The Wonders of Gujarat
Following in Gandhi's footsteps and searching for Asiatic lions, between thousand-year-old Jain temples and forgotten Portuguese shores of Gujarat.
Duration
13 days
From
€1,960/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jan, Feb, Mar, Oct, Nov, Dec
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends, senior
The spirit of travel
This 13-day itinerary reveals Gujarat, a historic and cultural region still little frequented by tourists, marked by ancient temples and the life of Mahatma Gandhi. The journey begins in Mumbai, economic capital and birthplace of Bollywood, with a visit to the Mani Bhawan museum dedicated to the Mahatma. Then heading to Ahmedabad to discover Gandhi's house, then Bhavnagar and its bustling streets, as well as the Jain temple of Palitana. A coastal stop in Diu, a former Portuguese trading post, precedes a safari in the Sasan Gir National Park, sanctuary of Asian lions. The journey concludes with several iconic sites: the Somnath temple, Buddhist caves, Junagadh fort, the distinctive city of Rajkot and the Gondal palace.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Traditional welcome and transfer to the hotel
Arrival at Mumbai international airport, then transfer to the hotel.
Mumbai, a cosmopolitan metropolis and formerly known as Bombay, is the largest city in India and the capital of Maharashtra state. This bustling city is undoubtedly India's commercial capital and is one of the country's major port cities. Mumbai, the most cosmopolitan and electric of India's cities. It stands out for the presence of Bollywood, India's largest film industry, where a large number of films and varieties in Hindi and other regional languages are produced. It is a hub for Indian TV series and advertisements. Ironically, it is also the city that has one of India's largest slums.
Visit of Mumbai and overnight train to Ahmedabad
Visit of the Gateway of Inde which is one of the most important monuments of Mumbai. This gateway was built by the British to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary during the Delhi Durbar in 1911. We notably visit the Prince of Wales Museum which served as a hospital during the First World War, before being transformed into a museum. The latter houses an invaluable collection of objects considered to be one of the best in Inde.
We then head towards the Hanging Gardens, located on the crest of Malabar Hill, via the University of Bombay, the High Court and Crawford Market which are on our way. The garden is an oasis of greenery in a city entirely built of concrete. We continue via the residential area of Mumbai and the famous Malabar Hill. We notably visit Dhobi Ghat laundry, the Gandhi Memorial Museum and Victoria Terminus.
In the evening, we head to the station to board the night train heading to Ahmedabad.
Explore l'histoire d'Ahmedabad
Arrival in Ahmedabad where we are received by our team and transferred to the hotel.
This day is dedicated to visiting the city. Ahmedabad is the sixth largest city in India and is home to many finely carved historical monuments, including the Ajalad and Rani mosques (dedicated to Rani Sipri and Rani Rupmati). This city is also the birthplace of several museums and art galleries.
Visit to the Calico Museum of Textiles, one of the finest textile museums in the world, located in one of the most beautiful carved wooden mansions (havelis) in Gujarat. The museum displays a magnificent collection of rare textiles dating from the 17th century. Gandhi's Ashram or the Sabarmati Ashram founded in 1915 and located near Vadaj, was once the residence of Mahatma Gandhi and today has become arguably the greatest tourist attraction in Ahmedabad.
Note: The textile museum remains closed on Wednesdays and public holidays.
On the way to the cultural capital of Saurashtra
In the morning, head towards Bhavnagar, the fifth largest city in Gujarat, and the second largest city in the Saurashtra region.
Visit the Takhteshwar Temple, located in the heart of the city and offering panoramic views over the entire city, and the Gandhi Smruti- a memorial with a library featuring several books and photographs telling the life of Mahatma Gandhi. In particular, we can observe a collection of art objects representative of the culture of the Saurashtra region.
In the evening, visit the local market.
Direction towards Die via Palatina
After breakfast at the hotel, head towards Palitana for an exciting visit to the famous Jain Temples of Palitana.
Palitana is considered to be the most sacred pilgrimage center for Jains, who are known throughout the world for adopting a non-violent way of life. This temple complex is listed as the largest in the world.
The hills of Shatrunjaya have more than 3,000 temples, which are finely carved in marble. 3,572 steps separate us from the summit. To reach the top, plan for 2 hours of climbing. Along the way, devotees dressed in white will cross our path.
Historic Diu visit
The island of Diu is located south of Gujarat. It is accessible by ferry or its bridges. It was between 1539 and 1961, a Portuguese colony. It has a large number of beaches, the most famous and commercial being Nagoa. It is equipped with several facilities for water sports, and where it is possible to find a range of restaurants offering several seafood dishes. In contrast to Nagoa, Jalandhar beach is quieter due to its isolation, ideal for swimming or sunbathing.
On the way to Sasan Gir Park and Somnath temple
Early in the morning, departure for Sasan Gir to visit the National Park and the Somnath Temple (which means the Protector of the God of the Moon).
The Somnath Temple is known as the Eternal Sanctuary which has been destroyed six times and rebuilt also six times. The recent reconstruction took place in November 1947 during the visit of Sardar Patel of Bhai Vallabh to the region on the occasion of the integration of Junagadh. Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples.
Temple de Somnath → Sasan Gir Forest National Park
Later, we continue towards Sasan Gir. Transfer to the hotel.
Adventure Day at Sasan Gir National Park
Day of adventure at Sasan Gir National Park to observe Asian lions (Panthera Leo Persica), the only place where it is possible to observe this species. It is considered one of the most important protected areas in Asia, due to the numerous protected animal species. The Gir ecosystem, with its varied fauna and flora, now benefits from protection, the result of numerous efforts led by the government, activists and NGOs. The national park is home to nearly 2,375 animal species, including 38 mammals, 300 bird species, 37 reptile species and 2,000 insect species. Among the carnivore groups, there are the Asian lion, Indian leopard, Bengal tiger, king cobra, striped hyena, golden jackal, Indian mongoose, and Indian civet.
Fort of Junagarh
Sasan Gir Forest National Park → Junagadh
After breakfast, head to Junagarh. Hotel check-in.
Ideally located in the foothills of the Girnar hills, Junagarh is a historic city in the state of Gujarat. The term Junagarh in Gujarati means "an old fort". This tourist destination is known for its monuments, temples and cultural richness. A visit to Fort Upperkot is planned. Free evening to explore the region.
On the Road to Gondal and Rajkot
In the morning, visit some ancient Buddhist caves that are over 1700 years old. They are equipped with six pillars decorated with very beautiful sculptures. The soft rock on which Junagadh is built, encouraged the construction of wells and caves. Some caves date from the time of Ashoka.
Travel to Rajkot later in the day, heading towards Gondal to visit the Naulakha Palace. This palace was built in 1748 in the old Darbargarh fort, by Jadeja Rajputs, who ruled over Gondal.
Rajkot - famous commercial and industrial city of Saurashtra
Rajkot famous commercial and industrial city of Saurashtra, was founded by Vibhoji Ajoji Jadeda of the Jadeda clan in 1612. We visit Kaba Gandhi's Gate, the Watson museum and library, Lal Pari Lake and Randerda, as well as a few bird-watching spots. The lake is a resting place for different species of birds, including rare migratory birds. It is possible to observe certain well-known bird species there such as the landau purple hen, the black-tailed godwit, the pelican.
Return to Ahmedabad and overnight train to Mumbai
After lunch, we head to Ahmedabad. We have some time before boarding the night train. We take the opportunity to visit the bazaar.
Departure
Early arrival at the station, and transfer to the hotel by your driver. A room for 4 people will be put at our disposal to freshen up.
Transfer to the international airport for our next destination.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- The travel package indicated above is not valid during the period: December 20, 2026 to January 10, 2027. There will be a supplement for Christmas and New Year during this period.
- The fees for Indian visas
- Lunch and Dinner during the trip except full board at Sasangir National Park
- Personal expenses, souvenirs and beverages
- Usage Rights for Cameras and Video Equipment at Tourist Sites
- Insurance for baggage loss and repatriation, as well as rescue cost insurance
- Tips for the driver and other staff
- Other services not included in the "Price includes" column
Included
- Accommodation for 08 nights in the mentioned hotels or similar in double room with breakfast except breakfast on D:03 and D:13
- 02 nights full board at the hotel in Sasangir National Park
- A room for 04 participants would be available to refresh on D: 13
- All land transport included in the programme in a private air-conditioned vehicle with English-speaking driver
- The two private jeep safaris in Sasangir National Park
- Second class air-conditioned train tickets for the following two stages: (Mumbai - Ahmedabad and Ahmedabad - Mumbai)
- The entries to the monuments mentioned in the programme
- The English-speaking guide along your journey in India
- Government taxes
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below applies to travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland and Canada traveling to India for a tourist stay. Entry rules may evolve, so we recommend that you verify the information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter India, your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into the country and contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Tourist Visa – e-Visa (Tourist eVisa)
Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland and Canada must be in possession of a valid visa to enter India. There is no visa exemption for a tourist stay.
The most common solution is the Tourist eVisa, available online on the official Indian government portal. It is available for several durations:
Tourist eVisa 30 days (double entry),
Tourist eVisa 1 year (multiple entries, maximum stay of 90 days per visit),
Tourist eVisa 5 years (multiple entries, maximum stay of 90 days per visit).
The application must be submitted online at least 4 days before your arrival date and at most 120 days before. The eVisa is linked to your passport and is available only at certain designated airports and ports of entry.
Arrival and Immigration
When passing through immigration, Indian authorities may ask for:
confirmation of your eVisa (printed document or digital version),
an exit ticket from the territory (return flight or onward journey),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,
the address of your first accommodation in India.
Health and Vaccinations
No vaccine is officially mandatory to enter India from the EEA, Switzerland or Canada, except in the case of transit through a country at risk of yellow fever (a yellow fever vaccination certificate will then be required).
As a preventive measure, health authorities generally recommend the following vaccinations:
hepatitis A and hepatitis B,
typhoid,
tetanus-poliomyelitis,
rabies (depending on planned activities),
Japanese encephalitis (depending on regions and length of stay).
Antimalarial treatment may be recommended depending on the regions you visit and the time of year. Consult a doctor or international vaccination center before your departure.
Traveling with Children
Minors must be holders of their own valid passport and their own eVisa covering the duration of the stay.
In certain European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an exit authorization from the territory may be required according to the regulations of their country of residence.
Other Nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travelers concerned should inquire with the Indian embassy or consulate in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly advised to be insured for repatriation assistance and medical expenses abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to an insurance policy, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The comprehensive insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that best suits your needs:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and claims notification procedures are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of this, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the claims notification procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
A tourist visa is required. The e-visa can be applied for online before departure (approximately 25 USD). Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date and you must have two blank pages available. We guide you through the process. Before booking, verify the specific conditions applicable to your nationality with the consular authorities of your destination.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, expect between 140 and 230 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transportation, and English-speaking guide. International flights (600-900 euros round trip) are additional. India offers incredible diversity of experiences at varying price points.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We tailor each itinerary to suit your travel profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed pacing, family-friendly accommodations, educational and entertaining activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate stories and anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You refine every detail together until it's perfect. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST guarantee (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your next trip to India
India's Thousand Faces Expert, based in New Delhi
India can surprise, disorient or amaze you all in one day. My role is to help travelers find their own pace to truly enjoy the country.
— Mandeep
