Kite Festival Ahmedabad 2013
This year Kite festival 2013 is going to be one mega celebration. People in India celebrate several festivals down the year with same enthusiasm & Kite festival is no exception. But the special thing about Kite festival 2013 is that it is 25^th anniversary of this festival. So its organizers – Gujarat tourism are all set to organize it on a bigger scale. Professional kite flyers from different parts of the world are expected to take part in it. It is scheduled for 10^th – 14^th January 2013.

Celebrating Kite Flying Festival in a Full Groove
In India 14^th January is celebrated as Uttrayan – Makar Sakranti. The festival according to Hindu mythology is celebrated to laud the change in climate. As it is believed that from this day winter slowly subsides and summer begins gradually in India. The festival includes many traditional things but one of the most popular is kite flying. Many people who don’t know the historic or mythological importance of this festival only knows it as kite flying festival. The festival is not completed without some of the famous Gujarati dishes like Undhiyu & Jalebi. These two dishes are very popular across the whole Gujarat. Undhiyu is a mixed vegetable dish and Jalebi is a sweet dish. People start flying kites from as early as 5.00 a.m. that too in a winter morning so one can just imagine the craze for the festival.

Kite Festival at Different Places in Gujarat
Kite festival is celebrated in whole Gujarat with same passion and zeal. But there are some places to note down if you want to get the real feel of the festival of kites.

1)       Ahmedabad, Gujarat – it is also the destination of International Kite festival 2013.

The venue is Sabarmati Riverfront. It is one of the major hanging out place in Ahmedabad. It is one of its kind project and of the beautiful place in Gujarat.

Apart from that the eastern side in Ahmedabad known as old city is also a hot destination to for flying kites. Here people live in Pols – housing cluster. It is closely adjacent to each other so it becomes an added advantage for kite flying.

2)       Surat, Gujarat – one of the fastest growing cities in the world is also very fond of kites. The city has various nicknames like Diamond city, Textile city & City of Bridges & Flyovers.  The city has a very strong bond with kite festival. The reason here is not kites but the thread that is used for flying kites. The thread made in Surat is world famous and is always in high demand in kite frenzy cities.

3)       Vadodara, Gujarat – It is one of the major cities in Gujarat. People here are known for celebrating every festival with full passion. Polo ground in Vadodara is known for hosting kite festival on a bigger scale where many international kite festivals accumulate every year.

4)       Kutch, Gujarat – Gujarat tourism organizes rann festival in the white desert of Kutch. The dates of rann Utsav and kite festival coincide with each other. Dhordo village & Mandvi beach are hot destinations for enjoying kite flying festival. A huge number of people turn out every year to enjoy the kite festival event organized by Gujarat tourism.
Kite Festival at Night: The Tukkal makes starry Night more Scintillating

Center attraction of Kite festival is kites. They are of different types made from various materials. The kites used by professional kite flyers are made from wooden dowels, split bamboo, fiber glass, graphite, plastic film etc. on the other side casual kite flyers use simple kites made from paper and small thin bamboo sticks.

It is these colorful kites that rule the sky in the morning but after evening ‘Tukkals’ rule the sky. People fly white kites at night and with the thread of that kite tukkals are attached. It is a small lantern enclosed in a smartly cut piece of paper. People attached several tukkals on a single kite providing spectators an unbelievable site.

LET’S Celebrate Together: Be a part of wonderful festival

Kite festival is round the corner and yet another colorful festival is coming fast to make a sparkle of happiness and togetherness. Get ready to add color to the sky with the kites and have fun with full groove. Let’s celebrate together and have a wonderful festival with all blessing and enjoyment.

JN Rao India is a prestigious and remarkable tour and travel service providers who will support and facilitates you for the amazing kites festival. We have been managing domestic and international tourists & professional kite flyers since a long time. We are highly experienced in managing international tourists from countries like USA, UK, Scotland, Poland, Japan, China, Thailand, Australia, Germany, France, Canada and many more…

All you need to do is contact us and we will make you up for the festival, get on our website and fill the inquiry form and our representative will revert you back in no time with all necessary information with best travel package. We wish you a sparkling and prosperous New Year 2013. Have fun and stay blessed.

Vibrant Gujarat is a biennial investor’s summit- a foray of Gujarat govt. in the direction of Gujarat’s development. The event makes investors and other influential personalities aware about the immense potential in Gujarat. It showcases Gujarat’s Business friendly culture, acclimate and environment, the steps taken by Gujarat Govt. and The success of current big projects also adds on to it. Investments from foreign have made a great impact in the Gujarat’s growth.

Following sectors are going to have the centre focus in Vibrant Gujarat 2013:

1)      Manufacturing:-

• Engineering and Auto
• Auto
• Gems and Jewellery
• Technical Textiles
• Specialty Chemicals
• Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology

2)      Sustainable development:-

• Urban Development – Transport led development
• Healthcare – working towards Human development
• Water – Recycling & Treatment

3)      Innovation & Knowledge:-

• R&D
• Human Capital

4)      Service Sector

• IT, ITES, KPO & BPO
• Tourism
• Financial Services

5)      Ports, Shipbuilding & related Industries

6)      Agribusiness & Food Processing

7)      Renewable Energy & Technologies

8)      Infrastructure Profile of Gujarat

9)      Large Project Opportunities in Gujarat

(Source: http://www.vibrantgujarat.com/)

Vibrant Gujarat 2013 is going to be organized on a higher scale compared to previous years’ events. It is forecasted that event will end with many big projects. It is a fact that Gujarat is one of the front runner states of Asia in terms of growth & development. Investor from India and across the world sees this summit as a golden opportunity. It is unarguably Gujarat’s biggest Business tourism. Being in the business for tours & travels for over 50 years JN Rao travel agency assures of top class service.

JN Rao tours & travels are highly experienced in terms of Business tourism. Especially for Vibrant Gujarat we have managed tourist from various countries like USA, U.K., CANADA, SOUTH AFRICA, UAE, KENYA, AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND, and JAPAN AND MANY OTHERS. We also look after our domestic tourists with the same enthusiasm. We give you the best accommodation & car rental services. After the completion of the event we also organize customize tour for Ahmedabad sightseeing and for other tourist attractions in Gujarat. We are well supported by Gujarat tourism and that makes it easy for us to serve our tourist best. Contact us for more details on Vibrant Gujarat 2013 and other customize tours of your choice.

The winter has begun in India and Kutch rann Utsav 2012 is just about to explode. It’s that time of the year when gusto visitors from different places of the world gather at Kutch district of Gujarat, India to celebrate Kutch rann Utsav. It is an annual mega event organized by Gujarat tourism. The Rann of Kutch is a salt marsh located in western part of Gujarat and is expanding towards Sindh province of Pakistan. The famous white desert of Kutch provides enticing scenery that lures the spectators. Kutch rann Utsav 2012 – 2013 will be a grand celebration. The event will give tourists a chance to know more about Indian culture.

Kutch rann Utsav is an exceptional representation of the land of Kutch and their lifestyle. There are special exhibitions organized for arts & crafts of India and especially from Kutch. It is the great opportunity for domestic and international tourists to behold the work of crafts-person and buy the world famous Kutch embroidery work. As part of the Kutch rann Utsav festival there are cultural events and other such activities are organized by Gujarat tourism. Such events are classical representation of culture and communities of India shown through various art forms and cultural activities. Those who are unknown with the Indian culture especially the foreign tourist love the special and unique genre of folk music. Rann Utsav 2012 is going to be 48 – day celebration of music, dance, arts & crafts from the colorful land of Kutch. This gala event is the perfect opportunity to experience the Rann of Kutch at its vibrant and fascinating best.

The event also known as the Kutch festival is organized in order to promote Kutch tourism. As there are so many tourist attractions in Kutch that steers tourist from all over the world. There are lots of spiritual places, heritage monuments, wildlife sanctuaries, archaeological sites, museums, gardens, lakes, beaches and coastal sites. Few of the tourist attractions in and around Kutch are mentioned below:

• Vijay Vilas Palace
• Mandvi Beach
• Mundra Port
• Kutch Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary
• Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary
• Siyot Caves
• Swaminarayan Temple
• Aina Mahal
• Prag Mahal
• The Black Hills
• Chhari Dhand
• Harmisar Lake
• Kutch Museum
• Bhartiya Sanskriti Darshan

The Kutch rann Utsav festival 2012 – 2013 is divided in different packages. Basically there are four packages as listed below:

• One night package
• Two night package
• Three night package
• Full moon package

There are different kinds of accommodation available at this festival:
• AC Tents
• Non-AC Tents
• Darbari Tents
• Bhunga

These accommodation facilities are same as of any reputed 3 to 5 star hotels. Those who have the experience of living in such places relish the experience forever. The Bhunga are the traditional houses of Indian villages. They are also equipped with all the modern facilities and it gives really peaceful experience of staying. Overall this Kutch rann festival shows you real incredible India.

The rann Utsav bookings for 2012-2013 season are now open. This time it is scheduled for 15th December 2012 – 31st January 2013. JN Rao tours & travels are your one stop destination for Kutch rann festival. We assist you with all the necessary information, details and documentation needed for the travel bookings. We are also affiliated with Gujarat tourism. We organize buses/cars on rent for the same purpose. We can also set up specialized custom tour if you want to visit the nearby tourist attractions of Kutch. Contact us now for bookings and other information.

Location: Tibet, Asia

Oveview:

Mt. Kailash is one of the holy mountains in India. it’s approximate height is about 6715 m.  It is believed to be the physical embodiment of the mythical Mt Meru, said to be the center of the universe or ‘navel of the world’ . Mt. Meru is depicted as a mandala, and its image occurs throughout both Buddhista and Hindu parts of Asia. Images of Mt Meru occur as far away as Angkor Wat in Cambodia and Borobadur in Indonesia. Mt Kailas is holy to followers of four religions. To Hindus, Kailas is the abode of Shiva and nearby Manasarobar Lake is the means or soul of Brahma. Tibetans call Kailas Kang Rimpoche. Jains worship it as Mt Ashtapada, the peak from which the religion’s founder, Rishabanatha, achieved spiritual liberation. Followers of Bon-Po, the ancient pre- Buddhist shamanistic religion of Tibet, revere Kailas as the soul of Tibet. Mt. Kailash has long been an object of worship for four Major religious, for Hindu, it is domain of Shiva, It is also the abode of samvara-a multiarmed, wrathful deity worshipped in the chakrasamvara Tantric cycle of Tibetrian Buddhism. The joins of India also reverse the mountain as the site at which the first of their saints emancipated. And in the ancient Bon religion of Tibet, Kailash was the secred nine storeys Swastika Mountain, upon which the Banpo founder Shenrab alighted from haven. The 53 Km. Kailash circuit is the holist of all-Hindu as well as Buddist pilgrimages and the beacon, which draws most traveller to western Tibet. It is said that a single Parikarma erases the accumulated sins of a lifetime, while 108 cicurmbulation will achieve Salvation.

Lake Mansarovar: At an elevation of 4510m, is more important to Hindus than to Buddhists. Hindu pilgrims make an 85km. circuit around Manasarovar that is made longer and more difficult by marshes and complicated stream crossings. The Tibetans, being more pragmatic, often make a circuit of the lake in the winter when the streams are frozen and the route is shorter. Near Manasarovar is another large lake, Rakshas Tal, the ‘Demon Lake’ that holds far less spiritual significance.

Sprawling below Mount Kailash is the sacred lake Manasarovar (4580m), where ritual bath will deliver a pilgrim to brahm’s paradise and drink of its water relinquishes the sins of a hundred lifetimes.

ITINERARY:

MOUNT KAILASH MANASAROVAR OVERLAND YATRA-16 DAYS

DAY 01 Kathmandu (1300m.) arrival.
Pick up from the airport/Drive to Hotel, if time permits our guide will take you to Pashupatinath for Darshan during Arati time. Dinner

DAY 02 Kathmandu
Morning: breakfast/ guided tour of Kathmandu holy sites including Pashupatinath , Boudanath and Soyambhunath . Back to hotel for lunch. Afternoon: final preparation for Yatra . Personal gear and equipment will be checked. If anyone needs o buy or rent any gear our staff can assist you in shopping at the various stores in Kathmandu .

DAY 03 Drive from Kathmandu to Nyalam (3700m) 175 Km /9 hrs. Over Night at Guesthouse
Journey begins at 5:30 am . Breakfast in hotel, the road follows the river valleys of the Sunkosi and Bhotakosi rivers, passing through green mountains and cliffs. By the afternoon we get to the Tibetan boarder. Depending on the road conditions, we may stay in Zhangmu. If road conditions permit, we will continue 30km to Nyalam .

DAY 04 Rest Day for acclimatization Over Night at Guesthouse
Nyalam (3700m) This day gives us a chance to relax and acclimatize to the high altitude. It is important to stay hydrated and extremely aware of your body’s physical condition.

DAY 05 Drive to Saga (4200m) 232km / 8 hrs. Over Night at Guesthouse / Camp
The road climbs up to the, La Lung (5124m) then drops down before heading western part of Tibet . Road to east goes to Lhasa , capital city of Tibet . The driving is difficult, but the stunning views of the Himalayas and in particular Shisha Pangma (8012m) more than make up for the rough travel. By late afternoon we will cross the Bhramaputra river and a quick drive will bring us to Saga.

DAY 06 Drive to Paryang (4500m) 285 km / 8 hrs. Over Night at Guesthouse / Camp
Our jeeps and trucks roll through the gigantic valleys following the various rivers through the grazing lands of yaks and sheep. The landscape is highlighted by snow capped peaks rising out of the distant sand dunes. Depending on the season, many Tibetan nomads and traders in traditional dress will inhabit this area.

DAY 07 Drive to Lake Manasarovar (400m) 298km / 9 hrs. Over Camp
This is the longest driving day of the trip. By late afternoon the drive through the green pastures and huge valleys gives way to the first sighting of Mt Kailash and Lake Manasarovar . We will drive to Thogu holiest bathing gate of Manas.

DAY 08 Drive to Tarchen (4600m) 60km Over Night at Guesthouse
Lake Manasarovar (4500m) Lake Manasarovar is regarded as the most holy of all of Tibet ‘s many lakes. According to Hindu and Buddhist cosmology the four great rivers of the Indian sub-continent, the Brahmaputra, Sutlej, Ganges, and Indus all arise from the lake. It is said that Lord Vishnu floated in it for an eternity, dreaming, until the life force stirred, and out of the water’s infinite potential sprang forth all of creation. This day offers a wonderful opportunity to see the great lake Manasarover with mt . Gurula Mandhata (7728m) on south and Holy Kailash on the north. After bath and Puja drive to Tarchen via Chiu monastery and hot spring.

DAY 09 Drive to Tarboche (5 km) trek to Dirapuk (4800m) Over Night at Camp
Our first day of trekking around Kailash begins at Tarpuche . As we make our way along the route we pass numerous chortens as well as the sky burial site of the 84 Mahasiddas . We will also have wonderful views of cascading creeks, streaming water falls and the mighty west face of Kailash. We will pass the Chukku Gompa and 5 hrs later arrive at the Dirapuk Gompa where we will set up camp for the night. Total hiking for the day will be 15 km 7 hrs

DAY 10 Trek to Zutulpuk Gompa (4790m) Over Night at Camp
The hardest but holiest day of the pilgrimage. We will cross through a rocky expanse dotted with stone cairns draped with the clothes offered by pilgrims as a spiritual sign of death. Gaurikunda is one of the holiest sites to view/ visit from the top. Further hiking brings us to the accent up to Dolma -La pass (5630m). After a nice break at the top of the pass we will head down the steep trail to our eventual campsite at Zutul-Puk Monastery (the cave of miracles where Milarepa meditated) Total hiking for the day will be 18 km 8 hrs

DAY 11 Trek to Tarchen and drive to Manasarovar Hor Over Night at Camp
Trek to Tangsar Tangmar and drive to Manasarovar Hor a 3 hrs walk brings us to where the river emerges onto the Borkha plain. Our jeeps will be waiting to transport us to our camp at Lake Mansarovar .

DAY 12 Drive to Paryang

DAY 13 Drive to Saga Drive to Nyalam

DAY 14 Drive to Kathmandu

DAY 15 Transportation to airport / Departure

The traditional dance Performed during Navratri nights is called Garba. The dandia festival is generally performed keeping the picture of goddess durga in the centre. This Gujarati folk dance has many forms like hinch, 3 taali, dandia raas etc. There are many famous Navratri songs in Gujarati language. Generally the songs are either focusing on Lord Krishna and the nine goddesses. These songs are indeed very meaningful as well as catchy and energetic. The Navratri Songs are very popular among the people of all ages. The most famous among all of them are “Dholida” and “Sanedo”. Nowadays there is a trend of using some famous Bollywood songs in a Garba form. People just love tuning up to this classic hit numbers and they are also eager to learn dancing on it. So usually the trained dancers are running coaching classes for the exuberant domestic and international dance lovers.

The Navratri festival is also considered as the festival of colors. It is the largest dance festival of India and it is not performed in the random outfits as people used to get dresses in a traditional outfits and costumes. People performing in competitions or in clubs and farm houses are very meticulous about their dress and ornaments. The traditional Navratri costumes colors consists of Red, Yellow, Orange, Blue and Pink. Chanya choli, odhni and bandhni are the famous Navratri costumes. The exuberant dandiya dance lovers are not only satisfied with the traditional costumes. They also wear the glittering bangles, payals and bulky necklaces and waist-belts. The fever of Navratri festival provides amazing visual delight to the spectators. Even the vendors of such items also make good money during this time. Needless to say, these nine nights are extremely grooving for the Gujarati folk dance lovers. If you are in Gujarat it’s an awesome opportunity to get indulge in the vibrant culture of the state and you will find yourself to step out on some folk music- the whole scenario take you in some other world, full of music, beat and dance!

Ultimate “Garba fever” all across the world gets high in the month of October and people passionately celebrate this cultural fest. Many people organize big competition on Garba dance with big prizes as well to motivate the different dance groups. To watch and participate in “The Quest” with Gujarati people in style and ultimate compassion is just magnificent. Usually these kinds of competitions and organizations are held in clubs, farm houses, schools, colleges and in other such grounds. Here large capacity crowd in terms of spectators and performers can be organized in a comfortable manner. Many famous celebrities from Bollywood also visit such places in order to increase the verve of Garba lovers. Even the C.M. of Gujarat Shri Narendra Modi also visits such places to dazzle the curtain of this mahafestival and giving it a mega start.

Last year many of my friends from abroad had planned to visit Gujarat, India. Their main focal point was to be witness of some amazing Garba performances. Being in Gujarat from a long time I thought to provide them a good experience. But every time it doesn’t go as smooth as due to heavy rush and in the middle of busiest festival. It’s very hard to manage everything perfectly. That’s how first three nights didn’t happen as per our plan. Later I realize that we need to go through some well-established or well-known organizers. Then on the 4th day I came across one of the topmost tours & travel agency in Gujarat. It was JN Rao India. They are based in Ahmedabad, Gujarat but they have a very well organized structure in the whole Gujarat. They have the best affiliations in the state authorities known for Navratri and Dandia festival. They take you to the top places of performing and watching Garba competition in major cities of Gujarat like Ahmedabad, Vadodara, and Surat etc.

So guys if you want to enjoy the Navratri 2012 to the fullest and also awaiting some foreign guests. Then JN Rao tours & travels is your destination. Furthermore, you can contact direct to the JN Rao by visiting their website http://jnraoindia.com/

In the quest of monotonous routine we always want to have some quality time- a time that is purely inspired by the nature for a true inspiration, motivation and to rejuvenate life. To get close with a wild life experiences fulfill all requirement of recovery through nature.

Bird watching is a kind of experience where birdwatchers get close to see various different birds those fly far from their destination for a certain time period. From their long journey, there is so much to learn and it will be helpful to get inspiration in the life. Life go incredible if you adopt changes and make life the way you can add some newness and motivations by picking small goals to it. That’s how these long distance birds do in their life as they choose each year their destination for some time and reach there by thousands miles. Watching them in the bird watching sanctuary is just an awesome experience. You will be glad to watch various verities of birds when you plan for bird watching in some chosen places.

To choose a suitable place for bird watching is an important decision on which your further experience depends, so you need to research it online or through some travel guide from where you can get appropriate information and detail. You also need to get prepare for your magnificent travel experience. There could be more than 100 species or many hundred species of birds waiting for your time with them. So prepare well and get there to get with the verities of birds.

To catch morning bliss and a spectacular view

To catch the magnificent morning and to snatch the Nature’s crisp you need to get prepare with some guidelines and suggestions. Get prepare with these instructions based on experience so that you cannot miss the bliss of the morning.

India is a good place to come and join bird watching in winter session as it has moderate temperature so most of the birds fly here crossing thousands miles across ocean. Gujarat is well known for the bird watching sites and you can experience a complete wildlife in the serenity. There are some of the top bird sanctuaries one must visit during his vacations to make winter unforgettable with spectacular moments.  The bird watching session starts from December to April till the spring ring its bell on the year. Catch all the moments in your camera and shoot the favorite seen. Share your experience with family and friends.

Some famous bird watching sites in Gujarat:

Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary: Latest number says that Khijadiya has got more than 257 species of birds. With brackish, sea and fresh water Khijadiya provides 600 ha with diversity of conditions for the resident as well as migrant birds. Shoot out your favorite seen with the variety of chirps.

Porbandar Bird Sanctuary: This place is famous for Gandhi’s birth-Mahatma Gandhi. This place is also known for the Porbandar Bird Sanctuary which is established in the year of 1988. This is known for the local ornithologists with resident, nesting and migratory birds.

Thol Sanctuary: This bird sanctuary is recommended by various bird lovers. Doris and Murphy also recommended this place in winter when migratory birds came here. A serene lake place is the ultimate adobe for the migrant birds. You can catch all the moments with your camera and also can have a blueprint in your mind lifelong.

Wild Ass Sanctuary Little Runn of Kutch: The present saline desert of Kutch which is snow white has a famous Bird watching sanctuary where you can explore vacations  and best bird watching with the incredible wild life. The sanctuary is habitat to about 93 species of invertebrates which can make your visit to India most successful for a bird watching sensation.

What You Require While Packing for Birding on Vacations?

• Don’t forget to pick up some essential things on your vacations, especially when you are going for bird watching tour. Here are some of the essential things that need to carry when going on your travel hunt.
• Don’t forget to pick up a compact, portable pair of Binoculars with you. This help you to observe birds no matter how close or far you would be
• You also need to tuck a regional or local travel guide so that you can appropriately or maximum use the time in a right direction
• Bring a birding journal with you that can help in observing behaviors of new birds
• Camera is your weapon to shoot the birds with a nice and decent capture. Never forget to pick your weapon with you.

Now you are all set to go on your bird watching travel hunt. Don’t forget to consult or pick local travel guide. Here in India you will also get some professional travel agencies that manage everything as per your choice. It is also good for you to know and experience things as per appropriate guidelines and most above the management. Some travel agencies fix up the customize travel packages so that you can explore travelling as per desire. It is also a matter of time availability for scheduling your trip to some spectacular bird watching sanctuaries, but to get there you need to consult everything in advance so that you can manage and prepare well.

JN Rao India is one of the landmark company which provide customize tour and travel packages across India. All you need to contact JN Rao India and get on your fun trip. You can visit company official website to catch more information http://jnraoindia.com/

Gulmarg is a popular skiing destination, a hill station which is in Jammu & Kashmir. Gulmarg is best suitable for those who are expert or amateur in skiing. Gulmarg is not only known for skiing but it is the best venue for any kind of winter sport in India. It is very near to Srinagar and can be easily approached by car/bus. Gulmarg is also famous for ‘gulmarg gondola’ which is the second biggest cable car in the world. It can take about 600 people per hour and provides a pleasurable experience. Auli, dayara bugyal, mundali and munsiyari are some other places in & around Himalaya for skiing and other adventure sports.

Darjeeling is a globally acclaimed tourist destination. It is equally famous for its tea industry and Darjeeling Himalayan railway (a kind of toy train) is listed as world heritage site by UNESCO. Padmaja Naidu zoological park, Japanese garden, Darjeeling botanical garden, dhir dham temple, some deluging waterfalls and exhilarating view of natural beauty lures the tourist to Darjeeling. Tiger hill is one big part of Darjeeling’s beauty. Every hill station has a point where you can have magnificent view of sunrise & sunset. But tiger hill is different from others; here sun rises over mountains encompassed by snow. So if you have not visited such place you can only imagine how breathtaking view it would be.

Sikkim is another beautiful place located in the Eastern India. Kanchenjunga is the third highest pick of Himalaya and it is seen from the entire state of Sikkim. Apart from that there are many tourist attractions in Sikkim. Temi tea garden is one place which tourist loves the most. It is extended along with an amiable slope of hill that provides an eye catching view. There is a beautiful lake called Tsomgo Lake; here the source of water is mountain snow and it also has a big temple of Lord Shiva by its side. If you love seeing a variety of plant habitats and botanical species then there is Jawaharlal Nehru botanical garden. It is maintained by forest department of Sikkim govt. and it is located nearby rumtek monastery. Sikkim is connected by rail & by road. But travelling using cars/coaches is best suitable journey as the railway stations are very far from the city.

Leh & Ladakh is a very popular tourist destination. Leh is a secluded religious place for Buddhists. Tibetan handicraft items and Leh palace is what tourists are interested in. From the top of the Leh palace one can have panoramic view of Leh and other surrounding areas. A couple of mountain ranges are easily viewed from there. There is also a museum in the palace. It consists of numerous ornaments, ceremonial dresses and crowns. The paintings of this museum are also very famous. Here you can find very attractive soothing paintings as well as silk paintings known as Thangkas. Tourists who love adventure sports can enjoy water rafting, trekking and camping. Shanti stupa, Hemis gompha, zorawar fort and stok palace are some notable tourist destinations. Dras is known as the gateway of ladakh. It is mainly famous for the 1999 kargil war memorial. Other tourist destinations in Ladakh are Sani Monastery, Zangla, Padum, Zangskar etc. Generally there are no special permits required to visit the most part of Leh & Ladakh. However visiting some inner line areas require permission from the respectable authority. Nowadays the concept of ‘ecotourism’ is very popular in ladakh. Leh & Ladakh are situated on a very higher altitude. The atmosphere is mostly cold & dry. Tourists are also advised to keep themselves safe from a possible sunburn condition. The best time to visit these places is June to October. Leh is best connected by road & air. By Road Srinagar-Leh road is the ideal choice for the tourists. It offers some really mesmerizing views while travelling. By Air regular flights are available from New Delhi, Chandigarh and Srinagar.

There are lots more places to explore in & around Himalaya. JN Rao tours will provide you with the best of services in terms of accommodation and car/coach rentals. So kindly contact us for more information.

The domestic packages mainly include places like Goa, Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Kerala etc. where to visit mainly depends on when are you planning to touring. Goa is one such place where you can visit anytime irrespective of the climate conditions. The winter part is generally preferred by the foreigners where you can see and meet people all over the world especially from the European countries. Domestic tourists prefer to visit in summer/monsoon.

GOA-

Goa is one of the most favorite tourist destinations for tourists from India as well as for foreigners as well. Portuguese ruled goa for more than 400 years & that’s what makes goa different from other tourist places in India. Goa is one of the favorite honeymoon destinations for newly married couples. People love goa mostly for its clean & attractive beaches. Even the churches and cultural heritage attracts many tourists.

Goa’s cultural heritage

Goa is known for its excellent beaches, churches, and temples.  Jesus Cathedral, Fort Aguada and some famous beaches like anjuna, Miramar, Dona Paula & palolem are the reasons to visit this wonderful place at least one in your life. Goa has two world heritage sites in which the basilica of bom Jesus holds the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. It is situated in old goa & has been preserved and protected by the Portuguese. Goa is also known for its cultural diversity which attracts the foreigners the most. This diversity can be seen in Goan food, music, dance & theatre.

Goa- the perfect honeymoon destination!!

In India you ask a newly married couple about their choice of honeymoon destination & 1 out of 3 will say “GOA”. Goa is as beautiful in summer as it is in winter and the same goes for monsoon as well. The only difference monsoon makes is that it becomes very romantic. Moreover you can see some more natural waterfalls here & there. Couples mostly enjoy the cruise ride & visiting beaches at the time of sunset. The added attraction here is the night life which is like icing on the cake. There is a wide range of pubs & clubs compassed across the old & new goa.

Accommodation

In goa you can find a wide range of accommodation facilities. There are hotels which are economical as well as those which provide full luxury. Your choice depends upon your budget. There are also some great beach resorts in goa. You can also reside in a sea facing apartment. Then there are villas as well. We provide you the definite kind of accommodation of your choice.

Transportation

In goa you can enjoy a wide Varity of transportation. Taxis are mostly preferred by most of the tourists as it is easy to hire from your hotel/resort & from different tourist destinations also. One other form of affordable transportation is public buses. They are cheap & easily accessible from major part of the city. You can also hire two wheeler taxis which are usually identified by yellow number plates. If you are having a valid license then you can also ride such a vehicle by your own. People enjoy it very much but it requires Indian sense of traffic to ride safely.

Goa is situated between Maharashtra & Karnataka in the western part of India. You can visit by air, travel & road. Goa has its own international airport, dabolim airport. Konkan railway & south-western railway provides rail lines in goa. By road goa is connected by national highway 17.

So if you want to visit goa & enjoy the artistry of goa from exotic beaches to ancient churches then jn rao tours provides the best services in terms of accommodation, travelling & sightseeing. Kindly contact us for booking & more information.

* Crawford Market: Crawford Market is situated to the north of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus of Mumbai. It lies just opposite the headquarters of Mumbai Police. Officially known as Mahatma Jyotirao Phule Market, Crawford Market is counted amongst the popular shopping areas of the city.
* Fashion Street: Fashion Street is one of the premier markets of Mumbai, popular for housing a wide variety of readymade garments. The market is nothing but a cluster of 130 to 140 clothes stores.
* Flora Fountain: Flora Fountain was built in the year 1864, to commemorate the memory of those martyrs who laid their life in the formation of Maharashtra State. Owing to the purpose for which it had been built, the fountain was later renamed as the Hutatma Chowk or Martyr’s Square.
* Gateway of India: One of the most prized possessions of the country, the Gateway of India is situated on the waterfront in South Mumbai. Anyone coming to Mumbai from this harbor is greeted by the huge monument.
* Marine Drive: Marine Drive Beach is situated along the shoreline of the Arabian Sea and stretches right from the Nariman Point to the foot of Malabar Hill. The two ends of the beach come across as completely contrasting, with the Nariman Point being a concrete jungle and Malabar Hill being resplendent with nature’s beauty.
* Chowpatty Beach: Chowpatty Beach is situated at the northern end of the Marine Drive, near the Malabar Hill of Mumbai. It is the place where you can come and enjoy, after a hard day at work. The serene waters of the sea, combined with the cool sands of the beach, let you relax completely.
* Haji Ali Dargah: Haji Ali Dargah is one of the most popular religious places in Mumbai, visited by Hindus and Muslims alike. It is basically the tomb of Haji Ali, a wealthy merchant who renounced all the worldly possessions and became a saint, after he returned from a pilgrimage to Mecca.
* Mahalaxmi Temple: Mahalaxmi Temple is one of the popular Hindu Temples in Mumbai, dedicated to the three shaktis – Goddess Lakshmi, Goddess Saraswathi and Goddess Kali. It is situated on the Bhulabhai Desai Road, on the northern side of the Malabar Hills.
* Mount Mary Church: Mount Mary Church is a Roman Catholic Church, also known by the name of ‘The Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount’. It is located in the Bandra suburb of Mumbai and dates back to the year 1640. One of the most popular churches of Bombay, it is visited by people of all religions.

Overnight stay at Mumbai.

DAY 02 Mumbai – Bhavnagar – Velavadar
Early in the morning you will be picked up from your Mumbai Hotel and driven towards the Mumbai Domestic Airport, where you need to take the Jet Airways Flight No: 9W 2507 departing Mumbai at 0710 hours; arriving Bhavnagar at 0820 hours.

You will be received by our representative and assisted onto your vehicle. From here we will move towards Bhavnagar and visit the following places: (Here we have mentioned few other places which you may visit ONLY if you feel like as they may be of importance especially for Photography)

* Gaurishankar Lake: It comprises a very good bird-viewing area with an impressive checklist of birds possible over a three or four hour walk along the park trails and on the embankments of the lake.
* The New and Old Port of Bhavnagar: It also offers good bird-viewing, including huge Western Reef Egret heronries.
* Pill Garden: This city-centre park are breeding areas for the near-threatened Painted Stork. Here you may see the huge colony of roosting and nesting storks.
* Khodiyar Mata: Khodiyar Mata was the family Goddess of the rulers of the former Bhavnagar State. There is a shrine dedicated to the Goddess nearby. The deity of the temple is taken in high regard. The shrine boasts of exquisite architectural beauty and presents breathtaking sites. It has 36 pillars and a huge mandap to add on to its beauty.
* Bhavnagar Station: Bhavnagar Station perhaps the only station in India where you will see women porters, Victoria Park, Major Jain Temples and Mahatma Gandhi’s (Father of the Nation) High School where his certificate is hung.
* Gandhi Memorial: Gandhi Memorial is also known as Gandhi Smriti Museum. The museum has a collection of some rare photographs and memorabilia associated with Mahatma Gandhi.
* The Barton Library: Barton Library is one of the oldest libraries in Gujarat. It is located in the center of Bhavnagar. There is also a museum in the building which is a worth visiting spot in the city.

We will then leave for The Velavadar National Park (45 kms – 55 mts drive). The Park is more than 34 sq km and its main species, the Blackbuck an exclusively South India antelope the largest population found here. Other species found here are Nilgai, wolf, jackal, jungle cat and fox. It also attracts birds such as pelicans, flamingoes, White storks, Painted storks and Sarus cranes.

* The Savannah-like grassland of Velavadar National Park is one of the most important sites in India for the vulnerable Stolizca’s Bushchat.
* The Sarus Crane is another vulnerable species seen at Velavadar. This park is also good for Grey and Painted Francolins, quails, larks, wheatears, swallows and other birds.
* Three species of sandgrouse could be seen coming to the waterholes in the park for their mid-morning drink.
* In the monsoon months, Velavadar is one of the most important breeding sites for the Lesser Florican that displays by jumping in the grasslands.
* The park is usually closed at this time of the year but the surrounding Bhal area could yield a sighting of this endangered species. The park is also the hunting ground of Imperial, Steppe, Greater Spotted and Short-toed Eagles, many species of falcon, and hawks.
* A winter evening is the time for Velavadar’s greatest spectacle, the arrival of Montagu’s, Pallid and Marsh Harriers in numbers known to exceed 1500 from nearby cotton fields and grasslands, for their evening roost.

Overnight stay at Velavadar.

DAY 03 Velavdar – Amreli / Dhari
Early in the morning you may visit the Velavadar Sanctuary and observe the birds enjoying the early morning chill; after which return to your hotel for breakfast. From here we shall leave for Amreli (Witness many a water bodies and see varied kind of birds) & Dhari (160 kms – 3 hours drive) which is a jewel near to Ambardi Interpretation Park.

* Here you may get a chance to see at Ambardi Interpretation Park Asiatic lions, leopard, spotted deer, Hyaena, Sambar, Blue bull, Chinkara, sambar, crocodiles, squirrels, Monkeys etc.
* Along with the animals you shall see monitor lizards, pythons, king cobras and flying lizards.
* Birds like darters, cormorants, ibises, gray herons, mynas, flycatchers, orioles, wood pigeons, wood pickers, kingfishers, kites, ospreys, thrushes, and parakeets add to the attraction of Ambardi Interpretation Park.
* You may watch the animals on the move from the permitted vehicles on the move or from watchtowers only after prior permission & finishing formalities.
* Along with animals the place is also home to the Ness’s – The Local Maldhari Community. This is a place where the Maldharis live deep in the jungles amongst the lions of Dhari Forest and is unheard of seen anywhere in this area. This beautiful and amazing people are extremely warm, shy but the real protectors of Lions in the entire area.

Overnight stay at Dhari.

DAY 04 Dhari – Sasan
After enjoying your breakfast we will start towards Sasan – The Gir National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary (135 kms – 2 & ½ hours drive)

* Gir National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary is internationally known as the remaining habitat of the Asiatic Lion. For birdwatchers, Gir is an interesting place to see raptors like the critically endangered White-backed and Long-billed Vultures, near threatened Red-headed Vulture, Egyptian Vulture, vulnerable Greater Spotted Eagle and the endangered Pallas’ Fish Eagle. Crested Serpent Eagle, Changeable Hawk Eagle and other magnificent birds of prey nest in the forests of Gir.
* Even non-birdwatchers will enjoy seeing attractive birds like the Asian Paradise Flycatcher that looks fairy-like as it flies with its tail feathers trailing behind, the brilliant golden yellow Black-hooded Oriole, the Blossom-headed Parakeet, the Painted Francolin, Painted Sandgrouse, the colourful Coppersmith Barbet and myriad flycatchers.
* The water bodies like Kamleshwar Dam are also good sites for birdwatchers. Darters, Painted Stork, Woolly-necked Stork, motley species of ducks and other waterfowl can be seen at this dam and at other wetlands of Gir, and the vulnerable Indian Skimmer is also known to visit the water bodies in the sanctuary.
* The Gir National Park the only Asiatic Abode of the Lions with a current lion population of 411 is set up across 1153 sq km area of which 258 sq km inside the sanctuary is declared as a National Park.
* At the Lion’s abode spend couple of hours sightseeing at Sasan Gir, the lion habitat, home to other forms of wild life like the leopard, wild boar, fox, wildcat, chinkara, nilgai, spotted deer, sambar, blackbucks, Pangolin and chowsinghai.
* The forest has about 300 species of birds including King vulture, Crested serpent eagle, Great horned owl, Bush quail, woodpecker and hornbill.
* To orientate the floods of visitors, the Forest Department has set up a special Gir Interpretation Zone (GIZ) at Devalia, 12 km west of Sasan Gir.
* We will then visit the nomadic Maldhari Community who live in harmony with the king of the jungle and later on to the Siddhi Community originally from Abyssinia (present day Ethiopia) in East Africa who came to India during the second millennium AD as slaves, sailors, mercenaries and merchants. The Siddhis of Jambur and Jamvala in Gir belong to the more deprived segments of this community. They are strikingly different from other tribes anywhere else in India. They have regained their music and dance heritage and perform a kind of music called Goma which has African origins.

Overnight stay at Sasan.

DAY 05 Porbandar – Barda Hills Sanctuary – Porbandar
After your breakfast we will leave for Porbandar (175 kms – 3 & ½ hours drive) where you may visit the town which has a Bird Sanctuary but on most visits you will find more birds at the creeks. This is a mind-blowing area to view and photograph Flamingos that allow you to get quite close as they are used to the bustle of the town surrounding them.

* We will be visiting the Barda Hills (20 kms – 45 mts drive) – The forest which is endowed with very rich floral composition.
* Kileshwar, a temple and camping site developed by ‘Jamsaheb’ of Jamnagar, is a beautiful site in the heart of the forest.
* Amongst the mammal’s rattle, leopard and wolf are threatened and amongst the reptiles found here, crocodile and chameleon are rare and endangered. Of the four common venomous snakes, three are found here. The avifaunal species also displays high diversity. At least two species of birds, which were found in the Sanctuary, are rare/ endangered, to name a few: Spotted Eagle and Crested Hawk-Eagle.
* Apart from this, the Sanctuary exhibits great variety of invertebrate species including variety of butterflies. Lion, Chinkara, Sambar and Spotted Deer found in the recent past, are now exterminated from Barda.
* Although the area of Sanctuary is small a wide variety of other wetland birds can be seen in town and on the road to Dwarka, and also, coastal species by the sea.

* Porbandar is best known as the birthplace of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi (The Father of the Nation) often called the “White City” for the white local stone used in many of the buildings.
* Visit the Sudamapuri Temple associated with a popular tale of Krishna and his dear friend Sudama, Kirti Mandir the three storey house where Gandhiji was born in 1869.

Overnight stay at Porbandar.

DAY 06 Khambhaliya – Khijadia – Jamnagar
After your breakfast we will leave for Khambhaliya (90 kms – 1 & ½ hours drive) on another route, interesting for birdwatchers is the road from Jamnagar to Dwarka with reservoirs located off the highway like Sinhan and Khambaliya that are excellent for cranes, ducks, pratincoles, plovers and other birds.

* Closer to Dwarka is a detour to Charakla, with its salt-works, fisheries and shrimp breeding centres, which is an important bird area listed by International Bird Conservation Network.
* Thousands of flamingos and hundreds of pelicans can be seen here. There are chances of seeing four or five species of gulls in a single visit and a good number of terns.
* This is one of the few places in the Indian peninsula where the Caspian Tern nests.

We shall then continue our journey towards Khijadia (45 kms – 50 mts drive) Here you need to take permits beforehand to visit the Two Sanctuaries (Marine National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary & Khijadia Bird Sanctuary).

* The Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary is one of the top sites for the Indian Skimmer, a vulnerable species that most birdwatchers want to have on their list of sightings in India.
* The Indian Skimmer is a delightful bird to watch with its striking red bill and black-head standing out against its predominantly white body. A unique feature of the Indian Skimmer is its bill that has a longer lower mandible than the upper one enabling it to feed while flying over the surface of the water with only the tip of its beak skimming the surface, a graceful sight to behold.
* The bird sanctuary is unique in having fresh-water lakes on one side of the road bisecting it and salt water marshes on the other. Driving or walking on the road offers a good opportunity to scan both kinds of wetlands to see a variety of wading birds that are characteristic of each.
* The sanctuary is an important stronghold of Sarus Crane. The sanctuary has resident populations of Nakta or Comb Duck, Spot-bill and other ducks and also attracts large flocks of migratory ducks like Shoveler and Pintail.
* It is also an important site for the Baer’s Pochard. The Black-necked Stork nests at Khijadiya. This is also one of the few sanctuaries in peninsular India where the Crested Grebe breeds. Khijadiya is also the breeding area for a number of wading birds.

Late evening we shall return back towards Jamnagar (35 kms – 45 mts drive) for dinner and stay overnight.

Overnight stay at Jamnagar.

DAY 07 Marine National Park – Jamnagar
After your breakfast we will leave for The Marine National Park (35 kms – 45 mts drive) and Wildlife Sanctuary which were created in 1980, the Marine National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary lies in the intertidal zone (the area between the lowest and highest tide levels) along the northern coast of Jamnagar District and the islands in the Gulf of Kachchh.

* Offshore from the southern coast of the Gulf of Kutch, 42 islands sit like little gems in the Arabian Sea. Fringed by coral reefs and mangrove swamps, these islands are a treasure-trove of marine species and a paradise for birdwatchers. In 1980, Gujarat notified India’s first Marine Sanctuary covering about 460 sq km of the coastal zone including most of the islands, and two years later about 162 sq km from this was accorded further protection as India’s first Marine National Park.
* The park is like an underwater forest and a treasure trove of coral reef and sponges, giant sea anemone, jelly fish, octopus and starfish to name just a few species. On occasion you might spot a dolphin. The whale shark also inhabits the surrounding sea. Considered the largest fish in the world, it feeds off plankton.
* About 80 bird species are recorded on the islands including Crab Plover, Kentish Plover, Oystercatcher, Turnstone, Sanderling, Little and Temmick’s Stints, sandpipers, herons and godwits.
* Narana and Pirotan Island are two of the park’s popular tourist destinations for viewing marine invertebrates. The highlight of islands like Pirotan and Narara is seeing large flocks of Crab Plover. The swamp forests of the islands, featuring about seven species of mangrove, have breeding colonies of near-threatened species like Painted Stork, Darter and Black-necked Ibis, and other birds like egrets and herons. The islands are also breeding areas for terns and other birds.
* On the boat crossing to the islands, there are chances of seeing Pallas’ Fish Eagle, Osprey and other raptors.

After an exhilarating experience we will return towards Jamnagar where we will move towards the Lake which is also an excellent site for birdwatchers. Large flocks of White Pelican can be seen at Lakhota or Ranmal Lake in Jamnagar, and nearby water bodies in the city, which also attract a variety of ducks and waders. More than 75 species of birds have been recorded in and around the lake.
Overnight stay at Jamnagar.

DAY 08 Morbi – Bhuj
After your breakfast we will leave for Bhuj (250 kms – 5 & ½ hours drive) via Morbi the town which welcomes visitors with larger than life statues of Maharaja Lakhdev Bahadur and his horses at the entrance. Pay a short visit to The Green Chowk, Mani Mandir, Art Deco New Palace, Willingdon Secretariat.

We will then proceed straight towards Bhuj in Kachchh (225 kms – 3 & 1/2 hrs drive); which is situated in the Kutch district of Gujarat. It is the administrative city of Kutch and therefore occupies an important place. (At Bhuj you need to register with the NRI/ Foreigner Tourist Office for acquiring Permit to visit the restricted areas of Banni. – Our Representative on your behalf will manage all the procedures. You may need couple of hours to formalize to proceedings by which time it would become quite dark to travel hence you have to stay at Bhuj)

Only if you feel like & have sufficient time you may visit the Bhuj town comprising of the following places:

* Aaina Mahal: Aaina Mahal is one of the most exquisite monuments in Bhuj, located in the fort complex along with the Parag Mahal. The Palace is a sheer work of art and a must watch for all. The architecture of the Mahal is greatly influenced by the European style. Aaina Mahal was converted from a dream to reality by the master architect Ramsinh Malam. He undertook training in Holland to make Aaina Mahal an architectural marvel it is today. The palace is a two storied building with Darbar Hall, hall of mirrors, and suites for royal family. It stands adorned with mirror work, tile work and fountains.
* Prag Mahal: Prag Mahal was designed by the famous architect Colonel Henry Saint Wilkins. It took 10 years to build the monument, at an astounding cost of rupees 20 lakh. The palace serves as a fine example of Italian Gothic style, combined with some European style elements.
* The Kutch Museum: The Kutch Museum was earlier known as Fergusson Museum. It was built by Maharao Khengarji III in 1877 AD. The museum is constructed in Italian style and located on the banks of the Hamirsar Lake. It is one of the famous museums in the entire state and has a rich collection of Kshatrapa inscriptions, various archeological objects, fine collection of arms and specimens of various crafts of the Kutch region.
* Other Places of Interest: Other places of interest at Bhuj are Cenotaphs of Kutch rulers, Snake Temple at Bhujiyo Hill Fort, Swami Narayan Temple, The Darbargadh Palace, Sharad Bagh Palace, Chattardi, Harmisar Lake, Hathisthan, Vegetable Market, Hatkeshwar Temple and Alfred High School.

Overnight stay at Bhuj.

DAY 09 Naliya – Nakhatrana
After your breakfast we will leave for Naliya (135 kms – 2 & ½ hours drive) another significant grassland habitat of Kutch is the Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary at Lala near Naliya in Abdasa taluka. Though covering only about 20 sq km of area, this grassland is very important for birdwatchers as perhaps the only sanctuary in India where three species of bustard are found – the endangered Great Indian Bustard is resident here, the endangered Lesser Florican breeds here during the monsoon months, and the near-threatened Macqueen’s Bustard is a winter visitor.

* There is a good drivable track through the sanctuary that offers a chance of seeing the endangered Great Indian Bustard and a variety of other birds like the Black and Grey Francolin, Spotted and Indian Sandgrouse, quails, larks, shrikes, coursers and plovers.
* This sanctuary is also interesting for birdwatchers as vulnerable species like the Stoliczka’s Bushchat and White-naped Tit could also be seen.
* It is also important for birds of prey like the Imperial Eagle that visits in winter.
* The sanctuary extends north towards the creeks of Jakhau along the coast of Kutch where large flocks of flamingos, herons, egrets, sandpipers and other birds can be seen.

Overnight stay at Nakhatrana.

DAY 10 Than Monastery – Dinodhar Hill – Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary – Banni – Hodka
After your breakfast we will be leaving for The Dinodhar Hill, 386 meters high, stands near Aral village. On its summit is a temple dedicated to Dhoramnath, who is said to have performed rigorous penances here for 12 years. This is a good tracking spot with ample wildlife and flora. At the foot of Dinodhar is the Than Monastery with another Dhoramnath Temple and several other shrines.

From here we will be leaving for the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary – The largest wildlife reserve in Gujarat is the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, comprising more than 7500 sq km which includes part of the Great Rann of Kutch.

* This sanctuary is specially noted for the area called the Flamingo City near Solanki Bet. The marshes of this great sanctuary.
* The breeding of the White Pelican and Avocet also been recorded here and nowhere else in India, and many other interesting species of birds can be seen at the marshes of the Great Rann of Kutch.
* Most of the mammals seen in the Wild Ass Sanctuary are also found here.

From here we will leave for Banni (90 kms – 1 & ½ hours drive) which is like the Rann of Kutch, the Banni area is a low-lying plain said to have been formed from the silt left by the Indus River that once flowed through this region. This is one of the largest grassland tracts in India with an area of over 3800 sq km with around 40 different species of grasses.

* This area is widely recognised as important for birds because of its location on the flyway for many migratory species and migration studies have been conducted here by well-known organisations like the Bombay Natural History Society.
* The main focal point for those interested in birds is Charri Dhand, a lake near Fulay village, which in years of good rainfall is a birdwatcher’s dream destination. This lake is visited by large flocks of Demoiselle and Common Crane, said to be a large share of the world population, and equally impressive flocks of myriad duck species.
* The mix of grasslands, scrub and wetland also make this a heaven for raptors (birds of prey) with the Tawny Eagle and Bonnelli’s Eagle breeding here and Greater Spotted Eagle, Imperial Eagle and Steppe Eagle wintering in the Banni area.
* Endangered species like the White-backed and Long-billed Vulture are seen in the Banni area. White-naped Tit is a vulnerable species of the Banni region.

Overnight stay at Hodka.

DAY 11 Little Rann of Kutch – Zainabad
After your breakfast we will leave for Zainabad (315 kms – 6 hours drive) which is known for Desert Coursers – self contained huts for a true Rann experience. Once part of the Arabian Sea, the Great and the Little Rann of Kutch were separated from each other and from the Gulf of Kutch by silting and other geographical forces. In the monsoon, the Great and the Little Rann of Kutch are inundated with water. As they dry in winter, the land gets converted into a salt-encrusted desert landscape interspersed with elevated areas called `bets’ or islands that are vegetated as they fall above the water-level and wetlands. This unique landscape harbours a rich and varied birdlife typical of the habitat.

* This sanctuary is a paradise for birdwatchers because of its range of habitats from the salt-encrusted desert landscape to vegetated elevated patches called bets that were probably islands when the Little Rann was an arm of the Gulf of Kutch to wetlands left behind after the monsoon months when the Rann is inundated with water.
* Indian and Spotted Sandgrouse, Desert and Pied Wheatear, more than 10 species of lark, and other birds characteristic of the desert habitat are seen when driving around the Rann. White-eared Bulbul, Indian Courser, Stone-plover and shrikes are seen in the scrubby and grass-covered areas of the sanctuary.
* In winter, the sanctuary is visited by the near-threatened Macqueen’s Bustard. It is also an important area for critically threatened vulture species and vulnerable species of eagle.
* The wetlands attract large congregations of birds and are best visited in winter when migrating birds join the residents. Both the species of flamingo found in India and all the three species of pelican have been seen at the wetlands, and the marshes of the Little Rann are the breeding site of thousands of Lesser Flamingo.
* Large flocks of Demoiselle and Common Cranes, a variety of ducks and two species of geese visit the wetlands in winter. This sanctuary is also the habitat of the Sarus Crane. Three species of ibis, Spoonbill and flocks of godwits, stints, sandpipers, shanks, moorhen and other wading birds can be seen at the water bodies.

We will also be visiting the tribal villagers around Zainabad. If time permits you may take the evening Safari into the Rann desert and stay overnight at The Desert Coursers Resort at Zainabad.

Overnight stay at Zainabad.

DAY 12 Zainabad – Modhera – Patan
After your breakfast we will continue sightseeing of the villages in and around Zainabad which includes:

* A fiat, salt-cracked vast barren desert, hissing sand storms and the majestic Ghudkhar roaming over mirage waters make the little rann of Kachchh an unique and one of the most fascinating wilderness of the world. Here we shall visit a totally different environment where locals are residing. You would spend time with these tribals while enjoying the Little Rann of Kutch.
* The Wild Ass Sanctuary is the last home of the Indian Wild Ass. This handsome, chestnut brown and white endangered species can be seen while driving across the Rann of Kutch. Other species that could be seen during wildlife viewing drives in the sanctuary are the Nilgai or blue bull antelope, Blackbuck or Indian Antelope, Chinkara or Indian Gazelle, the endangered Indian Wolf, Desert and Indian Foxes, Jackal, and smaller species characteristic of the desert habitat.
* The unique geography of the Little Rann of Kutch also makes it a good place to watch birds typical of the desert. The Rann is especially good for larks and wheatears. The Macqueen’s Bustard can be seen in winter.

Late in the noon we will (Enroute visit Sankeshwar famous for its architectural works, Baucharaji (Goddess Bachuccharaji) the temple is dedicated to the Sun-God) move towards Modhera (60 kms – 1 hours drive), a site of great importance at one time. Today, Modhera is a virtually deserted hamlet. Far more off the beaten track and much less well known than the Konark Sun temple, Modhera retains a great deal of its atmosphere and charm. Modhera is known for the 11th century Sun temple.

* The Sun Temple: It was built by King Bhimdev I in 1026-27 AD. This temple is one of the finest Hindu temples in Gujarat, built by the great Solanki dynasty. This temple and the Konark Sun temple in Orissa are very similar. This similarity is that this temple was also designed in such a way so as to let the dawn sun shine on the image of Surya, at the time of equinoxes.

From here we will leave for Patan (55 kms – 55 mts drive), a dusty, little visited town, but its narrow streets are lined by the elaborate, faded wooden houses and more than 100 Jain temples, which are worth exploring.

* Subapura: Besides wildlife sanctuaries of Gujarat, the state has a number of other wetlands that are also good for birds like Subapura in Patan District.
* Rani ki Vav: It is an excellent example of subterranean architecture of Gujarat. This Vav was constructed by Udaymati, the queen of Bhimdev and represents the finest of the Indian sculptures and architecture. Sahastralinga Talav, an artificial tank was built by the Siddhraj Jai Singh in Gujarat. The architecture of this tank integrated the great sense of water management and sanctity of water in Hindu religion.
* Patola Silk: The place associated with Patola is Patan. Patola silk is often termed as the queen of all silks. Patola sarees of Gujarat are one of the finest hand-woven sarees produced in India today. Here, exquisite patterns are woven on sarees with great precision. Here you need to spend couple of hours understanding the work each artisans are doing.

Overnight stay at Patan.

DAY 13 Patan – Vijayanagar
After your breakfast we will leave for Vijayanagar (145 kms – 2 & ½ hours drive) which has a 60 kms loop which includes a tour of ancient temple ruins, a dam and palace. After checking in to the hotel we shall move in and around Vijaynagar one of Gujarat’s most beautiful and strategically located Tribal belt.

* Vijaynagar is covered by the Polo Forest, which is currently in Sabarkantha District of Gujarat. Amidst the Aravali Range it is surrounded with the dense forest of Gujarat and Rajasthan.
* Polo Forest which is just few kilometers from Vijayanagr is a dense forest of Teak wood, Flame of the forest trees (few had already started blooming), Bamboo Trees and “Khakhro” trees. Forest is so dense that sunlight can hardly pass through in certain areas. But the real treasure of Polo forest is ruins of 10th and 15th century of Hindu and Jain temples. Here you shall surely enjoy amongst the thick jungles and the tribal villagers settled in these areas.
* The Polo jungle is a dense forest which houses many species of birds and animals. The fig trees, when in fruit, are good places to look out for the endangered Grey Hornbill and Brown-headed Barbet who will come to nibble. Grey Hornbills can also be found at a Banyan tree when it is out with its bright red fruit. On another tree look for woodpeckers, and fruit birds and prey birds at the top, especially during a particular half hour in the afternoon (the exact time of which changes).
* The 400 square km area of dry mixed deciduous forest is most lush between September and December after the monsoon rains when the rivers are full, but at any time of the year it provides a rich wildlife experience. There are more than 450 species of medicinal plants, around 275 of birds, 30 of mammals, and 32 of reptiles. There are bears, panthers, leopards, hyenas, water fowl, raptors, passerines, and flying squirrels (mostly heard, rarely seen), all living under a canopy of diverse plants and trees. During winter, all manner of migratory birds occupy the forest; during the rainy season there are wetland birds.

Overnight stay at Vijaynagar.

DAY 14 Vijayanagar – Thol Sanctuary – Ahmedabad
After your breakfast we will be leaving for Thol Bird Sanctuary (165 kms – 3 & ½ hours drive) which comprises a lake created in 1912 when the Maharajas of Baroda ruled parts of this district.

* There are good chances of seeing the Sarus Crane in the fields flooded by channels and overflow from the lake and a huge variety of birds can be seen when approaching the lake at the pools and canals.
* The lake is a good place to see White Pelican and Painted Stork in large flocks and a variety of ducks. Here we need to be careful so as not to ignore the scrub along the embankments where a good number of birds can be watched. The low trees along the lake sometimes harbour nesting birds.

From here we will leave for Ahmedabad (45 kms – 55 mts drive) for your dinner and stay overnight.

Overnight stay at Ahmedabad.

DAY 15 Nalsarovar Sanctuary – Ahmedabad
After your breakfast we will be leaving for Nalsarovar Sanctuary (55 kms – 1 hours drive) which is the highest count of birds in the state, a shallow freshwater lake that is among the largest of its kind in India with hundreds of islands dotting its expanse of more than 100 sq km.

* About 250 species of birds have been recorded at this sanctuary and a birdwatcher can hope to record 100 or more on a winter day when Nalsarovar is one of the most important wintering areas for waterfowl in Gujarat with a waterfowl count yielding 190,000 birds.
* A country boat ride on the lake is a beautiful experience. As the boatman poles the boat through the aquatic grasses towards more open waters, you are treated to the sight of magnificently-coloured birds – both the species of flamingos and all the three species of pelicans found in India have been recorded at the sanctuary, and spectacular flocks of Demoiselle and Common Cranes, geese and myriad duck species can be seen here in winter. Brilliantly coloured birds like the Purple Swamphen and Pheasant-tailed Jacanas, and a number of other wading birds, can be seen working the shallows of the lake. This is also the hunting ground of vulnerable species of raptors like the Pallas’ Fish Eagle and Greater-spotted Eagle. Sarus Cranes breed near the lake and other birds have been known to nest on the islands.

Overnight stay at Nalsarovar.

DAY 16 Ahmedabad – Mumbai – Home Country
Early in the morning you may take a boat and wander around the Nalsarovar Lake observing the different kinds of birds and after a late breakfast we will drop you at Ahmedabad Airport to board your Jet Airways Flight No.: 9W departing Ahmedabad at 0800 hours; reaching Mumbai at 0930 hours.

On reaching Mumbai’s Domestic Airport you need to take the Internal Coach and move towards the Mumbai International Airport to board your connecting flight homewards.

Tour ends with sweet memories…

No of Adult

02

Child

00

Total

02

Sr. No.

Place

Eco Lodges- Standard / 2 – 3 Star Hotels / Heritage OR Similar

No. Of Nights

No of Room

Meal Plan

1

Mumbai

Hotel Westend

One

1 Double

CP

2

Velavadar

Black buck lodge

One

1 Double

MAP

3

Dhari

Asiatic Pride Resorts

One

1 Double

CP

4

Sasan

Anil Farm House

One

1 Double

CP

5

Porbandar

Hotel Indraprasth

One

1 Double

CP

6

Jamnagar

Aram Heritage

Two

1 Double

CP

7

Bhuj

Hotel Prince

One

1 Double

CP

8

Nakhatrana

Infinity Resorts

One

1Double (AC Cottage)

MAP

9

Hodka

Shaam-E-Sarhad

One

1 Double (Eco Friendly Bunga)

MAP

10

Zainabad

Desert Coursers

One

1 Double (AC Cottage)

AP

11

Patan

Hotel Surya Palace

One

1 Double

CP

12

Vijayanagar

Vijay Vilas Palace

One

1 Double

MAP

13

Ahmedabad

Hotel Royal Highness

One

1 Double

CP

14

Nalsarovar

Hotel Toran

One

1 Double

CP

TOTAL PACKAGE COST AS PER ABOVE DETAILS = US$ 2390.00 for a minimum of 02 Adult.

Flight Details: Jet Airways 9W 2507:- Mumbai – Bhavnagar 0710 hours / 0820 hours = US$ 75.00 Grand Total for a minimum of 01 Adult.
Flight Details: Jet Airways (9W 2005):- Ahmedabad – Mumbai 1855 hours / 2000 hours
US$ 87.00 Grand Total for a minimum of 01 Adult.

(Air fares are subject to change without prior notice. All the fares quoted are Instant purchase fares as of now. Actual fares would be known only at the time of purchasing the tickets. You also need to be informed tickets once issued are Non refundable and Non Transferable)

INCLUDING:

* Accommodations – As per the plan mentioned in the itinerary
* AC Transportation (AC Indica)
* Mumbai – Mumbai
* Toll, Parking, Permit, Border Tax, Driver’s Allowances, Government Tax
* All Tax

EXCLUDES:

* Meals- As specified in the Itinerary.
* EP = Bed, CP = Bed + Breakfast, MAP = Bed + Breakfast + Lunch/Dinner, AP = Bed + Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
* Entrance Fees at all the locations e.g. Temples, Forts, Palaces, Monastery, Stupas, Heritage Properties, Monuments, Sanctuaries, National Parks, Boat Charges, Museums, Safaris, etc.
* Visa, Airport Taxes, Telephone Calls, Laundry, Drinks, Tips, Camera Fees, etc.
* Guide Charges/Escort Charges
* Domestic & International Air Fares (Mentioned Separately)
* Anything not mentioned under “The Cost includes”

PLEASE NOTE:

* The programme is subject to availability and liable to change as per the then conditions.
* Cost is based on a minimum of 02 persons.
* Booking confirmations will be provided only after 100% payment reaches our Account.
* Kindly ensure the passengers are totally covered from the point of origin at your Country under the Travel, Medical, Health and Other types of Insurance.
* Rates are based as per the itinerary hence the sector should not be changed.
* If the Fuel Costs increases during the time of travel the Quoted Rates will also increase accordingly.

CANCELLATION CHARGES:

After confirmation on the booking cancellation charges applicable would be as mentioned below:

* 61 days & above : 50% of the total amount
* 46 days – 60 days: 75% of the total amount
* 31 days – 45 days: 90% of the total amount
* 00 days – 30 days: No Refund

AFTER YOUR CONFIRMATION YOU NEED TO INFORM YOUR BANKERS TO TRANSFER FUNDS AS FOLLOWS:

Bank Details:-
Bank: ICICI Bank Limited
Branch: Ashram Road Branch, 2/1 Popular House, Ground floor, Ashram Road, Ahmedabad – 380 004, Gujarat, India
Swift Address: ICICINBBCTS
Account No.: 018905000538
Account Name: J N Rao Travel Consultancy Services Pvt. Ltd.