Duet of Maharashtra with Gujarat Tour

01 Day: Arrival Mumbai

Welcome to the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport Mumbai assistance on arrival our representative assists and escorts you by a/c car and transfer to the pre-booked hotel. After check in, you will be given all the required documents related to your tour plan; he will explain all your queries about the entire tour plan. If you are arriving by early flight, after relaxation you can take a walk to have a glance of the city, visiting local markets and restaurants. Overnight at the hotel.

Mumbai is a cluster of Seven Islands and derives its name from Mumba Devi, the patron goddess of the koli fisher folk, its oldest inhabitants. Mumbai pulsates with activity. It is a city that is disciplined by nos time frame neither day nor night. It is also the country's financial powerhouse, the nation's industrial heartland, and its economic nerve center. Dazzling shopping arcades, exciting sport activity, nightclubs & discotheques, theatre & music, gourmet restaurants and interesting sightseeing. It offers visitors a heady mix of all this and more.

02 Day: Mumbai

Today morning after breakfast take a sightseeing tour of Mumbai city, firstly visit to Gateway of India and cruise by motorboats to Elephanta Caves - ancient rock cut caves dedicated to Lord Shiva. Later cruise back Gate Way of India. And sightseeing continue visiting Prince of Wales Museum- A heritage museum exhibits ancient artifacts. Parliament house- (From outside), Nariman Point- Commercial Hub, Marine Drive- a most beautiful laid boulevards of the city. Dhobhi Ghat- a famous open air laundry, Mani Bhawan- Known also Gandhi Bhawan. Later return to the hotel. If time permits visit to Bandra and Juhu area where bollywood celebrity houses are located like Shahrukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan etc, (can be seen from outside). In the evening, visit Iskcon Temple: dedicated to Lord Krishna, The architectural splendour of the ISKCON Temple is adorned with murals and sculptures. After visit return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Note: Elephanta Caves and Prince of Wales museum are closed on every Monday.

03 Day: Mumbai – Nasik (185 kms: 5 hrs)

Today early morning after breakfast, check out the hotel and drive to Nashik, on arrival transfer to the hotel, after refreshment explore the holy city visiting; the ornamental Sunder Narayan Temple is rich in carvings and domed porticoes. The Kapaleeswara Temple, Rameshwar or Naro Shankar Temple with its white marble structure is the richest and the most elaborate., Balaji Temple built on the confluence of the Godavari and the Saraswati (a mythical river that flows underground) houses copper images of Balaji, Kala Ram Temple, the city's holiest temple with black stone deities of Rama, Sita and Lakshman, Ram Kund (pool) said to have been used by Rama and Sita during their exile. Its holy water is believed to provide moksha (liberation of the soul). More interestingly, the water has the ability to dissolve bones and the remains of famous Indians have ended up here. Afterwards return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Nasik: A delightful town, usually bustling with fervent crowds, Nasik is a classic mélange of the past and the present. It paves way to many fascinating forts and royally graceful temples that possess an aura of exuberance. This part of the terra firma is more than a dream destination for zealous lovers of glorious travel. It plays abode to most of the industries located in Maharashtra, including the Security Printing Press of the government, the nation's currency printer. The core of commerce and trade, it was earlier the country's largest market arena.

04 Day: Nashik – Ellora – Aurangabad (185 kms: 5 hrs)

After breakfast, check out the hotel and drive to Aurangabad, enroute visit Ellora, one of the highly visited World heritage sites of India. It houses 34 monasteries and temples with some exclusive uninterrupted sequence of monuments that date back from 600 to 1000 AD. The temples of Ellora are dedicated to Brahmanism, Jainism, and Buddhism. It also has some of the excellent stonework depicting the legends related to Lord Shiva. Afterwards proceed to Aurangabad. On arrival transfer to the hotel for overnight stay.

Note: The Ellora caves are closed to public on all Tuesday.

Ellora: The Ellora caves, 34 in number, are carved into the sides of a basaltic hill, 30 kms from Aurangabad. The finest specimens of cave - temple architecture, they house elaborate facades and exquisitely adorned interiors. These structures representing the three faiths of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism, were carved during the 350 AD to 700 AD period. The 12 caves to the south are Buddhist, the 17 in the centre dedicated to Hinduism, and the 5 caves to the north are Jain.

05 Day: Aurangabad – Ajanta – Aurangabad (105 kms: 1 ½ hr one way)

After early breakfast take an excursion to the famous Ajanta caves. Ajanta is one of the few historical and architectural marvels of India. Recognized as the World Heritage Site today. The Ajanta group of caves, located deep within the Sahyadri hills above the Waghora, depicts the story of Buddhism that prevailed here during 200 BC to 650 AD. Ajanta’s wondrous cave temples are cut into the rocky sides of a dramatic crescent-shaped gorge, at the head of which is a waterfall that drops over the mountain rim in a series of seven steps to a pool far below –deep inside the mountain are the Buddhist chaitya – vihara prayer and monastery caves. Afterwards return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Note: The Ajanta Caves are closed to public on all Monday and Ellora caves on Tuesday.

Ajanta: It was only in the 19th century, that the Ajanta group of caves, lying deep within the Sahyadri hills, cut into the curved mountain side, above the Waghora river, were discovered. A group of British officers on a tiger hunt, stumbled on these ancient works of art. They depict the story of Buddhism, spanning the period from 200 BC to 650 AD. The 29 caves were built as secluded retreats of the Buddhist monks, who taught and performed rituals in the Chaityas and Viharas, the ancient seats of learning, and nerve - centers of the Buddhist cultural movement.

06 Day: Aurangabad

After early breakfast ttake a short sightseeing tour of visiting, Daulatabad also known as Devagiri, is a town which includes the Devagiri-Daulatabad fort It is a 14th-century fort city in Maharashtra state of India, about 16 kilometers northwest of Aurangabad. Chand Minar in Daulatabad, situated about 15 km from Aurangabad, is an outstanding example of Islamic art. Ala-ud-din Bahmani built this minaret in 1445 to celebrate his occupation of the area. Also visit to Bibi ka Maqbara Built by Azam Shah in 1678, the Bibi ka Maqbara is a son's loving tribute to his mother, Begum Rabia Durrani, the Queen of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Afterwards if time permit you may opt to visit Jami Masjid, Bharatmata Mandir, Elephant Tank and 'Chini Mahal' or Chinese Palace are the important monuments inside the fort. Khuldabad ("Heavenly Abode"), Many historical figures are buried here including Aurangzeb, the last major Mughal emperor. Return to the hotel for overnight stay.

07 Day: Aurangabad – Mumbai (By Air) – Diu (By Air)

After breakfast, check out the hotel and drive to the airport to board the scheduled flight for Mumbai. On arrival, take connecting flight for Diu, on arrival, transfer to the hotel after refreshment take a city tour of Diu visiting St. Paul's Church, One of the most famous tourist attractions of Diu, this magnanimous structure is the St. Paul Church dedicated to 'Our Lady of Immaculate Conception'. Diu Museum has been set up in the St. Thomas Church. This church had been built in 1598 but was later converted into a museum. Sunset Point, A beautiful hillock located near the Chakritirath beach in Diu, offers its visitors a mesmerizing view of sunset from here. The hillock and the surrounding areas have been beautifully landscaped and illuminated. Overnight at the hotel/resort.

Diu: A Portuguese colony like Goa, Diu is an off - shore island on the western coast, off the Gulf of Cambay. The coast has limestone cliffs, rocky coves and sandy beaches, the best of which are at Nagoa. A massive fort built by the Portuguese dominates the skyline.

08 Day: Diu

After breakfast, enjoy 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 beach. The Naida caves are located on the periphery of the Diu fort. Nagoa Beach, the most beautiful and famous beach of Diu is Nagoa Beach. Diu Fort, the Fort of Diu is a colossal structure that occupies a prominent place on the tourist's list. Panikota Fort, also known as Fortim-do-Mar, Panikota Fort is a former Diu Jail. This white coloured huge structure is located within the Diu Fort. Gangeshwar Temple, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has 5 Shivalingas that were supposedly laid by the Pandavas during their exile period. Zampa Gateway, is another attraction. It is a major landmark of Diu and is carved with dedicated angels, lions and a priest. An artificial waterfall adds to its beauty. Overnight at the hotel/resort.

09 Day: Diu – Somnath (85 kms 2 hrs)

After breakfast check out from the hotel and drive to Somnath. On arrival, transfer to the hotel, Somnath is one of the India’s major fishing ports. After refreshment, visit Somnath jyotirlinga Temple, A highly revered religious site for Hindus, the Somnath Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of India. Triveni Sangam Temple, the confluence of the three rivers Hiran, Kapila and Saraswati this is the point where the rivers meet the mighty Arabian Sea. Beaches of Somnath, though crowded, have the power to lure you away in a different world of soothing waves. The beaches are not recommended for swimming but are definitely a great point to relax and unwind. Rest of the evening is free for relaxation. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Somnath is about 5kms from Veraval. It is believed that the Somnath temple here was originally built by Somraj, the Moon God himself, out of gold, and then rebuilt by Ravana in silver and then by Krishna in Wood, then by Bhimdev in stone. The shore temple of Somnath was believed to have been built in 4 phases - in gold by Lord Soma, in silver by Ravana, in wood by lord Krishna and in stone by Bhimdev. Somnath is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of lord Shiva. Somnath is also known as Prabhas Patan.

10 Day: Somnath – Sasan Gir (70 kms: 2 hrs)

After breakfast check out the hotel and drive Sasan Gir, on arrival, transfer to the jungle resort. After refreshment visit at the park, which is the entrance to the 1412 sq. km Gir National Park and the Wild Life Sanctuary, the last stronghold of the Lion population outside Africa. Gir Forest is today the only place in the world outside Africa, where the lion can be seen in his natural habitat It also plays home to a large number of Panthers, Hyenas, Deer, the world's only 4-horned Antelope, Blue Bull, Wild Boar and the dangerous Marsh Crocodile. Take a jungle safari and return back to the resort for dinner and overnight stay.

Sasan Gir Lion Sanctuary, which lies on the southwestern fringes of the Saurashtra Peninsula (west-central India), is the last home of some 300 Asiatic lions. It was created in 1913 to protect the largest surviving groups of the Asiatic lions. It was given a sanctuary status in 1965. The vegetation in the area consists of teak with a mixture of deciduous trees, including sal (Shorea), dhak (Butea frondosa), and thorn forests. A few springs also exist, but their flow is rather eccentric depending upon the season. Gir Forest is today the only place in the world outside Africa, where the lion can be seen in his natural habitat.

11 Day: Sasan Gir – Gondal (130 kms: 4 hrs)

After breakfast check out from the hotel and drive to the princely place Gondal. Gondal has considerable significance and prosperity. After refreshment take a sightseeing tour of 1740 AD Naulakha Palace to see the superb collection of former rulers as textiles, beadwork, toys painted by hands, crafts of silver, brassware & the excellent carvings. Also visit the place that promotes the weaving in Gondal and few historic buildings. In the evening visit Khadi Plaza - it is one of the main centers in Gujarat of handloom weaving. You can opt to stay overnight at a heritage hotel which is fabulously decorated by the rich textile collection of erstwhile ruling family of Gondal. Overnight at the hotel.

12 Day: Gondal – Rajkot (40 kms: 1 hr)

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive Rajkot. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. After refreshment, take a sightseeing tour of the Rajkot City: The main tourist attractions in Rajkot are the Mahatma Gandhi House (The Karba Gandhi No Delo) is the house of the Mahatma Gandhi where he lived from the age of six. The Mahatma Gandhi House has a good collection of things related to the Mahatma Gandhi's life.The Watson Museum and Library commemorates the work of Colonel John Watson, political agent from 1886 to 1889. Also visit, Aji Dam, Jagat Mandir, Rajkumar College, Lang Library, Lal Pari Lake and Randerda. Evening is free for shopping in the local markets which is famous for its Bandhani Sarees, mirror-work, patch work, bead work and silk embroidery. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Rajkot was founded in the year 1610 A.D. by Chief VibhajiJadeja& Raju Sandhi. Rajkot is the fourth largest city in the state of Gujarat, has a long history and had a significant part in the Indian independence movement. Rajkot was home for many personalities like Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi. Rajkot is in a transition period of growing cultural, industrial and economical activities. Rajkot is famous for its Bandhani Sarees, mirror-work, patchwork, beadwork and silk embroidery.

13 Day: Rajkot – Bhuj (230 kms: 5 hrs)

After early breakfast check out the hotel drive to Bhuj, enroute visit Murbi, situated at the banks of the River Machhu, Morbi provides a marvelous example of the fusion of traditional and the European style of architecture. After visit proceed to Bhuj on arrival visit the District Collector’s office to procure several permissions to visit the prohibited area in Kutch sector. Later check in to the resort. After refreshment visit Hall of Mirrors at the Aina Mahal; climb the bell tower of the Prag Mahal next door; stroll through the produce market; examine the 2000-year-old Kshatrapa inscriptions in the Kutch Museum; admire the sculptures of Ramayana characters at the Rama kund step well; walk around Hamirsar Lake and watch children jumping into it from the lake walls as the hot afternoon sun subsides; and catch the sunset among the chhatardis of the Kutch royal family in a peaceful field outside the center of town. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel .

Bhuj, a city in Gujarat, excites tourists by offering a range of attractions that vary from old forts and palaces to local haats ( local market) and shopping bazaars. Bhuj is a city and also a municipality in the Kutch district in Gujarat. Bhuj lies at the heart of Kutch. Bhuj is very well connected and very well linked by many roads to the rest of the peninsula. The historical and picturesque city of Bhuj was established by Rao Hamirji in the year 1510. Later on after a few years Bhuj was made the state capital by Rao Khengari. The city was made the state capital in the year 1549.

14 Day: Bhuj (Full day Excursion to Banni Villages)

After breakfast, full day excursion to Banni Villages (North Bhuj) (you are suggested to carry packed lunch). Amidst the Desert land of infinite dimensions, are suspended, quaint little villages. These are the last villages on the India-Pakistan border. Here you will come across master craft people' exposing their traditional art, turning our master pieces every day. Their ornaments, clothes, utensils, everything they use - will make you feel as if you have stepped into lifestyle museum leaving you spellbound. Also visit Bhujodi is a major textile center of Kutch; here you can meet weavers, tie-dye artists and block printers, most of who belong to the Vankar community. Return to Bhuj, Dinner & overnight stay.

Note: Optionally you can visit Kanch museum is the oldest in Gujrat. It has the largest collection of Kshatrapa inscriptions, and diplays textiles, armoury, gold and silver ornaments and other exhibits belonging to the region.

15 Day: Bhuj (Full day excursion to Banni villages East & South Bhuj)

After breakfast, take a full day excursion to Banni villages (East & South Bhuj) (you are suggested to carry Packed lunch). Excursion includes: Anjar (old architecture), popularly known for the shrine of Jesal and Toral, the folklore duo wherein the tough outlaw Jesal was chastised by Toral, a Kachchhi woman; is also a centre of fairs. Also the bungalow of James Macmurdo contains remarkable examples of the art of Kutch. The visitors who want to carry home the Kachchhi souvenirs should visit Anjar for its famous block-printing works, nutcrackers, scissors and penknives. Banni (‘Bhunga’ mud houses,Kutchi handicrafts), Kera (11th century Shiva Temple). Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Bhuj.

16 Day: Banni Region (Kutch) – Little Rann of Kutch (Dasada) (275 kms: 6 hrs)

Today after breakfast the tour starts with a drive to Dasada. The home to tribal heritage area that is rich in local craft. Little Rann of Kutch. On arrival check in to the resort. In the evening you may opt to visit crafts shops and cottages, Rabaris tribal of Dasada, known for their embroideries, the silk-weavers colony at Dasada. Evening is free for leisure. Dinner and overnight at the camps of Dasada.

Dasada is located on the edge of little Rann of Kutch, which is an extension of the Rann of Kutch onto Saurashtra. Dasada is a major bird watching destination; there are several bird watching sites around the area. Lesser Flamingos are found here in winter in large numbers. Besides bird watching tribal heritage of the area, this is only place in India where wild ass can be found. There are craft villages and rural character is an attraction for guests looking for an authentic rural India experience. One of the unique destinations of Gujarat for unique experience.

17 Day: Dasada – Ahmedabad (95 kms: 2 - 3 hrs)

After breakfast explore the desert by open jeep in the Little Rann of Kutch, where one can sight animals like Wild-Ass, Desert Fox, Blue Bull, Blackbuck, Wolf, Jackal and few species of snakes & many species of birds also one can visit the home of Rabari and Banjara are the two important tribes of the region. Dasada is known for bird watching and only place in India where wild ass can be found. Afterwards check out of the resort and drive to Ahmedabad. On arrival, check into the hotel. Rest of the evening is free for shopping at the local markets. Overnight at the hotel.

18 Day: Ahmedabad – Hometown (By Air)

Today morning after breakfast check out the hotel and drive to airport. If time permits you can do the shopping. The ‘Manchester of the East’, Ahmedabad has long been associated with textiles and fabrics in India and one of the finest cities in Gujarat for handicrafts, hand loom clothes, wooden toys and decoration, ethnic wears of the best handwork of the skilled professionals, block printed fabrics to contemporary art to Bandhej fabric, you can visit to many local markets and shops: like Rani No Hajiro, Lal Darwaza Market, Sindhi market, Sindhi market, Teen Darwaza Market, Kapasi Handicrafts Emporium, Asopalav Ratanpole, Law Garden’s Night Market, Dhalgarwad and many more shops and shopping malls in Ahmedabad. Later transfer to the airport to board the scheduled flight for hometown/onwards journey. On departure tour concludes with happy memories. Tour Package Guidelines: