Gujarat, another North India

On arrival in Ahmedabad, you will be transferred to your hotel to settle in and rest after your journey.

Explore Ahmedabad, a lively and historic city. Start your day with a visit to the old city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through the pols (traditional quarters), admire the magnificent Jain and Hindu temples, and discover the remarkable architecture of the houses and havelis. Then visit the colorful markets of the old town to buy local souvenirs, textiles and jewelry. End the day with a visit to the Sabarmati Ashram, where Mahatma Gandhi lived and led his protest movements.

Leave Ahmedabad for Poshina, a charming village nestled in the Aravalli mountains. On the way, stop off at Modhera Sun Temple, an 11th-century Hindu temple dedicated to the god Surya. Admire the temple's exquisite architecture and the intricate carvings adorning its walls. In Poshina, explore the surrounding area, meet the Garasia tribes and discover their traditional culture and way of life. Also visit the temple of the goddess Ambaji, an important place of pilgrimage for Hindus.

Continue your journey to Dasada, an oasis in the heart of the Rann desert of Kutch. En route, stop to visit craft villages and admire local handicrafts, including embroidery, weaving and jewelry. In Dasada, settle into your lodge and enjoy an afternoon to relax and soak up the peaceful desert atmosphere.

Enjoy a day exploring the Little Rann of Kutch Wildlife Reserve. Join a jeep safari to observe herds of wild camels, black and white antelope, and perhaps even the rare Indian wild ass. Meet the reserve's rangers and learn about their conservation efforts to protect the flora and fauna of this unique region. In the late afternoon, enjoy a spectacular sunset over the desert.

Move on to Bhuj, the gateway to the Kutch district. Explore the old town with its bustling bazaars, historic palaces and ancient temples. Don't miss the Kutch Heritage Museum to learn more about the region's culture and history. You can also visit Bhujodi Village, renowned for its traditional looms and handcrafted textiles.

Spend the day exploring the handicraft villages of the Kutch region. Visit the villages of Hodka, Nirona and Ajrakhpur to meet local artisans making traditional textiles, pottery, jewelry and other unique handicrafts. Learn about age-old manufacturing techniques and watch craftsmen at work in their workshops.

Travel to Mandvi, a charming coastal town known for its pristine beaches and traditional crafts. On the way, stop off at the village of Bhujodi to visit weaving and embroidery workshops. In Mandvi, spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach, swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Arabian Sea and admiring the sunset from the seafront.

Continue your journey to Wankaner, a peaceful town on the banks of the Machhu River. Visit the magnificent palace of Ranjit Vilas, an impressive example of neo-Gothic architecture, and discover the rich history of the region. Stroll through the palace's lush gardens, admire the sculptures and frescoes adorning its walls, and imagine the lives of the maharajas who once lived here.

Travel to Gondal, a princely city known for its palaces and lush gardens. Visit the historic Riverside Palace, the Naulakha Garden and the Swaminarayan Museum, which houses a collection of ancient objects and artifacts. Don't miss the Naulakha Library, which houses a vast collection of ancient manuscripts, rare books and historical documents.

En route to Palitana, stop off at Junagadh to visit Mount Girnar, a sacred site for Hindus and Jains with its temples and ashrams. Climb the 10,000 steps of Mount Girnar to reach the hilltop Jain temples and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. In Palitana, explore the Jain temples perched on Shatrunjaya hill, one of India's most important pilgrimage sites. Admire the magnificent architecture of the temples and discover the history and spirituality of this sacred site.

Spend the day exploring Palitana's temples and admiring the exquisite architecture and panoramic views from Shatrunjaya Hill. Climb the white marble staircases to visit the temples dedicated to the various Jain tirthankaras, and discover the intricate carvings and artistic ornaments that adorn the temples' walls and ceilings. Take time to meditate and soak up the tranquility and spirituality of this sacred place. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding plain and green hills from the viewpoints on Shatrunjaya Hill.

Travel to Vadodara, a cultural and historic city known for its palaces, museums and gardens. On the way, stop off at Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Hindu and Jain temples and medieval forts. In Vadodara, visit the Laxmi Vilas Palace, the Baroda Museum and Sayaji Baug Park, a popular relaxation spot for locals where you can take a boat ride on the lake and admire the lush gardens.

Enjoy a relaxing day in Vadodara. Explore the bustling bazaars, sample local cuisine in traditional restaurants and visit the city's historical and cultural sites. Don't miss the EME temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva with its impressive architecture and ornate carvings. Afterwards, take a trip to the old town market to buy souvenirs, textiles and local handicrafts.

Transfer to Vadodara airport for your return flight to France, taking with you unforgettable memories of your trip to Western India. Enjoy your last moments reflecting on the rich cultural, historical and natural experiences of this memorable trip