Ganesh Chaturthi
Ganesh Chaturthi
The very echo of “Ganapati Bappa Moraya”, chanted by devotees, would remind even a child in India of the festival of Lord Ganesh, son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi. Also known as Vinayak or Pillayar, Ganesh Chaturthi celebrates the birthday of Lord Ganesh, the elephant headed God. This special day falls on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the Shukla Paksh (waxing moon) of luni-solar month of Bhadrapada.
The legendary story of his birth is a very interesting one. One day Goddess Parvathi desired to take a long bath while her husband Lord Shiva and his attendants, the Ganas were away hunting. She therefore created this child, Vinayak, out of sandal and turmeric and asked him to guard the entrance of the house, forbidding him to let no one enter until she was done. Unfortunately, that very day, Lord Shiva returns and tries to enter the house when he was stopped by the child Ganesh. Despite explaining to him that he was the husband of Goddess Parvati, Ganesh vehemently refused him entry. The obstinacy of Lord Ganesh, who was resolute in adhering to his mother’s orders outraged Lord Shiva and he ultimately severed Ganesh’s head. Witnessing this sight, Goddess Parvati was enraged and Lord Shiva soon realized the grave mistake he had committed. He asked one of his Ganas to bring the head of the first animal he saw sleeping with its head facing north, which turned out to be an elephant, hence the elephant headed God. All of these events happened on the same Chaturthi thithi of the Bhadrapada month. Ganesh Chaturthi is therefore celebrated to commemorate this event.
The grand festivities of Ganesh Chaturthi that we see today have been influenced by the prominent freedom fighter, Lokmanya Tilak. Primarily a private festival celebrated at home, Ganesh Chaturthi, which begins with the purchase and the ceremonial installation of a clay murti at the pooja room, was transformed into sa large-scale public festival in 1857 by Lokmanya Tilak taking inspiration from Chatrapathi Shivaji, who celebrated this event as a public festival to promote culture and nationalism in the past. However, the aim for Lokmanya Tilak was to unite the Brahmins and non-Brahmins during the Sepoy Mutiny to oppose British colonial rule. It was also a hidden means for political activism, intellectual discourse, poetry recitals, plays, concerts and folk dances. He was the first to install large public images of Ganesha in pavilions in Bombay Presidency (a former province of British India). Since then and till today Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated throughout Maharashtra elaborately with great community enthusiasm and participation.
Considered to be the God of good fortune, wisdom, prosperity and wealth, Lord Ganesha’s idols are prepared in various sizes by artisans who start a few weeks before the festival. At public venues, the statues are installed in pandals, followed by the ritual Prana Pratishtha after which 16 different ways of prayer called Shhodashopachara are offered. Finally on the tenth day, Uttarpuja, a ritual to bid farewell is done followed by the Ganpati Visarjan, the process of immersing the statue in a water body.
In Maharahstra, particularly in Mumbai, grand arrangements are made with regards to lighting, decoration, mirrors and flowers for the pandals and during the festival days, the Lord is worshipped with great devotion and prayer services are performed daily. Depending on the place, the duration of the Lord’s stay varies from one, three, five, seven and ten days. On Ananta Chaturdashi, the 10th day of the festival, the most impressive procession of the idols takes place accompanied by dancing, drum-beats, devotional songs and firecrackers followed by the immersing of the idol in water.
Raksha Bandhan
Raksha Bandhan
All the beauty of Raksha Bandhan (Raksha “protection” Bandhan “to tie” in Hindi) lies in the fact that it pushes us to go beyond fixed traditional relationships.
A festival between “brothers” and sisters, (not necessarily biological brothers) Raksha Bandhan is celebrated through different ethnicities in India regardless of their religions. A global Indian presence implies that the Raksha Bandhan is celebrated throughout the world. This custom begins well before D-day. Several days or even weeks before, women buy or make rakhis, beautiful colorful bracelets made of cotton yarn. On D-Day, the women tie the rakhis on their brother’s wrist after a small aarti and a tilak on the forehead. In return, the brothers offer them a small gift (money, sweets, etc.) as a mark of affection.
This cotton bracelet that is worn all day and even over a few days, is very symbolic. It’s a promise of protection. The ritual of rakhi reinforces this fraternal bond between family and friends. With this celebration, we transcend the barriers of blood, age and religious belonging. It is therefore not uncommon to see a Hindu lady tying a rakhi on the wrist of a Muslim man. For those who live in cities or different countries, it is not uncommon for them to send the rakhis by post! This tradition coincides with the full moon in the month of Shravan, the fifth month in the Hindu year.
There are several stories in the Indian heritage that refers to this old custom. The oldest is that of Sri Krishna and Draupadi. During the war against the evil king Shishupal, Sri Krishna found himself with a bloody finger. On seeing him, Draupadi, the wife of the five Pandavas, tore a silk band from his sari to heal his finger. Moved by her affection and her concern for him, Sri Krishna swore to protect her from all evil thereafter. Several years later, when the Pandavas lost a rigged game against the Kauravas, the latter wanted to undress Draupadi before the kings to dishonor her. Sri Krishna intervened in his non-physical aspect by giving her several layers of sari so that it was impossible for them to do so.
Nag Panchami
Nag Panchami
Situated at approximately 400 kms from Mumbai, the village of Baltis Shirale, conducts the most outstanding celebration of Naga Panchami, a festival where live snakes are worshipped. A report suggests that the largest pit of snakes in the world can be found in Baltis Shirale. About a week before this festival, the people of the village dig out live snakes from their dens and they keep them covered in earthen pots. On the day of the festival, the pots are carried to the sacred temple of goddess Amba and after a ritual worship, the snakes are taken out from the pots and are set free in the temple courtyard. After the puja, the snakes are put back in the pots and are carried in bullock-carts in procession throughout the Shirale village, while one or two cobras are let loose in front of each house where men and women offer prayers and perform “aarti”.
An incredible fact of this ritual, confirmed by the Director of the Madras Snake Park after a thorough examination of these cobras, is that the poison-containing fangs of the snakes are not removed neither is the poison extracted. Despite this fact, there has been no report of snake bite in the past during the festival and its rituals.
Discover Sri Lanka
DISCOVER SRI LANKA
Duration: 7 Nights/8 Days
Places: Colombo → Dambulla → Kandy → Nuwara Eliya → Colombo

Day 1/2: Colombo
The throbbing metropolis, Colombo – located in the West of Sri Lanka – is not only the country’s commercial capital, but also the turbine that impels above 50% of the national GDP. Drive along the clean streets edging the crystal white Race Course – horse racing hub in 1893 & World War II airstrip – furnished today with lavish clothing, food & tea boutiques. Meanwhile, ride to Pettah and tune into the Floating Market – an offbeat shopping experience – or feel the buzz surrounding the upcoming inspiration, the Colombo Port City – an offshore city – featuring parks, commercial complexes & even an F1 track! Have a chilled beer at the Dutch Hospital while gazing through fancy windows showcasing best fashion, jewelry & handicraft brands.
Day 3: Dambulla
In the city of Dambulla lies a hub which has been treasured by many kings since the 1st century B.C. Today, an icon in the face of Sri Lanka, Dambulla Rock Temple houses some of the most unique drawings in magnificently constructed 5 cave temples flanking the golden temple of Dambulla. Observe how exquisitely cave paintings are done along walls that shelter 150 statues of Lord Buddha. As you enter the retreat, look straight up to the gigantic Buddha statue glittering in gold over a land, which today houses an important junction in the country’s economic and cultural uplifting.


Day 4/5: Kandy
Kandy, a World Heritage Site and the last royal capital of Sri Lankan kings crafts an array of culture, history and heritage in the minds of visitors across the globe. Experience an ancient Kandyan legacy engraved around its crown jewel, the temple of the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha. A stroll across this small lakeside town will feature the Kandy City Centre, bundled with latest and world class brands, bazaars, an arts & crafts centre, as well as a gem museum & lapidary. Walk in color as you glide through fresh fruits and vegetables in the Kandy market. Fine tune your evening by stepping to the beat of traditional music & drumming amplified by a cultural show enhancing the rich and vibrant culture of the Wonder of Asia, Sri Lanka.
Day 6/7: Nuwara Eliya
Misty steep roads, twisting through lush green blankets of tea bushes in a cool climate, remind visitors that they are within the range of the renowned British colonial retreat, Nuwara Eliya. Augmented by an English countryside atmosphere, the city of light – once governed by English & Scottish planters – is still studded with colonial bungalows, hedgerows & one of the finest 18-hole golf courses in the world. A hike through the green grass and red-brick walls should present breathtaking views of a buzzing countryside hamlet. Drive through green valleys of the hill country pierced by endless waterfalls & dotted by tea pluckers draped in bright-colored saris. Or rent a bike for a gentle ride along the banks splashed by the waters of Lake Gregory.


Day 8: Colombo
Transfer to Colombo and proceed to onward destination.
Vietnam and Cambodia
VIETNAM / CAMBODIA
Duration: 13 Nights/14 Days
Places: Hanoi → Sapa → Bac Ha → Tam Coc → Siem Riep

Day 1: Hanoi
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is known for its centuries-old architecture and a rich culture with Southeast Asian, Chinese and French influences. There are many little temples, including Bach Ma, honoring a legendary horse, plus Đồng Xuân Market, selling household goods and street food. Museums and pagodas scatter the city and Hoan Kiem Lake serves as the centre point to reach just anywhere. The Hanoi Old Quarter, the cultural, dining, entertainment and shopping heart of the city is worth the majority of your time to discover. The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is an intriguing relic of Vietnam’s history and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 2: Sapa
Sa Pa is a town in the Hoàng Liên Son Mountains of northwestern Vietnam and was established as a hill station by the French (1922). A popular trekking base, it overlooks the terraced rice fields of the Muong Hoa Valley, and is near the 3km tall Phang Xi Pang peak, which is climbable via a steep, multiday guided walk. Hill tribes, such as the Hmong, Tay and Dao, make up much of the town’s local population. As a tourist you can enjoy the spectacular view (on clear days) that overlooks a plunging valley with mountains towering above on all sides.


Day 3/4: Bac Ha/Hanoi
Bac Ha is a rural district of Lao Cai Province in the Northeast region of Vietnam. It is the capital of the region of the Flower Hmong, one of the 54 minorities of Vietnam and of the six groups of Hmong people. It is famous for its Sunday morning market, where thousands of locals gathered, the women dressed in their very intricate handmade costumes (it takes three to five months to embroider one by hand), as well as for the Saturday morning smaller market of Can Cau, 18 kms north of Bac Ha. Bac Ha is also famous for its Tam Hoa plums; the flowers of the tree must bloom three times before the fruits are ripe.
Day 5-8: Tam Coc
Tam Coc is located about 90 kms south of Hanoi in the Ninh Binh province. Tam Coc which means 3 caves, is a zone of Vietnam that has rice paddies, bathed by the Ngo Dong River punctuated by karstic rock formations and limestone caves. These geographic conditions have made Tam Coc the La Halong Bay on land. Tourists are generally taken in small boats along the river from the village of Van Lam, through rice fields and limestone karsts, through the caves, and back. Enjoy the hospitality of local women who serve as guides and attempt to sell embroidered goods to their passengers.


Day 9-14: Siem Reap
Siem Reap province is located in northwest Cambodia. It is the major tourist hub in Cambodia, as it is the closest city to the world famous temples of Angkor (the Angkor temple complex is north of the city). The provincial capital is also called Siem Reap and is located in the South of the province on the shores of the Tonle Sap Lake, the greatest sweet water reserve in whole Southeast Asia. The name of the city literally means Siamese defeated, referring to the victory of the Khmer Empire over the army of the Thai kingdom in the 17th century.
Discover Japan
DISOVER JAPAN
Duration: 15 Nights/16 Days
Places: Tokyo → Hakone → Kyoto → Hiroshima → Osaka → Tokyo

Day 1-5: Tokyo
Tokyo is the capital of Japan and one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the world. Tokyo is also a major transportation hub, a world economic and industrial centre. Tokyo is famous for its numerous museums, theatres, festivals, internationally noted cuisine and professional sports clubs. It’s also a city rich in music and theatre, with numerous venues featuring everything from Japanese to modern dramas, symphony orchestras, and pop and rock concerts. There are many interesting tourist attractions: Imperial Palace, Ginza District, Asakusa and the Senso-ji temple, Ueno Park and Zoo, National Museum, The Meiji Shrine and Skytree etc.
Day 6/7: Hakone
Hakone is situated approximately 100 kms from Tokyo and is designated as a Geopark by UNESCO. Among others, it is famous for its hot springs, its natural beauty and the view of Mt. Fuji. The town’s economy is mainly dependent on the tourism sector. Hakone is also known for the Shinto Shrine, the Hakone Gongen, which is mentioned in the Heian period. Other beautiful sights include the volcanically active Owakudani geysers as well as the Hakone Botanical Gargen of Wetlands. In April, the cherry blossoms (sakura) and in autumn the Miscanthus sinensis (susuki) are notable sights that attract both Japanese and international tourists to this town.


Day 8-10: Kyoto
Kyoto, ancient capital of Japan and home to 17 World Heritage temples, shrines and castles is also known for formal traditions such as kaiseki dining, consisting of multiple courses of precise dishes, and geishas, female entertainers often found in the Gion district. There are said to be over 1000 Buddhist temples in Kyoto. Visit Ryoanji Temple for its tranquil zen rock garden or enjoy the view from the top of Kiyomizu-dera Temple. In the west part of the city, an extensive bamboo grove in Arashiyama offers a therapeutic walking route. Another magical sight is the Fushimi Inari Shrine, which has thousands of vermillion torii gates on a hill.
Day 11/12: Hiroshima
Hiroshima is the capital of Hiroshima Prefecture and the city names means “Broad Island” in Japanese. This city is perhaps best known as the first city in history to be targeted by a nuclear weapon when the USA Air Force dropped an atomic bomb on the city (World War II). However, Hiroshima is now a modern, cosmopolitan city with excellent cuisine and a bustling nightlife. Hiroshima is best known for its scenic Itsukushima Temple that has a large torii gate floating in the sea. The other World Heritage site Hiroshima Peace Memorial is well visited too. Hiroshima is home to its unique okonomiyaki pancake as well as locally farmed oysters which are large and tasty.


Day 13-15: Osaka
Osaka is Japan’s second largest metropolitan area after Tokyo and has been the economic powerhouse of the Kansai region for many centuries. During the ancient times, the city was known as the “nation’s kitchen” and served as a centre for rice trading. There are countless places to visit during your stay in the city: the Tennoji/Abeno area with its large shopping malls, Tsutenkaku area for a taste of the old downtown, and the Bay Area for the world’s largest aquarium and Universal Studios. During your visit, try the local cuisine (Kuromon food market), such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and tecchiri.
Day 16: Tokyo
Transfer to Tokyo and proceed to onward destination.

Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore
Thailand, Malaysia & Singapore
Duration: 9 Nights/10 Days
Places: Pattaya → Bangkok → Phuket → Kuala Lumpur → Singapore

Day 1/2: Bangkok/Pattaya
Pattaya is a big seaside city located at a 2 hour drive from Bangkok. The Sanctuary of Truth in the north of Pattaya is an architectural masterpiece made entirely out of teak wood. Other must-visits include the Big Buddha Hill (18 m high) situated on a hill between south Pattaya and Jomptien. A good alternative from the beach is Mini Siam, a place where famous monuments from around the world have been reproduced in miniature. Other sites include the Pattaya Park, the night market of Thepprasit, the Naklua market, the elephant village, etc.
Day 3/4: Bangkok
Bangkok is the capital and most populous city of Thailand. Bangkok is a city of contrasts with action at every turn; marvel at the gleaming temples, catch a tuk tuk along the bustling Chinatown or take a longtail boat through floating markets. Food is another Bangkok highlight, from local dishes served at humble street stalls to haute cuisine at romantic rooftop restaurants. Luxury malls compete with a sea of boutiques and markets, where you can treat yourself without overspending. Enjoy the famous nightlife – from cabarets to exotic red-light districts.


Day 5/6: Phuket
Phuket boasts of spectacular scenery, stunning tropical sunsets and a warm blue sea. This fun island provides an unbeatable combination of perfect silky soft white palm-lined beaches, superb hospitality and great value accommodation. Whether it’s world-class diving in the Andaman Sea, golf at international-standard championship courses or exciting eco-adventures in tropical forests, Phuket is a place to extend your horizons. Take an exhilarating speedboat trip to the surrounding islands, or enjoy a serene cruise around mystical Phang Nga Bay. Further, take time to enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Patong Beach.
Day 7/8: Malaysia/Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur is the capital city of Malaysia, boasting gleaming skyscrapers, colonial architecture, charming locals, and a myriad of natural attractions. Divided into numerous districts, its main hub is called the Golden Triangle which comprises Bukit Bintang, KLCC and Chinatown. KL is widely recognized for numerous landmarks, including Petronas Twin Towers (the world’s tallest twin skyscrapers), Petaling Street flea market, and Batu Caves, which is over 400 million years old. Enjoy the abundance of gastronomic delights – with thousands of hawker stalls, cafes, and restaurants


Day 9/10: Singapore
Though physically small, Singapore is an economic giant. It has been Southeast Asia’s most modern city for over a century. The city blends Malay, Chinese, Arab, Indian and English cultures and religions. Its unique ethnic tapestry affords visitors a wide array of sightseeing and culinary opportunities from which to choose. A full calendar of traditional festivals and holidays celebrated throughout the year adds to its cultural appeal. In addition, Singapore offers luxury hotels, delectable cuisine and great shopping!
Kutch Special
KUTCH SPECIAL
Duration: 8 Nights/9 Days
Places: Ahmedabad → Balaram → Dasada → Dholavira → Bhuj → Hodka → Narayan Sarovar → Mandvi → Bhuj
Day 1: Ahmedabad
Popularly known as the Manchester of the East, Ahmedabad boasts of the largest denim production in the world. It is also home to several interesting museums. Many of Ahmedabad’s buildings bear the signatures of world-renowned architects like Le Corbusier, Louis Khan , Doshi and Correa.
It is from here that Mahatma Gandhi launched his famous Dandi March, as a protest against the Salt Tax and gave human race one of its most remarkable ways to fight oppression – non-violence.
Set upon the Sabarmati riverside the city is filled with a delightful range of tourist attractions. Split into the old quarter and the new urban spaces Ahmedabad offers visitors a variety of holiday experiences that are at once entertaining and culturally enriching. Wander the bustling bazaars, explore old mosques, museums and ancient step wells. Check out the landmarks of India’s history before taking on a cultural performance at one of the performing arts centres.
Day 2: Balaram
Situated in scenic forest areas, Balaram is an ideal spot for a day picnic from Ahmedabad. A river flows through the region and the mountains rise in beautiful formations on every side. Balaram is a holy place with considerable importance for Hindus. Among the many temples here is the “Gaumukh”; a natural stream flowing from the mouth of a cow.
Explore the famous Jessor Bear Sanctuary and Balaram Ambaji Wildlife Sanctuary and spot sloth bear in its natural habitat. Visit the finest clusters of Jain Temples of Taranga and the holy temple of Ambaji. The architectural excellence of the Sun Temple at Modhera is sure to leave you spellbound.
Take an excursion to Patan, famous for its hand woven textiles and Patola sarees. Walking around Patan you can enjoy the colourful tribals and the age old monuments. Take part in colourful fairs and festivals of Balaram and experience the summits of fun and frolic.
Day 3: Dasada
Little Rann of Kutch, famous for its Wild Ass Sanctuary is situated near Dasada.
In this region you can feel the magic of Kathiyawadi life, still untouched by the outer world. An interaction over a cup of tea with the pastoral communities like Vadiara Rabaris, the Bharwads, nomadic/semi-nomadic groups like the Mirs and Bajanias living in this area makes your journey very interesting and realistic.
The desert safari is an enjoyable experience. You have the unique opportunity to see the Wild Ass in its natural habitat. The drive to the desert is delightful as you have the chance to spot rare migratory birds. More than 300 species of birds have been identified in this region. Along the way you can also watch the Koli tribals working at salt pannels.
Day 4/5: Dholavira & Bhuj
Dholavira is an ancient town situated in the state of Gujarat. The ruins of the settlement found here are believed to be more than 5000 years old. These excavation sites are one of the largest Harappan sites in India. If you are interested in knowing about the ancient history and the primordial civilization of the country then Dholavira is the perfect place for you.
Bhuj is known for its palaces built in the traditional Kutchi architectural styles. Among them, the Aina Mahal or the Palace of Mirrors is the most famous and one of its main highlights. The palace is surrounded by a small, fortified courtyard built in the 18th century and is located in the old part of the city. It also has a museum within it, Prag Mahal, which was built in the latter half of the 19th century. The Hall of Mirrors and the Pleasure Pool are highlights within the palace.
Day 6: Hodka
Hodka, the cultural village is situated in the Banni Grassland in the Kutch District, Gujarat. It is on the edge of the great salt desert – the Rann. The village is a cluster of houses situated close to each other where around 7 to 8 families live together.
The village is famous for its crafts like decorative mirrors, lamps, hand fans, letter boxes, wall hangings, leather and clay items, wood works, metal works and mud works. The village is also famous for its exquisite silver jewellery. The artisans sell their goods directly from their artistic huts which are popularly known as ‘Bhungas’.
Day 7: Narayan Sarovar
One of the most sacred pilgrim centres of the Hindu religion, Narayan Sarovar is uppermost in the pilgrims’ circuit. There are actually five sacred lakes here, containing a temple complex in one of its five holy lakes.
Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary is a unique area in the country because the uncommon ecosystem in the arid zone supports 15 threatened species of wildlife belonging to Schedule-I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Scrub and desert thorn forest interspersed with numerous seasonal water-bodies and grassy patches provide an ideal habitat for chinkara, caracal, ratel, wolf, desert cat, desert fox, great Indian bustard, lesser florican and a variety of waterfowl. The Sanctuary is considered important ecological unit for maintaining environmental and ecological stability. The area has a very high conservation value for scientific research.
Day 8: Mandvi
Mandvi, founded in 1581 A.D. is an ancient seaport. Mandvi is also known as a 400 year old shipbuilding centre and one can see the small boats being constructed in the traditional techniques by master carpenters even today.
The Vijay Vilas Palace and Rukhmavati Bridge are the main attractions of Mandvi. The palace has all the elements of Rajput architecture and it is set in the middle of well-laid gardens with water channels and marble fountains. The Rukmavati bridge is the longest stone bridge in India, built in 1883 A.D.
The private beach of Maharao is the perfect place, in case you are looking for peace and solitude. It has beautiful white sand, serene locales and enchanting sunset views.
Day 9: Bhuj
– Proceed to onwards destination / End of journey.
Navratri Wonders
NAVRATRI WONDERS
Duration: 15 Nights/16Days
Places: Ahmedabad → Bhavnagar → Junagadh → Sasangir → Dwarka → Rajkot → Mandvi → Bhuj → Hodka → Dholavira → Bhuj → Dasada → Balaram → Ahmedabad → Baroda
Day 1: Ahmedabad
Popularly known as the Manchester of the East, Ahmedabad boasts of the largest denim production in the world. It is also home to several interesting museums. Many of Ahmedabad’s buildings bear the signatures of world-renowned architects like Le Corbusier, Louis Khan , Doshi and Correa.
It is from here that Mahatma Gandhi launched his famous Dandi March, as a protest against the Salt Tax and gave human race one of its most remarkable ways to fight oppression – non-violence.
Set upon the Sabarmati riverside the city is filled with a delightful range of tourist attractions. Split into the old quarter and the new urban spaces Ahmedabad offers visitors a variety of holiday experiences that are at once entertaining and culturally enriching. Wander the bustling bazaars, explore old mosques, museums and ancient step wells. Check out the landmarks of India’s history before taking on a cultural performance at one of the performing arts centres.
Day 2/3: Bhavnagar
Bhavnagar lies in the southeast corner of the peninsular region of Gujarat known as Kathiawad or Saurashtra. Once the capital of a princely state Bhavnagar is home to several lakes and temples.
For the tourist, Bhavnagar serves as a convenient base to visit the Jain temples of Palitana on the Shatrunjaya hills and the Velvadar Sanctuary, the home of the famous Indian Black buck.
Bhavnagar was found in 1743 A.D. by Bhavsinhji Gohil, near the small village of Vadva. It was once a flourishing port but today the only activity related to the port is at Alang and Ghogha. Alang is well known for the largest ship breaking yard in Asia.
Day 4: Junagadh
Junagadh also known as ‘Sorath’ is an ancient fortified city, situated at the foot of the Girnar Hills. Junagadh literally translated means the “old fort”. The city was built in 319 BCE by Chandragupta Maurya. The fort which circles the medieval town is popular for its Buddhist caves and 2 step wells known as “Adi Kadi ni vaav” and “Navghan kuvo”. It was besieged 16 times in 800 years and one of the unsuccessful sieges lasted for 12 years.
The journey to the top of Girnar Hills is considered holy by the Jains and Hindus. ‘Girnar’ has 5 major peaks and 9999 steps to reach the top. The history of Mount Girnar dates back to the awesome empire of Ashoka, one of India’s greatest emperors. Ashoka inscribed 14 edicts on a huge boulder during his journey to the Mt. Girnar Peak. The inscription was in Brahmi script and using the ancient language of Pali dating around 250 BCE.
Day 5: Sasangir
Sprawling in an area of 1424 sq. km., the wildlife sanctuary of Sasangir is home to the endangered Asiatic Lion. The dry and deciduous forest has a rich ecosystem endowed with flora and fauna. Thirty species of mammals, twenty species of reptiles, several species of insects and birds are found here. Gir forest is the only place in the world outside Africa, where the lion can be seen in its natural habitat. A safari in this forest can be one of the rare and delightful moments of life, as one can spot the Lion in all its majesty.
Day 6: Dwarka
Located in the Saurashtran peninsula by the Arabian Sea, Dwarka is mentioned as the Golden city in ancient Hindu texts like the Gita and the Puranas. Steeped in legends associated with Lord Krishna, Dwarka is an important Hindu pilgrimage centre.
The Dwarkadhish temple (also known as Jagat Mandir) along the Ghats is the most famous landmark in the city. The five-storeyed temple stands on 60 pillars and its ‘Sikhar’ rises to 170 feet. The other temples in Dwarka are the Trikamji temple, Kalyanrai temple, the Patrani temple, Durvas temple, etc. It is believed that Dwarka was submerged into the sea six times and the modern day Dwarka is the seventh one.
Apart from its historical places, a sunset cruise to Bet Dwarka is a serene and peaceful experience
Day 7: Rajkot
A large city of Saurashtra, Rajkot was an important city of the British Raj and a major princely state capital. The city has a number of impressive colonial buildings and educational institutions. It is famous for its Watson museum and association with Mahatma Gandhi who spent much of his childhood here. The city is also well known for its silver jewellery, woolen and cotton textiles, silk embroidery and bandhnis (tie & dye work).
Day 8: Mandvi
Mandvi, founded in 1581 A.D. is an ancient seaport. Mandvi is also known as a 400 year old shipbuilding centre and one can see the small boats being constructed in the traditional techniques by master carpenters even today.
The Vijay Vilas Palace and Rukhmavati Bridge are the main attractions of Mandvi. The palace has all the elements of Rajput architecture and it is set in the middle of well-laid gardens with water channels and marble fountains. The Rukmavati bridge is the longest stone bridge in India, built in 1883 A.D.
The private beach of Maharao is the perfect place, in case you are looking for peace and solitude. It has beautiful white sand, serene locales and enchanting sunset views.
Day 9: Bhuj
Bhuj is the administrative city of Kutch. The city has a unique heritage and culture with its small, meandering streets, palaces and temples. It has many villages around it that are famous for their traditional handicrafts and embroidery. Geographically Bhuj is near the Gulf of Kutch, a part of the Arabian Sea with low hills overlooking the city.
Bhuj is known for its palaces built in the traditional Kutchi architectural styles. Among them, the Aina Mahal or the Palace of Mirrors is the most famous and one of its main highlights. The palace is surrounded by a small, fortified courtyard built in the 18th century and is located in the old part of the city. It also has a museum within it, Prag Mahal, which was built in the latter half of the 19th century. The Hall of Mirrors and the Pleasure Pool are highlights within the palace.
Day 10: Hodka
Hodka, the cultural village is situated in the Banni Grassland in the Kutch District, Gujarat. It is on the edge of the great salt desert – the Rann. The village is a cluster of houses situated close to each other where around 7 to 8 families live together.
The village is famous for its crafts like decorative mirrors, lamps, hand fans, letter boxes, wall hangings, leather and clay items, wood works, metal works and mud works. The village is also famous for its exquisite silver jewellery. The artisans sell their goods directly from their artistic huts which are popularly known as ‘Bhungas’.
Day 11: Dholavira & Bhuj
Dholavira is an ancient town situated in the state of Gujarat. The ruins of the settlement found here are believed to be more than 5000 years old. These excavation sites are one of the largest Harappan sites in India. If you are interested in knowing about the ancient history and the primordial civilization of the country then Dholavira is the perfect place for you.
The excavations done here have revealed many ancient artifacts, like seals, beads, animal bones, gold, silver, terracotta ornaments and vessels. Some of these items are linked to Mesopotamia, which proves that it was a major port and trading center of those times. The most interesting discovery of Dholavira is the large inscription, comprising of ten letters in the Indus script, each letter engraved on slices of crystalline material.
Day 12: Dasada
Little Rann of Kutch, famous for its Wild Ass Sanctuary is situated near Dasada.
In this region you can feel the magic of Kathiyawadi life, still untouched by the outer world. An interaction over a cup of tea with the pastoral communities like Vadiara Rabaris, the Bharwads, nomadic/semi-nomadic groups like the Mirs and Bajanias living in this area makes your journey very interesting and realistic.
The desert safari is an enjoyable experience. You have the unique opportunity to see the Wild Ass in its natural habitat. The drive to the desert is delightful as you have the chance to spot rare migratory birds. More than 300 species of birds have been identified in this region. Along the way you can also watch the Koli tribals working at salt pannels.
Day 13: Balaram
Balaram is a holy place with considerable importance as a Hindu pilgrimage. Situated in scenic forest areas, Balaram is an ideal spot for a day picnic from Ahmedabad. Among the many temples here are the Gaumukh, with a natural stream flowing from the mouth of a cow.
A river flows through the region and the mountains rise in beautiful formations on every side. Explore the famous Jessor Bear Sanctuary and Balaram Ambaji Wildlife Sanctuary and spot sloth bear in its natural habitat. Visit the finest clusters of Jain Temples of Taranga and the holy temple of Ambaji. The architectural excellence of the Sun Temple at Modhera is sure to leave you spellbound.
Take an excursion to Patan, which is famous across the world for its textiles and ancient monuments and above all, witness the wonders of tribal lifestyles. Take part in colourful fairs and festivals of Balaram and experience the summits of fun and frolic.
Day 14: Ahmedabad
Popularly known as the Manchester of the East, Ahmedabad boasts of the largest denim production in the world. It is also home to several interesting museums. Many of Ahmedabad’s buildings bear the signatures of world-renowned architects like Le Corbusier, Louis Khan , Doshi and Correa.
It is from here that Mahatma Gandhi launched his famous Dandi March, as a protest against the Salt Tax and gave human race one of its most remarkable ways to fight oppression – non-violence.
Set upon the Sabarmati riverside the city is filled with a delightful range of tourist attractions. Split into the old quarter and the new urban spaces Ahmedabad offers visitors a variety of holiday experiences that are at once entertaining and culturally enriching. Wander the bustling bazaars, explore old mosques, museums and ancient step wells. Check out the landmarks of India’s history before taking on a cultural performance at one of the performing arts centres.
Day 15/16: Baroda
Vadodara is a graceful city of palaces, parks, temples and museums and considered by many as the de-facto cultural capital of Gujarat. Once the capital of the Gaekwads, the former rulers of Vadodara, it is also known as Baroda and rises from the banks of River Vishwamitri. Vadodara is also the industrial capital of Gujarat.
Archaeological findings indicate that human habitations existed here since prehistoric times. Vadodara passed through the hands of, the Guptas, Chalukyas, Rashtrakudas, Solankis, the Sultans of Delhi and the Mughals before passing on to the Marathas. It owes its present day grandeur to Maharaja Sayajirao, a great patron of art, architecture and music.
– Proceed to onwards destination / End of journey.
Ramakrishna Vidyalaya - Oustanding Teacher Award
Ramakrishna Vidyalaya – Oustanding Teacher Award
Rotary Clubs’ association with this very old school goes a long way. It has been actively involved in raising funds for building, equipping the lab and providing furniture (such as benches, chairs etc.).
Chetak’s Value Addition
Every year on Teacher’s Day, Chetak gives cash reward to the most outstanding teacher. This practice is going on since seven years now.
Memories



