Lothal - Velavadar - Bhavnagar Eco Tour (3N/4D)

Day 1: Arrival, Lothal - A Walk Through Ancient History, Onwards to Bhavnagar

• Morning: Journey to Lothal
  • Begin your scenic drive from Ahmedabad towards Lothal, one of the most prominent cities of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, dating back to 2400 BCE.
• Late Morning/Afternoon: Explore Lothal Archaeological Site
  • Explore the meticulously excavated ruins of Lothal, a testament to sophisticated urban planning and maritime engineering. Witness the remarkable dockyard, believed to be the world's oldest, alongside the acropolis, lower town, bead factory, and warehouse.
  • Visit the adjacent Archaeological Museum to see artifacts unearthed from the site, including pottery, seals, ornaments, and tools, offering deeper insights into the Harappan culture.
• Afternoon: Drive to Bhavnagar
  • After a profound historical immersion, embark on a comfortable drive to Bhavnagar (approx. 2-3 hours), a charming city known for its rich cultural heritage and a gateway to various Saurashtra attractions. We ensure a smooth journey, reminiscent of the reliable services you might seek for seamless travel experiences.
• Evening: Check-in & Relaxation in Bhavnagar
  • Check into your pre-booked hotel in Bhavnagar. Take time to relax and unwind.
  • Dinner Suggestion: Enjoy your first taste of authentic Gujarati cuisine at a local restaurant, perhaps sampling a traditional thali with its delightful array of sweet and savoury dishes.

Day 2: Bhavnagar - Royal Splendour & Local Charms

• Morning: Historical & Architectural Exploration
  • Takhteshwar Temple: Begin your day with a visit to this beautiful marble Shiva temple, perched on a small hill, offering panoramic views of the city and the Gulf of Cambay.
  • Gandhi Smriti: Explore this institution dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, housing a museum, library, and gallery, offering insights into his life and philosophy.
  • Barton Library & Museum: Admire the colonial architecture and delve into the regional history, art, and archaeological finds displayed here.
• Lunch Suggestion: Enjoy a traditional Gujarati meal at a reputable local eatery, known for its homely flavours and hospitality.
• Afternoon: Cultural Immersion & Shopping
  • Gaurishankar Lake: Relax by this picturesque lake, a popular spot for locals, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
  • Nilambag Palace: While not always open for public interior tours, its impressive architecture can be admired from the outside, a stunning example of colonial design.
  • Local Bazaars: Discover the bustling local markets. Here you can find traditional textiles, exquisite Bandhani sarees, handicrafts, and local snacks. This is a great opportunity to find unique souvenirs and witness the vibrant daily life of Bhavnagar. Our network of drivers can assist in such urban explorations, similar to how local cabs ensure convenient city travel.
• Evening: Leisure & Optional Cultural Add-on
  • Enjoy a relaxed evening. You might consider an optional cultural performance (if available during your visit) or simply enjoy the amenities of your hotel.
  • Dinner: Explore a different local restaurant to savour more Gujarati delicacies or try a regional speciality.

Day 3: Velavadar - Wildlife Safari & Return to Bhavnagar

• Morning: Drive to Velavadar & Safari Experience
  • After an early breakfast, we drive to Velavadar Blackbuck National Park (approx. 1.5-2 hours drive).
  • Upon arrival, embark on a thrilling jeep safari into the unique grassland ecosystem. This park is globally recognized for its large population of the elegant Blackbuck, an antelope known for its spiraling horns and incredible speed.
  • Keep an eye out for other fascinating wildlife, including the Indian Grey Wolf (one of the few places to spot them), Nilgai (Blue Bull), Wild Boar, and Jungle Cats. Velavadar is also a birdwatcher's paradise, especially during winter, hosting harriers, larks, coursers, and a myriad of migratory birds. Timely arrangements for safari permits are crucial, much like planning a reliable journey from one destination to another.
• Late Morning/Lunch: Post-Safari & Return
  • After an unforgettable safari experience, enjoy lunch near the park area or en route back to Bhavnagar.
  • Drive back to Bhavnagar, reflecting on the beauty of nature witnessed.
• Afternoon: Relaxation
  • Arrive back at your hotel in Bhavnagar. The afternoon is at your leisure to relax, perhaps enjoy a swim, or revisit a favourite spot in the city.
• Evening: Farewell Dinner
  • Enjoy a special farewell dinner, perhaps at a hotel restaurant offering a blend of local and multi-cuisine options, reminiscing about your journey through ancient history and vibrant wildlife.

Day 4: Departure from Bhavnagar

• Morning: Breakfast & Check-out
  • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel.
  • Complete your check-out formalities.
• Transfer to Departure Point
  • You will be comfortably transferred to Bhavnagar Airport or Railway Station for your onward journey, carrying with you a suitcase full of wonderful memories from Lothal, Velavadar, and Bhavnagar. We ensure your departure logistics are as smooth as your arrival, just as we strive for excellence in services like connecting travellers across regions.

Inclusion

• Accommodation: 3 nights of comfortable hotel stay in Bhavnagar, ensuring a restful and pleasant experience after each day's adventures.
• Meals: Daily wholesome breakfast at your hotel, offering a perfect start to each day of exploration.
• Private Transport: All inter-city transfers and local sightseeing as per the itinerary in a private, air-conditioned vehicle. This offers flexibility and comfort, ensuring your journey is tailored to your pace.
• Velavadar Safari: One thrilling jeep safari experience in Velavadar Blackbuck National Park, including park entry fees and a safari vehicle. This provides an intimate encounter with the region's unique wildlife.
• Entry Fees: All entry tickets to monuments and attractions mentioned in the itinerary, such as Lothal Archaeological Site and its museum, Barton Library, Gandhi Smriti, and Takhteshwar Temple.
• Experienced Local Guide: A knowledgeable local guide for the Lothal site and an experienced naturalist during the Velavadar safari to provide invaluable insights and enhance your understanding of the history and wildlife.
• All Applicable Taxes: Peace of mind knowing that all government taxes are already included in your package.

Exclusion

• Meals Not Specified: Lunch and dinner throughout the tour are generally not included, allowing you the freedom to explore local culinary delights at your leisure and choose dining options that suit your taste and budget.
• Airfare/Train Fare: International or domestic flights/train tickets to and from Ahmedabad/Bhavnagar are not part of this package.
• Personal Expenses: Expenses of a personal nature such as laundry, telephone calls, mini-bar consumption, medical expenses, tips, porterage, shopping, etc., are excluded.
• Optional Activities: Any activities not explicitly mentioned in the 'Inclusions' section or marked as 'optional' are not included.
• Camera Fees: Any specific camera or video recorder fees at monuments or wildlife parks are to be paid directly by the traveler.
• Travel Insurance: Personal travel insurance is not included and is highly recommended for your safety and peace of mind.
• Guide Gratuities: Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are at your discretion.

We understand that travel plans can sometimes change. Our cancellation policy is designed to be fair and transparent.

• Prior to 30 Days of Departure: 90% refund of the package cost.
• Between 15-29 Days of Departure: 75% refund of the package cost.
• Between 07-14 Days of Departure: 50% refund of the package cost.
• Less than 07 Days of Departure: No refund.
• No Show: No refund.

Please note that any non-refundable components, such as specific flight tickets or non-changeable hotel bookings, may incur higher cancellation charges as per the vendor's policy. We recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances leading to cancellation.

Advance Preparation

A little preparation goes a long way in enhancing your travel experience. We recommend the following:

• Booking: Book your tour well in advance, especially if travelling during peak season (October to March), to secure preferred accommodations and safari slots.
• Clothing: Pack light, comfortable cotton clothing for daytime. Evenings can be slightly cooler, especially in winter, so a light jacket or shawl is advisable. For safaris, neutral-coloured clothing is recommended.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring archaeological sites and national parks.
• Essentials: Carry a small daypack, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a personal first-aid kit.
• Photography: Don't forget your camera, extra batteries, and memory cards to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife. A good pair of binoculars will greatly enhance your safari experience.
• Identification: Keep valid photo identification (Aadhar card, Passport) handy, as it's required for hotel check-ins and safari permits.
• Health: Consult your doctor regarding any necessary vaccinations or health precautions. Carry any personal medications you may require.

Need to Know

Understanding local nuances will help you enjoy your trip to the fullest.

• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time for this tour is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and conducive for sightseeing and wildlife safaris. Velavadar National Park is closed during monsoon (July to September).
• Weather: Winters (Oct-Mar) are mild to cool, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 28°C. Summers (Apr-Jun) are hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C.
• Safari Permits: Safari permits for Velavadar are subject to availability and forest department regulations. We recommend booking well in advance. Park rules regarding photography, silence, and waste disposal must be strictly followed.
• Local Etiquette: Gujarat is a conservative state. Dressing modestly when visiting religious sites is appreciated. Always ask permission before photographing individuals.
• Food & Drink: Gujarat is primarily a vegetarian state, and the cuisine is renowned for its unique sweet and savoury balance. Bottled water is widely available and recommended for drinking.
• Connectivity: Mobile network coverage is generally good in urban areas. ATMs are available in Bhavnagar.
• Safety: Exercise general caution as you would in any new destination. Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings. Our drivers are trained to prioritize your safety and provide secure travel, a standard maintained across our services, even for routes like long-distance regional transfers.
• Flexibility: While we strive to adhere strictly to the itinerary, minor adjustments might be necessary due to unforeseen circumstances like weather conditions, road closures, or park regulations. Your guide and driver will keep you informed.