5-Day Nature Itinerary for Gujarat in June 2023

1. Day 1: Gir Forest National Park
   From Ahmedabad: 6 hours (265 km) by car

   Start your day early to arrive at the Gir Forest National Park in time for a morning safari. Enjoy spotting the majestic Asiatic lions in their natural habitat. After the safari, head to Kamleshwar Dam for a picnic lunch and some bird watching. In the evening, visit the Devalia Safari Park for a different view of the lions from an enclosed bus.

2. Day 2: Rann of Kutch
   From Junagadh: 7 hours (325 km) by car

   Drive to the Rann of Kutch, the world's largest salt desert, and explore its vast expanse. Start with a morning visit to the Kalo Dungar (Black Hill) for a panoramic view of the desert. After lunch, visit the nearby Handicraft Village to see local artisans at work making traditional crafts. In the evening, enjoy the white desert sunset and a cultural program at the Rann Utsav.

3. Day 3: Saputara Hill Station
   From Bhuj: 8 hours (330 km) by car

   Drive to the Saputara Hill Station and spend the morning exploring the lush green forests. Take a cable car ride for a bird's eye view of the landscape. After lunch, visit the Gira Waterfall and enjoy a scenic hike to the top. In the evening, relax by the Saputara Lake and watch the sunset.

4. Day 4: Great Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary
   From Saputara: 5 hours (190 km) by car

   Head to the Great Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary for a morning jeep safari. Spot wild animals such as the Indian wild ass, desert fox, and jackals. After lunch, visit the Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary, a birdwatcher's paradise. In the evening, take a sunset walk on the Mandvi beach.

5. Day 5: Vansda National Park
   From Bhuj: 6 hours (260 km) by car

   Drive to the Vansda National Park and start your day with a guided nature trek. After lunch, explore the park by bike or on horseback. In the evening, visit the nearby Unai hot springs for a relaxing soak.

Recommendations

Consider visiting the Somnath Temple, Dwarka, or the Statue of Unity. You can also take a side trip to the nearby hill stations of Mount Abu or Wilson Hills. To maximize your fun, try going paragliding in Saputara or taking a camel safari in Kutch. Don't forget to sample the local cuisine, including the famous Gujarati thali.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Gir Forest National Park (1 day, INR 1,500)
• Rann of Kutch (1 day, INR 2,000)
• Saputara Hill Station (1 day, INR 1,500)
• Great Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary (1 day, INR 2,000)
• Vansda National Park (1 day, INR 1,500)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 8,500