GUJARAT TEMPLE -WILDLIFE -BEACH TOUR

GUJARAT TEMPLE -WILDLIFE -BEACH TOUR

TOUR Overview

  • GUJARAT TEMPLE -WILDLIFE -BEACH TOUR
  • tx 04
  • 6
  • 7
  • AHMEDABAD, JAMNAGAR, DWARKA, PORBANDAR, SOMNATH, GIR, DIU
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ITINERARY

1 Oct 2015 to 31 March 2016 ,Except Long weekends.

Day – 01 – AHMEDABAD

Morning arrival at Ahmedabad airport / railway station, meets, greet and transfer to hotel, later city tour visits of Gandhi Ashram, Hathee Singh Jain Temple, Adalej Step Well, Akshardham temple.

Sabarmati Ashram - Gandhi Ashram - Harijan Ashram - Satyagraha

It's located on the western bank of the Sabarmati River. Ashram was the residence of Mahatma Gandhi. From this Ashram Gandhi started the Dandi March in 1930. The ashram now has a museum, Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya. The museum building was erected (designed by architect Charles Correa), and memorial activities were then started here. One of the important activities undertaken is the establishment of a Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya. Initially started in 'Hriday Kunj,' Gandhi's own cottage in the Ashram, the Sangrahalaya has now shifted to its own well- designed and well-furnished building. Exhibits at the museum includes: Gandhi quotations, letters, and life size oil painting gallery.

Hathee Singh Jain Temple

It was built by Seth Hathee Singh in 1850. It is easily distinguished by its high carved column, visible from road. Built entirely of white marble embossed with smooth carvings of dancers, musicians, animals & flowers, this serene temple is dedicated to Dharmnath, whose statue stand in the main temple. It has a paved courtyard surrounded by an imposing row of cloisters containing 52 shrines, each with an image of a tirthankara, profusely decorated with rich carvings, one containing the marble image of the 15th tirthankara. The temple is a two-storied structure with elaborate porches on three sides and front porch crowned by a large dome.

Adalaj Step Well

The step well was built in 1499 A.D. by Queen Rudabai wife of Veer Singh, the Vaghela family. The designs on its walls and pillars include leaves, flowers, birds, fish and other breathtaking ornamental designs. In the past, these step wells were frequented by tourists and caravans as stopovers along trade routes. The five-storied, step-well located in the sleepy village of Adalaj is a marvel of architecture. This unique water work is an excellent blend of Hindu and Islamic styles. The intricately carved monument served religious and utilitarian purposes of the people around though its origin is marred by tragedy. The Indo-Islamic style of architecture, which developed in India in the early centuries of the medieval period, is neither a local variant of Islamic art, nor a modification of Hindu art, but it is an assimilation of both the styles, though not always to an equal degree. The architecture of this well also shows the influence of the earlier Solanki rulers of Gujarat. Built entirely of sandstone, one can enter into this step-well from three sides, which consist of octagonal landings with huge carved colonnades and intricately carved niches. The step-well served both ritualistic as well as utilitarian needs.

Akshardham Temple (Monday Closed)

Akshardham is a unique cultural complex that celebrates the past, addresses the present, and blesses the future. It upholds the universal values of Humanity and symbolizes the glory of Indian Culture. It is a huge temple built in pink stone and white marble. The central attraction of this temple is idol of Swaminarayan is sitting posture of 3.3 Mtrs. Universal ideals of Indian culture are brought to life through the most modern exhibition technology. Shows, walk-through dioramas, audio-visuals, light and sound programs, and surround experiences within the 45,000 sq. ft. of exhibition space, educate and enthrall visitors. The Sahajanand Hall depicts the life of Lord Swaminarayan. The Mystic India addresses the quest for eternal happiness through a 14-screen Multi Media Show. The Nityanand Hall visualizes values from the Upanishads, Ramayana. The Audio Animatronics Show features the lifelike assembly of statues that sing and speak. The Water Show reveals India's ancient secret of inner light through an Upanishad story of Nachiketa, a nine year old boy, who bravely confronts Yamraaj, the God of Death, and receives from him the knowledge that has made India, a land of enlightenment. Performed by live actors, with a 70-feet high water screen, water features, fire spreading on water along with several fireballs, powerful lasers, all enhanced by a 10.2 surround sound system, it is a uniquely entertaining and educational show with a spiritual message. The 45-minute show takes place every evening (except Monday) at Akshardham. Overnight stay Ahmedabad.

Day - 02 – AHMEDABAD – VINTAGE CAR COLLECTION - JAMNAGAR (320 KMS / 6 HRS) Auto World

Auto World

Auto World" is one of the most important collections of Antique Vehicles, Cars, Motorcycles, Utility Vehicles, Buggies etc. built by one family over the last century. It represents several of the greatest Marques of cars from all over the world, of all types and ages. "Auto World" showcases that time of history when an automobile was not a mere means of transport but a symbol of wealth, power & style; the mighty ceremonial limousines, the romantic convertibles & the snappy Sports Cars, cars specially coach built like Railway Saloons, Horse drawn carriages, Boat tailed Wooden Speedsters. At "Auto World", various pavilions built on acres of verdant grounds showcase more than 100 of the finest cars in the world such as Rolls-Royce's, Bentleys, Daimlers, Langonda, Mercedes, Maybach, Packard's, Cadillac, Buicks, Auburns, Cord, Chryslers and many other distinguished makes from USA, UK & Europe. Most of the cars are coach built by renowned coach builders like Hooper, Barker, Gurney-Nutting, Fleetwood etc.

Bala Hanuman Temple

Bala Hanuman temple, is famous for its continuous chanting of the "Sri Ram, Jai Ram, Jai Jai Ram" since August 1st, 1964, for which it is even listed in the Guinness Book of World Records. Early evening is particularly good time to visit as it's fairly animated then. In fact this whole area on the south-eastern edge of the lake becomes very lively around sunset, when people come to public walk.

Lakhota Lake (Talav)

The lake is most lively in the evenings, when people relax around the lake to enjoy the breeze and a Tea, Ice cream, or chat from one of the many food stands, and at night the lake is beautifully lit. You can go for a 15-minute boat-ride around it, or rent a paddle boat. Around the lake there are parks, a night market for vegetables. Every year about 75 species of birds, including pelicans, flamingos, spoonbills, ducks, terns, and gulls, descend on this lake, making it a lively bird watching site. Overnight stay Jamnagar.

Day – 03 – JAMNAGAR – DWARKA (150 KMS / 3 HRS)

Dwarka

Dwarka is one of the four dhams of Hinduism; Sri Krishna renounced war in Mathura for the greater good of the people living in the region (and was hence known by the name Ranchodrai') and founded the city of Dwarka. Dwarka was a planned city, on the banks of Gomti River. For the safety of the people, Krishna and the Yadavas decided to move the capital from Mathura to Dwarka. Sightseeing in Dwarka is Dwarkadhish temple, Rukhmani temple, Gopi Talav (Pond), Nageshwara Jyotirling, Bet Dwarka.

Dwarkadhish Temple

The main temple at Dwarka, situated on Gomti ravine, is known as Jagat Mandir. The temple has a five storey tower supported by 72 pillars which was built by Krishna's grandson, Vajranabha, who is the grandson of Lord Sri Krishna. The temple is made of limestone and sand. There is a flag hoisted in the temple tower four times each day, which waves in the air beautifully welcoming the pilgrims. The structure of the temple is quite complicated. There are two gateways: Swarga Dwar, where pilgrims enter, and Moksha Dwar, where pilgrims exit.

Nageshwar Jyotirling

It is located on the route between Dwarka and the Bet Dwarka Island, on the coast of Saurashtra in Gujarat. This temple enshrines one of the 12 Jyotirling in INDIA. This powerful Jyotirling symbolizes protection from all poisons. It is said that those who pray to the Nageshwar Ling become free of poison. According to Shiv Puran, a Shiva devotee by name Supriya was attacked by a demon Daruka while in a boat. The demon imprisoned him along with several others at his capital Daruka forest (Jungle) where he resided with his wife Daruki. Supriya advised all prisoners to recite the mantra 'Om Namah Shivaya'. When Daruka came to know about this he ran to kill Supriya. Instantly Lord Shiva appeared in the form of a Jyotirling. One of the Nageshwar's attractions is the 26 m statue of a sitting Shiva outside.

Gopi Talav

Gopi Talav is 21 KMS far from Dwarka. It is a small pond. Gopis (Young Girls) used to take bath in this lake so it is called Gopi Talav. In Mathura, Krishna often danced Rass with Gopis. After he left for Dwarka, they missed him so much that they decided to visit him. They all reunited at a lake north of Dwarka and dance once more under the full moon. At the end of the dance, unable to part with Krishna, the Gopis decide to merge into the earth. A legend says that they transformed into yellow soil called Gopi CHANDAN. Even today the soil of the Gopi Talav is extremely smooth and yellow in color. The main attraction of Gopi Lake is Mahaprabhu Ji Bethak.

Rukhmani Temple

Rukhmani Temple is located 2 KMS away from Dwarka There is a myth associated with it once Krishna and Rukhmani went to 'Durvasha Rushi' to invite him at Dwarka. He was agreed on the condition that they (Krishna & Rukhmani) have to carry the cart instead of any animal. Krishna & Rukhmani happily agreed to do so. While driving the cart, Rukhmani became thirsty. Then Krishna stopped the cart and made water from Holy River Ganga by pressing leg thumb at land. 'Durvasha' upset by the action and nuisance Rukhmani to stay away from Shree Krishna Hence Rukhmani temple is located 2 KMS. Away from Dwarka's Jagat Mandir.

Bet Dwarka

Bet Dwarka is located 30 KMS north of Dwarka on an island in the middle of the Arabian Sea, next to the coastal town of Okha. Here Vishnu is said to have kill a demon. Bet Dwarka is considered the original residence of lord Krishna. The main temple was built about 500 years ago and has an idol believed to have been made by Rukhmani. The traditional donation of rice to Brahmins has special importance here, as it is believed to be the place where Krishna's friend Sudama presented him with rice. The temple complex includes several small temples dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, Hanuman and Devi. There is a deserted beach on the northern coast. Overnight stay Dwarka.

Day - 04 - DWARKA – PORBANDAR – SOMNATH (250 KMS / 5 – 6 HRS)

PORBANDAR

This place is situated on the western coast of Saurashtra, Gujarat, lays the harbor city of Porbandar, better known as the birth-place of Gandhi - The Father of The Nation. Extremely poor but self-respected Sudama and Krishna's friendship brings tears of joy, when remembered. The Jethwa Rajput named it their capital & ruled it from 1200 years. Porbandar is often called "White City" for the white local stone is used for local construction. The name Porbandar is derived from the combination of two words: Porai – local goddess & Bandar means port, which comes to Porbandar.

Kirti Mandir

Porbandar was the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi whose father was the head (DIWAN) of the ruling family. The Kirti Mandir memorial built next to Mahatma Gandhi's birthplace (1869) lies in the old walled township of Porbandar. The Kirti Mandir's premises is a three storeyed ancestral house of Gandhi wherein the exact place where Putlibai, Gandhi's mother, had given birth to the child Gandhi marked with a 'swastika'. Kirti Mandir, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi was inaugurated, by the auspicious hands of Sardar Shri Vallabhbhai Patel on 27th of May in 1950. It was built by Shri Nanji Kalidas and Shri Purushottam Mistry. Adjacent to the 165 years old residence is the 24 m high Kirti Mandir with 79 lamps on its peak, one for each year of Gandhi's life. There is Kasturba Dham (wife of Mahatma Gandhi) behind the Kirti Mandir. The Kirti Mandir has a memorial of Mahatma Gandhi and contains a library with books on Gandhi, a spinning hall, a children's nursery and a lovely prayer hall.

Sudama Temple

In respect to the childhood friend of Lord Krishna, this temple was constructed between 1902 and 1907. It is said that funds were exhausted while this temple was being constructed and the people of Sudamapuri. This is a popular tourist spot in Gujarat. The shrine marks where Sudama's hut once stood and is the only temple dedicated to him in INDIA.

Sandipani Ashram

It is also known as Bhai Shri's Ashram. There are so many activities are going in this ashram. School, Hostel, Science gallery are the main activities in this ashram.

Somnath

Somnath Temple – Lord Shiva temple known as Jyotirling built by Moon God. Somnath is one of among 12 Jyotirling. The temple of Somnath itself is believed to have appeared first in gold, at the request of the sun god, next in silver, created by the moon god, a third time in wood at the command of lord Krishna & finally in stone built by Bhimdeva. The temple to the tenth century when it became rich from follower donations, such wealth become to the attention of the Mahmud of Ghazni who destroyed the place of pilgrimage & carried its wealth off to Afghanistan. The current temple was built to traditional designs on the original costal site. Walkin g distance from the temple is the Prabhas Patan museum housing architectural fragments of the original temple of the Somnath before they were destroyed by invaders. Photography is prohibited.

Bhalka Tirth

Lord Krishna temple, Bhalka Tirtha, on the site where Krishna is said to have been mistakenly shot in the foot. Nearby is Dehotsarg, where he succumbed to his mortal wound. The temple at Bhalka Tirth is known as Mahaprabhuji's Bethak, and a Tulsi tree has been planted in Lord Krishna's memory. The arrow of the poacher named Jara at this spot hit Bhagvan Shree Krishna. Bhagvan Shree Krishna was resting in meditation pose under a Pippal tree when the poacher misread the foot of Bhagvan Shree Krishna as a deer and hit from a distance. Overnight stay Somnath.

Day – 05 - SOMNATH – GIR (90 KMS / 2 HRS)

Morning transfer to Diu

Diu was conquered by the Portuguese in 1546 who ruled there till 1961. In 1961, the Indian army took over the Portuguese occupied pockets of India, Later On 30th May, 1987, Daman and Diu were de-lined from Goa which attained statehood there by forming these land blocks into a separate Union Territory under the Govt. of India. Diu, with its pleasant beaches and generally few tourist crowds, offer a great pace of change from Gujarat and Goa. The territory is dominantly occupied by fishing communities. Diu is tiny island situated slightly near the Port of Veraval in Gujarat with a coastal length of 21 KMS. It was also a vital trade link with the rest of India for traders overseas. It is connected by two bridges with the mainland.

Diu Fort

The fort is skirted by the Sea on the three sides and by a moat on the fourth. It is an expansive and imposing structure. It was constructed between 1535 and 1541 AD. The main front wall is having five huge windows with stone galleries. The Fort has been creatively lit, which creates a breath taking views at night. The fort commands a magnificent view of sea. Guns and Gun balls litter the place. It is a town's central landmark. The Panikota Forte do Mar, which stands unperturbed.

Diu Museum

The old St. Thomas Church has been converted into a museum which houses antique statues, various stone inscriptions of the earlier rulers, wooden carvings and idols. In evening, multicolored fountains and special lighting of the imposing building fascinate everyone.

Sea Shell Museum

This is first museum in Asia which has maximum sea shells and first museum in World where sea shells are displayed in magnifying glass of various sizes. The total collection of sea shell is about 2500 to 3000 museum.

St. Paul Church

St. Paul's church is dedicated to our Lady of Immaculate Conception. The construction of the church was started in 1601 and was completed in the year 1610. The main facade of the church is perhaps the most elaborate of all Portuguese churches in India. In architectural style it resembles Bom Jesus Church at Goa. The dominant features are, no doubt, Gothic. The wood - paneling of the church is rated one of the best in church craftsmanship. The fantastic wood carved panels are crafted by Goan artisans.

Beaches

Diu is well known for its scenic beaches consist of many beaches like Nagoa, Ghoghla, Jallandher, and Chakratirth.

Nagoa Beach

It is located near the Nagoa hamlet of the village of Bucharwada. The Beach is exceptionally beautiful and quiet. In this horse - shoe shaped beach, various water sports facilities are available. It is completely safe for swimming.

Ghoghla Beach

The Ghoghla Beach is a sandy beach. A tourist complex nearby provides all basic amenities to tourists. It is the largest and gentlest beach of Diu.The Golden sand beach undulates into the horizon while the Arabian Sea laps away at the edge as though imploring the sands to let it find its own peach. You can do swimming, sunbathing, parasailing, surfing etc.

Jallandher Beach

Jallandhar Shrine is located on hillock close to the beach. This small shrine crowned with a dome houses a stone carved face of Jallandhar a mythological demon who was killed by Lord Krishna. Nearby there is also a temple of Goddess Chandrika. The beach is at a distance of 1 KMS from Diu Town.

Chakratirth Beach

It is believed that Lord Krishna had killed Jallandhar with his disc or Sudarshan Chakra. In the sea opposite the beach is small hillock known as Bhansalo where the footprints of Lord Krishna are carved in stone. This place can only be approached when there is low tied. Chakratirth Beach is centrally located and contiguous to the Diu Town. This beach serves the locals as well as domestic and international tourists, providing them with an opportunity to have a worthwhile break. Close to the beach there is a hillock which is called the sunset point. Overnight stay Diu.

Day – 06 - GIR – DIU – GIR (110 KMS / 2.5 HRS)

Sasan Gir is well known as the remaining habitat of the Asiatic Lion. The 1412 SQ KM Gir wildlife reserve comprises deciduous forests, evergreen & semi evergreen vegetation, thorn scrub & grasslands. Sasan Gir also has a large leopard population. The sanctuary also has a booming population of Sambar and Spotted Deer, Chinkara gazelle, Nilgai and Chowsingha, the world's only four-horned antelope. Birds can see while visit to sanctuary. In Sasan Gir we can see attractive birds like the Asian Paradise Flycatcher, Painted Sand grouse, Tree pie, Hoopoe, etc. Crocodiles are seen at reservoir and at rivers flowing through the sanctuary. Asiatic Lions are less sociable than their African counterparts and differ in appearance by having shorter manes and a prominent fold of skin on the underside. Sasan Gir lions are purely predatory, never feeding off carrion as do African lions. As 350 lions and more than 300 leopards has been counted in Sasan Gir during the last census. The best time to visits the sanctuary is from November to April & it's closed from mid-June to mid-October. The local Maldhari community has lived here for generations and coexists magnificently with the wilderness. Siddi, tribe also known by the names of Sheedi and Habshi, is one of the major tribal communities of Gujarat. The cultural heritage of Siddis dates back to almost 300 years. Their dance and music are quite exquisite. Dhamal is one such dance form that reflects the Siddis' passion for hunting.

NOTE: MAIN PARK IS CLOSED FRM 16TH JUNE TO 15TH OCT. YOU CAN VISIT DEVALIYA PARK. Overnight stay Gir.

Day – 07 – GIR - AHMEDABAD (410 KMS / 8 HRS)

Morning departure transfer to Ahmedabad, Drop at Airport / Railway station to connect a next destination.

City Hotel (Standard)
Ahmedabad Hotel Le Grand Residency (1n) Cpai
Jamnagar Hotel Kd Comfort (1n) Cpai
Dwarka Hotel The Dwarika (1n) Cpai
Somnath Hotel Sun Plaza (1n) Cpai
Gir Anil Farm House (1n) Apai
Diu Sea Village Resorts (1n) Cpai

Cost based on 2 pax @ 19,500/- per person on dbl with Standard Hotels.

Cost based on 4 pax @ 16,000/- per person on dbl with Standard Hotels.

Cost based on 6 pax @ 13,600/- per person on dbl with Standard Hotels.

City Hotel (Premier)
Ahmedabad Hotel Four points By Sheraton (1n) Cpai
Jamnagar Hotel Fortune Palace (1n) Cpai
Dwarka Goverdhan Green Resorts (1n) Cpai
Somnath Hotel Lords Inn (1n) Cpai
Gir Lion Paw Resorts (1n) Apai
Diu Radhika Beach Resorts (1n) Cpai

Cost based on 2 pax @ 23,800/- per person on dbl with Premier Hotels.

Cost based on 4 pax @ 20,500/- per person on dbl with Premier Hotels.

Cost based on 6 pax @ 18,000/- per person on dbl with Premier Hotels.

Includes
  • All Transfer & Sightseeing By A/C Vehicle.
  • Rooms on dbl sharing basis.
  • Meal as per CPAI plan at all places in Gir Meal plan will be APAI.
  • Toll, Parking, Driver Allowance , Fuel, Tax.
  • Good Driver With Good Condition Car.
  • Driver Will Be With Mobile Phone All taxes Except 3.50% GST.


Terms & Conditions:
  • All Rates & Bookings Subject To Availability.
  • For 2 Pax Vehicle will be Ac Indigo , for 4 pax - 6 pax vehicle will be Ac Innova & for more than 06 Pax Ac Tempo Traveler will be provided.
  • Rates Are Subject To Change.
  • Tour Confirmation Only On Receipt Of Full Payment.
  • Please Request Your Guests To Kindly Carry Their Proper Photo Id Proof. ( E.G. ; PASSPORT, DRIVING LICENSE, VOTER'S ID ).
  • Vehicles will be as per Itinerary.