Glorious Tour of Kutch Bhuj – Navratri Special Tour 07 Nights / 08 Days

Please Note: - We have mentioned few places which you may pick and choose. As per your liking we will take you these places depending upon the time available.

Day 01: Ahmedabad (10/10/2018)

On arrival at Ahmedabad Airport our representative will receive you and drive straight towards hotel (Check in time after 12 noon)

At Hotel you can relax for rest of the Day

In evening witness Garba (Gujarati folk Dance)

Overnight stay at Ahmedabad.

Day 02: Ahmedabad – Gandhinagar – Ahmedabad (11/10/2018)

After breakfast we will drive towards Gandhinagar (40 kms – 1hr 10 mins drive). Enroute we will visit the following places:

Gandhi Ashram: Set up in the year 1915, Sabarmati ashram was the central point from where the struggle for India's Independence was started. Till the year 1930, the ashram at Sabarmati was the home of Mahatma Gandhi. Bordered by shady trees, the atmosphere over here is very tranquil and peaceful. During the Indian struggle for independence, it was also referred to as the Satyagrah Ashram. Read further to know more about Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad, Gujarat…

The ashram houses a museum, library, auditorium and photo galleries. The museum exhibits the life of Mahatma Gandhi. There is an archive of letters written by Gandhiji. Also, the museum contains the manuscripts of his articles; several films composed on the life of Gandhiji & India's freedom struggle etc. There are plenty of books in the library that will give you a valuable insight into the life history of Mahatma Gandhi.

Anyone can come and visit the Gandhi ashram located alongside the Sabarmati River. It is open from 8.30 am to 6.00 pm every day. Amidst the mad rush of the city, Sabarmati ashram serves as a great retreat. Sabarmati Ashram of Ahmedabad has a lot of significance for people of India, as our great freedom fighter Gandhiji lived here for quite a long time from 1917 to1930. For people interested in knowing about the freedom struggle of India, this is just the perfect place. Infact, it is a storehouse of useful piece of information.

Adalaj stepwells: It is one of the most beautiful step-wells found in Gujarat. Situated in Adalaj village some 18 kms away from Ahmedabad, the structure derives its name from its patron, Ruda, wife of the Vaghela chief, Virsinh; who built it in 1499. The

'Vav', laid out in the north-south direction, the step well with the well in the north and the entrance in the south, has a total length of 75.3 meters. The carving inside the well depicts intricate motifs of flowers and birds. It was built for the dual purpose of providing water and cool chambers in the hot summer days.

On reaching at Gandhinagar we will visit the Akshardham temple.

Akshardham temple: A specimen of fine craftsmanship, the Akshardham temple in Gandhinagar is one of the largest and most prominent temples in the entire state of Gujarat. Located in Gandhinagar city, the famous Akshardham temple is a place, which consists of a number of things under one roof like art, education, architecture, exhibitions and research. It is truly an architectural masterpiece. Foundation of this temple at Gandhinagar was laid by Bochasanwasi Akshar-Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS). Visited by around 2 million of devotees every year, this temple is one of the most popular attractions of the city. The temple dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan, reflects the wealth of Gujarati architecture.

This architectural masterpiece is the symbol of humanity in Gujarat and celebrates the commandments of Swaminarayan faith. Made using 6,000 tonnes of pink sandstones, this 10 storied temple comprises 93 sculpted pillars. The edifice is 240 ft in length, 131 feet in width and 108 feet in height. The main highlight of the architecture is that the entire structure of sandstone is standing erect without the use of iron rod.

The temple complex houses herbal garden, lake and a waterfall. Moreover, ultramodern Akshardham Centre for Applied Research in Social Harmony (AARSH) is also located within the temple complex. Double-walled and air-cooled halls are also located in the temple complex. In these halls, exhibitions that are themed around Indian Culture are displayed.

Hall 1 is called Sahajanand and is dedicated to the life of Lord Swaminarayan.

Hall 2 is called Mystic India and the short movie of 45 minutes played in this hall that helps the visitors rediscover India. Known as Nityanand, Hall 3 displays the messages of Upanishads, Ramayan and Mahabharat.

Time: From Tuesday to Sunday (Closed every Monday)

Mandir: Daily 9:30a.m. To 7:30p.m. Exhibitions: Daily 10:00a.m. To 6:00p.m. Rides & Games: 12:00 noon to 8:00p.m. Restaurant: 10:00a.m. To 8:00p.m.

Sat-Chit-Anand Water Show: The Sat-Chit-Anand Water Show reveals India’s ancient secret of inner light through an Upanishadic story of Nachiketa, a nine year old boy, who bravely confronts Yamraaj, the God of Death, and receives from him the

knowledge that has made India, a land of enlightenment. Duration: 45 Minutes - Timings: After sunset

Afterwards we will drive back to Ahmedabad.

Evening witness Garba (Gujarati Folk Dance)

Overnight stay at Ahmedabad

Day 03: Ahmedabad (12/10/2018)

After breakfast we will visit the following places as per your interest and availability of time -

Sarkhej Roza: A flamboyant little city on the outskirts of Ahmedabad, Sarkhej Roja boasts of its Mugal era through a cluster of elegant monuments. Most striking facets of this city are the tomb of Sultan Mehmud Begada and a lovely mosque. Sharkhej Roza is a best example for calculated town planning, where the spiritual, imperial and common worlds coexist without crossing the barriers with each other. The mosque, the tombs, the palaces and the common facilities like the pavilions, tanks, platforms feature the religious, royal and social planning of the city.

A renowned place with architectural grandeurs, the Sarkhej Roza displays an elegant excellent pierced stone trellises without the use of arches. One of the monuments holds mausoleums of Saint Ahmed Khattu Baksh, of Emperor Mehmud Shah Beguda and his queen. Elegant buildings in the city show great influence of Hinduism than that of the Sarcenic style that was prevalent in Ahmedabad in olden days.

Hutheesing Jain Temple: This imposing Temple complex, built in 1848 by Sheth Hutheesing, a rich Jain merchant, is a marvel of Jain architecture. The two-storied temple is dedicated to Dharmnatha - the 15th Tirthankar (an enlightened soul according to Jain religion.) It has a huge dome, porches on three sides, paved courtyards and cloisters containing 52 shrines.

Siddi Sayed mosque: This elegant mosque is noted for its twin windows of pierced stone, worked in style of a tree with palm leaves and curving tendrils. A superb and peerless example of delicate carving that transforms stone into filigree. It was constructed by Sidi Saiyad, a slave of Ahmed Shah, and has beautiful carved stone windows depicting the intricate intertwining of the branches of a tree.

Evening witness Garba (Gujarati folk Dance)

Overnight stay at Ahmedabad.

Day 04: Ahmedabad – Modhera –Patan – Little Rann of Kutch (13/10/2018)

After breakfast we will drive towards straight towards Modhera (100 kms 2hrs drive)

At Modhera we will visit The Sun Temple.

The Sun Temple: Timings - Opening: 9.00 AM - 5.00 PM All Days

The Sun Temple: Sun temple at Modhera is an architectural land mark being the earliest Solanki temple of Gujarat datable to A.D. 1026-27. It was constructed during the reign of King Bhimadeva I (1022-1063 A.D.).

All the three elements i.e. the (1) Garbhagriha with ambulatory and attached octagonal gudhamandapa, (2) Detached sabha mandapa with a torana in front and (3) A large flagged tank are decorated with numerous miniature shrines, while the gudhamandapa is embellished with niched images of twelve adityas, the sabhamandapa is a diagonally arranged octagonal hall with a magnificent set of pillars carrying torana arches in alternate triangular and semi- circular designs.

This temple and the Konark Sun temple in Orissa are very similar. This similarity is that this temple was also designed in such a way so as to let the dawn sun shine on the image of Surya, at the time of equinoxes.

Afterwards we will drive towards Patan (40 kms – 1hr 10 mins drive)

Patan: A dusty, little visited town, but its narrow streets are lined by the elaborate, faded wooden houses and more than 100 Jain temples, which are worth exploring.

Rani ki Vav: It is an excellent example of subterranean architecture of Gujarat. This magnificent step well is said to been constructed by Queen Udayamati wife of King Bhimadeva I (A.D. 1022-1063). This is the highest watermark of Solanki architecture. It is 64 m long and 20 m wide. It was originally constructed of seven stories of which only five are now preserved. The shaft of this step well is 27 m deep. The step is oriented in east-west directions. The step well has long stepped corridor descending down to the underground tank, it is having four compartmental multi-storeyed pillared pavilions with circular draw well at rear end. The corridor walls, pillared pavilions and inner side of well are embellished with fine sculptures. Nearly 400 sculptures have survived out of the original estimated 800 sculptures, which comprise of Hindu gods and goddesses, apsaras and miscellaneous themes. Time: 0800 a.m. to 06 p.m.

Patola Silk: The place associated with Patola is Patan. Patola silk is often termed as the queen of all silks. Patola sarees of Gujarat are one of the finest hand-woven sarees produced in India today. Here, exquisite patterns are woven on sarees with great precision. Here you need to spend couple of hours understanding the work each artisan are doing.

Afterwards we will drive towards Little Rann of Kutch (110 kms – 2hrs 30 mins drive)

Overnight stay at Little Rann of Kutch

Day 05: Little Rann of Kutch – Bhuj (14/10/2018)

After breakfast we will drive straight towards Bhuj (250 kms – 4hrs drive)

On reaching at Bhuj after check in to the Hotel and freshen up we will visit the following places-

Aaina Mahal: Aaina Mahal is one of the most exquisite monuments in Bhuj, located in the fort complex along with the Parag Mahal. The Palace is a sheer work of art and

a must watch for all. The architecture of the Mahal is greatly influenced by the European style. Aaina Mahal was converted from a dream to reality by the master architect Ramsinh Malam. He undertook training in Holland to make Aaina Mahal an architectural marvel it is today. The palace is a two storied building with Darbar Hall, hall of mirrors, and suites for royal family. It stands adorned with mirror work, tile work and fountains.

Prag Mahal: Prag Mahal was designed by the famous architect Colonel Henry Saint Wilkins. It took 10 years to build the monument, at an astounding cost of rupees 20 lakh. The palace serves as a fine example of Italian Gothic style, combined with some European style elements.

Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is a Hindu temple in the city of Bhuj that was constructed by Bhagwan Swaminarayan in 1824. This temple was reconstructed due to the destruction caused by the earthquake in 2001. The new temple complex was opened in 2010 and is made using only marble and gold. The temple has been dedicated to Nar Narayan and Swaminarayan. The temple also houses the idols of Radha Krishna, Ghanshyam, Sukh Shaiya and many other deities. On the pillars and ceilings of this temple complex numerous carvings have been made. There is an idol of Narnarayan Dev in the temple also which was established by Swaminarayan.

Evening Witness Garba (Gujarati Folk Dance)

Overnight stay at Bhuj.

Day 06: Bhuj – Banni Village – Bhuj (15/10/2018)

After breakfast we will drive to visit the following Banni Vilages:

Sumrasar: Sumrasar to visit Kala Raksha, the non – profit organization that works with a number of communities, mainly that Rabaris, in developing unique handicraft designs (mostly embroidery) and marketing them to help sustain the communities. There is a shop located on the campus that sells a variety of these products.

Zura & Nirona: Nirona is a dusty village off the road linking Bhuj to Khawda. Over the years it has achieved a status of being termed a craft village. Nirona is blessed with having a variety of master craftsmen practicing their trade and honing it to an art form.

Visit Husenbhai, who will lead you through the wide dusty alleys to his living cum work space. Husen is a metallurgist, a traditional maker of cow bells. Iron bells enameled in copper and bronze, so many shapes and sizes, emitting melodies which are soft yet carry sonorously through the desert air. Bell making as a craft form is still practiced not only in Nirona but in Zura. The entire family is involved in the craft process with the male members performing the critical tasks of shaping the bell and

selling the sound with the aid of an instrument known as the ekalavai. The sound that emanates from each bell essentially depends on three factors: the shape of the wooden strip hanging with the bell; and the form and curvature of the bottom rim of the bell. The bells may be made in 14 sizes that vary in height from 2 cm to over 30 cm or as a combination of bells in a jhumar, single frame; this range of products caters to the indigenous pastoral communities of Kachchh.

We will then visit the Vadhas, whose skill lies in coating wooden implements and toys with lacquer in a psychedelic variation of hues. This semi nomadic community harvests the lac resin from the trees, mixing it with different kinds of minerals and pigments to generate a vast array of colorful shades. These are then meticulously applied to a mixed batch of kitchen implements, toys and small utility items. The craftsmen use hand operated lathes to shape the wood, slash in indentations and the artistically application of colored lacquer in zigzag patterns defying geometric parameters.

A simple triangulation from the bell maker’s house to the houses of lac would bring us within the realm of Roghan. Here we will visit Abdul Gafur Khatri, who belongs to the last remaining family of Rogan artisans. Roghan is a traditional textile art form involving painting on fabric. The art of Roghan originated in Syria and is practiced through Peshawar, Lahore, Sindh and Kutch. The color and paste used in Roghan painting is a gelatinous extract of safflower and castor oil blended with pigments rolled into a ball and preserved in earthen bowls of water to maintain consistency. The color making process itself is time consuming and involves great skill. A snake like sliver of color paste is rolled on to a stylus and hand applied to dyed cotton fabric making intricate patterns.

Nirona is a classic example of an ‘ideal crafts village’ wherein each community is an integral part of the whole.

Afterwards we will drive back to Bhuj.

Evening Witness Garba (Gujarati Folk Dance)

Overnight stay at Bhuj

Day 07: Bhuj - Mata no Madh – Narayan Sarovar – Lakhpat – Bhuj (16/10/2018)

After breakfast we will drive straight towards Mata No Madh (120 km – 2 hrs 45 mins drive)

Mata no Madh: This shrine or Ashapura is steeped in antiquity as far as its origin is concerned. There are references to this goddess in the Puranas, Rudrayamal Tantra and so on which are all said to point to this shrine in Kutch. It has become a live symbol of faith of people of Kutch in the last 600 years. Mata No Madh, the historical temple dedicated to Jadeja deities and is situated west of Kakkadbhit. The original 1200 year

old temple was demolished during the earthquake of 1819 AD. A new temple was built by Sunderji Saudagar and was constructed with more grandeur and better dimensions. At 52 feet the main temple stands out in the skyline of Bhuj.

Afterwards we will drive straight towards Narayan Sarovar (60 kms – 1 & ½ hrs drive).

Narayan Sarovar one of the most sacred pilgrim centres of the Hindu religion. On your way you’ll find five sacred lakes, containing a temple complex in one of its five holy lakes. It finds mention in the ancient scriptures with the other four being Mansarovar at Kailash, Bindusarovar at Bhuvaneshwar, Pushkar in Rajasthan and Pampa in the south. An embankment surrounds the temple complex, which is an assimilation of many Hindu divinities, and the architecture, ancient and awesome.

After our short visit of Narayan Sarovar we will drive towards Koteshwar.

Koteshwar. The temple is nestled amidst an ocean by two sides. Watch the open sea from one side of the temple and a line of jetties on the other, which were used extensively used for trading before river Sind dried up. The beautiful complex of the temple is admirable too. The sights on each side of the temple are nothing short of breathtaking. The temple is also home to a tree which people consider sacred. Women pray to this tree by tying a bangle with a holy thread and sticking a bindi on it while asking for their prayers to be answered. Legend has it that King Ravana, in order to become immortal, did tapasya (penance) here to impress Lord Shiva. In return, Lord Shiva gifted him with a Ling which he could worship and become immortal. But the arrogant King dropped the Ling, which transformed into a thousand Lings. Unable to recognize the original Ling, King Ravana also lost his power to remain immortal. The Gods of Heaven found these Lings and decided to build this temple we today known as Koteshwar.

Afterwards we will drive towards Lakhpat (55 kms- 1hr 30 mins drive).

At Lakhpat we will visit the following places:

Lakhpat: This place can only be reached by road. Lakhpat is the last town situated at the western end of India, on the India - Pakistan border, at the junction of Kori creek and Rann of Kutch. Lakhpat derives its name from the prosperous maritime trade which generated a daily income of One Lakh Koris, (Lac means 1 lakh and kori was a Kutch monetary unit). According to another legend, the town was founded by Rao Lakha, so it was known as Lakhpat. Lakhpat is a fortified town with high walls, several gates and bastions made out of hard stone. Almost 50 years ago, this town was also the home to hundreds of families involved in fishing and manual labour but now it is an abandoned town. After a short period of prosperity, Lakhpat lost its maritime significance in 1851 AD, when the Indus River changed its course. Since after the Indus River changed its course, the port dried up. Once a thriving town with population of 15,000, is today a

deserted town and only a barren plain of limestone rock with only few families living here. It is not only the architecture but the stark loneliness and a vast view of deserted, crumbling houses which make Lakhpat a rare spectacle

Once an important port city, Lakhpat now stands virtually abandoned for almost more than 200 years after the earthquake in 1819. Its 07 km fort walls, erected in 1801 by Jamadar Fateh Muhammed, are still nearly intact, and offer tremendous views out over the Rann.

Lakhpat, it even has religious significance for three of India's most populous religions:

Tomb of Gosh Muhammad: The Gosh Muhammad was a famous saint revered equally by Hindus and Muslims. A beautiful tomb was constructed using black stone, after his death in 1855 AD. It is an octagonal, domed structure with four entrances. The corner plasters, foliated arches on each side, door jambs and niches are exquisitely carved using floral motifs and the tree of life. The inner walls are decorated with verses from the Koran using beautiful calligraphy.

Gurudwara: The Sikh Gurudwara is one of the sacred places associated with the life of Guru Nanak Sahib, the founder of the Sikh religion, as it is believed that he embarked for Haj to Mecca from Lakhpat. The Gurudwara was constructed to commemorate this event and it is visited by Sikhs throughout the year.

The Sayyed Pir Shah's nine-domed mausoleum. Witness its grandeur as you lose yourself in the intricate carvings, doors, windows and jaalis.

Afterwards we will drive back to Bhuj.

Overnight stay at Bhuj

Day 08: Bhuj Drop (17/10/2018)

After breakfast we will drop you at Bhuj Airport to board your flight for your home town.

Tours End With Sweet Memories…

Standard Package Cost

Sr. No. Place 3*/Standard Hotels OR SIMILAR

No. Of Nights

Meal Plan

1. Ahmedabad Hotel Royal Highness Three CP – Breakfast 2. Little Rann of

Kutch/Bajana Bhavna Resort & Farm One AP – Breakfast, Lunch &

Dinner 3. Bhuj Hotel Grand 3D Three CP – Breakfast

TOTAL PACKAGE COST AS PER ABOVE DETAILS

No. Of Pax

(Indian/Foreign National)

Vehicle Category OR SIMILAR

Room Package Cost (Net to JNR Globetrotters)

02 Pax

AC Etios or Similar 01 Double Rooms

Rs. 60,480.00 is the Total Cost for a minimum of

02 pax

04 Pax

AC Innova or Similar

02 Double Rooms

Rs. 98,280.00 is the Total Cost for a minimum of

04 pax

06 Pax

AC Innova or Similar

03 Double Rooms

Rs. 1,28,730.00 is the Total Cost for a

minimum of 06 pax

Deluxe Package Cost

Sr. No. Place 3*/4* Hotels OR SIMILAR No. Of

Nights Meal Plan

1. Ahmedabad Hotel The Fern Two CP – Breakfast 2. Little Rann of

Kutch/Bajana Royal Safari Camp One AP – Breakfast, Lunch &

Dinner 3. Bhuj Hotel Hill view One CP – Breakfast

TOTAL PACKAGE COST AS PER ABOVE DETAILS

No. Of Pax

(Indian/Foreign National)

Vehicle Category OR SIMILAR

Room Package Cost (Net to JNR Globetrotters)

02 Pax

AC Etios or Similar 01 Double Rooms

Rs. 75,710.00 is the Total Cost for a minimum of

02 pax

04 Pax

AC Innova or Similar

02 Double Rooms

Rs. 1,28,730.00 is the Total Cost for a

minimum of 04 pax

06 Pax

AC Innova or Similar

03 Double Rooms

Rs. 1,74,410.00 is the Total Cost for a

minimum of 06 pax

***Kindly note the above quote is subject to availability Above Rates are NOT VALID during the peak season of Janmashtami, Diwali,

Christmas & New Year, & Long Weekend. Kids below 05 years are complimentary. INCLUDING:

AC Accommodations at Hotel AC Vehicle for Transfer and Sightseeing Toll Tax, Inter State Road Tax, Vehicle Permit Fees, Parking, Vehicle Entry/Exit

Fees, Driver’s Allowances, Border Tax, etc. GST 5%.

EXCLUDES:

Local Guide /Tour Escort / Coolie / Porter Charges Rest all meals you need to pay across the counter at restaurants of your choice. Any type of meals. All Location: Animal Rides, Camera’s Fees, Rope – way Charges, Boat Charges, Doli

Charges, etc… Entrance Fees at all the locations e.g. Temples, National Parks, Forts, Palaces,

Heritage Properties, Monuments, Museums, Zoo, Safari Charges, Jeep Charges, etc. Porterage, laundry, dry cleaning, telephone calls, fax, internet charges, tips, drinks or

any other expenses of personal nature such as room services, etc. Extended stay or travelling due to any reason. Any Tickets (Rail / Air / Bus) International Air Fares, Indian Visa Fees, Insurance, any kind of Gratuity, etc. Anything not mentioned under “The Cost includes”

Special Request: As per the govt. directive,

Foreign Nationals are requested to produce their passport as photo identity proof. Indian Nationals need to produce any govt. approved photo identity such as Driving

License/Pan Card/Voter ID card/Passport at the point of check-in at the hotel, and Safari entry time. [Sasan Gir Safari, White Desert, etc…]

PLEASE NOTE:

Reservations not booked at present. Booking / Rooms subject to availability at the time of booking.

Kindly confirm with us rates before booking. Tour Package Rates are subject to availability. In case of non-availability of the mentioned hotels, similar hotel will be provided, which

can change the above tour package costing. Rates are not valid for Special Festive Dates and Long Weekends. No Refund for any unutilized rooms, service or sightseeing. For written confirmation, we need the Full 100% payment at the time of booking.

All prices are in Indian Rupees and rates are only for Indian/Foreign National only. Above itinerary intended to give you a general idea of the likely trip schedule.

Numerous factors such as weather, road conditions, the physical ability of the participants etc. may dictate itinerary changes either before the tour or while on the trail.

JNR Globetrotters Pvt. Ltd. and/or associated companies give notice that all tickets issued by them and all arrangements for transport, accommodations and meals, are made by them as agents for the tour participant upon the express condition that they shall not be held liable for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay or irregularity which may be occasioned by reason of any defect of any vehicle or through the acts of any company or person engaged in conveying the passengers herewith, or of any hotel/ship proprietor or employees.

The right is reserved to decline, accept or retain any person as a member of the tour. Guest speakers are subject to professional commitments.

JNR Globetrotters Pvt. Ltd. and/or associated companies accept no responsibility for losses or additional expenses due to delays or changes in schedules, sickness, weather, strikes, war, quarantine or other causes.

We reserve the right to change any schedule in the interest of the trip participants' safety, comfort & general well be.

We have no control over airline seating or actual delivery of special meals ordered, change in flight times or delays. The responsibility for this upon the airline alone.

Days of departure and return are included in the number of days of the tour. It is important to arrange insurance from your end for the entire tour period.

Cost is based on a minimum of 02/04/06 persons. The programme is subject to availability and liable to change as per the then conditions. Rates are based as per the itinerary hence the sector should not be changed. If the Fuel Costs increases during the time of travel the Quoted Rates will also increase

accordingly. E. & O. E.

Cancellation charges per person After confirmation and full payment on the booking, cancellation charges applicable would be as mentioned below:- REFUND RULES per person

76 days & above : 50% of the total amount

61 days – 75 days: 75% of the total amount

46 days – 60 days: 90% of the total amount

00 days – 45 days: No Refund

ONCE YOU DECIDE AND CONFIRM YOU NEED TO INFORM YOUR BANKERS TO TRANSFER FUNDS AS FOLLOWS: Bank Details:

Account Name: JNR Globetrotters Pvt Ltd

Account No.: 0280261001481

Bank: CANARA BANK

Branch: Navarangpura NEFT IFSC/RTGS Code: CNRB0000280

Address: Navarangpura Branch, Ratanraj Spring, Navrangpura Cross Road, Mithakhali, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad – 380009, Gujarat, India