Discover the allure of Gujarat, a jewel on India’s western coast, where opulence meets tradition in a symphony of vibrant colours and cultural richness. For the connoisseur traveller from the UAE, Gujarat offers an exquisite tapestry of experiences, from the ethereal white sands of the Great Rann of Kutch to the majestic Sun Temple at Modhera, where ancient architecture whispers tales of bygone eras. Indulge in curated luxury tour packages that seamlessly blend comfort with authenticity, featuring stays in heritage palaces, private guided tours and exclusive cultural immersions.
Whether it’s witnessing the grandeur of the Navratri festival, exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Champaner-Pavagadh, or enjoying serene moments in the Banni Grasslands, Gujarat promises a journey that’s both luxurious and soul-stirring. With bespoke itineraries tailored to your preferences, your sojourn in Gujarat will be nothing short of extraordinary.
Gujarat is a destination where contrasts coexist in effortless harmony. Along the Arabian Sea, sunlit beaches unfold in quiet elegance, while inland, ancient cities such as Lothal and Dholavira whisper stories of the Indus Valley Civilisation. Ultra-modern urban centres like Surat, renowned for its diamond legacy, balance beautifully with Gandhinagar, celebrated as India’s greenest capital. Add to this a tapestry of rare wildlife, revered temples, and layered history, and Gujarat emerges as a state that truly offers something for every discerning traveller.
Gujarat boasts one of the longest coastlines in India, and its beaches are defined by serenity rather than spectacle. Mandvi Beach stands out for its refined charm, golden sands meeting cerulean waters in an atmosphere of unhurried calm. With minimal crowds, it lends itself perfectly to romantic escapes, while activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, surfing, and speed boating add a touch of adventure.
Dwarka Beach is as spiritually significant as it is visually captivating. Beyond its sacred aura, the shoreline is a haven for marine life, attracting visitors keen to spot dolphins, sea turtles, octopus, jellyfish, and sea urchins. Scuba diving here offers a rare glimpse into Gujarat’s underwater world.
Dumas Beach, famed for its striking black sands, is equally intriguing. While folklore lends it an air of mystery, most visitors are drawn by its unusual beauty and coastal charm. Across Gujarat, beaches remain intimate and understated, ideal for sunset strolls, local snacks, and browsing artisanal handicrafts along the shore.
Gujarat’s historical narrative spans millennia, shaped by the Harappans, Mauryas, Chalukyas, Solankis, Mughals, Marathas, and the British. This layered past is vividly reflected in its monuments and archaeological treasures.
Lothal and Dholavira are among the most evocative remnants of the Harappan civilisation. Lothal, near Ahmedabad, is admired for its ancient dockyard and sophisticated urban planning, while Dholavira, set amid the stark beauty of the Rann of Kutch—reveals open-air ruins and the world’s earliest known signboard in an undeciphered script.
Rani ki Vav in Patan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, elevates architecture into poetry. This 11th-century stepwell, commissioned by Queen Udaymati, is adorned with intricate carvings depicting mythology and daily life, reflecting its dual role as both a utilitarian structure and a sacred space.
Royal grandeur finds expression in Vijay Vilas Palace near Mandvi, a red sandstone retreat built for the Maharaos of Kutch, blending Rajput elegance with coastal views. Equally awe-inspiring is Laxmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara, one of the largest private residences in the world—set amid 500 acres of manicured gardens and still home to the royal family.
Gujarat’s ecological diversity is as remarkable as its cultural depth. Gir National Park, the sole natural habitat of the Asiatic Lion, is the crown jewel of Indian wildlife conservation. Beyond lions, the park shelters nilgai, chital, chinkara, crocodiles, pythons, porcupines, and an impressive array of birdlife including vultures and eagles.
The Marine National Park in the Gulf of Kutch offers an entirely different spectacle. Spread across 42 islands, it protects coral reefs, mangroves, and vibrant marine species. Visitors can observe corals at low tide and may encounter dolphins, stingrays, starfish, and endangered species such as whale sharks and Olive Ridley turtles.
Other notable reserves include Velavadar Blackbuck National Park, home to India’s largest blackbuck population; the Kutch Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary, safeguarding one of the heaviest flying birds in the world; and Thol Lake Bird Sanctuary, a paradise for birdwatchers drawn by flamingos, pelicans, cranes, and migratory waterfowl.
Gujarat’s cuisine is a refined haven for vegetarians, with many dishes also aligned with Jain dietary principles. Its culinary identity is shaped by four regional styles, Kathiyawadi, Surti, Amdavadi, and Kutchi—each distinct yet deeply rooted in local culture.
Kathiyawadi cuisine, from regions such as Rajkot and Jamnagar, is robust and spicier, with dishes like spiced mashed roasted eggplant standing out. Surti cuisine is known for Undhiyu, a slow-cooked winter delicacy of mixed vegetables prepared traditionally in earthen pots.
Amdavadi flavours are perhaps the most widely celebrated, with iconic dishes like dhokla, khandvi, jalebi, and the subtly sweet Amdavadi biryani. Kutchi cuisine introduces favourites such as dabeli and bajra-na-rotla, offering earthy textures and bold seasoning.
While non-vegetarian dishes are available, they are largely adaptations rather than traditional staples, reinforcing Gujarat’s reputation as one of India’s finest vegetarian destinations.
The most pleasant time to explore Gujarat is between October and March, when temperatures are comfortable and ideal for sightseeing, wildlife safaris, and coastal experiences. Summers can be extremely hot, while monsoons bring lush landscapes but occasional travel disruptions.
Gujarat is exceptionally well connected to the UAE. Direct flights operate from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah to major cities such as Ahmedabad, Surat, and Vadodara. From these hubs, luxury road transfers and domestic flights make onward travel seamless across the state.
Gujarat being part of India, UAE nationals require a valid Indian visa prior to travel. Most UAE passport holders are eligible for the Indian e-Visa, which must be applied for online before departure. Visa on arrival is not universally available and applies only to a limited category of UAE passport holders who have previously held an Indian visa, confirmation is essential prior to travel.
UAE residents of other nationalities should check eligibility for the Indian e-Visa based on their passport, as requirements vary.
Also called the Sabarmati Ashram after the River Sabarmati that flows near it, Gandhi Ashram is an important historical site. The place where India’s nonviolent struggle for freedom was conceived attracts thousands of people every year. The ashram houses a lot of personal belongings of the freedom fighters. Take a tour around the premises to see where landmark occurrences, like the start of the Salt March, the spinning of the charkha and planning of revolts took place.
The Rann of Kutch is a massive, enthralling area of white salt sand. The endless desert is surreal, and the way the land blends with the sky at the horizon is sure to leave you mesmerised. The winter months witness the vibrant Rann Utsav, a fete celebrating the culture of the state. Stalls of traditional handicrafts, folk dance and music performances and scrumptious food are set up, and countless travellers visit it to soak in the culture. Another enjoyable thing to do here is paragliding as the sun sets- the birds-eye views of the vast expanse of the glowing white sand illuminated by the palette of the setting sun is too beautiful for words.
The first of the holy jyotirlingas of the worshippers of Lord Shiva, the Somnath temple is a stunning, beautifully carved edifice. Legends say that it was the first cast in gold by the Moon God, then in silver by Ravana, followed by in wood by Lord Krishna, and then in stone by Bhimdev. It currently holds a large shivling, which is one of the holiest of the religion. A light and sound show is held every evening, and is a good way to understand the temple.
The elegant temple is an important pilgrim spot of the Jains, and is dedicated to the 15th tirthankar Dharamnath. Created wholly of white marble, the temple is made by the artisans of the Salat community, who are responsible for restoring the Dilwara Jain temple, and for fashioning the Somnath Temple. Hutheesing has a massive stambha, or tower dedicated to Lord Mahavir, based on a holy tower of the community in Chittor. The marvellously constructed temple must be visited!
Visit the Great Rann of Kutch and soak in the culture of Gujarat
Pay respect to the many holy sites
Go on a wildlife safari to spot rare fauna and flora
Visit the historical landmarks and marvel at the glory of the past
The Akshardham temple is a splendid construction, made only of pink sandstone and no steel. Dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan, the temple promotes universal peace and brotherhood. The Hall of Harmony displays all the religions of the world together, and the Akshardham Center for Applied Research in Social Harmony furthers its vision. Surrounded by lush, blossoming gardens, a visit to this temple is memorable.
A museum dedicated to the life of Mahatma Gandhi, the Kirti Mandir is situated next to his ancestral house. Rare photographs and paintings of Gandhi are displayed here, along with books written by him. The museum also holds books related to his philosophy. Frequented by world leaders and followers of the Gandhian philosophy, Kirti Mandir is a significant tourist destination in Porbandar, Gujarat.
A fourth of the holy Hindu circuit of Char Dham, Dwarka Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. Evidence suggests it is between 2000 and 2200 years old. Overlooking the Arabian Sea, the main temple is called the Jagat Mandir and it houses a huge, black statue of Krishna. Dwarka tourism usually includes visiting Dwarka Beach, which is home to a number of sea creatures.
(Please note that the following are sample itineraries. Flying Squirrel Holidays works with your requirements to tailor make your dream Gujarat Tour itinerary for you)
Unforgettable Gujarat: 5 Nights, 4 Days
The Wonders of Gujarat: 7 Nights 6 Days
Weekend in Gujarat: 3 Nights, 2 Days
Unforgettable Gujarat (this is only a sample itinerary)
Day 1
Arrive in Ahmedabad and check in to your hotel. Head to Sabarmati Ashram, and explore the life of Gandhi. After lunch, head to the Calico Museum of Textile, which holds textiles dated back to the 15th Century. Visit the serene Jama Masjid (remember to dress appropriately). Head back to your hotel for dinner.
Day 2
After breakfast, we head to the Great Rann of Kutch, which remains underwater during monsoon. Enjoy some shopping after lunch and then head to white Rann to catch a stunning sunset. Head back to the hotel for the night.
Day 3
Wake up early to see the sunrise over the white sand. After breakfast, head to Bhuj. Explore the Aina Mahal and the Prag Mahal and spend a few hours at the Kutch Museum. Head back to the hotel for dinner.Day 4
Day 4 is for visiting Gir National Park. After breakfast, head to the national park and hop on to a wildlife safari to spot jackals, hyenas, leopards, vultures, crocodiles, and of course, the Asiatic Lion. Spend the afternoon at Woods at Sasan resort, and catch the overnight bus to Vadodara.Day 5
You will reach Vadodara early in the morning. Visit the Laxmi Vilas Palace, the staggering palace of the Maharaja. After lunch, head to the airport to catch your flight back home.Please email me a copy of the sample itinerary
What is famous in Gujarat?
Gujarat is famous for numerous attractions like the Asiatic Lions, the white desert of Rann of Kutch, colorful handicrafts, festivals, Gujarati food, unique culture, and its many religious sites.
What wildlife experiences can I have in Gujarat?
Guests can visit Gir National Park to see Asiatic Lions, explore the Marine National Park in the Gulf of Kutch for coral and dolphins, and enjoy birdwatching at Thol Lake Bird Sanctuary or witness blackbucks at Velavadar National Park.
What can I shop from Gujarat?
From Gujarat, you can buy wood-carved furniture, antique jewelry, Patola Silk, and Gujarati snacks.
There are not many places as unforgettable as Gujarat. The state offers something for every taste- there are varied and incredibly rare flora and fauna for nature lovers, for history lovers there are edifices as old as human civilisation itself; the pilgrims who flock to the state-run out of time, but not destinations. The culture here is so vibrant and fun, and witnessing it with the great expanse of the Kutch in the background will stay with you forever. A visit to Gujarat will leave you with memories that will never end or become dull.
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