Statue of Unity - Vadodara - Champaner Tour (2N/3D)

Day 1: Arrival in Vadodara & Majestic Lakshmi Vilas Palace

Your enriching Gujarat journey begins with your arrival in Vadodara, a city steeped in royal history and cultural elegance. Upon your arrival at Vadodara Airport or Railway Station, our representative will warmly greet you and facilitate your transfer to your pre-booked hotel. After a smooth check-in process, take some time to refresh and relax.

In the afternoon, prepare to be transported to a bygone era of opulence as we visit the magnificent Lakshmi Vilas Palace. This iconic landmark, four times the size of Buckingham Palace, is the official residence of the Gaekwads, the former Maratha royal family of Vadodara. Admire its exquisite Indo-Saracenic architecture, sprawling grounds, and the richly decorated interiors, including the Darbar Hall and the intricate mosaics. The audio guide truly enhances the experience, offering fascinating insights into the palace's history and the lives of its royal inhabitants.

Following this regal experience, we'll take a leisurely stroll through the nearby Sayaji Baug (Kamati Baug), a sprawling garden that houses a zoo, a museum, and a toy train, offering a pleasant respite.

As evening approaches, delve into Vadodara's culinary delights. We recommend trying a traditional Gujarati thali at a renowned local eatery, a feast for the senses with its array of sweet, spicy, and savory dishes. Explore the bustling local markets for unique handicrafts or simply soak in the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Overnight stay in Vadodara.

Day 2: The Awe-Inspiring Statue of Unity & Surroundings

Wake up to a fresh morning in Vadodara, enjoy a hearty breakfast, and prepare for a day filled with monumental marvels. Today, we embark on an exciting excursion to Kevadia, home to the world-renowned Statue of Unity. The drive from Vadodara to Kevadia is scenic, offering glimpses of rural Gujarat. For travellers originating from the Kutch region or needing onward transfers, we facilitate seamless connections, including services like Anjar to Statue Of Unity or from Adipur to Statue Of Unity.

Upon reaching Kevadia, our primary destination is the Statue of Unity, the towering tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Standing at an incredible 182 meters, this colossal structure is a symbol of India's unity and strength. Spend ample time exploring its various components:

• Viewing Gallery: Ascend to the viewing gallery, located at 153 meters, for breathtaking panoramic views of the Sardar Sarovar Dam, the Narmada River, and the surrounding Vindhya and Satpura mountain ranges.
• Statue of Unity Museum: Gain deeper insights into Sardar Patel's life, his pivotal role in India's independence, and the monumental effort behind the statue's construction.
• Valley of Flowers: Stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens adorned with vibrant floral displays, especially stunning during seasonal blooms.
• Sardar Sarovar Dam: Witness the sheer scale of one of the world's largest dams, a testament to modern engineering and its crucial role in irrigation and power generation.
• Glow Garden & Unity Wall: In the evening, the Glow Garden comes alive with dazzling illuminated art installations, offering a magical experience. Don't miss the Unity Wall, a symbolic representation of India's diverse states.

For those interested in exploring more of the Kevadia circuit, optional visits include the Butterfly Garden, Vishwa Van, or the Cactus Garden. Lunch will be arranged at one of the dedicated restaurants in Kevadia, offering convenient options.

After a truly inspiring day, we begin our journey back to Vadodara. For guests concluding their Gujarat journey or continuing to other destinations in Kutch, reliable transfers such as Statue Of Unity to Anjar, Statue Of Unity to Adipur, Gandhidham to Statue Of Unity are readily available. Reflect on the grandeur and significance of what you've witnessed.

Overnight stay in Vadodara.

Day 3: UNESCO Heritage Champaner & Departure

After a delightful breakfast, prepare for an enriching historical excursion to Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located approximately 50 kilometers from Vadodara. This ancient city holds centuries of history, showcasing a fascinating blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture.

Our exploration begins at Champaner, where you'll wander through the ruins of the 15th-century capital established by Sultan Mahmud Begada. Highlights include:

• Jami Masjid: A grand mosque renowned for its intricate carvings, beautiful minarets, and a remarkable blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles.
• Kevda Masjid & Nagina Masjid: Smaller yet equally captivating mosques, each with unique architectural details and serene surroundings.
• Kalika Mata Temple: Perched atop Pavagadh Hill, this ancient temple is a significant pilgrimage site. We'll take a ropeway ride (optional, on direct payment) up the hill, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and the archaeological park below.

Spend adequate time absorbing the historical ambience and photographic opportunities. Our guide will share intriguing stories and historical facts that bring these ruins to life.

After immersing ourselves in the historical wonders of Champaner, we will have lunch at a local restaurant, savouring regional specialties.

In the afternoon, we will begin our return journey to Vadodara. Depending on your departure schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or a quick visit to a local market. Our tour concludes with a comfortable transfer to Vadodara Airport or Railway Station for your onward journey, carrying cherished memories of Gujarat's majestic heritage and monumental pride. We trust you had an inspiring and memorable experience with us.

Inclusion

We strive to make your journey as comfortable and stress-free as possible. This package thoughtfully includes:

• Accommodation for 2 nights in a well-appointed hotel in Vadodara (3-star equivalent).
• Daily breakfast at your hotel, ensuring a great start to your day.
• All transfers and sightseeing activities in an air-conditioned private vehicle as per the itinerary.
• Services of an experienced local driver-guide throughout the tour.
• Monument entry fees for all specified attractions (Statue of Unity Viewing Gallery, Lakshmi Vilas Palace, Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park).
• All applicable taxes (GST).
• Assistance upon arrival and departure at Vadodara Airport/Railway Station.

This comprehensive package aims to cover the essentials, allowing you to focus purely on the experience.

Exclusion

To maintain transparency and allow for personal preferences, the following are not included:

• Airfare or train tickets to and from Vadodara.
• Meals not mentioned in the 'Inclusions' (lunch and dinner).
• Optional activities, personal expenses, tips, porterage, laundry, telephone calls, and beverages.
• Ropeway charges at Pavagadh Hill (optional, direct payment).
• Entrance fees for any additional attractions not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary.
• Any increase in fuel cost, government taxes, or entry fees that may come into effect post-booking.
• Travel insurance.
• Any costs arising from unforeseen circumstances such as natural calamities, road blocks, political disturbances, etc.

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

• 60 days or more prior to departure: 10% of the tour cost will be charged as a cancellation fee.
• 30-59 days prior to departure: 25% of the tour cost will be charged as a cancellation fee.
• 15-29 days prior to departure: 50% of the tour cost will be charged as a cancellation fee.
• Less than 15 days prior to departure or no-show: 100% of the tour cost will be charged as a cancellation fee.

All cancellation requests must be made in writing. Refunds, if applicable, will be processed within 15-20 business days after receiving the cancellation request. We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances that may lead to tour cancellation or interruption.

Advance Preparation

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip, we recommend the following:

• Comfortable Footwear: You'll be doing a fair amount of walking, especially at the Statue of Unity complex and Champaner-Pavagadh.
• Lightweight Clothing: Gujarat can be warm, so breathable cottons are ideal. Modest clothing is advisable for temple visits.
• Sun Protection: A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
• Camera & Power Bank: Capture the stunning sights; ensure your devices are charged.
• Basic First-Aid Kit: For minor ailments, it's always good to be prepared.
• Identification: Carry valid government-issued ID proof (Aadhar Card, Driving License, Passport).
• Small Backpack: Useful for carrying daily essentials.

Need to Know

Please keep the following practical details in mind for a smooth journey:

• Best Time to Visit: The winter months (October to March) offer the most pleasant weather for exploring. Summers (April to June) can be very hot.
• Language: Gujarati is the local language, but Hindi and English are widely understood, especially in tourist areas.
• Food & Water: Stick to bottled water and eat at reputable establishments to avoid stomach upsets. Gujarat is famous for its vegetarian cuisine.
• Photography: Generally allowed, but be respectful and ask permission before photographing individuals, especially in religious sites. Some areas within Lakshmi Vilas Palace or museums might have restrictions.
• Safety: Gujarat is generally safe for tourists. However, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets.
• Mobile Connectivity: Good network coverage across most areas.
• Payment: ATMs are widely available in cities. UPI (Unified Payments Interface) is extensively used. Keep some cash for smaller vendors.