Located on India's western coast, Gujarat is a captivating tourist destination known for its rich cultural diversity and vibrant atmosphere, featuring both spiritual and historic sites. This tour of Gujarat for 8 days guides travellers through some of the state's most fascinating locations. The tour plan includes stops in Ahmedabad, Jamnagar, Dwarka, Somnath, Gir, and Diu. Key attractions along the way include the Gandhi Ashram, Akshardham Temple, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, Somnath Temple, and Bhalka Tirth Temple. Additionally, travellers will enjoy a jungle safari and lion sighting at Sasan Gir, as well as a road trip to Daman and Diu. This journey offers breathtaking experiences, from visiting Mahatma Gandhi's Ashram and Lord Krishna's Dwarka to exploring the ancient and modern heritage of Gir National Park.
An Informative Tour Mapping for a Week’s Sojourn to Gujarat
Day 1. Arrive Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad has its own Airport and Railway Station. Therefore, no matter you are coming from whichever city, your transportation is going to be smooth as Ahmedabad is linked to almost all the major cities of India. Either you will get a direct train or flight, or you need to embark on a connecting one.
Ahmedabad is a vibrant city brimming with excitement, characterised by the lively colours of chaniya cholis and the delightful flavours of gathiyas and undhiyu. It holds the distinction of being the first city in the world to be designated a World Heritage City by UNESCO. Since its founding by Sultan Ahmed Shah, Ahmedabad has continuously evolved. Despite these changes, the city's enduring love for celebrating life and preserving its heritage remains constant. Its architectural marvels, now the pride of the city, rank among Gujarat's top tourist attractions.
Places to visit in Ahmedabad - Sabarmati Ashram, Bhadra Fort and Akshardham Temple
Day 2. Transfer to Jamnagar from Ahmedabad
The distance between the two cities is approximately 305 km, encompassing a drive of nearly 6 hours. Therefore start early from Ahmedabad to reach Jamnagar by afternoon. Reaching there, check into a hotel and if stamina permits visit the Pratap Vilas Palace.
Jamnagar, a true gem in Gujarat, showcases exquisite Rajput architecture and serves as a notable pearl fishing center. Situated around Lakota Lake, the city was originally the capital of the former state of Nawanagar, established by Jam Raval in 1540 AD at the confluence of the Nagamati and Rangmati rivers. It was later renamed Jamnagar.
Day 3. Jamnagar Sightseeing and Transfer to Dwarka
Jamnagar is perfectly situated for exploring the coastline that extends to Dwarka. Often referred to as Choti Kashi, the city is home to numerous Hindu and Jain temples, including the notable ancient Sun Temple and Shri Bala Hanuman Sankirtan Temple. Legend has it that the area now known as Jamnagar is where Lord Krishna resided after leaving Mathura.
Places to visit in Jamnagar - Lakota Lake, Lakota Palace and Museum, Ranmal Lake, Bal Hanuman Temple and Darbar Garh Palace.
Complete the Jamnagar sightseeing in the first half of the day and proceed with your journey towards Dwarka after lunch. Dwarka is about 141 km from Jamnagar and it will take around 3 hours to reach.
Day 4 - Dwarka Sightseeing
Known as Dwarka Nagri, this historic city is famed for being the ancient kingdom of Lord Krishna. Today, Dwarka boasts stunning, time-worn architecture that reflects the splendour of its past. Exploring Dwarka offers a profound and enriching experience. Situated at the mouth of the Gulf of Kutch, visitors are treated to breathtaking and expansive views of the endless, shimmering sea.
Places to visit in Dwarka - Dwarkadish temple, Rukmini Devi Temple, Gomti Ghat, Sudama Setu, Shri Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, Beyt Dwarka and Dwarka Beach.
Day 5 - Reach Somnath from Dwarka
Embarking on a drive of approximately 4 & a ½ hours, reach Somnath covering a distance of about 234 km.
Somnath is a highly revered city in India, renowned for the iconic Somnath Temple and its significant role in Hindu mythology and history. According to the Mahabharata, it was in Somnath that the Yadava clan faced their internecine massacre and where Lord Krishna met his end. Recent excavations in Somnath have uncovered remnants of a settlement dating back to 1500 BC.
Places to visit in Somnath - Somnath Temple and Bhalka Tirth Temple.
Day 6 - Safari at Gir National Park
Checking out from Somnath, head towards Gir National Park, the only abode of the Asiatic lions in India. Hop on to a Jeep Safari in Sasan Gir in the evening after checking into a resort near the national park and having lunch. Last minute booking for the jeep safari in Gir might not be available. In that case, you can also opt for the Devaliya Safari booking, which exudes the same level of thrill and excitement.
Day 7 - Drive to Diu from Gir
Do not check out from the accommodation near Gir National Park. Savouring an early breakfast head out from the resort to visit Diu, 61 km from Gir. The charming port city of Diu exudes old-world allure, reflecting its rich Portuguese heritage. Steeped in colonial culture, Diu is dotted with numerous forts, museums, temples, churches, and villas. Return to the accommodation near Gir after a day’s sightseeing at Diu.
Places to visit in Diu - Diu Fort, Jalandhar Beach, Diu Museum, Naida Caves, INS Khukri Memorial, Gangeshwar Mahadev Temple, Pani Kotha, St. Francis of Assisi Church and Zampa Gateway.
Day 8 - Drive back to Ahmedabad
It is the ultimate day of the tour. Head out from the accommodation and drive towards Ahmedabad. Ahmedabad is about 368 km from Diu. Therefore it is going to be a long day, travelling for about 7&½ hours. Reaching Ahmedabad, head to the railway station or airport for a scheduled departure.
