Day 1 : Arrives at Ahmedabad – Bhavnagar (200kms)

Arrival at Ahmedabad, Meet to Greet and drive to Bhavnagar, Koliyak, visit Nishkalank Mahadev Temple (visit subject to low tied calendar). Continue drive to Bhavnagar. Overnight stay in Bhavnagar.

Note : Arrive by flight before 10 AM

 Day 2 : Bhavnagar – Diu (280kms)

Morning after breakfast Diu and visit the St. Paul’s church, Diu Fort & markets. St.Paul’s church – St. Paul’s church is dedicated to our Lady of Immaculate Conception. The construction of the church was started in 1601 and was completed in the year 1610. The main facade of the church is perhaps the most elaborate of all Portuguese churches in India. The façade has been illuminated by flood lights. The church adorned with curiously treated volutes and shell – like motifs and the magnificent wood carving is considered to be the most elaborate of all the Portuguese churches in India.

Diu Fort: It is an expansive and imposing structure, situated on the coast of the island. The fort commands a magnificent view of sea. It was constructed between 1535 and 1541 AD. The fort is skirted by the Sea on the three sides. On the fort stands a giant Light House. Several canons still stare menacingly from top. The main front wall is having five huge windows with stone galleries.

The Fort has been creatively lit, which creates a breath taking views at night. Rugged yet gentle, fierce yet loving. The majestic structure stands on the coast of DIU as a sentinel.

Once inside, you are overwhelmed by the gaunt majesty of the ancient stone work which transports you to a bygone era of gallant soldiers where time stands still. O/n stay at Diu.

Day 3 : Diu – Sasangir (120kms)

Morning after breakfast proceeds to Sasangir, Sasan Gir Lion sanctuary is home of some 300 Asiatic Lions. Sasan Gir is only place in world outside African continent where lion can be seen in its natural habitat. Gir Wild life Sanctuary is the last refuge of Asiatic lions in India and the lion population residing in the park is a little over 300. The whole coverage area of Gir Sanctuary is about 560-square-mile (1,450-sq-kms). Gir is not just about Lions, the second most commonly found predator in the Gir is Leopard. Infect, Gir national park is also home to one of the largest Leopard populations in any park in India, and especially in the hotter season they can sometimes be seen at night close to the lodges. There animal residents of the Gir national park are Sambar Deer, Chital Spotted Deer, Nilgai Antelope, Chowsingha Four-Horned Antelope, Chinkara Gazelle, Wild Boar, Langur Monkey, Jackal, and Hyena and numerous birds like Paradise Flycatcher, Bonneli’s Eagle, Crested Serpent Eagle, Woodpeckers Flamingo etc. O/n stay at Sasangir.

Note – Sasangir National Park will be closed from 15th June to 15th October every year

 Day 4 : Sasangir –Somnath (60 kms)

Morning after breakfast drive to Somnath On arrival check in at the Hotel and Later visit to Somnath Temple for the evening Aarti Darshan  (- A lord Shiva temple known as Jyotirling built by Moon God. Enjoy light and sound Show (Extra Cost). Overnight stay at Somnath.

Day 5 : Somnath – Porbandar – Dwarka (250kms)

Morning proceed to Porabandar, Visit Kirti temple, Sudam known as house & born place of Mahatma Gandhi. In back side house of Kasturba wife of Gandhi. Also visit of Gandhi museum, study room of Mahatma Gandhi in the Kirti temple.

Later visit of Sudama temple & continue proceed to Dwarka and , visit Lords Dwarkadhish Temple. Attend evening Aarti Darshan at Dwarkadhish Temple – Temple of Lord Krishna. O/n stay at Dwarka.

Day 6 : Dwarka – Byt Dwarka – Nageshwar – Dwarka

Attend early morning Aarti at Dwarkadhish temple, have breakfast & thereafter visit Bet Dwarka, Nageshwar Jyotirling & Rukmani Temple.

Bet Dwarka – Also known as Bet Shankhoddar, Bet Dwarka is only 5 kms from Okha Junction in sea and Okha is 30 kms from Dwarka. It is said to be the place where Lord Krishna lived with his family when the ruled at Dwarka. It is also the place where Vishnu slew the demon Shankhasura. Visitors make it a point to visit the Krishna temple at this site which holds much of interest to be seen and experienced.

Nageswar Mahadev – The Puranas mention 12 Jyotirlingas or columns of light representing Lord Shiva, who manifested himself in that form in different parts of India. This Shiva shrine near Dwarka is one of these and is there- fore accorded great respect.

Rukmani Temple – Temple of Lord Krihsna’s wife. O/n stay at Dwarka.

Day 7 : Dwarka – Rajkot – Ahmedabad (450kms)

Morning after breakfast driver to Rajkot and visit visit KABA GANDHI NO DELO – the residence of Kaba Gandhi. This is Mahatma Gandhi’s ancestral house in Rajkot where he spent his childhood. The house, now declared as a national monument has a museum “Gandhi Smriti” with photographs and personal belongings of Gandhiji.

Later drive to Ahmedabad and O/N Stay at Ahmedabad.

Day 8 : Ahmedabad Sightseeing and Departure.

Morning after breakfast visit Akshardham Temple (Monday Closed) Akshardham is situated in the capital city of Gandhinagar, which lies near Ahmadabad. The magnificent temple is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan.

Sidi Sayed mosque, built in 1573, is one of the most famous mosques of Ahmadabad. The mosque is entirely arcuated. The mosque has ten screen windows (jails) on the side and rear arches The Swetambara Temple.

Hatheesing temple was built outside Delhi gate in 1850 by a rich Jain merchant Sheth Hatheesing. This is the best known of Ahmadabad’s many ornate Jain temples. It is dedicated to Dharamnath, the fifteenth

Tirthankar whose status stand in the main sanctuary Built by pure marble profusely decorated with rich carving,

Gandhi Ashram The beautiful ashram complex of Ahmadabad, with shady trees populated by thousand of parakeets, Beaters, sunbirds, squirrels, offers a refuge from the loud streets of the city and is one of the foremost tourist attractions of Ahmadabad. This ashram was Gandhi’s head quarters during the long struggle for Indian independence. His ashram was founded in 1915 and still makes handicrafts, handmade paper and spinning wheels. This ashram is open from 8.30 AM to 6.30 PM. Later drive to Adalaj (A village to the north of Ahmadabad), visit step well is an architectural wonder built by Queen Rudabai and is certainly one of the finest monuments of Gujarat. It is a sevenstoried structure in the form of a well with chambers one behind the other. The ‘Vav’ or stepped wells of Gujarat were used as meeting and resting-places during summer since their cool interiors offered unbelievable respite from the scorching sun outside.

Later transfer to Airport /Railway station for onward journey.

Note:- It is recommended to book the departure flight after 5PM.

Minimum group strength is 10 Pax, else the vehicle supplement will be applicable

Day 1 : Arrives at Ahmedabad

Arrival at Ahmadabad, Meet to Greet and visit Law Garden Marker and River front area, O/N Stay at Ahmedabad. (Arrival Flight timing before 12 PM)

Day 2 : Ahmedabad – Patan – Modhera – Bajana (250kms)

Morning after breakfast proceeds to PATAN – Rani ki Vav (Step well). It was built by the Queen Udaymati the wife of Bhimdev during 11-12th Century. It is the most magnificent and spectacular step well and the best example of such architecture for water wells.

Later visit Patan Patola of weaving, patan is Famous for patola weaving, Salvi family is one of them who has continued this traditional art and has preserved it even today. Patola silk is often termed as the queen of all silk.

Modhera Sun Temple, Modhera Sun Temple dates bake to early 11th centuary CE and was built by King Bhimdev I in 1026 CE. The temple at modhera is the most important of all sun temples built in the whole Gujarat.

Later proceeds to Little Rann of Kutch. O/n stay at LRK

Day 3 : Bajana – Bhuj (250kms)

Morning after breakfast driver to Bhuj,

After fresh up visit Aina Mahal, this is an 18th century palace in Bhuj, Gujarat, India. It is located next to the Prag Mahal. The walls of the Palace are of White Marble covered with mirrors separated by gilded ornaments with shades of Venetian glass. (Visit to Sri Swami Narayan Temple & Aina Mahal is subject to its schedule timing) Bhujodi [Handicraft Village & Craft Park] O/N Stay at Bhuj.

Day 4 : Bhuj – Mandvi – Bhuj

Today, proceed to explore the Beach of Mandvi. The white sand beach offers fun beach activities, swimming in the cool water, or just relaxing by the seashore with some local snacks. Next, you will stop at the famous Vijay Vilas Summer Palace, which is located right beside the beach and also covers some of the Mandvi Beach. return from Mandvi, you will be taken to the 72 Jinalaya mandir, which is dedicated to 72 different deris of Lord Vishnu. After Sightseeing return back to the Hotel for the night Stay. Overnight stay at Bhuj.

Day 5 : Bhuj – White Rann – Kalodungar – Bhuj

Morning after breakfast drive to Bhuj and visit Banni Village, enroute take permit (All client need to obtain the permit) to see various people like Jat, Harijan, Meghawal and Mutva etc in various villages like Hodka, Ludiya and Dhordo. Banni means “a cluster of village”. In Banni area of Kutch the Meghwal-Harijans who migrated from Rajasthan use Khambira, Kharek, Kudi Stiches in their embroidery. Also outline and satin stitch embroidery of the area and very minute mirror designs similar to the famous Mutwa embroidery of the area. They make wall hangings, waistcoats and pouches in Kharek Stich and do ‘Moti Bharat’ or beadwork on handheld fans, bracelets, toys and belts.

Later visit HODKA village – Hodka derives from the Gujarati word ‘Hodi’ which means ‘boat’. Since, the villages here are called jheels, where potable water is available. Hodka is famous for its beautiful embroidery and mud work as much as Leather craft. Both men and women are actively involved in developing the art and craft tradition of the region.

Visit LUDIYA village- Harijans and Muslims are main communities in this village. The main occupations are: monsoon farming, cattle rearing, intricate wood carving, intricate embroidery work, mud-work and wall painting for decorating homes.

Visits to DHORDO to see beautiful traditional mud houses (Bhungas) with mirror work and its fine Mutwa embroidery with tiny mirrors. Later visit Kalo Dungar & White Rann. O/N Stay at Bhuj

Day 6 : Bhuj – Ahmedabad (400kms)

Morning after breakfast drive to Ahmedabad, O/N Stay at Ahmedabad.

Day 7 : Ahmedabad Local Sightseen & Departure.

Morning after breakfast visit Akshardham Temple (Monday Closed) Akshardham is situated in the capital city of Gandhinagar, which lies near Ahmadabad. The magnificent temple is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan. It was constructed on the directions of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of BAPS Sanstha.

Sidi Sayed mosque, built in 1573, is one of the most famous mosques of Ahmadabad. The mosque is entirely arcuated. The mosque has ten screen windows (jails) on the side and rear arches The Swetambara Temple Hatheesing temple was built outside Delhi gate in 1850 by a rich Jain merchant Sheth Hatheesing. This is the best known of Ahmadabad’s many ornate Jain temples. It is dedicated to Dharamnath, the fifteenth Tirthankar whose status stand in the main sanctuary Built by pure marble profusely decorated with rich carving.

Gandhi Ashram The beautiful ashram complex of Ahmadabad, with shady trees populated by thousands of parakeets, Beaters, sunbirds, squirrels, offers a refuge from the loud streets of the city and is one of the foremost tourist attractions of Ahmadabad. This ashram was Gandhi’s headquarters during the long struggle for Indian independence.

Later drive to Adalaj (a village to the north of Ahmadabad), visit step well is an architectural wonder built by Queen Rudabai and is certainly one of the finest monuments of Gujarat. It is a seven-storied structure in the form of a well with chambers one behind the other. The ‘Vav’ or stepped wells of Gujarat were used as meeting and resting-places during summer since their cool interiors offered unbelievable respite from the scorching sun outside.

Later transfer to Airport /Railway station for onward journey. (Departure flight after 5 PM)

Note: Minimum group size to operate the departure is 10 Pax (Else the vehicle supplement will be applicable)

Day 1 : Arrival in Ahmedabad

Arrival at Ahmadabad, Meet to Greet visit Akshardham Temple (Monday Closed) Akshardham is situated in the capital city of Gandhinagar, which lies near Ahmadabad.

Sidi Sayed mosque, built in 1573, is one of the most famous mosques of Ahmadabad.

Hatheesing temple was built outside Delhi gate in 1850 by a rich Jain merchant Sheth Hatheesing. This is the best known of Ahmadabad’s many ornate Jain temples.

Gandhi Ashram The beautiful ashram complex of Ahmadabad. This ashram was Gandhi’s head quarters during the long struggle for Indian independence. His ashram was founded in 1915 and still makes handicrafts, handmade paper and spinning wheels. This ashram is open from 8.30 AM to 6.30 PM.

Later drive to Adalaj, visit step well is an architectural wonder built by Queen Rudabai and is certainly one of the finest monuments of Gujarat. It is a seven-storied structure in the form of a well with chambers one behind the other. The ‘Vav’ or stepped wells of Gujarat were used as meeting and resting-places during summer since their cool interiors offered unbelievable respite from the scorching sun outside. In the summer people warmed themselves on the spacious sunny corridors while wide verandahs offered shelter during the rains. Adalaj is a village to the north of Ahmadabad. O/N Stay at Ahmedabad.

Day 2 : Ahmedabad – Jamnagar – Dwakra (450kms)

Morning after breakfast drive to Dwarka, en-route visit Jamnagar Bala Hanuman Temple – Bala Hanuman Temple is a pilgrim place venerated by the devotees of Lord Ram. It is a world famous temple, known for the continuous chanting of Jai Ram, Shri Ram. The chanting is going on since 1964 and has found a place for it in the Guinness Book of World Records. People chant the name of the Lord in shifts, 24 hours a day.

Later Proceed to Dwarka, visit Lords Dwarkadhish Temple. Attend evening Aarti Darshan at Dwarkadhish Temple – Temple of Lord Krishna. O/n stay at Dwarka.

Day 3 : Dwarka

Attend early morning Aarti at Dwarkadhish temple, have breakfast & thereafter visit Bet Dwarka, Nageshwar Jyotirling & Rukmani Temple.

Bet Dwarka – Also known as Bet Shankhoddar, Bet Dwarka is only 5 kms from Okha Junction in sea and Okha is 30 kms from Dwarka. It is said to be the place where Lord Krishna lived with his family when the ruled at Dwarka. It is also the place where Vishnu slew the demon Shankhasura. Visitors make it a point to visit the Krishna temple at this site which holds much of interest to be seen and experienced.

Nageswar Mahadev – The Puranas mention 12 Jyotirlingas or columns of light representing Lord Shiva, who manifested himself in that form in different parts of India. This Shiva shrine nearDwarka is one of these and is there- fore accorded great respect.

Rukmani Temple – Temple of Lord Krihsna’s wife. O/n stay at Dwarka.

Day 4 : Dwarka – Porbandar – Somnath (250kms)

Morning after breakfast proceeds to Porbandar, visit Kirti temple, Sudam known as house & born place of Mahatma Gandhi. In back side house of Kasturba wife of Gandhi. Also visit of Gandhi museum, study room of Mahatma Gandhi in the Kirti temple.

Later visit of Sudama temple & continue proceed to Somnath, evening aarti Darshan at Somnath Temple – A lord Shiva temple known as Jyotirling built by Moon God. Enjoy lighting and sounding Show Overnight stay at Somnath.

Day 5 : Somnath – Diu (120kms)

Morning after breakfast visit Bhalika Tirth & Triveni Ghat. Later drive to Diu, visit Diu: A beautiful blend of sun, sand and sea, Diu is a God’s gift to those in quest of a blessed land where the weary weight of this unintelligible world can, for a while, be lightened and the waking soul can hear the music of the nature. In the late afternoon you will proceed to visit the St. Paul’s church, Diu Fort & markets.

St.Paul’s church – St. Paul’s church is dedicated to our Lady of Immaculate Conception. The construction of the church was started in 1601 and was completed in the year 1610. The main facade of the church is perhaps the most elaborate of all Portuguese churches in India. The façade has been illuminated by flood lights.

Diu Fort: It is an expansive and imposing structure, situated on the coast of the island. The fort commands a magnificent view of sea. It was constructed between 1535 and 1541 AD. The fort is skirted by the Sea on the three sides. On the fort stands a giant Light House. Several canons still stare menacingly from top. The main front wall is having five huge windows with stone galleries.The Fort has been creatively lit, which creates a breath taking views at night. Rugged yet gentle, fierce yet loving. The majestic structure stands on the coast of DIU as a sentinel. Once inside, you are overwhelmed by the gaunt majesty of the ancient stone work which transports you to a bygone era of gallant soldiers where time stands still. O/n stay at Diu.

Day 6 : Diu – Sasangir (120kms)

Morning after breakfast proceeds to Sasangir, [GIR NATIONAL PARK WILL CLOSE FROM 15TH JUNE TO 15THOCT EVERY YEAR AT TIME WE WILL VISIT DEVALIA PARK AT SASANGIR. DEVAILA PARK WILL ALSO CLOSE ON EVERY WEDNESDAY & IF HEAVY RAINING.] Sasan Gir Lion sanctuary is home of some 300 Asiatic Lions. Sasan Gir is only place in world outside African continent where lion can be seen in its natural habitat. Gir Wild life Sanctuary is the last refuge of Asiatic lions in India and the lion population residing in the park is a little over 300. The whole coverage area of Gir Sanctuary is about 560-squaremile (1,450-sq-kms). Gir is not just about Lions, the second most commonly found predator in the Gir is Leopard. Infect, Gir national park is also home to one of the largest Leopard populations in any park in India, and especially in the hotter season they can sometimes be seen at night close to the lodges. there animal residents of the Gir national park are Sambar Deer, Chital Spotted Deer, Nilgai Antelope, Chowsingha Four-Horned Antelope, Chinkara Gazelle, Wild Boar, Langur Monkey, Jackal, and Hyena and numerous birds like Paradise Flycatcher, Bonneli’s Eagle, Crested Serpent Eagle, Woodpeckers Flamingo etc. O/n stay at Sasangir

Day 7 : Sasangir – Ahmedabad Departure.

Morning after breakfast drive to Ahmedabad and transfer to Airport /Railway station for onward journey.

Day 1 : Arrival

Check-in time: 12:30 PM Transfers from Bhuj to Rann Utsav – The Tent City, Dhordo

on fixed timings:

Above timings are for fixed departures and subject to change. No Complimentary transfers will be available after above timings. Individual transfers are available on request (chargeable).Allotment of tents to guests arriving before check-in time will be subject to availability.

Distance from Bhuj to Rann Utsav – The Tent City, Dhordo is approx. 85 km, which takes about 1 hr 45 minutes.

Arrival at Tent City, Dhordo from Bhuj

Day 2 : In Dhordo

Day 3 : In Dhordo

Day 4 : Depart Dhordo

Shri Swaminarayan Temple

Approx. time 20 min. A few senior devotees of Lord Swaminarayan requested Him to continue His teachings by constructing a temple. As a result of their desire to grow more in faith, Lord Swaminarayan initiated the task of this beautiful temple. Made in marble, intricate carvings adorn the pillars and ceilings of the most expensive temple built in the state of Gujarat.

Day 1 : By Air / By Train – Arrive Bhuj

Arrive Bhuj and transfer to your hotel.

The historic city of Bhuj derives its name from the Bhujiyo Dungar, a hill, overlooking the present day Bhuj town. Bhuj is a typical example of a desert town located between two geographical features – Bhujiyo Dungar on the east & Hamirsar Lake on the west. Bhuj, the major town of Kutch, is an old city established in 1510. With its surrounding wall, the atmospheric bazaar area, crenelated gateways, old palaces and striking temples the town still retains a medieval character. Every Nov/Feb it hosts the annual Rann Utsav festival.

Day 2 : In Bhuj

After breakfast visit the Banni Villages. Visit Ajrakhpur and Bhujodi.

The artisans of Ajrakhpur specialize in Ajrakh – a Block Printed cotton cloth used traditionally by local herdsmen with natural dies. Its geometrical and nonfigurative motifs often mirror those appearing in Islamic – influenced Indian architecture.

Later stop at Bhujodi – a village skilled in traditional Bandhani (tie & dye), block printing and weaving. Here you can view live demonstrations and buy anything from shawls to blankets from the artisans directly. Bhujodi is also a center for Piltoom weaving, Mewada Embroidery & Wood Carving. Nearby is the Hiralakshmi Crafts Park – a nonprofit undertaking by the Ashapura Group of Companies that works with artisans throughout Kutch to show their skills and retail their crafts.

Not far from Bhujodi is Shrujan, a non-profit working to complement rural women’s income through the enhancement and marketing of their embroidery products. Shrujan has a store, design centre, manufacturing unit and an impressive collection of embroideries on site. One can also tour the campus which utilizes traditional and environmentally sensitive architecture. Types of Embroideries: Aahir Embroidery, Soof Embroidery, Chakan Embroidery, Jat Fakira Embroidery, Jat Garasiya Embroidery, Kambiro & Khudi Embroidery, Katri Embroidery, Kharek Embroidery, Mukko Embroidery, Neran Embroidery, Pakko Embroidery, Rabari Embroidery.

Overnight at hotel   

Day 3 : In Bhuj

Today after breakfast proceed for day excursion to Banni villages. (North Bhuj)

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 come across master craft people’ exposing their traditional art, turning our 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.

Nirona: The village of multiple talents! The village of Nirona is the only place in the world where the tradition of Rogan art is still practiced (a method of producing dyes from natural resources and castor oil and creating intricate and long-lasting designs on silk and cotton). Rogan art is a rare craft that is not well known even in India. Because of its rare qualities, it is practiced by only one family in India and they reside in Nirona village in Gujarat. They would be happy to teach you a trick or two in the intricate Rogan painting.

Nirona also offers the chance to see artisans making copper bells. The Luhars in Nirona have been preserving the craft of making copper bells over seven generations. The art form originally comes from Sindh and some sister villages in Pakistan too make similar bells but with carvings on the surface.

Another family in Nirona is practicing wood lacquering. Raw lacquer in various colours is passed with great skill on the wooden object of focus in beautiful waves. The work they do is mainly focused on household items like jewellery boxes and kitchen utensils and is known to last more than 30-35 years. If the lacquer work starts to lose its sheen, just apply some oil on it.

Visit the Bhirandiyara – is a favorite Tea stop for locals and visitors alike on the road to Khavda. The village boasts of a delicious sweet – fresh Maavo. This milk-based sweet is best when eaten hot. Most of the roadside stalls sell Maavo. The local Meghwal Community has exquisite embroideries and skillfully decorated, colorful Mud Bhungas.

Ludia Village is comprised of several hamlets belonging to the Meghwal & Samma Communities. The latter community, primarily herdsmen, is more conservative when it comes to tourists. Gandhi nu Gam, populated by the Meghwal community, features beautifully Painted Bhungas. The Kanjari (Blouses) of the women and the Bhunga decoration of this village are especially colorful.

Overnight at hotel.  

Khavda’ pottery is an art form of Khavda, North Kutch. While the men do all the throwing in terracotta, the women handle all the surface decoration which in this northern Kutch village of Ludia is primarily in the form of painting. 

  The potter gets mud from a specific acre (A lake) area near village. It is called ‘Rann ka mitti’. This soft clay is shaped into a pot on a potter’s wheel and left to dry in shade, then Kumbhar women use red, black, and white clay-based paints to decorate each piece of pottery with distinct community-specific designs.   After a while, it is cleaned and put in the sun to dry and then baked in a furnace, powered by simple and locally available fuels of dry wood and cow dung. The vessels are coated with a thin wash of geru (red color). The pots of Khavda get their red colour from Geru, a type of soil (ocher/ umber), and the black and white dots and stripes are also made with natural material. Finished pieces lie aside, ready for drying. The terracotta pots of Khavda are distinct from the ones we may see elsewhere, because of their painting and form which is a result of repeated cleaning at every stage of the process of their making.

White Rann: the spectacular sight of boundless white desert is the stunning creation of nature, unique to this world.

Overnight at hotel.

   Day 4 : In Bhuj – By Road – 65 KMS / 01 HR – Bhuj To Mandvi (One Way)

After breakfast proceed for day excursion to Mandvi.

Visit Kala Raksha Trust, a grassroots social enterprise, is dedicated to preservation of traditional arts. Envision this broadly, as holistic encouraging of the creative capacity of the artist. Comprising artisans, community members, and experts in the fields of art, design and museums, Kala Raksha was founded on artisan initiative in 1993 in the desert region Kutch, in India. Uniquely committed to documenting existing traditions, the Trust maintains a collection of heirloom textiles housed as a local Museum. Artisans participated in establishing this Museum. Thus it embodies a simple but revolutionary concept: involve people in presenting their own cultures. Kala Raksha Centre is located in Sumrasar Sheikh, 25 km north of Bhuj.

Here, the museum, production unit, shops and guest house inhabit structures that adapt traditional architecture to contemporary function. A model for community development, the Centre is locally managed and operates with solar power. 

Kalaraksha Vidhyalaya: Kala Raksha Vidhyalaya is an initiative of Kala Raksha Trust. In its second decade, Kala Raksha sought to address India’s most pressing need: Education. In October 2005, the Trust launched this institution, whose environment; curriculum and methodology are designed for traditional artisans, as a new approach to the rejuvenation of traditional arts. Project Director Judy Frater was awarded an Ashoka Foundation Fellowship to realize the project. In March 2009 she also received the Sir Misha Black Medal for design education.

Later continue to drive to Mandvi.

Mandvi is located on the banks of the Rukmavati River, barely one km from the Arabian Sea at the Gulf of Kutch. The town has a very pleasant climate throughout the year and it was a summer retreat of the Kutch Maharaos. The centre of attraction at Mandvi is the Vijay Vilas Palace, a royal abode set in the middle of well-laid gardens with water channels and marble fountains. The architect and craftsmen from Jaipur designed and constructed the palace in 1920 AD. The palace has all the elements of Rajput architecture and draws largely on the plan of palaces of Orchha and Datia. The central high dome on the pillars, the Bengal domes on sides, the windows with colored glass, carved stone Jaalis, domed bastions at the corners, extended porch and other exquisitely stone carved elements, make the palace worth visiting. It owns a private beach, maintained in an eco-friendly manner to preserve its pristine beauty. It is an example of the traditional skill of craftsmen of early 20th century.

Visit Ship building yard. On the banks of the Rukmavati River, just south of the bridge, you can visit the still-active shipbuilding yard. Craftsmen still assemble ships out of wood, for local or international guests, and you can feel free to watch them work. It gives us an opportunity to watch handmade ship being built which will make one truly appreciate craftsmanship. The process is long and elaborate and shoddy workmanship means risking sailors’ lives.

Later drive back to Bhuj. Overnight at hotel