Gujarat Family Friendly 6-Day Itinerary in September 2023

1. Day 1: Ahmedabad
   15 minutes from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport
   Travel Time: 1 hour 15 mins (9.8 miles) to Sabarmati Ashram

   Start the day at Sabarmati Ashram, the former home of Mahatma Gandhi and learn about his role in India's independence. In the afternoon, head to the Kankaria Lake which offers a variety of activities for kids and adults. In the evening, explore the vibrant Manek Chowk, a street food market with a wide variety of Gujarati cuisine.

2. Day 2: Dwarka
   Travel Time: 7 hours 30 mins (289 miles) from Ahmedabad

   Visit the Dwarkadhish Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna and take a dip in the holy Gomti River. In the afternoon, visit the Rukmini Devi Temple and Bet Dwarka Island and enjoy a scenic boat ride. In the evening, take a stroll on the Dwarka Beach and witness the beautiful sunset.

3. Day 3: Somnath
   Travel Time: 4 hours 20 mins (196 miles) from Dwarka

   Start the day at the Somnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, dedicated to Lord Shiva. In the afternoon, visit the Bhalka Tirth, a sacred site where Lord Krishna was mistakenly shot by an arrow. In the evening, attend the light and sound show at the Somnath Temple and learn about its rich history.

4. Day 4: Gir National Park
   Travel Time: 1 hour 20 mins (40 miles) from Somnath

   Explore the Gir National Park, the only place in Asia where you can see the Asiatic Lion. Take a jeep safari and spot other wildlife such as hyenas, jackals and deer. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Gir Interpretation Zone and learn about the ecology of the park. Spend the evening at leisure.

5. Day 5: Vadodara
   Travel Time: 7 hours (246 miles) from Gir National Park

   Visit the Laxmi Vilas Palace, the stunning residence of the royal family of Vadodara. In the afternoon, head to the Sayaji Baug, a sprawling garden with a zoo, museum and planetarium. In the evening, take a stroll at the Sursagar Lake and enjoy the illuminated fountain show.

6. Day 6: Ahmedabad
   Travel Time: 1 hour 50 mins (70 miles) from Vadodara

   Start the day at the Adalaj Stepwell, a five-story stepwell with intricate carvings. In the afternoon, visit the Calico Museum of Textiles and learn about the rich textile heritage of Gujarat. In the evening, take a walk along the Sabarmati Riverfront and enjoy the views of the city's skyline.

Recommendations

Consider visiting the White Desert in Kutch, attending the Navratri Festival in Vadodara or taking a side trip to Diu Island. To maximize your fun, try the Gujarati Thali, a platter of traditional Gujarati dishes, and shop for handicrafts at the local bazaars. Don't forget to carry comfortable shoes for all the walking and keep an eye on the weather forecast.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Sabarmati Ashram (2 hours, Free)
• Kankaria Lake (3 hours, Free)
• Manek Chowk (2 hours, INR 500 for a family of four)
• Dwarkadhish Temple (2 hours, Free)
• Bet Dwarka Island (3 hours, INR 1,000 for a family of four)
• Somnath Temple (2 hours, Free)
• Gir National Park (5 hours, INR 5,000 for a jeep for a family of four)
• Laxmi Vilas Palace (2 hours, INR 500 for a family of four)
• Sayaji Baug (3 hours, Free)
• Adalaj Stepwell (1 hour, Free)
• Calico Museum of Textiles (2 hours, INR 500 for a family of four)
• Sabarmati Riverfront (2 hours, Free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 7,500 for a family of four