The Cultural Tour of Gujarat (Option 03)

Transcription

1 The Cultural Tour of Gujarat (Option 03) 03 Night /04 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 / Ambaji / Poshina Morning our representative will receive you from Ahmedabad and drive straight to Ambaji (190 kms 04 hrs drive) Ambaji is a holy place of pilgrimage visited by millions of Hindu pilgrims. Ambaji is also known for its marble carving artisans, honey and forest produce. It is a good place to shop for marble tiles, marble sculpture, wood products etc. At Ambaji the main attraction is the Ambe temple. Located on the Arasur hill, is the town of Ambaji, one of the most important Shaktipith of India and dedicated to the temple of the Mother Goddess, Amba. It is an important place of pilgrimage for Hindus from all over. The Goddess is said to be a manifestation of Shiva's consort, Parvati and represents the primordial female power. This place attracts scores of thousands of devotees around the year. It is a picturesque spot located among the Aravalli ranges. The most unusual feature of the shrine is that it does not contain any idol. It only has a yantra, made of marble, which is engraved at a spot and that is supposed to be representative of the mother goddess. You can visit the Gabbar hill as well, which is another holy place related to the Goddess mythology and can be reached via cable car from Ambaji. Another famous pilgrimage spot nearby is Kumbharia Jain temples, on Danta-Ambaji highway. These five temples are full of beautiful engravings and pillars especially the temple of Neminath that is made of white marble. From here we drive straight to Poshina (40 kms). Reach at Poshina and check in to the hotel Darbargadh. Darbargadh Poshina is situated in the Sabarkantha in Gujarat. This Heritage Hotel in Gujarat is magnificently built of white marble. The surrounding Aravalli Mountain adds to the scenic beauty of the mansion. Poshina is surrounded by Garasia and Bhil villages. Visit a tribal shrine and the village market. Poshina: The rulers of Poshina are descendants of the Chalukyas, who ruled much of Central India and the whole of Gujarat in the 12th century. They conquered Poshina from the Rathore Rajputs in medieval times. The village of Poshina is home to a number of artisans the tribal arrow crafters, silver, Potters, blacksmiths and the bazaar is famous for silver tribal jewelry, ORNATE sheathed daggers and terra cotta horses.

2 Around poshina are hamlets of the bhil and garasia tribal communities, known for their colourful Attires and artistic ornaments. The jain temple, the intricately carved shiva temple and the royal chattries (cenotaphs) of the rulers Of poshina are sure to leave you mesmerized. Poshina Village: The village of Poshina is home to a number of native artisans the tribal arrow crafters, silver smiths, potters, blacksmiths and the bazaar is famous for silver tribal jewellery, ornate sheathed daggers and terra cotta horses. The 1240s Jain temple, the intricately carved medieval Shiva temple and the royal chattries (cenotaphs) of the rulers of oshina are worth seeing. Sondadh Dam: A spectacularly located lake of Poshina surrounded by deep valleys, high peaks and rock formations. Tribal boat trips and folk concerts by the lakefront are possible. Overnight stay at Poshina. Day 02: Patan / Sidhpur After breakfast drive straight to Patan (150 kms 03 & ½ hrs drives) where we will see the following places:- 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 ). 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. Sahasralinga Talav: Just north of Ranki Vav is a reservoir built by Siddhraj Jaysinh in 1084 on what was once the bank of the Sarasvati River. Though it is totally dry today, the lake had 1008 Shiva shrines dotting the embankment, hence the name Sahasralinga lake of a thousand lingas. 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. Subapura: Besides wildlife sanctuaries of Gujarat, the state has a number of other wetlands that are also good for birds like Subapura in Patan District. From here after lunch we will drive to Siddhpur (40 kms) and visit the following:- Siddhpur: this modern day Sidhpur is mentioned as Shristhal or a pious place. Of the five most holy and ancient lakes in India is the Bindu Sarovar, which lies here in Siddpur. According to the

3 Hindu religion, it is said that as the obsequies offerings to the paternal ancestors must be made at Gaya, so corresponding offerings to the maternal ancestors have to be performed at Sidhpur. Thus Sidhpur has the importance of Martu Gaya or Matru Shraddh, a place where people come annually to perform the rituals for their mothers who are in heavenly abode. These ceremonies are presided over by the Brahmins, who are treated with high regard. They are performed at Kapilamuni Ashram, where 3 sacred water kunds: the Gyan Vapika, Alpa Sarovar and Bindu Sarovar are present. It is also said that Lord Parshuram performed Matru Shraddh at the Bindu Sarovar and his temple is also created here for darshan (worship). Apart from that, there are only five Swayambhu Lord Shiva temples in India and all of them are in Sidhpur. They are the most important worship places during the Hindu month of Shravan. The town also holds importance for the Bohra Muslims, an affluent Muslim community spread all over the world. They have contributed significantly to the development of Sidhpur. Their old Havelis and mansions, some over 100 years old have a markedly European flavor and a walk through the Bohra Vad is like a stroll through an England replete with the lamp lighters at dusk. So enamored were they by the style & existence of living in the 19th century Europe that as a sign of opulence and to gain respectability amongst the community they tried to create a slice of Europe in their hometown. This, they did by imitating the Victorian architecture. The facades are rich in variety and aesthetic expression with intricate details in wood. Thus the living spaces of the Bohra community or the so-called Bohra Havelis represent a nostalgic visual straight out of a Dickenson novel. Overnight stay at Sidhpur. Day 02: Little Rann of Kutch From here we will proceed for Little Rann of Kutchh (120 kms 02 & ½ hrs drive) - Self-contained huts for a true Rann experience. Once part of the Arabian Sea, the Great and the Little Rann of Kutch were separated from each other and from the Gulf of Kutch by silting and other geographical forces. Kutch is the largest district of Gujarat wherein as many as 18 varied tribes live harmoniously, in spite of their distinct language, culture and customs. This is what makes it a paradise for cultural tourist worldwide. On reaching Little Rann of Kutch you first need to check into the hotel and after freshening up move around the villages in and around Little Rann of Kutch observing their local lifestyles. After which we will take the tour of Vadiara Rabari, Koli and Bhairwad tribe s villages namely Goriyawad and Ambala. These villages are in the surroundings of Little Rann of Kutch. Also visit some semi-nomadic groups like the Mirs and Bajanias. Visit the Wild Ass Sanctuary (Closed 15 th June to 15 th October Every Year) and see the following places: (Here you need to take a jeep for Safari at Sanctuary). The Wild Ass Sanctuary is the last home of the Indian Wild Ass. This handsome, chestnut brown and white endangered species can be seen while driving across the Rann of Kutch. Other species that could be seen during wildlife viewing drives in the sanctuary are the Nilgai or blue bull

4 antelope, Blackbuck or Indian Antelope, Chinkara or Indian Gazelle, the endangered Indian Wolf, Desert and Indian Foxes, Jackal, and smaller species characteristic of the desert habitat. This sanctuary is a paradise for birdwatchers because of its range of habitats from the saltencrusted desert landscape to vegetated elevated patches called bets that were probably islands when the Little Rann was an arm of the Gulf of Kutch to wetlands left behind after the monsoon months when the Rann is inundated with water. Indian and Spotted Sandgrouse, Desert and Pied Wheatear, more than 10 species of lark, and other bird s characteristic of the desert habitat are seen when driving around the Rann. Whiteeared Bulbul, Indian Courser, Stone-plover and shrikes are seen in the scrubby and grass-covered areas of the sanctuary. In winter, the sanctuary is visited by the near-threatened Macqueen s Bustard. It is also an important area for critically threatened vulture species and vulnerable species of eagle. The wetlands attract large congregations of birds and are best visited in winter when migrating birds join the residents. Both the species of flamingo found in India and all the three species of pelican have been seen at the wetlands, and the marshes of the Little Rann are the breeding site of thousands of Lesser Flamingo. Large flocks of Demoiselle and Common Cranes, a variety of ducks and two species of geese visit the wetlands in winter. This sanctuary is also the habitat of the Sarus Crane. Three species of ibis, Spoonbill and flocks of godwits, stints, sandpipers, shanks, moorhen and other wading birds can be seen at the water bodies. A fiat, salt-cracked vast barren desert, hissing sand storms and the majestic Ghudkhar roaming over mirage waters make the little rann of Kachchh an unique and one of the most fascinating wilderness of the world. Here we shall visit a totally different environment where locals are residing. You would spend time with these tribals while enjoying the Little Rann of Kutch. The unique geography of the Little Rann of Kutch also makes it a good place to watch birds typical of the desert. The Rann is especially good for larks and wheatears. Overnight stay at Little Rann of Kutch. Day 03: Modhera / Ahmedabad After breakfast we will leave for Modhera (65 kms 01 & ½ hrs drive). En route we visit Sankeshwar famous for its architectural works Baucharaji (Goddess Bachuccharaji): Becharaj and the temple of Bahuchar Mata, an incarnation of the Mother Goddess. Pilgrimages are undertaken to this site for vows fulfilled and boons granted. Bahuchar Mata is the patron goddess of the women folk who invoke her intervention in domestic violence and problems within the family. Temple of Bahucharaji, the Hindu patron goddess of eunuchs.it is also considered as important place for the 'Hijras (Eunuchs)' and eunuchs who flock here large numbers to seek the blessings of the goddess.

5 On reaching Modhera you need to visit the Sun Temple. Modhera: A site of great importance at one time. Today, Modhera is a virtually deserted hamlet. Far more off the beaten track and much less well known than the Konark Sun temple, Modhera retains a great deal of its atmosphere and charm. Modhera is known for the 11th century Sun temple. The Sun Temple: Sun temple at Modhera is an architectural land mark being the earliest Solanki temple of Gujarat datable to A.D It was constructed during the reign of King Bhimadeva I ( 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. From here we will drop you at Ahmedabad Airport (110 kms 03 hrs drive) to board your flight to your home town. Tour ends with sweet memories... Sr. No. Place Standard / Heritage Hotels OR Similar No. Of Nights Meal Plan 1. Poshina Darbargadh One MAP Breakfast & Dinner 2. Sidhpur Heritage Haveli One MAP Breakfast & Dinner 3. Little Rann of Kutch Royal Safari Camp One AP Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner TOTAL PACKAGE COST AS PER ABOVE DETAILS No. of Pax (Indian Nationals Only) Vehicle Category OR SIMILAR Package Cost (Net to JN Rao Tours) 02 Adults AC Indigo Rs. 31, Adults AC Innova / Xylo Rs. 53,850.00

6 ***Kindly note the above quote is subject to availability INCLUDING: Accommodation AC Transportation Meals - that specified in the itinerary.(buffet Breakfast and Lunch / Dinner) Toll Tax, Inter State Road Tax, Permit Fees, Parking, Entry/Exit Fees, Driver s Allowances, Government Service Tax, etc. All Tax EXCLUDES: Local Guide /Tour Escort / Coolie / Porter Charges Rest all meals you need to pay across the counter at restaurants of your choice. Any other meals. All Location: Animal Rides, Camera s Fees, Rope way Charges, Boat Charges, Doli Charges, Jeep Charges etc Entrance Fees at all the locations e.g. Temples, National Parks, Forts, Palaces, Heritage Properties, Monuments, Museums, Zoo, Sanctuary, etc. Jeep Charges, Safari / Sanctuary Permit Fees at Little Rann Of Kutch 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:

7 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 Payment prior to the Tour Departure, out of which 50% has to be paid at the time of booking. All prices are in Indian Rupees and rates are only for Indian 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. JN Rao Tours. 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. JN Rao Tours 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 to 04 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.

8 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: Bank: ICICI Bank Ltd. Branch: Ashram Road Branch, 2/1, Popular House, Ground floor, Ashram Road, Ahmedabad , Gujarat, India RTGS / NEFT IFSC Code: ICIC Swift Address: ICICINBBCTS Account No.: Account Name: J N Rao Travel Consultancy Services Pvt. Ltd.