Rajasthan & Gujarat Pilgrimage Tour

Upon your arrival in Jaisalmer, the ‘Golden City of Rajasthan,’ our guide will greet you with a warm welcome and then escort you to your luxurious hotel to relax and freshen up.

In the afternoon, your exporation begins with a visit to the jaisalmer Fort which is also known as the ‘Sonar Killa’ or the ‘Golden Fort’ as it has been built using yellow sandstone. This fort was constructed on top of the Trikuta hill in the 12^th century by Maharaja Rao Jaisal, the founder of Jaisalmer. This fort is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is among the very few forts in the world that are still inhabited by people. The fort houses around 3000 citizens and there are small shops, hotels, restaurants, café’s, etc. situated by the narrow lanes that snake through the entire fort. Apart from that, some of the key attractions within the Jaisalmer Fort are the Raj mahal, the Laxminath Temple, Chandraprabhu Jain Temple, the Jaisalmer Fort Palace Museum, and the canon point.

After this, you will head towards the Patwon ki Haveli, which is a cluster of five havelis that were built by a rich merchant named Guman Chand Patwa for his five sons. These havelis boast of beautiful paintings, intricate carvings, and grand architecture.

Then, you will head to the Gadisar Lake, which is a man-made marvel that was constructed by Maharaja Rawal Jaisal in 1156 AD to cater to the drinking needs of the people. On reaching the lake, you can wander or sit by the banks of the lake for a rejuvenating experience. Apart from that, you may also take a boat ride to capture this captivating experience of boating in this heritage lake, but at your own expense.

As the sun sets down, walk towards the ancient Shiva Temple that is situated on the bank of the lake to witness an immersive evening aarti.

After this, you will head back to your hotel to have a delicious dinner and a restful sleep.

Today, you will relish a delicious breakfast and then explore some of the other key attractions around Jaisalmer like the Jain Dadabari Brahmsar, the Lodhurva Jain Temple, Amar Sagar Jain Temple, the Kuldhara village, and the Sam Sand Dunes.

You will begin your sightseeing tour by heading off to the Jain Dadawadi Brahmsar, that is counted among the ‘Panchtirthi’, which translates to 5 major temples of the Jains. The temple has a shrine (dadawadi) which is dedicated to Gurudev Shri Jinkushal Surishwar ji.

After this, you will be heading towards the Lodhurva Jain Temple, which is counted among the most important Jain temples. It was built in the 9^th century by the Bhati clan and is dedicated to Lord Parshvanath. The temple was vandalised in 1152 by Mahmud of Ghazni & Muhammad of Ghor. However, it was later renovated & repaired in 1615 and is renowned for its intricate craftsmanship.

Next, you will visit the Amar Sagar Jain Temple, which is also known as the Adeshwar Nath Jain temple. This temple is also dedicated to Lord Parshvanath and is situated next to the Amar Sagar Lake. It was commissioned by Patwa Bafna Himmat Ram in 1928 and has been beautifully crafted with intricate hand carvings on yellow sandstone.

This will be followed by a visit to Kuldhara, an abandoned village that was once home to the Paliwal Brahmins, who along with villagers from 90 more villages fled on one unfortunate night to save the honour of a Paliwal brahmin girl from Salim Singh, a cunning minister who was popular for being a womaniser. This village now lies in ruins and with it’s broken walls standing as a testament to a happy community that once thrived there.

After this, you will continue your journey towards the Sam Sand Dunes, which will be the final attraction for the day. However, enroute Sam, you will have ample of opportunities to indulge in various adventure activities like parasailing, para motoring, quad biking and jeep safari; but at your own expense.

A few minutes journey further into the desert will take you to the famous Sam sand dunes. Here you will embark on a fascinating camel ride on the golden sand dunes. After the camel ride, you have ample of time to walk on the dunes and click some amazing pictures.

Later, you will be escorted to your luxurious desert camp for an overnight stay. On reaching the camp, you will receive a warm traditional welcome with dhol and tikka, which will be followed by a welcome drink, and an enchanting cultural programme with folk dance & music.

Relish a delicious dinner after the programme and then you may retire in your luxurious Swiss Tent for a comfortable and peaceful night’s sleep.

Wake up a bit early today to witness a mesmerising sunset in the middle of the Great Thar Desert. Then go back to your Swiss Tent to freshen-up. After this, feast on a scrumptious breakfast and then bid farewell to your desert camp, as you will be travelling to Jodhpur via Longewala & Tanot.

As you begin your journey towards Jodhpur via the scenic border road, you will first stop at Longewala to visit the Longewala Yudh Sthal, which stands a testament to the valiant defense put forward by our brave soldiers during the Battle of Longewala in 1971.

After this, you will head towards the Sadhewala War Memorial, which is dedicated to honour the extraordinary bravery and selfless sacrifices of our soldiers during the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971.

Your next stop is the Tanot Mata Temple, which is a very famous temple dedicated to ‘Awadh Mata’. On entering the temple, you will see a unique blend of dedication, history, and spirituality. According to historical facts, the Pakistani army dropped around 400 bombs around the temple complex and none of them exploded. So, after the war was over, the Pakistan army general came to the temple to seek forgiveness and blessings from Tanot Mata. As soon as you enter the temple, you will witness a unique blend of history, patriotism, and spirituality. The temple is maintained by the Indian Army and they prepare langar for all devotees visiting the temple (free meal shared as a blessing) every day. This temple was also featured in the 1997 Bollywood blockbuster film ‘Border’ starring Sunny Deol, Suniel Shetty, Akshaye Khanna, Jackie Shroff, Sudesh Berry, Puneet Issar, Kulbhushan Kharbanda, Tabu, Pooja Bhatt, etc.

After praying and seeking the blessings from Tanot Mata, you will travel for a couple of hours via a picturesque route to Jodhpur, the blue city of Rajasthan. On reaching Jodhpur, you will check-in to your luxurious hotel to relish a delectable dinner and to have a restful sleep.

We recommend that you start a bit early today to utilize your time efficiently as you will not only be exploring Jodhpur and travelling to Udaipur, but will also be visiting the beautiful Ranakpur Jain Temple and the majestic Kumbalgarh Fort.

Your sightseeing tour in Jodhpur begins with a visit to the Mehrangarh Fort, which was built by Maharaja Rao Jodha in 1459 and is situated on top of a huge rocky hill that rises more than 400 feet above the Jodhpur plains. The strategic location of the fort not only served as a vantage point against enemy attacks, but also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area.

After this, you will head towards the Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur itself. This palace is considered as the youngest royal palace in India and was constructed by Maharaja Umaid Singh in 1943 to provide employment to around 4000 locals, who were grappling with drought and famine.

After visiting the Umaid Bhawan Palace, you will depart from Jodhpur and will head towards the Ranakpur Jain Temple, which is a 15^th century temple dedicated to Lord Adinatha, the first Jain Tirthankara. The temple was commissioned by a local merchant named Darna Shah and is a testament to divine craftsmanship and spiritual devotion. It is renowned for its stunning marble architecture and intricate carvings.

The final attraction you will be visiting today is the Kumbhalgarh Fort. This fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was built by Rana Kumbha during the 15^th century. One of the key highlights of the fort is that it has a huge wall that stretches over 36 kilometres, making it the second largest fortified structure in the world after the ‘Great Wall of China’.

Soon, you will leave the Kumbhalgarh Fort and reach Udaipur in the evening. On reaching Udaipur, you will check-in to your luxurious hotel, where you can savour a delicious dinner and grab a restful sleep.

Today, wake up, get ready, relish an appetizing breakfast and then you will head off to explore some of the other key attractions in Udaipur, like the City Palace, Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandal, Lake Pichola, and the Jagdish Temple.

Your exploration begins with a visit to the City Palace, a magnificent palace that is perched on top of a cliff overlooking the beautiful Lake Pichola. This palace was built over centuries by various rulers of the Mewar dynasty and it showcases a beautiful blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture.

This will be followed by a visit to the Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandal, which is a museum that was established in 1952 by Padam Shri Late Devi Lal Samar to promote local art and culture. The museum currently showcases a wide range of highly decorated jewellery, folk art, puppets, and masks. It also hosts live performances of traditional Rajasthani folk dance, puppet shows, etc.

After this, you will head towards the Lake Pichola, which is considered as the largest lake in Udaipur. This lake was first built by a ‘banjara’ (gypsy) after he constructed a dam on the river Berach to meet the drinking water and irrigation requirements of the region. Then, the lake was enlarged further in the 16^th century by Maharana Udai Singh II, the founder of Udaipur. Here you will take a boat ride to the Jag mandir, which is a beautiful palace that is known for its garden courtyard, intricately carved architecture, peaceful surroundings, and a picturesque view of the palaces & havelis situated on the other bank of the lake Pichola.

In the evening, you will be visiting the Jagdish Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This is one of the oldest temples and is also considered as the biggest temple in Udaipur. The temple compound boasts of intricately carved architecture and sculptures.

After this, you are free to explore the local market on your own. Later, come back to your hotel for a delicious dinner and a good restful night’s sleep.

Relish a scrumptious breakfast, and then set off to discover the beautiful Udaipur, which is also known as the ‘City of Lakes’.

Today, your exploration begins with a visit to the Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace, which was built in 1884 by Maharana Sajjan Singh as an observatory palace to monitor the monsoon clouds. This palace is perched atop a hill, overlooking the Fateh Sagar Lake and offers beautiful, picturesque views of the surrounding area.

This will be followed by a visit to Shilpgram, which is a cultural museum that was established in 1989 and is known for its open-air Shilpgram Crafts Village. The Shipgram village houses traditional huts that showcase the tools and everyday items from diverse regions of western India. The complex also has a vibrant bazaar, where skilled artisans passionately demonstrate the intricate process of craft making.

After this you will head towards the Eklingji Temple, which is an ancient temple that dates to the 8^th century. This temple houses a four-faced idol of Eklingji (Lord Shiva), which is carved out of black marble.

Later, in the evening you will visit the Saheliyon Ki Bari, a beautiful garden that was built as a recreational haven for the royal women. This garden complex was built by Maharana Sangram Singh between 1710 to 1734 and it features beautiful lotus pools, fountains, and verdant pavilions.

After spending some quality time at the Saheliyon ki Bari, you will head back to your hotel to feast on a scrumptious dinner and to grab a restful sleep.

Wake up to a refreshing new day, have a delicious breakfast and then embark on a journey to Mount Abu, a captivating hill station in the heart of Rajasthan that once served as the abode for various ascetics and sages seeking solitude and serenity.

Upon reaching Mount Abu, you will first check-in to your hotel to refresh and unwind. After some time, you will begin exploring Mount Abu, with the first attraction being the Dilwara Jain Temples. These temples were built by Vastupal and Tejpal between the 11th and 13th centuries. They stand as a testament to the exquisite artistry and spiritual devotion and boast of the quality of its intricate marble carvings.

After this, you will proceed to visit the Nakki Lake, which is a beautiful man-made lake in the Aravali Mountain ranges. It is the only artificial lake in India constructed above an altitude of 1200 metres above sea level. The legends surrounding the lake suggest that the Gods built the lake using their nails. Apart from that, it also has an historical significance as Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes were immersed here on February 12, 1948.

This will be followed by a visit to the Toad Rock, which is a fascinating rock formation near the Nakki Lake that mimics a toad about to leap into the water. You must capture the beauty of this surreal landscape by clicking some amazing photographs.

As the day unfolds, bask in the glory of a breathtaking sunset at the Sunset Point, where the rugged Aravalli ranges provide a dramatic backdrop painted with the hues of the setting sun.

Later, return to your hotel to conclude the day with a scrumptious dinner and a peaceful night’s sleep.

Today wake up and begin your day with a satisfying breakfast at your hotel, before setting off to explore the other key attractions in Mount Abu like the Brahma Kumari Spiritual Ashram, the Achalgarh Fort, Guru Shikhar, and the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary.

Your sightseeing tour for the day commences at the Brahma Kumari Spiritual Ashram, which is an international spiritual organization that was founded by Dada Lekhraj Kripalani in the 1930s. The ashram is also known as ‘Madhuban,’ and it is spread over almost 50 acres of land. Here you will explore the Brahma Kumari Museum that showcases the organization’s beliefs, values, and spiritual teachings. Apart from that, you will also visit ‘Baba’s Kutiya’ (hut), where profound meditation paved the way to salvation.

Next you will be visiting the Achalgarh village, which is home to the 14th-century Achalgrah Fort that was originally built by the Paramara dynasty and was later renovated by Maharana Kumbha. Inside the fort complex, you will be visiting the famous Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple and the picturesque Mandakini Lake.

After this you will head towards the Guru Shikhar, which is the highest peak in the Aravalli Ranges at an altitude of 1722 meters above sea level. Named after Guru Dattatreya, this peak features a cave-turned-temple and the Mount Abu Observatory. You will see beautiful panoramic views of the Mount Abu city and its surrounding landscapes.

Later, conclude your day by exploring the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, which was established in 1960 to preserve the region’s biodiversity. Encompassing around 288 sq. kilometres, the sanctuary boasts various mountain peaks that range between 300 metres to 1722 metres, including the Guru Shikhar. This sanctuary also consists of igneous rock formations with large cavities that have sculpted over time by wind and water. You will embark on a short trail in the sanctuary to enjoy a peaceful time amidst nature. But make sure to keep a keen eye as there is a possibility of encountering wildlife in their undisturbed natural habitat.

After a day brimming with enchanting explorations, return to your hotel for a delectable dinner and a restful night’s sleep.

Wake up, have a delicious breakfast and then you will head towards Ambaji, which is a small town nestled in the Aravali Range.

Your first stop on reaching the town is the Ambaji Temple, which is a major Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Amba (an incarnation of Goddess Bhagwati) and is considered among the 52 Shakti Peeth. The temple is constructed on Gabbar Hill at the site where the heart of Goddess Sati fell. As you enter the temple, you will delve into the spiritual aura of Goddess Ambaji, who was the daughter of Maharaja Prajapati Daksha.

According to the legend, Maharaja Daksh organized a ‘mahayagya’ (a sacred ritual) and invited all the Gods, except Lord Shiva, his son-in-law. Maharaja Daksh did so because Goddess Sati married Lord Shiva against his will. But being the Maharaja’s daughter, Goddess Sati went to the yagna ceremony. On seeing her, Maharaja Daksh welcomed her, but said harsh things about Lord Shiva. Enraged with her father’s words, Goddess Sati sacrificed her physical body by jumping into the burning pit of the ‘yagna’. Soon, Lord Shiva came to the ‘yagna’ ceremony searching for his wife and on seeing her lifeless body, he was struck with grief and began the dance of destruction.

On fearing complete destruction of the world, Lord Vishnu used his ‘Sudarshana Chakra’ (a round weapon with blades on all sides) to cut Goddess Sati. The cut parts of Goddess Sati fell in 52 different parts of the Indian Peninsula, out of which 42 Shakti Peeths are in India, 4 of them are in Bangladesh, 2 are in Nepal and 1 each in Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Tibet.

After seeking the blessings from Goddess Amba, you will head towards the Gabbar Hill, where you will experience a unique blend of spirituality and tranquillity amidst nature.

This will be followed by a visit to the Kumbhariya Jain Temple, which is a cluster of five Jain temples that were constructed by Chaulukya dynasty between 1062 and 1231. According to the legend, it is believed that there were around 360 such temples, but most of them were destroyed due to earthquakes and now only five of them remain. These temples feature captivating intricately carved architecture and are counted among the best examples of the Chaulukyan architecture.

This will be followed by a visit to the Koteshwar Mahadev Temple, which is a small ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located near Gaumukh, which is the source for the vedic river Saraswati that flows from the mouth of a cow, incarved in a rock. This water flows into a small ‘kund’, a water body constructed for spiritual bathing.

After this, you will head towards the local market, where you are free to wander on by yourself. In these small vibrant markets, you can try some authentic local cuisines or shop some amazing local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.

Later check-in to your hotel for a delicious dinner and a restful sleep.

Wake up, have breakfast, and start a bit early, as today is an exciting day filled with the sightseeing of a lot of spiritual and architectural marvels like the Rani ki Vav, Panchasara Jain Temple, Patola Saree Making Unit, and Modhera Sun Temple.

The first attraction you will be exploring today is the Rani ki Vav, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Patan. This captivating site houses a beautiful network of stairwells and boasts of intricately carved sculptures and architectural brilliance. This beautiful stepwell was constructed by Queen Udyamati as a remembrance to her late husband Mahraja Bhimdev I in 1063. The Rani Ki Vav is also featured in the Indian 100 rupee note and it is considered as a perfect example of utilizing the groundwater resources in that era.

After this, you will continue your journey to the Panchasara Jain Temple, which is an ancient Jain temple that was originally built by Vanraja Chavda in the year 746 and was later repaired by the rulers of the Chalukya dynasty. This temple is renowned for not only for its historical and religious significance, but also for its intricate architecture and serene surroundings.

This will be followed by a visit to the Patola Saree Making Unit, where you will witness the traditional art of weaving Patola sarees, that are known across the globe for their highly decorated designs and vibrant colours. Here you can engage with the skilled artisans to gain insights into this centuries-old craft and shop for some exotic sarees.

After visiting the Patola Saree Factory, you will bid farewell to Patola and head towards the iconic Modhera Sun Temple. This 11th-century marvel was built during the reign of Bhima I of the Chaulukya dynasty to commemorate the victory over Mahmud of Ghazni. This temple was dedicated to the Sun God, but no players are offered here anymore as it is now a protected monument that falls under the ‘Monument of National Importance’ and is being taken care of by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The temple’s unique architecture and its highly detailed carvings make it a cultural and historical treasure, that is even listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Soon, you will depart from Modhera and continue your journey to Ahmedabad. After travelling for a couple of hours, you will reach Ahmedabad, where you will check-in to your cozy hotel for a delicious dinner and a sweet night’s sleep.

Wake up, relish a scrumptious breakfast, and prepare to explore Ahmedabad, the capital of Gujarat.

Today, you will begin your day with a visit to the Sabarmati Ashram, the residence of Mahatma Gandhi during India’s struggle for independence. The Sabarmati Ashram was founded in 1917 and it stands as a living testament to Gandhi Ji’s philosophy of truth and non-violence. It acted as the abode to Mahatma Gandhi when he was not travelling across India, and even played a pivotal role in India’s Independence against the British rule. Here, you will also visit the Hridaya Kunj to get a better insight on the history and lifestyle of Mahatma Gandhi.

After the Sabramati Ashram, you will visit the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Museum to delve into the life and legacy of India’s ‘Iron Man’. Here you will see various important historical artifacts, photographs, documents, and learn more about Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s role in India’s independence and his contributions as the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of Independent India.

This will be followed by a visit to India’s textile heritage at the Calico Museum of Textiles, which was established in 1949 and houses an extensive collection of fabrics, garments, and artifacts. Here you will learn more about India’s diverse textile traditions, craftsmanship, and historical evolution.

Next, you will visit the Hutheesing Jain Temple to delve into the spiritual and artistic richness of the begone era. This temple was constructed in 1848 by a rich merchant named Sheth Hutheesing Kesarisinh as a dedication to the 15th Jain Tirthankara, Shri Dharmanatha.

Lastly, you will head towards the Sabarmati Riverfront to conclude today’s sightseeing tour. The Sabarmati River has been an integral part of Ahmedabad ever since the city was constructed in 1411. However, a better developed riverfront was proposed in the 1960s, and ever since the construction began in 2005, the Sabarmati Riverfront has attracted millions of tourists each year. The riverfront has been designed sustainably to redefine the city’s landscape and to provide a meaningful waterfront environment. Apart from being an important source of water for Ahmedabad, the river also provides a backdrop to various cultural and recreational activities like the Sabarmati Marathon, the Sabarmati Cyclothon, International Kite Festival, Airshows, etc.

As the night unfolds, you must head towards the Atal Foot Over Bridge, a cable-styled bridge across the Sabarmati River, that was built to honour the former Prime Minister of India, Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee. This bridge is a very good example of moder engineering and was inaugurated in 202. It is 300 metres long, 14 metres wide and is inspired by kites. The Atal bridge is the perfect place to click some amazing pictures as it provides a beautiful view of the illuminated cityscape along the river Sabarmati.

After this, you must return to your hotel to feast on a delectable dinner and to grab a restful sleep.

Today, wake up, have breakfast and then you will head off to explore some of other major attractions in Ahmedabad like the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, the Kankaria Lake, Vintage Car Museum, the Adalaj Stepwell, and the Science City.

Your sightseeing tour for the day starts with a visit to the Sidi Saiyyad Mosque, which is renowned for its intricately carved stone lattice screens. This mosque was built in 1573 and it showcases the Indo-Saracenic style. This mosque is particularly famous for the Sidi Saiyyed ki Jaali which depicts intertwined tree branches.

This will be followed by a visit to the Kankaria Lake, which is a picturesque man-made lake that was built by Sultan Qutb-ud-din in 1451 to serve as a reliable source of water for the city. The lake was later reformed in the 20^th century and now, it offers a tranquil retreat with gardens, boat rides, and various food stalls. You can simply undertake a leisurely walk to observe the beauty of this well-planned lake or choose to indulge in a boat ride to enhance your travel experience, but at your own expense.

After this, you will head towards the Auto World Vintage Car Museum, which was founded by Pranlal Bhogilal and houses a remarkable collection of vintage cars from the early 20th century to mid-century. Here you can click some amazing pictures and witness the evolution of the automotive industry.

Next, you will head towards the Adalaj Stepwell, which is another architectural marvel similar to the Rani ki Vav. This 5-storeyed stepwell was built by Rani Rudadevi in memory of her late husband Rana Veer Singh in the year 1498. This stepwell was built to not only to fulfil the water requirement and to provide a refuge to the weary travellers, but also to serve a spiritual purpose.

After this, you will head towards the Science City, where the marvels of science come to life and offer an enriching and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages. The Science City was established by the Government of Gujarat to introduce the people to science & cosmology, to enable them to interact with dinosaurs & robots, have a life-like experience of watching a 3D movie, to witness the aquatic life in India’s largest aquarium, and to experience the thrill of riding immersive adventure rides. Apart from that, there is also a ride that lets you experience what an earthquake would feel like and how to cope with such natural calamities.

In the evening, we will drop you at the Law Garden, where you are free to explore the vibrant marketplaces like the Law Garden for traditional crafts, textiles, and street food. Later, come back to your hotel to have a delicious dinner and to grab a nice, restful sleep.

After breakfast, you will check-out from your hotel and depart towards Gondal.

Enroute Gondal, you will visit the Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary, which is a beautiful lake that was formed in the 15^th century on the Sabarmati River by constructing a check dam. This bird sanctuary is home to around 250 species of birds like flamingos, herons, cranes, pelicans, egrets, etc. This sanctuary is not only a haven for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts, it also attracts thousands of visitors and offers them a unique opportunity to relax and reconnect with nature. You will love sitting by its peaceful banks, and you may also choose to undertake a boat ride on its tranquil waters (at your own expense).

After spending some quality time at the Nalsarovar Lake, you will continue your journey towards Gondal, where you will visit the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple. This palatial riverside temple was built to commemorate the site of Gunatianand Swami by Moghiba, the Maharani of Gondal in 1868. The temple also houses the Akshar Deri Temple, which is a major pilgrimage site for the ‘Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha’ (BAPS) sect.

Next, you will head towards the Sri Ramnath Dham, which is a beautiful temple complex housing the idol of Shri Amba Mata. This temple was built in memory of Shri Nathabhai H. Joshi and his Wife Ramaben. The complex even has gardens as well as playgrounds within its campus to help you relax and to keep you entertained.

After this, you will check-in to your hotel to eat a scrumptious dinner and to have peaceful sleep.

Today wake up, feast on an appetizing breakfast and then you will travel to Junagadh with a short halt at Virpur.

You will start today’s journey by visiting the Naulakha Palace, which was the home to the Jadeja Rajput Rulers. This palace lies within the Darbargardh Fort Complex and was built in 1748 by Haloji Sangramji. The palace is called ‘Naulakha’ as a sum of around nine lakh rupees was spent in its construction in that era. The palace boasts of beautiful jharokas, chandeliers, arcades, decorated mirrors, stone carvings and antique furnishings. Apart from the Naulakha Palace, you will also visit the Orchard Palace and the Riverside Palace within the Darbargardh Fort.

After this, you will head towards Virpur, where you will visit the Jalaram Temple, which is dedicated to Jalaram Bapa, a saint and a follower of Lord Rama. He was born in the village of Virpur in 1799 and began his spiritual journey in the age of 18 and dedicated his entire life in feeding the sadhus, saints and the needy all throughout the day. His legacy is continued even today by his followers, and they still offer prasad here without taking any donations, making it the only temple in the world that does not accepts donations, just like Jalaram Bapa would do.

After seeking the blessings from Jalaram Bapa, you will head towards the Khambhalida Buddhist Caves, that date back to the 4^th century. These caves have been carved out of limestone rocks that were situated on the banks of a small creek. Discovered in 1958, these three caves are being maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Soon, you will depart from the Khambilada Caves and head towards Junagadh, a heritage town that acts as the gateway to Somnath and the Gir National Park. On arrival in Junagadh, you will check-in to your hotel to relax, have a delectable dinner and to grab a restful sleep.

Today, wake up and start a bit early to make the most out of your day as you will not only be exploring the Uparkot Fort and the Mahabat Makbara in Junagadh, but will also be heading towards the Gir National Park before finally reaching Somnath.

Begin today’s sightseeing tour with a visit to the Uparkot Fort, which is an ancient fort with a rich history dating back to the 4th century BCE. The fort stands atop a plateau and has witnessed the rule of various dynasties, including the Mauryas, Guptas, and Chudasamas. The fort is surrounded by massive walls and features impressive gates, step wells, and numerous structures that reflect the diverse cultural influences over the centuries. Notable attractions within the fort include the Adi-Kadi Vav (step well), the Jama Masjid, the Buddhist caves, and the beautifully carved Nilamtope. Apart from the beautiful architecture, you will also witness beautiful panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

This will be followed by a visit to the Mahabat Maqbara, which is a magnificent mausoleum that stands as a testament to the architectural grandeur of the 19th century. This maqbara was built between 1878 and 1892 as the final resting place of Nawab Mahabat Khan II and his family. This mausoleum showcases a very unique blend of Indo-Islamic, European, and Gothic styles that feature intricate carvings, ornate arches, and an imposing domed roof adorned with exquisite craftsmanship.

After an hour’s drive from Junagadh, you will reach the Gir National Park, a wildlife sanctuary that was established to protect the Asiatic Lion in its natural habitat. Here you can begin your wildlife safari into the Gir National Park (at your own expense) to spot the Asiatic Lions, the Asiatic wild ass, Gir foxes, hyenas, pygmy woodpecker, brown fish owl, black buck, etc.

Later, conclude the day by enjoying an enchanting sunset at a scenic point and then you will continue your journey to Somnath. On reaching Somnath, you will check-in to your hotel to relish a scrumptious dinner and have a peaceful sleep.

Note: The Gir National Park is closed from June 6 to October 10 for monsoons.

Wake up, relish a sumptuous breakfast, and then you will set off to explore some of the key attractions in Somnath.

You will start your sightseeing tour for the day by visiting the Bhalka Tirth, which is e poignant site where Lord Krishna took a divine departure from the mortal world after being struck by the arrow of a hunter who mistook him for a deer.

After visiting the Bhalka Tirth, you will proceed towards the Ban Ganga, which is sacred stepwell with a rich history dating back to the ancient times. Legend has it, that Lord Krishna bathed here before continuing his journey to Dwarka. There are two Shiv Lingas located on the shore of the Arabian Sea, that are located 500m apart and are only visible during low tide. The third one is situated far away in the waters and is not clearly visible to the naked eye. The high salt content of the water has sculpted the surrounding rocks, yet the divine Shiv Lingas stand untouched. The water from Ban Ganga is considered quite auspicious for anyone visiting the Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple and you must take a ceremonial dip in the holy waters here before proceeding to the Somnath Temple. But be cautious while walking on the stepwells, as the stepwell comprises of small rocks and is slippery due to algae.

This will be followed by a visit to the Somnath Temple to worship Lord Shiva and seek his blessings. The Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple is a sacred shrine that is considered among the 12 Jyotirlingas. This temple dates to the 1^st century and has been mentioned in various Sanskrit texts like the ‘Mahabharat’, the ‘Bhagavat Puran’ and the ‘Shiv Puran’. This temple has been reconstructed several times in history, after being demolished by various Mughal rulers over the centuries. The current temple was finally reconstructed in 1951 under the orders of the first Deputy Prime Minister of India Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

After this, you will continue your journey to the Surya Temple, which is a 5000-year-old ancient temple dedicated to ‘Surya Dev’ or the Sun God. The temple boasts of intricate carvings of lions, birds, elephants, etc. and it also features a carved image of Surya Dev along with his two wives riding on seven horses. Apart from that, there is a small kund, water body located within the premises.

Next, you will visit the Triveni Sangam, to witness the confluence of three holy rivers – Saraswati, Kapila and Hiranya. This confluence is considered spiritually important as it is believed that a dip here cleanses the soul. Moreover, it is a site for performing religious rituals and rites for the departed souls to help them attain ‘moksha’ (salvation).

Finally, wrap up your day of exploration with a visit to the Somnath Beach, which acts as a peaceful retreat that offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. As the sun begins its descent in the evening, you will be treated with a captivating sunset.

Later, return to your hotel to relax, have a delicious dinner and to grab a peaceful sleep.

Today, wake up, feast on an appetising breakfast, and then embark on a captivating journey to Dwarka via Porbandar, the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi.

After departing from Somnath, you will soon reach Porbandar, where you will first visit the Kirti Mandir, which is the birthplace as well as the memorial dedicated to Mohandas Karam Chand Gandhi and his wife, Kasturba Gandhi. The foundation of the Kirti Mandir was built by Shri Darbar Gopaldas Desai in 1947 and the national museum was commissioned by a well-known industrialist, Nanji Bhai Kalidas Mehta. However, after Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination in 1950, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel inaugurated the memorial to honour him. The Kirti Mandir houses the ancestral home of the Mahatma Gandhi, and you will even see various rooms adorned with photographs and personal belongings of the Gandhis.

After this, you will head towards the Sudama Temple, which is a 20^th century temple that has been built to commemorate the true friendship and devotion between Lord Krishna and his beloved friend, Sudama. The temple is adorned with intricate carvings and has a beautiful mural depicting Lord Krishna washing Sudama’s feet along with a statue of both embracing each other. Apart from that, there is also a maze within the temple complex, and it is believed that crossing the maze washes all the sins away.

This will be followed by a visit to the Porbandar Beach, which is also known as the Chowpatty Beach or the Willington Marina Beach. This beach has been reconstructed in 2003 and now features a well-laid walking track along with nice seating arrangements. Here you sit by the shore or take a short stroll along the tranquil waters of the Arabian Sea to soothe your soul.

After spending some quality time at the beach, you will head towards Dwarka, where you will check-in to your hotel to relish a delicious dinner and to grab a good night’s sleep.

Today, wake up to a fresh new day in Dwarka, the holy kingdom of Lord Krishna. We suggest you start a bit early today around 7 am to make the most of your day and to avoid unnecessary traffic.

You will begin today’s sightseeing tour by first visiting the Dwakadhish Temple, which is also known as the Jagat Mandir. This temple was established more than 2500 years ago by Lord Krishna’s grandson, Vajranabh and it holds profound historical and spiritual significance. This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is believed to stand on the spot where Lord Krishna established his kingdom, the mythical city of Dwarka. This ancient temple is an integral part of the Char Dham yatra that includes, the Badrinath Temple, the Jagannath Puri Temple and the Rameshwaram Temple in Kanyakumari. The Dwarkadhish Temple is situated on a small hill at the cusp of the Gomti river and the Arabian Sea and the temple complex houses various sacred ponds & shrines dedicated to other deities. The temple that we see today is considered as the seventh avatar of the temple, and according to the history, it had submerged six times in the sea before. Here, the aura of spirituality, the rhythmic chants, and the vibrant rituals will create an unforgettable experience of devotion and divine connection.

This will be followed by a visit to the Rukmini Devi Temple, which is a more than 2500-year-old temple that is dedicated to Goddess Rukmini, Lord Krishna’s wife. The temple has been reconstructed various times before and the present temple was built in the 12^th century. This temple features various meticulously carved sculptures and houses the idol of Goddess Rukmini in the main sanctum. It is said that praying at the Rukmini Temple fulfils the wishes and we urge you to pray with all your heart, so that Lord Krishna blesses you with good health, prosperity, and happiness.

After this, you will visit the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, which is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is counted among the 12 jyotirlingas. This temple has a fascinating history and as per the legend, a demon named Daruka lived here and oppressed the local inhabitants, who out of fear and sorrow, prayed to Lord Shiva. As a result, Lord Shiva came, killed the demon, and vanished. But a Shiv Linga emerged on its own at this very spot and now a temple enshrines this Shiv Linga. It is believed that offering prayers here brings spiritual liberation and removes obstacles from one’s life.

Next, you will visit the Gopi Talav, which is a historical pond that is associated with tales of Lord Krishna’s playful interactions with the gopis (milkmaids). This pond is surrounded by lush greenery, which further creates a sacred ambiance that is said to evoke feelings of devotion and nostalgia among visitors.

After visiting the Gopi Talav, you will head towards Okha, from where you will have to board a ferry to Beyt Dwarka. Beyt Dwarka, which is a small island situated on the mouth of the Gulf of Kutch is also known as the ‘Shankodhar’ or ‘Antardvipa’ and served as the royal residence of Lord Krishna during his ruling years at Dwarka. According to the holy book of ‘Mahabharata’, it is said that the people of the Yadava clan visited the ‘Antardvipa’ on a boat. The main temple in Beyt Dwarka was established by Guru Vallabhacharya to worship Lord Krishna. However, there are various small temples within the complex dedicated to various Hindu gods – Hanuman Ji, Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, Lakshmi Narayan Ji, Goddess Devi and many more.

After visiting Lord Krishna’s abode and seeking his divine blessings, you will head back to Dwarka to have a delectable dinner and to grab a restful sleep at your cozy hotel.

Today is the final day of this immersive Rajasthan & Gujarat Pilgrimage Tour. So, relish the delicious breakfast freshly prepared for you and then check-out from your hotel in Dwarka.

Your final destination for this tour is Rajkot and you will reach there in the afternoon. We will drop you at your preferred destination like the ISBT, the railway station or the airport, concluding your transformative journey through the spiritual landscapes of Rajasthan and Gujarat with sweet, unforgettable memories that will last for a lifetime.