EXPLORE GUJARAT TOUR - A PERFECT DESTINATION FOR 1ST TIME VISITORS
A Gujarat tour offers a blend of spirituality, culture, history, and wildlife, featuring pilgrimage sites like the Somnath and Dwarka temples, the Rann of Kutch's desert landscape, and Gir National Park for Asiatic lions. Tourists can also explore historical sites such as the Statue of Unity and Lothal, experience vibrant local culture through festivals like Navratri and the International Kite Festival, and discover rich handicraft traditions. The state caters to diverse interests, from ancient ruins and vibrant cities to scenic hill stations and religious circuits.
Spiritual and religious sites:
- Dwarka: The ancient kingdom of Lord Krishna and a key pilgrimage destination on the Char Dham Yatra.
- Somnath: One of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Palitana, Ambaji, and Akshardham: Other major pilgrimage sites for devotees.
- Dwarka and Somnath: Often combined into dedicated pilgrimage tours
Cultural and historical highlights:
- Statue of Unity: The world's tallest statue, surrounded by attractions like the Ekta Nursery and Valley of Flowers.
- Rann of Kutch: A salt marsh that transforms into a magical destination, especially during the Rann Utsav festival with folk music, crafts, and camel rides.
- Ahmedabad and Vadodara: Cities known for their rich culture and architecture.
- Lothal, Champaner, and Patan: Sites showcasing historical and architectural heritage, including the UNESCO World Heritage site, Rani Ki Vav, in Patan.
- Mahatma Gandhi's birthplace: Explore sites connected to Mahatma Gandhi, such as the Sabarmati Ashram and the National Salt Satyagraha Museum in Porbandar.
Nature and wildlife:
- Gir National Park: The only place in the world where the Asiatic lion can be seen in its natural habitat. Visitors can go on thrilling jeep safaris here.
- Rann of Kutch: A vast, surreal white salt desert that comes alive during the annual Rann Utsav festival (November-March), featuring cultural performances, handicrafts, and a stunning landscape.
- Other Sanctuaries: The state also features the Little Rann of Kutch (known for the Indian wild ass),Blackbuck National Park, and Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary, ideal for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers
Festivals and events:
- Navratri: Experience garba and dandiya raas, especially in cities like Vadodara and Ahmedabad.
- International Kite Festival: Watch the sky fill with colourful kites during the Makar Sankranti celebration in January.
- Rann Utsav: A vibrant cultural festival held in the Rann of Kutch.
Best time to visit:
- The best time is generally from October to March, avoiding the extreme heat of summer and the monsoon season, which occurs from July to September.
How to Reach:
- You can reach Gujarat from other states by air, train, or road, with options including flying into major airports like Ahmedabad, taking a train to major stations, or driving via well-connected national highways and bus services. The best choice depends on your starting point, budget, and time
By Air
- Main airport: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (AMD) in Ahmedabad is the primary gateway, with international and domestic flights from major cities.
- Other Airports: Cities like Surat, Vadodara, and Rajkot have domestic airports that connect you to other parts of India.
- Airlines: Major airlines like Air India, Indigo, and Spice Jet operate frequent flights to Gujarat.
By Train
- Major stations: Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, and Rajkot are major railway hubs with extensive networks connecting to all major cities in India.
- Train types: Superfast and express trains like the Shatabdi. Express and Rajdhani Express offer efficient travel to and from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur.
By Road
- Highways: Gujarat is well-connected by a network of national and state highways. You can drive to the state from neighbouring regions like Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh.
- Bus services: The Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) runs regular bus services, and many private operators offer comfortable, including luxury, options from other states.
- Other options: You can also hire a car or use taxi services like Ola and Uber for travel within the state.