GUJARAT TRIBAL TOUR 14 DAYS
Ahemdabad Bhubaneshwar - Patan - Modehra - Dasada - Bhuj -Muli - Rajkot - Gondal - Junagadh - Sasan Gir Forest - Palitana - Utelia - Lothal - Champaner - Vadodra - Ahmedabad

Art, ancient civilizations and wildlife thrive in this northwestern coastal state.  It is one of India’s richest state both economically as well as culturally.  The art flourishes in its cities and artisans thrives in its villages.  Gujarat is famous for its exquisite handicrafts like embroidery, tie dye fabrics, enameled silverware and other handicrafts. The landscape is dry and flat but dotted with hills, many of which hold temples on their summits. Though many of its cities are booming industrial towns nowadays, the countryside is entirely rustic.  Men and women both wear traditional costumes; all white ensemble of turban, jodhpurs, and a pleated shirt for men, backless embroidered blouses, called cholis, for women.  The state has many ancient tribes like the Bhils and Rabaris that still live a nomadic life.  Their weekly haats or markets are colourful social events where the tribes come in, in their finest to barter milk and butter and other home made produce. 

ITINERARY & PRICES

Day 01: Arrive Ahmedabad
Arrive in Ahmedabad. On arrival, you will be welcomed by our representative at the airport and transferred to the hotel for check-in. (Room will be booked from 1400 Hrs on this day). Overnight at the Hotel - House of MG-Modern Heritage Classic room

Day 02: Ahmedabad
After breakfast, walking slowly, we will explore this ancient city through its narrow lanes and bylanes. These small neighborhoods, called Pols, are both the backbone and heartbeat of the old city of Ahmedabad. In recent years, families have started moving out to live in more modern houses further from the city center, but many of them still feel a strong attachment to the close-knit communities of the pols that shaped their lives while growing up. Many of them have their own temple at the center of the neighborhood, one or more small shrines for whatever faiths are present. Many pols are part of a cottage industry, so you will find people sitting on the steps hand-sewing books or crimping silver chains together for traditional jewellery and various other crafts that allow people to add to their livelihood without leaving their homes, thus creating a vibrant community. There are bird feeders in each pol known as chabutro, tall poles that the people of Ahmedabad put up for birds to replace the trees cut down when they built the city, and crevices they built into the walls for birds to use as houses, showing a heartwarming concern for non-human life. The walled city was built before motor vehicles, meant for pedestrians and bicycles, so its small windy streets are best explored on foot. After breakfast, visit Shreyas Folk Museum. (Closed on Sundays). Shreyas museums were created in 1974 to become a dynamic medium of learning. In a short spell of time, they were placed on the tourist map of India. They attract Indian and foreign students, scholars and art-lovers. The museums' house objects that are gathered from all states of India, and from various countries. These objects are of ceremonial use, domestic use, masks, costumes, weapons, toys, musical instruments, and many handicrafts. Then, visit the Ashram of Mahatma Gandhi, where he spent a large part of his later life. Also, visit Sidi Saiyyed Masjid, Jama Masjid, and Ahmad Shah’s mosque. The Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, built in 1573, is one of the most famous mosques of Ahmedabad.  Built by Sidi Saeed, an Abyssinian in the retinue of Bilal Jhajar Khan, it was built in the last year of the Sultanate of Gujrat. The mosque is famous for beautifully carved ten stone latticework windows (jalis) on the side and rear arches. This intricately carved stone window is called the Siddi Sayyed Jali and is the unofficial symbol of city of Ahmedabad. It is a fine example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Jama Masjid is one of the most splendid mosques of India. Constructed in the year 1423 A.D, the Ahmedabad Jama Masjid was established by Sultan Ahmed Shah, the founder of the Ahmedabad city. Sultan Ahmed Shah mosque in Ahmedabad is a religious place for Muslims that is well known for its architectural designing. It was constructed in the year 1414 A.D. by Sultan Ahmed Shah, the founder of Ahmedabad city. Thus, the mosque has been named after its founder. Lying on the left side of the famous Bhadra Fort, the mosque is very appealing to look at. It is one of the oldest mosques of Ahmedabad. Later in the evening, visit the old market of Ahmedabad.Overnight at the Hotel 

Day 03: Ahmedabad-Patan-Modhera-Dasada (By surface approx. 220 Kms/05-06 Hrs)
After breakfast drive to Dasada. En-route visit Adalaj, Patan and Modhera. A stop to visit Adalaj Vav. One of the great examples of step wells of ancient times, 'Vav', as it is called in Gujarati, is intricately carved and is five stories deep. Such step wells were once integral to the semi-arid regions of Gujarat, as they provided water for drinking, washing and bathing. These wells were also venues for colourful festivals and sacred rituals. Patan, once the capital of medieval Gujarat, Patan is known for its Hindu and Jain architecture.  We will visit Rani-ki-Vav or stepwell. Patan is also famous for patola (an intricate form of double ikkat weaving) sarees. After lunch continue drive to Dasada en-route visiting Modhera sun temple. Modhera Sun Temple was built in 1026 AD during the reign of King Bhimdev I of solanki dynasty. The Temple is said to resemble the famous Konark temple in Orissa. Continue drive to Dasada and check-in to the lodge. Overnight at the Lodge - Rann Riders-Rann Cottage

Day 04: Dasada-Bhuj (By surface approx. 280 Kms/06 Hrs)
After breakfast, enjoy the game drive to the little Rann of Kutch to see the landscape, the wildlife as well as tribals that lives here. Composed of marshy salt flats and inhospitable Terai, the Little Rann of Kutch separates Kutch from the rest of Gujarat. Home to the endangered Asiatic Wild Ass, the area is known for its unique wildlife and birds. Rabari and Banjara are the two important tribes of the region. While the Rabari, the most nomadic of Gujarat's tribes, constantly migrate in search for better grazing ground for their camels and sheep, the Banjara and other tribes have settled here. After early lunch drive to Bhuj for 06 hours. If lucky we may catch the nomadic Kutchi rabaris carrying all their household goods on the back of their camels. On arrival, check-in to the lodge situated outside the Bhuj town. Bhuj is a fascinating town that remains partially surrounded by a wall. Inside these walls, you can lose yourself in the intricate maze-like streets and alleyways. There are walls within walls, attractive crenellated gateways, old palaces with intricately carved wooden pavilions, and striking, brightly decorated Hindu temples. Bhuj resembles much of India before the tourist invasion, and you're much more likely to come across that disarming hospitality which was once the hallmark of rural India. Unfortunately if there has been no monsoon, the picturesque lake remains dry. Overnight at the Lodge. The Fern Residency-Fern Club room

Day 05: Bhuj
We will have full day to visit the north and south side villages famous for their embroidery and other art work. Outside of Bhuj, is the fascinating banni grassland.  The banni grassland of Gujarat is the largest natural grassland in the Indian subcontinent, and an area that is both socio-culturally unique and ecologically valuable. The banni has a long history of migratory pastoralism going back at least 500 years, and linking with a broader geographical landscape that included Sindh in Pakistan and even extended into parts of Baluchistan and Afghanistan. This physical link was truncated at the time of partition, with pastoral communities settling on either side of the India-Pakistan border. Each tribe can be recognized by its costume.   The homes are made of round mud huts with a single central support pole and a thatched roof, surrounding a large community courtyard. The women are hospitable and will welcome you into their homes. They have an exquisite collection of embroidered quilts and garments. Walls and cupboards are fashioned in mud with decorative designs washed with lime paste and fixed with mirrors. You will also see a variety of handicrafts, including textiles like tie and dye, vegetable color dye printing, glass beadwork, woolen shawls, leather articles and more. Visit villages like Sumarsar village, famous for embroidery, and Nirona Village with its wonderful art & bell making. You can also see some lace work done here. Overnight at the Lodge. 

Day 06: Bhuj-Muli (By surface approx. 270 Kms/06 Hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Muli, en-route visit Bhujodi village to see Shawl weaving done by Vankar community, and visit to Ajrakpur village to see the block printing done using natural dyes. Continue drive to Muli. The Muli region is still little visited, where you will be checking-in into a small palace ‘Ambika Niwas Palace’. In the evening, you attend the Aarti ceremony at the Swaminarayan temple. Overnight at the Hotel. Ambika Niwas Palace-Palace room

Day 07: Muli-Rajkot-Gondal (By surface approx. 130 Kms/03 Hrs)
After breakfast, walk through the villages of communities Bharwad and Patel, which you discover the singular habitat, beautiful havelis wooden and popular traditions. Later drive to Gondal en-route visiting Rajkot. Rajkot, once the capital of the princely state of Saurashtra, It was also the headquarters of the British Government. It is best known as the town where Mahatma Gandhi spent the early years of his life when his father was a Diwan to the king of Saurashtra. Mahatma Gandhi did his schooling from Alfred High School now known as Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi High School. It is now converted into Gandhi Museum. Continue drive to Gondal, a picturesque town with plenty of gracious architecture, wide tree lined roads and European lampposts. Later visit Royal Family Vintage car collection of Gondal. The royal garages, have an extensive collection of Vintage and classic cars including a 1910 new engine, a delage and a Daimler from the 1920s, a 1935 Mercedes, 1935 Packard 2 door convertible, 1941 & 1947 Cadillac, 1955 Cadillac limousine, jaguar ax 150, Chevrolet Etc. Most of these cars are restored and some bear the original Gondal State number plates. Also visit the 1748 AD Naulakha Palace which houses the erstwhile ruling family’s private collection of beadwork, textiles, brassware, hand-painted toys and silver crafts, the centre promoting weaving at Gondal, and the historic buildings of Gondal. Overnight at the Hotel - OrcPalace- Deluxe room

Day 08: Gondal-Junagadh-Sasan Gir (By surface approx. 120 Kms/03 Hrs)
After a leisurely breakfast, drive to Sasan Gir en-route visiting Jungadh. "Junagadh" literally means ancient fort was once the capital of the Junagadh state, under the Muslim rulers of Babi Nawabs. The Junagadh town is located at the foothills of the sacred hill of Girnar and occupies a special place in the history of Gujarat. Visit Ashok Rock Edict (Replica) Junagadh Museum, Uparkot, etc. After late lunch, continue drive to Sasangir. On arrival, check in to the Camp. Overnight at the Camp - Fern Gir Forest Resort-Gir Cottage

Day 09: Sasan Gir
Gir, the last remaining bastion of the Asiatic Lion, is also the home of one of the largest leopard populations in any park in India, making it an excellent place to see big cats of a different kind. The lion sanctuary project was initiated in 1972 to create a balance between the endangered lions and the indigenous Maldhari tribe. With over 800 guards patrolling the entire park, Gir has become one of the best-protected sanctuaries in India. Apart from spotting a colourful array of birds, Gir is also a great place to interact with local tribes. The main tribe is a nomadic pastoral community called Maldhari, who live in scattered settlements called 'nesses'. Gir is also home to a Negroid community known as Siddis, who are African in origin but speak Gujarati. Early morning and afternoon jeep safaris into the national park for wildlife viewing. Overnight at the Camp 

Day 10: Sasan Gir-Palitana (By surface approx. 200 Kms/05 Hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Palitana. On arrival, check in to the hotel. Afternoon, excursion to visit Hastagiri Jain Tirth. Hastagiri Jain Tirth is a famous Gurdwara. Hastagiri Jain Tirth, is located on a hill on the bank of the Shetrunjaya. King Bharat of Bhagwan Adishwar established this Tirth. The Foot image of Bhagwan can be seen in a small shrine in this place. The group of the temples of Mt. Shatunjaya on one side of the hill and the sight of Mt. Kadamgiri on the other side, present are excellent sight like that of a divine city. This temple was built by highly skilled craftsmen and stone masons. The atmosphere of this place gives peace to the soul. For spiritual pursuits, this is a very beautiful place. The temples of Hastagiri have been magnificently designed. These group of temples on Mt. Shatunjaya on one side of the hill and the sight of Mt. Kamgiri on the other side is presents a beautiful sight to the eyes. The scenic beauty that surrounds the place is very appealing. This temple had been constructed by highly skilled craftsmen and stone masons. The temple serves as an apt pilgrimage place for spiritual pursuits. Overnight at the Hotel - Vijay Vilas Palace-Standard room

Day 11: Palitana-Lothal- Jambughoda (By surface approx. 300 Kms/06 Hrs)
Early morning, climb to the visit of world famous Palitana Jain Temple. It is situated on Shatrunjaya Hill; it takes more than 3000 steps to climb up to the Temple.  It takes about one and a half hour to reach the top.  Palanquins are available (at extra cost) if you want to use this service. Legends swirl around this complex of 863 Jain temples on the summit of Shatrunjaya Hill, which is an enormously popular pilgrimage site, or tirtha. Jains form just 1% of the Indian population, but are prevalent in Gujarat, practising a creed of non-violence and worshipping in immensely ornate carved temples. Palitana was the capital of the princely state of the Ghoul Rajput clan and the temples - many of them marble, alive with carved animals, birds, musicians and dancers, with ornate spires and numerous inner courtyards - were built between the 11th and 16th centuries. After early lunch drive to Jambughoda, en-route visit Lothal, the excavation site of ancient Indus City. One of the southernmost outposts of the Indus civilization, and certainly one of the most interesting of Harrapan town, its unique lockgated dockyard is perhaps the greatest of maritime architecture from the ancient world. After visit of Lothal, continue to Jambughoda. On arrival, check in at the hotel. Overnight at the Hotel - Bhanu The Fern Resort & Spa-Suite room

Day 12: Jambughoda – Excursion to Chhota Udaipur
After breakfast, day excursion to Chhota Udaipur area to see the weekly tribal “Haat” or market of Saturday in Chhota Udaipur.  Rathwa bhils from the nearby villages come in their finest to participate in this market. We will visit some of the outlying villages of Rathwa tribes to see their various customs as well as their special religious paintings called Pithoras.  The Rathwa Bhils still keep alive the pre-Hindu traditions and beliefs, art and culture of their ancestors.  They are the most primitive tribes of Gujarat. The Pithora paintings trail back long into history and find their roots in the cave paintings, thousands of years old. This is the most prevalent and characteristic art tradition of the Rathwa community, who live in the region bordering Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh states in India. While the styles vary with every Bhil group, they hold a deep social relevance. Pithora paintings are characterized by the seven horses representing the seven hills that surround the area where the Rathwas reside. This is enclosed within a rectangular fence in the painting that defines this geographical area. This rectangle usually extends up to the Arabian Sea in the west, Bharuch in south and Indore in north and east. The wavy line depicting the river Narmada cuts through the painting. Evening return back to the Jambughoda for overnight stay. Overnight at the Hotel 

Day 13: Jambughoda-Vadodara-Ahmedabad (By surface approx. 170 Kms/04 Hrs) 
After breakfast, visit Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which was inscribed in 2004. There is a concentration of largely unexcavated archaeological, historic and living cultural heritage properties cradled in an impressive landscape which includes prehistoric (chalcolithic) sites, a hill fortress of an early Hindu capital, and remains of the 16th century capital of the state of Gujarat. We will visit the Jama Masjid as well as the Sat Kaman structures here. Later drive to Ahmedabad en-route visiting Vadodara. Laxmi Vilas Palace: (Closed on Mondays)Vadodara’s Laxmi Vilas Palace was constructed during the period from 1878 to 1890. The construction of this palace was commissioned by Maharaja Sayaji Rao III. The total cost of its construction amounted to a whooping sixty lakh. Right from its imposing façade to its ornate interiors, Laxmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara, is always on its way to impress the visitors to no end. The palace is still served as the royal residence. The interiors of the palace exude opulence and are graced with marble mosaic, fine stone and valuable furnishings. The palace features a grand Durbar Hall that boasts of an italian mosaic floor. The walls of the Durbar Hall are beautified with brilliant mosaic decorations Vadodara Museum: Visit the famous Vadodara Museum and Picture Gallery, built in 1894, one of the various buildings peppering the city that was commissioned by Maharaj Sayaji Rao and designed by Mant and Chisholm from England. It houses a wide-ranging collection with everything from Mughal miniatures, to sculptures, textiles and objects from Japan, Tibet, Nepal, and Egypt and coins from all over the world to exhibits of the Indian musical instruments.  The Ethnography section has exhibits about tribes from Gujarat: the Rabaris, Gamits, Bhils, Chaudhuris and Wagharis.  After sightseeing proceed to Ahmedabad. On arrival, check-in to the hotel near the airport. Overnight at the Hotel - House of MG-Modern Heritage Classic room   

Day 14: Ahmedabad Departure
On time transfer to Ahmedabad International terminal to board the flight for onward journey. (Room will be available till 1200 Hrs)

INCLUSIONS

• Double room on sharing basis.

• Meals as mentioned above. (Start with the breakfast on day 02 and end with the dinner on day 13)

• All transfers and sightseeing by air-conditioned Toyota Innova Crysta Car for 02 Pax, and Tempo Traveler for 03-05 Pax as per the program.

• Services of an English speaking local accompanying guide throughout the tour not staying in the same hotels.

• Entrances to the monuments as per the program.

• One shared safari in Little Rann of Kutch.

• One morning and one afternoon safari by an exclusive jeep in the Gir National Park with English speaking naturalist.

• Bottled water in the vehicle during sightseeing and drives.

• Assistance on arrival/departure at the airports by our English-speaking representatives.

• GST (Goods & Services Tax) as applicable.

  EXCLUSIONS
  • Any accompanying tour escort (quoted separately),
  • Any airfare (quoted separately), Personal expenses, International airfare, Visa fees
  • Customary gratitude to your guide and driver