INDIA: Boutique Gujarat Foodie & Textile Tour - 13 days

Destinations: INDIA – GUJARAT:  Ahmedabad | Patan | Modhera | Dasada | Bajana | Hodka & Banni Villages | Bhuj

Tour Commences In:  Ahmedabad -

Tour Concludes in:  Bhuj

Number of Days:  13 days / 12 nights

Tour Style:  Luxury / Deluxe Private Escorted Small Group Tour (groups, couples & solo travellers)

Accommodation:  Modern & Boutique Hotels

Leaders:  Australian Tour Host and professional textile specialist guide

Meals:  Breakfasts; 13: Lunches; 4: Dinners; 6:

Transportation:   Luxury / Deluxe private chauffeur driven air-conditioned vehicles

Tour Grading:   EASY/MODERATE: Suitable for travellers with an average level of fitness and mobility

•     Travel to the most Western area of India

•     Be overwhelmed when visiting the Calico Museum of Textiles

•     Discover Gandhi’s Ashram, a memorable moment.

•     Visit Shreyas Folk Art Museum.

•     Walk into an amazing stepwell Rani ki Vav – an UNESCO world heritage site

•     Visit a local Block Maker and learn the craft of making a ‘Block’

•     Visit an amazing patola silk workshop & Museum.

•     Learn about single Ikat & double ikat weaving

•     Walk into an amazing stepwell Rani ki Vav – an UNESCO world heritage site

•     Pray with the Gods at The Sun Temple

•     Visit local craftspeople in villages in Little Rann of Kutch

•     Explore LRK Wild Life Sanctuary in a Jeep

•     Visit the Kala Raksha Museum, Sumraser and discover beautiful embroidery

•     Spend twilight enjoying local traditional music

•     Mingle with the locals and be captivated with the handicrafts of local villages in Banni.

•     Visit a private house with an amazing historical collection of textiles

•     Enjoy a variety of delicious local cuisines

Day 1:         Arrive Ahmedabad: (D)
Welcome to Ahmedabad, the capital of Gujarat and one and only UNESCO  world Heritage City of India! You will be met on arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel.Later, there is an option to visit the Law Garden night markets, where you can peruse a wide array of the semi handicrafts, textiles and clothing.

Day 2:       Ahmedabad:    (B/D)
Today after breakfast we visit the superb Calico Museum of Textiles, inaugurated in 1949, and today housing one of the world’s finest collections of Indian antique and modern textiles. It is India's premier textile museum. Its outstanding collection ofIndian Fabrics exemplifies handicraft textiles spanning five centuries and attracts increasing numbers of Indians and international research scholars. Most significantly, it has become a major reference area for our surviving handicraftsmen and also for the India machine-textile industry. We visit Gandhi Ashram, also known as Sabarmati Ashram. It is situated along the bank of the Sabarmati River, about 5 miles from the centre of the city.  Gandhi lived here for 12 years. It was from here that he undertook the salt march, a 241-mile, 24 day march to the sea to protest the British tax on Indian salt. It is a truly inspirational centre.  This evening before dinner, we visit Vechaar Utensil Museum, a place that savours the past life of kitchens in Gujarat. This evening enjoy a traditional Gujarati Dinner with local dances and music performance.

Day 3:        Ahmedabad:    (B)
Embark on a morning  walk to the old city Ahmedabad for that Ahmedabad is known for the rich architect Heritage! Old Temples, Mosques, havelies, old wooden houses and walk through the old Market. Then after, drive to the area where we can see the artisans of Mata ni Pachhedi, a unique art done by the Waghari communities with natural dyes and wooden blocks and brush. This afternoon, we visit Shreyas Folk Art Museum. It is an educational museum exhibiting folk arts and crafts of Gujarat. As the name suggests, the exhibits at the museum include art, craft, textile and clothing, coins, weapons, toys, costumes, masks, puppets and musical instruments. If you enjoy architecture, then you are in for a visual treat in this city, The Sanskar Kendra was built by the renowned architect Le Corbusier himself in 1954 as a cultural centre of Ahmedabad. Within it is a famous Kite Exhibition.

Day 4:      Ahmedabad:    (B)
After breakfast we drive to the amazing Adalaj Step-Well that is set in the quaint village of Adalaj. This step-well is a spectacular example of Indo-Islamic design and architecture and is one of the finest in Gujarat. It was built in 1499 by queen Rudabai, wife of a local ruler; it was to store water and provide a pleasant place for travellers as well as meeting place for locals.  After that drive to a local village to see how wooden blocks are being made by Gujjar community.  As Gujarat is popular for block printings, the Gujjar artisans of this village makes wooden blocks. Then after, we continue our drive to a local sari weaving factory. This is also one of the old style of weaving. Once there were so many artisans of this style, but only few left now !  We return to Ahmedabad.

Day 5:        Ahmedabad - Patan - Modhera - LRK:    (B/L/D)
We head north to Patan, home of the famous patola  silk saris.  Patan is a beautiful old town with carved wooden house and Jain temples, home of the famous patola silk Saris, one of the richest silk textiles in the world, woven using the rare double ikat technique.  There is a wonderful small museum displaying photos and textiles from numerous countries. Unfortunately there is now only one family in the area that continues the double ikat weaving. Here, if you wish, you are able to particiapte in a paper cutting class with a master. 
We also stop at the fabulous stepwell Rani ki Vav – a world heritage site by UNESCO.
We then drive to Modhera and visit The Sun Temple, it is one of the finest examples of Indian architecture of its period. Built in 1026 A.D. The temple is dedicated to the Sun-God, Surya, and stands high on a plinth overlooking a deep stone-steeped tank. Every inch of the edifice, both inside and outside is magnificently carved with Gods and Goddesses, birds, beasts and flowers. The Sun Temple of Modhera was built by King Bhimdev I (1026-27) and bears some resemblance to the later and far better known, Sun Temple of Konark in the state of Orissa, which it predates this by some 200 years. Like that temple, it was designed so that the dawn sun shone on the image of Surya, the Sun God, at the time of the equinoxes. As with the temple of Somnath, this fine temple was ruined by Mohamed of Ghazni.  We continue our drive Dasada and visit neighbouring villages and the homes of local embroideries and weavers. We continue driving to the LITTLE RANN OF KUTCH.

Day 6:        LITTLE RANN OF KUTCH:    (B/L/D)
Today we explore, learn and discover several nomadic communities where the women wear colourful traditional dress and silver jewellery. 

Day 7:          LITTLE RANN OF KUTCH – Bhuj:     (B)
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before we drive to Bhuj – Kutch. On our way we visit an Ahir family who makes Ahir embroidery. We continue drive to Bhuj which is the capital of Kutch ( KACHCHH ) District- the largest district of India! Which is also known for its rich culture of Textiles and Handicrafts. I am sure that you too will find this area another highlight of our journey.

Day 8:       Bhuj:    (B)
We drive to Ajrakhpur which is famous for its Ajrakh – Block Printed cotton cloth with natural dies and used traditionally by local herdsmen. Its geometrical and nonfigurative motifs often mirror those appearing in Islamic - influenced Indian architecture. Here we will participate in a block print workshop to test your skills and learn how to make natural- vegetable dyes and get indigo on your fingers! This afternoon we visit to the Rabari weavers village and experience the weaving on pit looms and different types and styles of weaving .

DAY 9:       Bhuj – Hodka:    (B/L/D)
After breakfast checkout and drive to the most colourful area, the Banni Region. Amidst the Desert land of infinite dimensions, are suspended, quaint little villages. These are the last villages on the India-Pakistan border. Here you will meet master craft people' sharing their traditional art, producing master pieces every day. Their ornaments, clothes, utensils, everything they use - will make you feel as if you have stepped into lifestyle museum leaving you spellbound. The grasslands of Banni are scattered with villages of pastoral groups. As the women of these groups do embroidery for their personal use and a supplementary income, this is one of the highest concentration areas of craftswomen in the world. Banni Embroidery of Kutch. This needle work derived its name from the semi-desert areas called Banni in the Kutch district. It is a long tract of 2,144 Sq. Km. where 44 villages form hamlets (Vandhs) People in this area are engaged in tertiary occupations like embroidery, leather work, dairy and other cottage industries. Banni embroidery is locally known as "Kutch Bharat" Khambira, Kharek, Kodi, Kacho Bharat Fako, Bharat etc are main stitches used in this area. The work is known for minute designs gorgeous colours embroidered articles are closely associated with their day to day needs. The grasslands of Banni are scattered with villages of pastoral groups. As the women of these groups do embroidery for their personal use and a supplementary income. We also visit the unique artisans of – Rogan, copper bell, lacquer work and Soof embroidery.

Day 10:       Hodka:   (B/L/D)
Following breakfast we visit the Hodka village which is famous for embroidery and quilts. We continue to visit more villages to see all different types of art and crafts of this colorful region. Back to hotel and enjoy the local cuisine and music.

Day 11:        Hodka – Bhuj:    (B)
After breakfast, checkout and we drive back to the Bhuj where we will be visiting the Palaces of Kutch state, the oldest museum of Gujarat – Kachchh Museum. We meet a Master 'bandhini' tie-dye artisan and discover the intricisy of the tie. We visit the great Textile collector Mr. Wazir and he discusses his amazing collection of textiles from all over India and neighbouring countries from the past 40 years. Later this evening, we walk through the local market.

Day 12:         Bhuj:    (B/D)
Today we drive to south Kutch to explore Batik wax prints, Mashru weaving, wooden boat buildings and the Beach of Mandvi. Drive back to Bhuj. Farewell dinner.

Day 13:        Depart Bhuj:    (B)
Our small group tour concludes after breakfast and for most guests today it is time to say farewell to acquaintances, new-found friends on our tour.At your leisure before transferring to the airport for your onward or homebound journey.

Depending on your departure itinerary, you may have time for some last-minute sightseeing and shopping. We are able to organise our private guide to accompany you. Some guests may wish to stay another day or more. Please don’t hesitate to contact Boutique Tours & Travel for further travel arrangements

Please advise If you wish to depart via Mumbai or Delhi.

You are more than welcome to join our Mumbai Tour - as per below

Day 1:      Mumbai:    (B)
MUMBAI:
Formerly known as Bombay, it originally consisted of seven swampy islands when the Portuguese acquired it in 1554.  In 1661 Bom Bahia (the Good Bay) came to the British Crown as part of the dowry of Catherine Braganza when she married Charles II.  The British leased these “useless malarial islands” to the British East India Company who realized its potential as a natural harbor, and Mumbai grew to its present stature.  The state capital of Maharashtra, Mumbai is India’s most dynamic, cosmopolitan and crowded city.  The country’s financial capital and its busiest port, this city is home to the world’s biggest cinema industry, popularly known as “Bollywood”.  Some 18 million people from billionaires’ tycoons to homeless pavement dwellers live in this teeming metropolis.

This morning after breakfast we visit the historic Kala Ghoda Area, the heart of the Fort Mumbai region.  A feast of architecture ranging from Gothic to art deco, the area is a lively area to explore on foot, Street vendors, cafes, galleries, local cricket matches and food stalls all find place to exist in this area.  The tour will end at the soaring Victoria Station, a landmark of the area. A UNESCO world heritage site, it is a busy station for both local commuter and national rail services. Also visit Mani Bhavan, a small museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi.  The museum is housed in a private home where he lived and worked during his visits to the city and you will stop at the Mahalakshmi Temple, dedicated to the patron goddess of the city.  You will stop at the Dhobi Ghat, a sight unique to the city.

Optional Tour:
This afternoon visit the Gateway of India and the Elephant Caves. The Elephanta Caves (natively known as Gharapurichi Leni) are a network of sculpted caves located on Elephanta Island, or Gharapuri (literally "the city of caves") in Mumbai Harbour, 10 kilometres to the east of the city of Mumbai . The island, located on an arm of the Arabian Sea, consists of two groups of caves—the first is a large group of five Hindu caves, the second a smaller group of two Buddhist caves. The Hindu caves contain rock cut stone sculptures, representing the Shaiva Hindu sect, dedicated to the Lord Shiva.
The rock cut architecture of the caves has been dated to between the 5th  and 8th  centuries, although the identity of the original builders is still a subject of debate. The caves are hewn from solid basalt rock. All the caves were also originally painted in the past, but now only traces remain.
The main cave (Cave 1, or the Great Cave) was a Hindu place of worship until Portuguese rule began in 1534, after which the caves suffered severe damage. This cave was renovated in the 1970s after years of neglect, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 to preserve the artwork. It is currently maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Rest of the evening is at leisure.

Day 2       Depart Mumbai:    (B)
Today after breakfast, visit Prince of Wales Museum, Gandhi Memorial Museum and Nehru Planetarium.Later we drive to Churchgate Station to watch a very typical Mumbai trade – the Dabbawallahs.  These are the men who are key to keeping the white collared work force of Mumbai fed, delivering over 200,000 thousand home cooked meals collected from homes in the distant suburbs and always delivered right on time to the right person.    Using a system of colors and codes, the Dabbawallahs meet in front of Churchgate station, rapidly segregate the steel Tiffin carriers (which all look exactly the same) into areas and depart with their load. Their time management and operations is impeccable, resulting in a Six Sigma rating by Forbes Global and study done by Harvard.We then visit to Raymond Mills and also visit Mafatlal Mills Factory followed by a visit to Century Textile Mills. Later return to your hotel or You have the option of visiting Kena Market Masjid, driving past BandraWorli Sea Link, Hanging Garden, Taraporewala Aquarium and Haji Ali.

Day 3    Depart Mumbai:    (B)
Our small group tour concludes after breakfast and for most guests today it is time to say farewell to acquaintances, new-found friends on our tour.At your leisure before transferring to the airport for your onward or homebound journey.

Depending on your departure itinerary, you may have time for some last-minute sightseeing and shopping. We are able to organise our private guide to accompany you. Some guests may wish to stay another day or more. Please don’t hesitate to contact Boutique Tours & Travel for further travel arrangements

• A specially curated itinerary for Boutique Tours & Travel

• A Small Group Tour (2- 12 Guests)

• Private international airport arrival and departure transfers for all guests

• Hand selected modern & boutique hotel accommodation

• Meals as indicated in Itinerary; B = Breakfast: L=Lunch: D=Dinner:

• Internet Access where possible 

• Private services of local bilingual cultural foodie & textile tour guide

• Concierge / Bellhop services throughout tour

• 24 hour on call support service 

• Private chauffeur driven luxury air-conditioned vehicles for transfers & sightseeing

• Admission fees to all monuments, activities, excursions and shows as per the itinerary

• Bottled water whilst touring in vehicle

• An exclusive BT&T Travel Information Booklet. & Phone App

• Room Sharing options for singles / solo travellers available

Not Included:

• International airfares

• Arrival & Departure Taxes, levies or other charges

• Passport & Visa Fees

• City Taxes for hotels if required

• Personal Travel Insurance

• Excess baggage charges

• Cost of any ‘luggage delivery’. – via FedEx or postal services

• Late check-out at hotels

• Porterage and gratuities on your arrival at airport and hotel and in free time

• Gratuities to tour guides and drivers and others.

• Meals and Alcoholic beverages not included in the itinerary

• Expenditure of personal nature

• Optional activities not included in tour