the flavors of the region. The average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.
Sunday, December 3: Vadodara Exploration
Travel to Vadodara, the cultural capital of Gujarat. Begin your day with a visit to the majestic Laxmi Vilas Palace, the residence of the royal Gaekwad dynasty. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Sayaji Gardens, a sprawling park known for its lush greenery and colorful flower beds. Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll through the vibrant local markets.
Laxmi Vilas Palace: Estimated cost: INR 200, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Sayaji Gardens: Estimated cost: INR 20, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Local markets: Estimated cost: Varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Vadodara is Sankalp Restaurant, known for its delicious South Indian dishes like idli and dosa. Enjoy a filling breakfast here with an average cost of about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Mandap Restaurant which offers a diverse menu of traditional Gujarati cuisine. Try their thali for a taste of various local dishes. The average cost for a meal here is around 250 INR per person.
Indulge in a fine dining experience at Mainland China for dinner, known for its delectable Chinese fare. Sample their signature dishes like Kung Pao Chicken or Chilli Garlic Noodles. Enjoy a dinner here with an average cost of about 800 INR per person.
Monday, December 4: Palitana Pilgrimage
Head to Palitana, a sacred city for Jains, renowned for its cluster of over 900 Jain temples atop Shatrunjaya Hill. Start your day with a trek to the hilltop, taking in the breathtaking panoramic views as you ascend. Spend the day exploring the intricately carved marble temples and immersing yourself in the spiritual ambiance.
Jain temples: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Restaurants
Head to Honest Bakery for a scrumptious breakfast with a variety of freshly baked goods. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For a delicious lunch, visit Saffron Restaurant known for its authentic Gujarati thali. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Shakti Dining Hall, offering a wide range of vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹250 per person.
Tuesday, December 5: Dwarka Divine
Travel to Dwarka, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites for Hindus. Begin your day by visiting the Dwarkadhish Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna. Explore the ancient Dwarka city ruins and the nearby Gomti Ghat, where you can take a boat ride along the river. Don't miss the evening aarti (prayer ceremony) at the Dwarkadhish Temple for a truly spiritual experience.
Dwarkadhish Temple: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Gomti Ghat: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Boat ride: Estimated cost: INR 50-100 (depending on duration), Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Hotel Gomti, a popular local eatery known for its delicious Gujarati breakfast options such as dhokla and thepla. A typical meal here costs around INR 150 per person.
For lunch, try Kanha's Garden Restaurant, located near the Dwarkadhish Temple. This restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian dishes in a serene garden atmosphere. Expect to spend around INR 300 per person for a meal here.
For dinner, Induben Khakhrawala is a great choice. This restaurant specializes in traditional Gujarati thalis filled with a variety of regional delicacies. A thali meal at Induben Khakhrawala costs approximately INR 250 per person.
Wednesday, December 6: Gir National Park Safari
Embark on an exciting wildlife adventure at Gir National Park, home to the endangered Asiatic lions. Start the day with an early morning safari, exploring the diverse flora and fauna of the park. Afterward, visit the Gir Interpretation Zone, where you can learn more about the park's conservation efforts. Spend the afternoon relaxing and enjoying the serene surroundings.
Gir National Park Safari: Estimated cost: INR 1,000-1,500 (safari charges), Time spent: 3-4 hours
Gir Interpretation Zone: Estimated cost: INR 200, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Village Cafe, located just a short drive from Gir National Park. Indulge in their delicious Indian and continental breakfast options, with an average cost of about ₹200 per person.
For a delightful lunch experience, head to Farm to Fork Restaurant. This farm-to-table eatery offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, made from fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy a satisfying meal for around ₹500 per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Lion's Den Restaurant, known for its mouthwatering grilled specialties. The restaurant offers a cozy ambiance and a diverse menu, with an average cost of about ₹800 per person.
Thursday, December 7: Bhuj Cultural Exploration
Conclude your Gujarat journey with a visit to Bhuj, known for its rich traditions and handicrafts. Start your day by exploring the Bhujia Fort, an ancient monument offering panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, visit the Kutch Museum to learn about the region's history and culture. Wrap up your trip with a visit to the local bazaars, where you can shop for exquisite handicrafts.
Bhujia Fort: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Kutch Museum: Estimated cost: INR 20, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Local bazaars: Estimated cost: Varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Bhuj is Shree Ganga Restaurant, known for its delicious Gujarati thali. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, Rajwadi Dining Hall is a great choice with its wide range of vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner experience at Barbeque Nation, offering a wide variety of grilled delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 700 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
As you explore Gujarat, don't miss the hidden gems and local favorites:
- Mandvi Beach: Located near Bhuj, this beautiful beach offers a serene getaway.
- Rani Ki Vav: An intricately designed stepwell in Patan, known for its stunning architecture.
- Sun Temple, Modhera: A magnificent temple dedicated to the sun god, showcasing stunning carvings and detailed architecture.
- Wild Ass Sanctuary: Located in Little Rann of Kutch, this sanctuary is home to the endangered Indian wild ass and various species of birds.