Tour 5 Gujarat

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07 Nights / 08 Days TEMPLE TOUR OF GUJARAT

Day 01 – Arrival in Ahmedabad : Arrive Ahmedabad and transfer to your hotel.

Ahmedabad is Located on the banks of the river Sabarmati; the city was founded by Sultan Ahmad Shah in 1411. Today it is one of the fastest growing cities of India and is an immense repository of tradition, history & culture. Its famous walled area is one of the finest examples of community living & the city thrived as the textile capital & was nicknamed “Manchester of the East' in 1888. This multicultural city is home to some of the finest Indo-Saracenic mosques & Jain temples.

The old city of Ahmedabad is dotted with labyrinthine by-lanes called 'polls'. The exquisite carved wooden mansions and havelis are marvelous. The city also offers a rich architectural legacy that blends Hindu and Muslim schools of architecture, stone and brick with arches, domes and vaults, carved pillars, trefoil designs besides the modern buildings designed by the famous French architect, Le Corbusier and Louis Kahn. 

Later proceed for city tour of Ahmedabad.

Gandhi Ashram: On a quiet peaceful stretch of the Sabarmati River, Mahatma Gandhi set up a simple retreat in 1915. This was his Satyagrah Ashram and for many years it was the nerve centre of India’s freedom movement. It was from here, in 1930, that Mahatma began his famous Dandi March to the sea to protest the Salt Tax imposed by the British. Hridaya Kunj, the simple cottage where he lived, is now a national monument and preserved as it was during the Mahatma’s lifetime. Must pick gifts and souvenirs from the Ashram shop. Spend a little time here by the river watching the parrots and the squirrels. Peace and tranquility prevail here.

Sidi Sayed Mosque: One part of the wall in the old citadel of the mosque built by Ahmed Shah’s slave, Sidi Sayed, is celebrated the world over for its exquisite stone window tracery – a superb & peerless example of delicate carving that transforms stone into filigree.

Jumma Masjid: The Friday mosque was built by the city’s founder, Sultan Ahmed Shah, in 1423. Built of yellow sandstone in an architectural style that combines the best of Muslim & Hindu traditions. It stands on 260 pillars that support 15 domes at varying elevations. The heritage walk ends here, if you have already visited the monument during your walk, you may skip it the next day.

Teen Darwaja: The triple-arched gateway was built by Sultan Ahmed Shah to serve as the royal entrance to the Maidan Shahi or the Royal Square. It is in an imposing monument of perfect proportions & highly ornate buttresses.

Hutheesingh Jain Temple: Built outside the Delhi Gate in 1850 by a rich Jain merchant, the Hutheesingh Temple is the best known of Ahmedabad’s many ornate Jain temples.

Adalaj Step-well: Step wells were built in olden times to serve the man purposes of - holding rainwater for later use, a resting place for the travellers, a watering hole for the travellers who had caravans and animals with them. Best examples of rainwater harvesting! The Adalaj step well is situated 17kms north of Ahmedabad. The step well at the village of Adalaj is another fine example of this magnificent architectural form. Adalaj Vav is richly carved, every pillar and wall surface covered with leaves and flowers, birds and fishes and friezes of ornamental designs.

Akshardham: Lord Swaminarayan, born in Chapaya in Uttar Pradesh, took a seven-year pilgrimage in Gujarat to preach his religion. He built six temples, the first being at Kalupur in Ahmedabad. Akshardham, the Swaminarayan temple of Gandhinagar, is a modern complex, built in traditional Indian architectural style from 6,000 metric tons of pink Rajasthan sandstone, carved by expert artisans from Bansipahadpur. The temple is set in a multi-acre garden called Sahajanand Van, with intricate sculptures of Hindu Gods. There is a gold leaf copper sculpture of Lord Swaminarayan that faces similar sculptures of Gunatinand Swami. The interiors have beautiful columns in rosewood that rise up to a high dome. Akshardham remains closed on Mondays. Overnight at hotel.

Day 02 – Ahmedabad – Dakor – Pavagadh – Ahmedabad : Today after breakfast proceed for a day excursion to Dakor and Pavagadh.

Dakor, in its earlier phases as pilgrimage centre in Gujarat, was famous for the Danknath temple, a place of Shiva worship. In the later phases, it developed into a Vaishnavites centre with the growing fame of Ranchhodraiji temple, which was built in 1772 A.D. Today this place is known not only as a pilgrimage centre but also a trading centre where one can get the articles related to puja, and other rituals.

Pavagadh: Most of the Hindus in India have faith in goddess Mahakali, particularly from the western region covering the states of Gujarat, Rajasthan & Maharashtra. The famous and the oldest temple of Mahakali is situated at Pavagadh, near Vadodara, one of the main cities of Gujarat. The temple has become the place of the pilgrimage for almost all Hindus in India. This temple is among the three main Shaktipeeths in Gujarat. It has been said in Hindu Shastras that after the famous Tandava dance of Lord Shiva, the various parts of the body of Sati fell at many places. These places are called Shaktipeeths. It is said that the left breast of the Sati had fallen here at Pavagadh. As the name suggests, the temple is located on a mountain, near to the Champaner town. Later drive back to Ahmedabad. Overnight at hotel.

Day 03 – Ahmedabad to Dwarka (450 kms / 9 hrs) : After breakfast drive to Dwarka; arrive Dwarka and transfer to your hotel.

Dwarka: An ancient city, housing one of the principal pilgrimages - 'Dwarkadhish temple' of Hindus. According to the legend, Lord Krishna moved to this coastal town to set up a capital. Marine excavations of the Dwarka coast have revealed important evidences of ancient city, which probably include the 'Dwarawati' of the 'Krishna Lila'. Today, it is not only a major pilgrimage site but a pleasant spot for a beach holiday. Another popular place in Dwarka, part of the Dwarkadhish Temple is Sabha Mandapa. It is a 60-pillared hall, which houses almost 2500 years old scriptures. The hall has 'Jharokhas', offering a nice view of the nearby flowing Gomati River. Attend evening Aarti at Dwarkadhish temple. Overnight at hotel.

Day 04 – Dwarka Sightseeing : After breakfast visit Bet Dwarka & Nageshwar temple. Bet Dwarka: Bet is situated at 30kms from Dwarka and is surrounded by sea from all sides. One can reach Bet from Dwarka through Okha by road. On reaching Okha port jetty, one can reach Bet through a little sea journey by a small boat.

Nageshwar Temple or Nagnath Temple is located on the route between Gomati Dwarka and the Bet Dwarka Island on the coast of Saurashtra in Gujarat. The Jyotirlinga enshrined in the Temple of Nagnath is known as Nageshwar Mahadev and attracts thousands of pilgrims all around the year. This powerful Jyotirlinga symbolizes protection from all poisons. It is said that those who pray to the Nageshwar Lingaa become free of poison. The Rudra Samhita shloka refers to Nageshwar with the phrase 'Daarukaavane Naagesham’.

The Rukmini temple, dating from 12 to 13 Century, was built in honour of Rani Rukmani, princess of Vidharba, which was to be married to Sishupala, but fled with Lord Krishna. This small temple, 1.5 km north of the city, is an architectural masterpiece. The temple walls are decorated with beautiful paintings and sculptures.

Gopi Talav: This is the place where Lord Krishna used to play with his Gopikas. There is a small pond where it is said that Lord Krishna used to play with the Gopika Strees (Gopika Women). Overnight at hotel.

Day 05 – Dwarka to Somnath (250 kms / 5 hrs) : Early morning visits the Dwarkadhish Temple and witness the Aarti. After breakfast drive to Somnath visiting Porbandar enroute.

Porbandar, the coastal heritage town of Gujarat is located on the Saurashtra peninsula, on the Arabian Sea. This city is described in Skanda Purana as Sudamapuri and Ashmavati and had a flourishing trade with Africa and Arabia. Till date, the spice market in Porbandar draws a huge crowd. According to the legends, this city was the main link of the great friendship between Lord Krishna and Sudama. Porbandar was established as a capital by Rana Sartanji in 1785 AD. Porbandar was the former capital of the Jethwa Rajput petty princely state. The most impressive feature of Porbandar is the city planning and the stone buildings with ashlar masonry and rich carving, the facades of the houses on either side of the streets, with windows and carved gateways. Porbandar is also associated with Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation as he was born here. Today, fine quality silk and cotton are manufactured here. There are also chemical factories and cement works.

Later visit Kirti Mandir – Kirti Mandir was the house of Mahatma Gandhi and Kasturba, his wife. This place is situated near the place where the Mahatma was born. This place is now a small museum and also has a Gandhian library and a prayer hall. Bharat Mandir is another place to visit, which houses relief map of India and reliefs of great historical personalities who shaped India’s future.

Later continue to drive to Somnath; arrive Somnath and transfer to your hotel.

Somnath consists of a few streets leading away from its phoenix like temple. The rugged sea belowgives it a lonely, wistful charm. Somnath is mainly known for the legendary shore temple of Somnath, which is dedicated to the Lord Shiva. The temple is an example of grit and determination and how to rise out of downfall as the temple has been plundered and destroyed many times and re-erected again in all its glory. To be precise, destroyed seven times and built eight!

The legendary shore temple of Somnath is one of the twelve most sacred shrines dedicated to the Lord Shiva. The temple contains the Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva. According to the legends, the Somnath temple is very old and was originally built in gold by the Somraj, the Moon God. Later, it was rebuilt by Ravana, in silver; then by Krishna in wood and Bhim Dev in stone. Mahmud of Ghazni, upon hearing the description of the richness of the Somnath temple by Al Biruni, an Arab traveller, visited this temple in 1024 AD. At that time, this temple had about 300 musicians, 500 dancing girls and 300 barbers to shave off the heads of pilgrims. After a two day’s battle, Mahmud destroyed the temple and carried away jewels and gold to his homeland. In all, the Somnath temple was rebuilt and destroyed eight times. This temple was finally rebuilt in 1950 with the support of Sardar Vallabhabhai Patel. The current temple was built as per the traditional designs on the original site by the sea and is a serene, symmetrical and sinuous structure. Today, this majestic temple is a replica of the earlier temple.

Later visit Rudreshvara Temple – Rudreshvara Temple is a ruined temple located near the Somnath temple. Bhalka Tirth – Bhalka Tirth is situated halfway between Veraval and Somnath. At this place, Lord Krishna was mistaken for a deer and wounded by an arrow. It is here that Lord Krishna decided to leave his human form and proceed to the eternal world. Overnight at hotel.

Day 06 – Somnath to Bhavnagar : After breakfast drive to Bhavnagar; arrive Bhavnagar and transfer to hotel.

Bhavnagar was founded by Bhavsinhji Gohil in 1723 AD near the Gulf of Khambhat, on a carefully chosen strategic location having potential of maritime trade. Till independence, Bhavnagar State was ruled by the Gohil Rajput clan. Gaurishanker Lake: A beautiful picnic spot near the lake. There is also a well laid out park. Takhteshwar Temple: Situated on a hill, the site provides a panoramic view. Lock Gate: The first of its kind in Gujarat. The seawater here is impounded by the lock gates to keep ships afloat during low tide, which could be seen with special permission. Overnight at hotel.

Day 07 – Bhavnagar Sightseeing : Early morning proceed for an excursion to Palitana.

Palitana: A 56kms drive from Bhavnagar. Palitana lies at the foot of the Shetrunjaya hill, with the Shetrunjaya River flowing to its south. The sacred hill rises in a crescendo of magnificent temples – 863 in all – that soar in marble splendour to the top of the hill. The temples were built over an impressive span of 900 years with each generation of pilgrims making its contribution to the shrines of Shetrunjaya. The 600-metre climb to Shetrunjaya is usually made on foot. Dolis or lift-chairs are also available for the ascent. Overnight at hotel.

Day 08 – Bhavnagar to Ahmedabad (200 kms / 4 hrs) : After breakfast drive back to Ahmedabad. Arrive Ahmedabad and in time transfer to Airport / Railway Station to board your flight / train for onward journey to your next destination.

Inclusions :

  • Accommodation in above mentioned  hotel or similar category of alternate hotels.
  • Meal Plan – CPAI (i.e. Only Breakfast).
  • All sightseeing and transfers, city tours and transport services by air-conditioned All India Tourist permit Vehicle as per the above itinerary.
  • Road taxes, parking fees, fuel charges, inter state taxes.

Exclusions :

  • Monument Entrance Fees.
  • Services of English-Speaking Local Guide.
  • Game Drive at Sasangir National Park or any other national park.
  • Expense of personal nature like tipping, laundry, telephone / fax calls, alcoholic beverages, camera/video camera fee at monuments, medical expenses, airport departure tax etc. Any, other services not mentioned in the inclusions.
  • International or Domestic airfare / Train Fare.
  • Any expenses caused by reasons beyond our control such as roadblocks, accidents & any medical evacuations. Any train delays, or re-scheduling etc. Any Visa fees, insurance fees, etc. Any tips to hotel staff, local guides, drivers etc. Any meals apart from the ones mentioned above. Any expenses apart from the ones above.

STANDARD HOTEL DETAILS :

 CITY

 HOTEL OPTION

 ROOM CATEGORY

 NIGHT

 MEAL PLAN

 Ahmedabad

 Le Grand Residency

 Executive

 02

 CP

 Dwarka

 Cygnett Inn

 Superior

 02

 CP

 Somnath

 Sun Plaza

 Plaza Deluxe

 01

 CP

 Bhavnagar

 Top3 Lords Resort

 Deluxe

 02

 CP

DELUXE HOTEL DETAILS :

 CITY

 HOTEL OPTION

 ROOM CATEGORY

 NIGHT

 MEAL PLAN

 Ahmedabad

 Le Grand Residency

 Executive

 02

 CP

 Dwarka

 VITS Devbhumi

 Executive

 02

 CP

 Somnath

 Lords Inn

 Deluxe

 01

 CP

 Bhavnagar

 Top3 Lords Resort

 Deluxe

 02

 CP

STANDARD PACKAGE RATE :

TOUR COST BASED

 TOUR COST

Accommodation cost Per Double Room for 07 Nights (for 02 pax)

 Rs.20,540.00

Extra Bed for Adult / Child

 Rs.6,320.00

Child Without Bed (COMPLIMENTARY FOR CHILD UPTO 5 YEARS SHARING BED WITH PARENTS)

 Rs.5,890.00

Per Person Dinner Supplement for 07 Nights

 Rs.3,570.00

Transportation cost based on AC Swift Dzire/ Etios car as per the program 

 Rs.26,570.00

Transportation cost based on AC Innova car as per the program 

 Rs.37,440.00

Transportation cost based on AC Tempo Traveller as per the program 

 Rs.60,980.00

DELUXE PACKAGE RATE :

TOUR COST BASED

 TOUR COST

Accommodation cost Per Double Room for 07 Nights (for 02 pax)

 Rs.26,570.00

Extra Bed for Adult / Child

 Rs.9,040.00

Child Without Bed (COMPLIMENTARY FOR CHILD UPTO 5 YEARS SHARING BED WITH PARENTS)

 Rs.8,570.00

Per Person Dinner Supplement for 07 Nights

 Rs.3,750.00

Transportation cost based on AC Swift Dzire / Etios car as per the program 

 Rs.26,570.00

Transportation cost based on AC Innova car as per the program 

 Rs.37,440.00

Transportation cost based on AC Tempo Traveller as per the program 

 Rs.60,980.00

Rate are valid till 30th September 2020.

The history of Gujarat began with Stone Age settlements followed by Chalcolithic and Bronze Age settlements like Indus Valley Civilisation. Gujarat's coastal cities, chiefly Bharuch, served as ports and trading centers in the Nanda, Maurya, Satavahana and Gupta empires as well as Western Kshatrapas period. After the fall of the Gupta empire in the 6th century, Gujarat flourished as an independent Hindu/Buddhist state. The Maitraka dynasty, descended from a Gupta general, ruled from the 6th to the 8th centuries from their capital at Vallabhi, although they were ruled briefly by Harsha during the 7th century. The Arab rulers of Sindh sacked Vallabhi in 770, bringing the Maitraka dynasty to an end. The Gurjara-Pratihara Empire ruled Gujarat after from the 8th to 10th centuries. As well as, for some periods the region came under the control of Rashtrakuta Empire and Pala Empire. In 775 the first Parsi (Zoroastrian) refugees arrived in Gujarat from Greater Iran.

During the 10th century, the native Chaulukya dynasty came to power. From 1297 to 1300, Alauddin Khalji, the Turkic Sultan of Delhi, destroyed Anhilwara and incorporated Gujarat into the Delhi Sultanate. After Timur's sacking of Delhi at the end of the 14th century weakened the Sultanate, Gujarat's governor Zafar Khan Muzaffar asserted his independence, and his son, Sultan Ahmad Shah I (ruled 1411 to 1442), restructured Ahmedabad as the capital. The Sultanate of Gujarat remained independent until 1576, when the Mughal emperor Akbar conquered it and annexed it to the Mughal Empire as a province. Surat had become the prominent and main port of India during Mughal rule.

Later in the 18th century, Gujarat came under control of the Maratha Empire who dominated the politics of India. The British East India Company wrested control of much of Gujarat from the Marathas during the Second Anglo-Maratha War. Many local rulers, notably the Gaekwads of Baroda, made a separate peace with the British and acknowledged British sovereignty in return for retaining local self-rule. Gujarat was placed under the political authority of the Bombay Presidency, with the exception of Baroda state, which had a direct relationship with the Governor-General of India. From 1818 to 1947, most of present-day Gujarat, including Kathiawar, Kutch, and northern and eastern Gujarat were divided into hundreds of princely states, but several districts in central and southern Gujarat were ruled directly by British officials. Mohandas Gandhi, considered India's "father of the nation", was a Gujarati who led the Indian Independence Movement against the British colonial rule.[3]

Gujarat was formed by splitting Bombay state in 1960 on linguistic lines. From 1960 to 1995, Indian National Congress retained power in Gujarat Legislative Assembly while other political parties ruled for incomplete terms in the 1970s and 1990. Bharatiya Janata Party has been in the power since 1998.