Where to travel

Most holidays to Gujarat begin in the bustling metropolis of Ahmedabad with a guided walk, which provides an introductory immersion into vibrant Gujarati culture. Ahmedabad is also an excellent base from which to visit the exquisite 11th-century Modhera Sun Temple, regarded as one of the finest examples of Solanki architecture, and the striking 15th-century Rani-Ki-Vav stepwell at Patan.

Lying in the northwest corner of Gujarat, the Rann of Kutch is characterised by the stunningly flat snow-white salt marsh and the thriving Kutchi people, regarded as some of the finest artisans in this part of the world. Here, observe master weavers create intricate patterns on fabric before learning to design your own block-printed shawl. From here, a short drive to the Gulf of Kutch will bring you to the small seaside town of Mandvi. Once a bustling seaport, Mandvi offers comfortable accommodation along virtually deserted beaches. It is ideal for guests who want to combine R&R with birdwatching at nearby Mandvi Creek, attracting many migratory species, including flamingos, during winter. In the heart of the Saurashtra peninsula, at Gondal, experience the lifestyle of the 19th century Maharajas and at Junagadh, discover magnificent Indo-Islamic style monuments, including the ornate 19th century Mahabat Maqbara Tomb and the crumbling Uparkot Fort.

Travelling further south, visit the Sasan Gir National Park, the Asiatic Lion’s last surviving habitat, and climb up the sacred Shatrunjaya Hill to see the splendid Jain Temples at Palitana. For those who would like to tease out some of the lesser-known gems as well on their visit to Gujarat, combine a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, which is studded with pre-Mughal monuments with an afternoon tour of the 19th century Lukshmi Villas Palace in the heart of Baroda – the largest private residence in India and about four times the size of Buckingham Palace – will be thoroughly rewarding.