12-Day Chennai to Ahmedabad Cultural and Historic Exploration Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Chennai sightseeing

Chennai, India on July 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Start the day with an authentic South Indian breakfast at Saravana Bhavan, known for its crispy dosas and fragrant filter coffee.
INR300, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore this iconic Dravidian style Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, a vibrant spiritual hub with exquisite architecture.
Free, 1h30m

11:15am

Stroll along Marina Beach

Enjoy the expansive shoreline, local vendors, and views of the Bay of Bengal.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Buhari Hotel

Relish Chettinad cuisine specialties such as chicken 65 and mutton biryani at this popular local eatery.
INR400, 1h

2:30pm

Fort St George visit

Tour the 17th-century fort and its museum documenting the British colonial era in Chennai; opens till 5pm.
INR50, 1h30m

5:00pm

Evening at Santhome Basilica

Visit this impressive 16th-century church built over the tomb of St Thomas, showcasing gothic architecture.
Free, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Marina

Enjoy seafood delicacies with a sea view; the ambience is perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
INR700, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 2: Travel to Ahmedabad and local exploration

Ahmedabad, India on July 26, 2025

6:00am

Early breakfast at hotel

Quick South Indian breakfast before travel; opt for idli and sambar to energize for the day.
INR250, 45m

7:00am

Flight Chennai to Ahmedabad

Take an early morning flight, approximately 2.5-hour duration, arriving by mid-morning.
INR4000, 2h30m

11:30am

Check in and rest

Settle in at your Ahmedabad hotel and relax before heading out.
Varies, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Agashiye

Savor traditional Gujarati thali in a heritage rooftop setting inside a boutique hotel.
INR1200, 1h15m

2:00pm

Sabarmati Ashram visit

Explore the peaceful residence of Mahatma Gandhi and learn about India's independence movement; open till 6pm.
INR50, 2h

4:30pm

Walk and shopping at Manek Chowk

Explore this bustling market area famous for jewelry and textiles, transforming into a street food hub at night.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner street food tasting

Try local street food delicacies like khaman, dabeli, and fafda from popular stalls at Manek Chowk.
INR300, 1h
View Hotels

Day 3: Historic Ahmedabad tour

Ahmedabad, India on July 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel café

Hearty breakfast with Indian and continental options to prepare for a day of walking tours.
INR350, 45m

9:00am

Visit Jama Masjid

Explore this stunning 15th-century mosque renowned for its blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture; opens till 6pm.
Free, 1h

10:15am

Explore Old City Heritage Walk

Join a guided walking tour through old Ahmedabad’s havelis and bazaars, immersing in history and culture.
INR500, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Vishalla

Relish organic Gujarati cuisine served in an open rural themed setting; a culinary experience.
INR1000, 1h30m

3:15pm

Calico Museum of Textiles

Visit one of India's foremost textile museums showcasing exquisite fabrics and history; open till 5pm, closed on Mondays.
INR200, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax at Kankaria Lake

Enjoy lakeside promenade, zoo, and amusement park; perfect for a relaxing evening stroll.
INR100, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner at Turquoiz

Contemporary dining with global cuisine, ideal for a relaxed dinner after a busy day.
INR1200, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 4: Day trip to Modhera Sun Temple

Modhera, India on July 28, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Quick breakfast to fuel up before the day trip.
INR350, 30m

8:00am

Drive to Modhera Sun Temple

Travel 100 km northwest to visit the 11th-century Sun Temple known for stunning architecture and carvings; open till sunset.
INR40 entry fee, 2h drive

10:00am

Tour Modhera Sun Temple

Explore this ancient marvel dedicated to the solar deity Surya with beautifully carved stone reliefs and the sacred stepwell.
Included in entry fee, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at a local Gujarati dhaba

Simple, hearty local fare near Modhera to enjoy an authentic rural meal experience.
INR300, 1h

2:00pm

Return to Ahmedabad

Relax during the return drive and freshen up on arrival.
Included in transport, 2h drive

4:30pm

Free time or shopping at CG Road

Explore shopping malls and stores for souvenirs, handicrafts, and textiles.
Varies, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Swati Snacks

Try local fast food-style Gujarati snacks like pani puri and bhajiya.
INR400, 1h
View Hotels

Day 5: Day trip to Patan and Rani ki Vav

Patan, India on July 29, 2025

6:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast for the full day excursion.
INR350, 30m

7:15am

Drive to Patan

Travel 120 km north to Patan, known for its rich architectural heritage and famous stepwell.
Transport cost included, 3h

10:30am

Visit Rani ki Vav

Tour the UNESCO World Heritage stepwell, an extraordinary subterranean structure famous for its intricate sculptures.
INR50, 1h30m

12:15pm

Explore Patan Patola Heritage Museum

Discover the ancient art of Patola silk weaving and exquisite textiles unique to the region.
INR100, 1h

1:30pm

Lunch at local Patan restaurant

Enjoy regional Gujarati cuisine including kachori and dal bati churma.
INR400, 1h

3:00pm

Return to Ahmedabad

Travel back with comfort and time to rest once arrived.
Included, 3h

6:30pm

Light dinner at Café Alfresco

Enjoy light fare amid a cozy ambience after a long day exploring.
INR600, 1h
View Hotels

Day 6: Museum & Art day

Ahmedabad, India on July 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start the day with a typical Indian breakfast to prepare for museum visits.
INR350, 45m

9:00am

Visit Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery

Explore diverse collections of art, archaeology, and natural history; opens at 10am (Monday closed).
INR50, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Turqa

Enjoy Middle Eastern inspired dishes in a vibrant setting.
INR900, 1h15m

1:30pm

Visit Calico Museum of Textiles

Explore intricate textile art pieces; book visit in advance since it's by appointment only.
INR200, 2h

4:00pm

Coffee break at Café Infinitea

Relax with specialist teas and light snacks in a charming café environment.
INR300, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at House of MG

Dine at a heritage hotel serving exquisite Gujarati and Kathiawadi cuisine.
INR1500, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 7: Day trip to Lothal and Sarkhej Roza

Ahmedabad vicinity, India on July 31, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Light breakfast; get ready for day exploring archaeology and architecture.
INR350, 30m

8:15am

Drive to Lothal

Visit the Indus Valley Civilization archaeological site 85 km from Ahmedabad; open till sunset.
INR20, 1h30m

10:00am

Tour Lothal Archaeological Site

Discover ruins of one of the oldest urban settlements in India, showcasing ancient trade and culture.
Included, 1h30m

11:30am

Drive to Sarkhej Roza

Visit the 15th-century architectural complex known for Islamic monuments and serene atmosphere.
INR30, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at local eatery near Sarkhej

Enjoy authentic Gujarati thali in a quiet setting.
INR400, 1h

2:30pm

Return to Ahmedabad

Relax on return with opportunity to stop for photos or refreshments.
Included, 1h

4:00pm

Relax or optional visit to Ahmedabad One Mall

Spend free time shopping or relaxing before dinner.
Varies, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Agashiye

Revisit this elegant spot for another taste of Gujarati culinary traditions.
INR1200, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 8: Arts and crafts & Cooking class

Ahmedabad, India on August 1, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a nutritious breakfast preparing you for a hands-on day.
INR350, 30m

9:00am

Traditional Gujarati cooking class

Learn to prepare authentic Gujarati dishes with a local chef; classes generally run 3-4 hours including lunch.
INR2500, 4h

1:30pm

Visit local handicraft shops

Explore markets specializing in traditional embroidery, pottery, and tie-dye fabrics.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Coffee break at Turquoise Villa

Relax in a lovely garden café serving artisan coffee and snacks.
INR350, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Osho Gujarati Thali

Indulge in a wholesome Gujarati meal served in a traditional style for a final evening treat.
INR800, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 9: Relaxation & Wellness day

Ahmedabad, India on August 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

A light, energizing breakfast to start a calm, wellness-focused day.
INR300, 30m

9:00am

Ayurvedic spa treatment

Book a rejuvenating massage or wellness session at a renowned spa to unwind.
INR3000, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Cafe Cooper

Relax with light and healthy meal options at this bakery and café.
INR600, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Ellis Bridge Park

Enjoy a serene afternoon walk in this green space by the river.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Tea at Urban Tadka

Sample gourmet teas in a modern café atmosphere.
INR250, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Vevilo Boutique Restaurant

Top off the day with a fusion of traditional and contemporary Gujarati cuisine.
INR1200, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 10: Day trip to Gir National Park

Gir, India on August 3, 2025

4:30am

Early breakfast and departure

Have an early breakfast and embark on a 5-hour drive to Gir National Park to maximize wildlife viewing at dawn and dusk safaris.
Included in transport, 1h

5:30am

Drive to Gir National Park

Travel approximately 300 km south for wildlife experiences in India's last home of Asiatic lions.
INR7000 return transport, 5h

10:30am

Check-in and rest

Arrive at guest lodge or resort near Gir for quick rest before safari.
Varies, 1h

11:30am

Lunch at lodge

Enjoy local and continental cuisine with fresh ingredients in comfortable surroundings.
INR900, 1h

3:30pm

Evening safari at Gir National Park

Participate in a guided jeep safari to spot Asiatic lions, deer, and other wildlife; permitted timings usually 3:00pm to 6:00pm.
INR1500, 2h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at resort

Relax with dinner at your accommodation after an adventurous day.
INR800, 1h
View Hotels

Day 11: Return to Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad, India on August 4, 2025

7:00am

Morning nature walk

Optional guided bird watching or nature walk at dawn around the resort.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Breakfast at resort

Healthy breakfast to start journey back to Ahmedabad.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Drive back to Ahmedabad

Return journey with comfort stops as needed.
Included, 5h

3:00pm

Check in and rest at Ahmedabad hotel

Freshen up and relax from travel fatigue.
Varies, 2h

6:00pm

Light dinner at Vastrapur Lake café

Enjoy lakeside dining with simple, tasty meals.
INR700, 1h
View Hotels

Day 12: Departure day

Ahmedabad, India on August 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Relaxed breakfast reflecting on the journey before departure.
INR350, 45m

9:00am

Last minute shopping or visit to Law Garden

Pick up souvenirs at the bustling Law Garden handicrafts market, perfect for gifts and mementos.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Check out and transfer to airport

Head to Ahmedabad airport for your onward journey or flight back to Chennai.
Included, 30m
View Hotels