Gujarat Culture and Festival Tour
Ahmedabad – Poshina – Balaram – Little Rann of Kutch – Bhuj – Hodka – Gir National Park – Diu – Bhavnagar – Ahmedabad – Vadodara – Jambugodha – Champaner – Ahmedabad.
02nd January — Day 1: Welcome to Ahmedabad
You are warmly received upon arrival at Ahmedabad airport or railway station and escorted to the House of Mangaldas Girdhardas, a beautifully restored heritage haveli once owned by a prominent textile industrialist family.
After a brief rest, set out for an afternoon exploration of Sarkhej Roza, an elegant complex of Indo-Islamic architecture, where the serenity of reflecting pools and sandstone pavilions echo tales of Sufi saints and Gujarat’s medieval sultans.
Later, visit the rustic-chic Vishala Village complex, home to the Utensils Museum — a unique treasure trove of everyday artistry, showcasing over 4,500 traditional Indian kitchen objects. As dusk falls, stroll to nearby mosques where the intricate jalis (stone latticework) glow under the fading light. Return to your hotel for a restful night in regal surroundings.
03rd January — Day 2: Stepwells & Silk Roads to Poshina
After breakfast, begin your northward journey through Gujarat’s historical heartland. Your first stop is the stunning Sun Temple at Modhera, built in 1026–27 CE during the reign of Bhima I of the Solanki dynasty. This celestial marvel, dedicated to the solar deity Surya, features a sanctum, an ornate sabha mandapa (assembly hall), and a beautiful stepped reservoir known as Surya Kund, adorned with dozens of miniature shrines and intricate stone carvings that whisper stories of ancient cosmology.
Continue to Patan, once the capital of Gujarat under the Solankis. Here, witness the mesmerizing craftsmanship of the Patola silk weavers, who still use the double ikat technique to create rich, vibrant textiles with astonishing precision. Then step into the subterranean splendour of Rani Ki Vav, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 11th century by Queen Udayamati in memory of King Bhimdev I, this stepwell is a true sculptural gallery of deities, apsaras, and mythological scenes carved deep into the earth.
By evening, arrive in the tribal highlands of Poshina and check in at the Darbargadh Poshina, a 400-year-old countryside palace that once served as the royal residence of the local chieftains. Relax amidst faded frescoes and the quiet charm of rural Gujarat.
​04th January — Day 3: Tribal Trails & Terracotta Offerings
Wake up to the earthy rhythms of Poshina, a village where life moves to the beat of ancient customs. After breakfast, step outside your heritage hotel into the village’s main street. Here, you’ll encounter Garasia tribal women, clad in vibrant attire, gracefully balancing bundles of firewood collected from the forest—an everyday scene that echoes centuries of tradition and resilience.
Your morning unfolds with visits to nearby Garasia and Adivasi hamlets, nestled in the forested hills of Gujarat and Rajasthan. The Garasias are known for their brightly colored clothing and jewelry, while the Adivasis (India’s indigenous people) reflect a simpler, grounded lifestyle. Both communities are deeply connected to the land, relying on agriculture and cattle rearing for sustenance. Interact with locals, observe their unique architecture, and witness a way of life untouched by time.
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Continue to a striking terracotta shrine dedicated to a local village deity. This sacred site is guarded by thousands of terracotta horses, offered by devotees in fulfillment of vows made to the goddess. The sight is deeply spiritual—rituals, earthy sculptures, and whispered prayers merging in a powerful expression of folk devotion.
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After lunch, embark on a scenic drive to the revered Ambaji Temple, one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, where the Goddess of Power is venerated. Amid the temple’s divine energy, you’ll see tribal women and girls selling fruits and vegetables outside the complex—a vibrant marketplace echoing both faith and livelihood.
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Return to Darbargadh Poshina by evening. The rest of the day is at leisure to soak in the serenity of your regal countryside retreat.
05th January — Day 4: Into the Land of the Rabaris
Begin your day with a journey deeper into the heartland of northern Gujarat. Today’s focus is on the Rabaris—one of the most iconic and visually striking pastoral communities of western India. Traditionally camel herders and sheep breeders, the Rabaris are known for their distinctive embroidery, elaborate silver jewelry, and timeless nomadic culture.
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Visit Babar Unnh and Bhelgav, two beautiful Rabari villages nestled amid rolling countryside. Walk through sun-baked lanes, interact with women engaged in intricate embroidery work, and admire their flowing black veils, traditional tattoos, and cattle enclosures. These are not staged experiences, but glimpses into an enduring way of life, untouched by modernity.
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By afternoon, drive to Balaram Palace Resort, a royal retreat once used as a hunting lodge by the Lohani Nawab of Palanpur. Surrounded by the forested Aravalli hills, the palace blends neo-classical architecture with old-world elegance. Spend your evening soaking in the peaceful, regal ambiance—an ideal pause after a day immersed in rural Gujarat.
Overnight at Balaram Palace, where history, nature, and comfort come together in quiet harmony.
06th January — Day 5: Salt Deserts of the Little Rann of Kutch
Post breakfast, drive to the Little Rann of Kutch, home to the endangered Indian Wild Ass. After checking in to The Royal Safari Camp, head out on a village safari across salt plains to meet Mir, Bharwad, Rabari, and Bajania communities. Visit the Agariya salt farmers, whose livelihoods depend on the blistering salt pans. Return to your resort for dinner and overnight stay.
07th January — Day 6: En Route to Bhuj via Tribal Hamlets
07th January — Day 6: En Route to Bhuj via Tribal Hamlets
After breakfast, set out for Bhuj, watching for Banjara caravans on camels, windmills turning in the salt breeze, and mirage-like landscapes. En route, stop at Dhaneti to meet the Ahir tribe, known for their embroidered textiles. Arrive in Bhuj and settle in.
08th January — Day 7: Banni Tribes & Sunset at the Border
Today is a deep dive into the Banni tribal region. Visit Jat villages, where women wear large nose rings and striking jewelry, and Pathan hamlets known for their detailed embroidery. In Khavda, see potters at work and meet the Samma and Sodha tribes, whose tall, Afghan-like men dye their beards with henna and wear colorful kurtas. Conclude with a magical sunset at Kala Dungar, the Black Hill, gazing across the Great Rann to the Indo-Pak border. Stay in Hodka village.
09th January — Day 8: White Desert & Artisans of Nirona
Post early breakfast, visit Dhordo, the gateway to the dazzling White Rann, home to the Mutwa Muslim pastoralists. En route to Bhuj, visit Nirona village, where you’ll see the rare Rogan painting art form kept alive by the Khatri family. Also witness copper bell making by the Lohar tribe and lacquer work by the Vadha artisans. Evening stroll through Bhuj’s local markets for tribal photo opportunities. Overnight in Bhuj.
10th January — Day 9: Long Drive to the Lions of Gir
Depart early for Gir National Park, the last home of the Asiatic Lion. Stop at Morbi and Wankaner, known for their palaces and ceramics. Arrive in Gir and rest for the night.
11th January — Day 10: Safari & Coastal Temples
Embark on a morning safari in Gir, spotting lions, leopards, spotted deer, and exotic birds. Post breakfast, visit Maldhari and Siddi tribal communities living on the forest fringes. Drive to Diu, stopping at the revered Somnath Temple. Unwind by the beach. Stay at a beach resort in Diu.
12th January — Day 11: Fishing Villages to Jain Hills
Rise early to visit Vanakbara, a lively Kharwa fishing village bursting with color and activity. Later, drive to Palitana, the holiest pilgrimage site for Jains.
13th January — Day 12: Shatrunjaya Temples & Kite Market Buzz
Start your day early with a spiritual ascent to Shatrunjaya Hill in Palitana, one of the holiest Jain pilgrimage sites in India. The name Shatrunjaya means “place of victory over inner enemies”, and as you climb the 3,500 steps winding up the hill, you'll feel the serenity of centuries of devotion surrounding you.
Crowning two ridges at the summit is a spectacular complex of over 860 marble temples, said to shimmer like ivory in the morning light. This temple city, dating back to the 11th century, is a marvel of Jain architecture, adorned with intricate carvings, gilded idols, and serene courtyards. The main temple, Adishwar, is dedicated to Rishabhanath, the first Tirthankara, and is considered the holiest of them all.
Among the other revered shrines are the temples of Samprati Raja, Kumar Pal, and Bimal Shah—each a masterpiece of sculpture and faith. The complex also houses a rare Digambar Jain temple, with an idol of Bhagwan Shantinath in radiant white marble, alongside depictions of Bhima, Arjuna, and Yudhishthira.
Post descent, drive back to Ahmedabad, arriving in time to witness the city abuzz with excitement on the eve of Uttarayan, the International Kite Festival. The streets come alive with locals making last-minute purchases of colorful kites, sharp manja (kite string), and festive treats. Markets bustle as women shop for fresh vegetables to prepare Undhiyu, the traditional Gujarati winter delicacy cooked specially for the occasion.
Spend the night soaking in the infectious energy of pre-festival Ahmedabad at Mangaldas Ni Haveli, your charming heritage stay.
14th January — Day 13: Kite Festival & Heritage Walk
Begin your day early with a guided morning heritage walk, starting at Swaminarayan Temple by 7:30 AM. This immersive walk takes you deep into the heart of Old Ahmedabad, through narrow lanes lined with beautifully carved wooden havelis, centuries-old Jain temples, and intricately designed pols (traditional housing clusters). It’s a journey into the living history of a UNESCO World Heritage City.
Stroll past Bhadrakali Temple and the grand Teen Darwaja, eventually reaching the iconic Jumma Masjid by 10:00 AM—an Indo-Islamic architectural gem with graceful arcades and marble detailing.
Pause at the Green House Café for a well-deserved break over refreshing tea, coffee, and local snacks. Later, visit the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, known for its intricate stone latticework windows (jalis), especially the world-famous “Tree of Life” motif—a symbol of Ahmedabad itself.
From the afternoon onwards, we’ll make special arrangements for you to immerse yourself in the vibrant celebration of Uttarayan – the International Kite Festival. Watch the skies fill with kaleidoscopic kites and join the locals on rooftops for an unforgettable cultural experience, complete with music, cheering, and festive food.
Return to your stay at Mangaldas Ni Haveli, wrapped in the joyful spirit of Gujarat’s most anticipated festival.
Day 19: Departure
After a leisurely breakfast, you will be driven to Vadodara or Ahmedabad Airport/Railway Station for your onward journey, carrying with you memories of a deeply immersive journey through Gujarat’s tribal heartland, ancient heritage, and natural wonders.
16th January — Day 15: Royal Grandeur & Forgotten Murals in Vadodara
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Vadodara, Gujarat’s cultural capital. Check into your pre-booked hotel — Express Towers — and relax for a bit.
Post-lunch, step into regal history with a visit to the Laxmi Vilas Palace (closed on Mondays and public holidays), the extravagant royal residence of the Gaekwad dynasty. Four times the size of Buckingham Palace, it is one of the grandest private residences in the country. The adjacent Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, housed within the palace grounds, displays an impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and royal artifacts.
Later, take a heritage detour to the lesser-known yet atmospheric Tambekar Wada — a traditional three-storied Maratha mansion that once belonged to Bhau Tambekar, a key administrator under the Gaekwad rule. Inside, discover fading yet magnificent 19th-century murals depicting mythological and historical scenes—an underappreciated gem in Vadodara’s architectural legacy.
In the evening, enjoy a relaxed stroll through Vadodara’s bustling streets, soaking in the blend of colonial charm and modern-day vibrancy.
Overnight stay at Express Towers, Vadodara.
17th January — Day 16: Tribal Market Day in Chhota Udepur – Colours, Culture & Pithora Art
If today is a Saturday or Monday, you’re in for a cultural treasure hunt. After breakfast, drive deep into Central Gujarat to experience the vibrant weekly tribal haats (markets), a fascinating gathering of indigenous communities like the Rathwas, Bhils, and Nayaks.
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The Rathwa men, with their signature red turbans, and women in bright blouses, silver jewelry, and knee-length skirts, paint a vivid picture of Gujarat’s living tribal traditions. These tribes arrive from scattered villages to sell their produce—vegetables, grains, handcrafted items—and buy daily essentials. The haat is not just a market but a social hub and a window into a vanishing way of life.
Later, visit the Tribal Museum in Chhota Udepur, which offers rare insights into these communities. The museum houses an excellent collection of traditional artifacts, tribal costumes, musical instruments, and model huts of the Rathwas and Nayakas, giving you a glimpse of their daily life and heritage.
Post lunch, stop at a Rathwa home to witness the sacred Pithora paintings, an indigenous ritual art form done to invoke blessings, fulfill wishes, or ensure the wellbeing of the family and livestock. Painted on the interior walls of the main living space, these colourful murals feature horses, elephants, bulls, and celestial beings—not as art, but as divine visions. Each painting tells a deeply spiritual and symbolic story, passed down generations.
Stay the night at a peaceful eco-retreat — A Home for Nature Lovers, nestled amid rural Gujarat’s quietude.
18th January — Day 17: UNESCO World Heritage at Champaner
After an early breakfast, explore the awe-inspiring Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that fuses Hindu and Islamic architecture in its mosques, palaces, and fortifications. Later, return to Ahmedabad. Evening at leisure. Overnight stay.
19th January — Day 18: Farewell to Gujarat
After breakfast, transfer to Ahmedabad Airport for your onward journey—taking with you memories of temples, tribes, stepwells, lions, kites, and salt deserts.