• Return flights from London Heathrow*
• 3x internal flights
• 12x nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast
• 12x lunches
• All transfers, entrance fees, and excursions as listed in the itinerary, including:
  • Meeting and talk with Salim Wazir
  • 2x quilting workshops in Bhuj
  • Heritage walk around the old city of Ahmedabad
  • Tera Tali Dance performance
  • Exclusive jeep safari to view the sunset on the sand dunes
  • Gudri and Ralli Workshop
  • Boat ride on Lake Pichola
• Services of an English-speaking local guide throughout
• Assistance on arrival and departure at airports
• All taxes, fees and gratuities

*Please note that you can also opt to arrange your own travel and join the tour in Mumbai

Day One

20:20 – depart London Heathrow Terminal 5 on British Airways flight BA0199 

Day Two

11:10 – arrive at Mumbai Airport Terminal 2 and transfer to The Leela hotel, where you will have lunch. Check in to your room in the afternoon.

The rest of the day is at leisure

Evening - dinner at the hotel

Day Three

Early check out and departure to Mumbai airport for your flight to Bhuj, Gujarat.

06:20 - depart Mumbai on Air India flight AI601

08:00 - arrive at Bhuj airport and transfer to Hotel Prince for lunch and check-in once available in the afternoon.

Bhuj, Kutch’s vibrant hub founded in 1510, unfolds as a maze of Hindu temples, ancient palaces, crenelated gateways and bustling bazaars. Renowned for its exquisite handicrafts, the town is known for its intricate Kutch embroidery, bandhani tie-dye silks and masterful leatherwork.

*Please note that Gujarat is a dry state. Tourists may buy alcohol from one of the registered shops – your Tour Manager will be able to advise on the necessary documentation required. Alcohol must be consumed in your hotel bedroom.

Afternoon – visit the home of textile collector, Salim Wazir. The Wazirs have been collecting antique embroideries, block prints, clothes, costumes and other rare textiles from all over the Indian sub-continent for over half a century. You will spend time with Salim who, like his father before him, is a walking-talking encyclopaedia on the various textile traditions of Gujarat and the Indian subcontinent, and will introduce you to the various textile and quilting traditions.  

Evening - dinner at the hotel

Day Four

Breakfast at the hotel

Morning - drive to Banni, Asia’s largest grassland and the cradle of Kutch’s textile heritage, for a full-day with master artisan, Ramji Devraj. (Lunch included.) From the Meghwal community, Ramji blended childhood leatherworking skills with the intricate embroidered quilts his family crafted for dowries, starting his first at the age of 12. Today, this globally celebrated artist (a regular at Santa Fe’s Folk Art Market) leads a family business employing 250 local women across three workshops.

Quilts in Gujarat’s are like geometric kaleidoscopes; vibrant triangles, squares and rectangles forming endless patterns, each one unique to the artisan, framed within tidy grids. In this hands-on workshop, you will master the art of using traditional quilting stitches alongside patchwork and appliqué techniques. Ramji will also deliver a talk (with Q&A) on the Meghwal community’s rich cultural heritage and quilting legacy.

You will return to the hotel at the end of the workshop

Alternatively, nature lovers can opt to spend the morning visiting the Chhari Dhand Wetland Reserve, a seasonal desert wetland teeming with birdlife, especially during monsoon and winter when migratory flocks arrive. Spot endangered species like Dalmatian pelicans, Oriental darters, black-necked storks, and Indian skimmers, alongside flamingo clouds, common cranes, painted storks, raptors and spoonbills. Keep an eye out too for chinkara, wolves, caracal, desert cats and foxes. 

Those choosing this excursion can then enjoy an afternoon at leisure or visit Bhuj boat building yard.

Evening - dinner at the hotel

Day Five

Breakfast at the hotel

Morning - drive to Maldhari village, home to traditional cattle and buffalo herders who live in round mud houses, known as ‘Bungas’, that are cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Descended from Sindh migrants over 500 years ago, the Muslim Maldharis men tend livestock, gather honey and gum arabic, while the women master embroidery and quilting. You will spend the day in a hands-on workshop and enjoy lunch at a local house.

You will return to the hotel at the end of the workshop.

Alternatively, we offer a morning visit to Bhujodi village to meet the master craftsman and learn about traditional techniques, with a workshop available for guests with carpentry experience. You will also see shawls being woven and visit the house of a Kutchi Rabari to meet with some semi-nomadic Rabari people known for their warmth and hospitable nature. The women are also famous for their traditional embroideries with which they decorate their garments.

Those choosing this excursion will enjoy an afternoon at leisure.  

Evening - dinner at the hotel

Day Six

Breakfast at the hotel and check out

Mid-morning - embark on your journey to Ahmedabad, passing through beautiful landscapes and countryside. Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, your journey will take 7-8 hours. Your driver and guide are knowledgeable about the best places to stop for comfort breaks and lunch. You will check in to your hotel, The House of MG on arrival.

Located on the banks of the Sabarmati River, the UNESCO World Heritage City of Ahmedabad has a fascinating old quarter steeped in Gujarat's traditional culture and history. Best known as the centre of Gandhi‘s non-violent movement, the city is also India’s foremost textile city, known as the ‘Manchester of the East’. 

Evening - dinner at the hotel, which offers the best of Gujarati cuisine (the vegetarian thali is delicious!) and wonderful views of the city.

Day Seven

Breakfast at the hotel

Morning - enjoy a leisurely guided walk around the old quarters of Ahmedabad, discovering the architectural gems that were commissioned by the merchants under whose patronage the city flourished. During the walk you will visit Jama Masjid, an extraordinarily beautiful structure blending elements of Islamic, Jain and Hindu architecture. The tour ends at the 16th century Sidi Sayid Mosque, located just across from the hotel, famous for the exquisite, delicate carving that transforms its stone into filigree. The famous tree of life at the mosque has become the symbol of Gujarat‘s architectural grandeur. You will also visit an artisan from the Vaghari community who makes Mata Ni Pachedi, the holy cloth used as an offering to Mother Goddess.

Lunch at a local restaurant.

Afternoon – visit the Calico Museum, India’s premier textile museum. Founded in 1949 by industrialist Gautam Sarabhai and his sister Gita Sarabhai, its collection of Indian textiles is considered by many to be the finest and most comprehensive in the world.

Return to the hotel

Evening - dinner at the hotel

Day Eight

Breakfast at the hotel

Optional visit to the Fine Design Applique Centre of Hirabhai Chauhan. Hirabhai Chauhan and his brothers began creating applique handicrafts in the 1960s. Since then, their beautifully crafted products have found a global market and they have empowered thousands of women by training them to become applique entrepreneurs. A hands-on workshop is available.

Lunch at a local restaurant / hotel

Afternoon - a chance to explore the many gems of Ahmedabad that showcase its rich history in arts, architecture, culture and heritage. You will visit the Shreyas Folk Museum, known for its collection of the colourful folk arts of Gujarat, then enjoy a tour of Hutheesing Jain Temple, dedicated to Shri Dharmanatha. Apart from its architectural and spiritual appeal, the temple is famous for an ingenious rainwater harvesting system that is still active today. The excursion ends at Gandhi’s Sabarmati Ashram. Located on the banks of the river, it is one of the most iconic landmarks of the city and marks the point from which Gandhi began his Dandi March. The ashram is a haven of peace and tranquillity and there are many places to explore, including a museum containing Gandhi’s personal effects.

Evening - dinner at the hotel

Day Nine

Early check out and departure to Ahmedabad airport for your flight to Jodhpur

07:25 - depart Ahmedabad on IndiGo flight

08:45 - arrive at Jodhpur airport and transfer to Daspan House Hotel, with the morning at leisure and lunch provided. (Check in to your room in the afternoon)

Jodhpur is the gateway to the Great Indian Thar Desert, the most densely populated desert in the world. Known as ‘the Blue City’ after the vivid blue hues of the forts, palaces, temples, havelis and houses, the city’s jumble of medieval streets unfurl beneath the mighty Mehrangarh fort.

Late afternoon - set off to the Old City by tuk-tuk for a unique walk led by local ladies of Marwar, known as ‘lakshmis’, who will share captivating stories of local life and history as you explore the narrow lanes of the 'Blue City.' This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the Marwar region’s diverse landscapes, showcasing indigenous plants and stones, as well as an exclusive glimpse into ancient water conservation techniques. There will be plenty of photo opportunities and your journey ends with a traditional high tea served in a Brahmin home.

Evening - experience an private Tera Tali performance by Kamar tribe artists. This is a highly ritualised dance performed by women of the tribe while seated on the ground. The dance honours their deity Baba Ramdev and resembles the movement of a snake.

Dinner at the hotel 

Day Ten

Breakfast at the hotel

Morning - visit Mehrangarh Fort. Built between the 15th and 20th centuries, Mehrangarh Fort (meaning Fort of the Sun), is over 450 meters long and its 21m thick walls rise to more than 36m in certain places. Looking at this magnificent citadel, standing on its rocky outcrop in the heart of Jodhpur, it is easy to imagine ranks of loyal warriors streaming down the hillside ready for battle. The museum at Mehrangarh Fort houses an impressive collection of artefacts that hark back to an era that was glamorous, graceful and romantic. 

North of Mehrangarh Fort, and connected by road, is Jaswant Thada. Built in the 19th century from white marble, this royal mausoleum is a classic example of the way Rajputana architecture brilliantly assimilates both Hindu and Mughal styles. From top of the Mehrangarh Fort, it looks like an alluring milky white temple amidst the surrounding barren rocky hills, whilst a closer look at the exquisitely carved domes and lattices of the monument reveal incredible local craftsmanship. 

Lunch at a local restaurant / hotel

Afternoon at leisure followed by a jeep ride to the dunes to watch the sunset while sipping sundowners

Dinner at the hotel

Day Eleven

Breakfast at the hotel

Early morning – depart for the village of Chandelao on the outskirts of Jodhpur for a full day quilting workshop with the women of Sundar Rang, a not-for-profit empowering artisans since 2007 through Rajasthan’s rich quilting tradition. They upcycle old clothes into stunning Ralli (adult) and Rilka (children’s) quilts using Gudri running stitch. The workshop will begin with an introductory talk before you craft your own mini Ralli (materials provided) under personal artisan guidance. Lunch will be provided. 

Evening - dinner at the hotel

Day Twelve

Early breakfast at the hotel and check out, departing for Ranakpur Jain Temples. Tucked away in a remote valley in the Aravali range, this is the largest Jain temple complex in India. Dating back to the 15th century, the temples are noted for their highly decorated ceilings, walls and 1444 different pillars. The designs were created by the priests of the temples and their ancestors continue the work today.

Lunch at a local restaurant / hotel

Afternoon - drive on to Udaipur, and check in to the Taj Fateh Praksh Palace

Evening - dinner at the hotel

An oasis in the desert state of Rajasthan, Udaipur is the historic capital of the former Kingdom of Mewar. With its fairy-tale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens and narrow lanes, it is regarded as one of the most romantic cities in India and is often called the ‘Venice of the East’, or the ‘Lake City’. Udaipur is also a centre for performing arts, crafts and its famous miniature paintings.

Day Thirteen

Breakfast at the hotel

Morning – guided tour of Udaipur. The first stop is Sahelion-ki-Bari, the Garden of the Maids-of-Honour. The numerous fountains embellished with delicately chiselled kiosks and elephants exemplify the unique lifestyle of the royal ladies who once strolled through these gardens. You will then drive past Fateh Sagar Lake and visit the Crystal Gallery, which boasts the world’s largest private collection of crystals. The artefacts exhibited in the Crystal Gallery were primarily created by F&C. Osler, the Victorian era’s leading manufacturers of monumental cut glass luxury objects. Major attractions include dresses, dining tables, fountains, washing bowls, mirrored tabletops, a sofa set, a crystal bed and an imposing, jewel-encrusted carpet. You will also see the majestic, fortified City Palace and the Jagdish Temple. This 16th-century temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is the largest and most splendid temple in Udaipur.

Lunch at a local restaurant / hotel

Choose between two options:

Option 1: Udaipur Craftsmen - Visit the workshops of traditional artisans and interact with the artists. Meet a textile artist specialising in block printing and tie-dye using techniques handed down generations. Visit an artist showcasing the rare art of koftgari, stunning overlay work on swords shields and knives using hair-thin precious metal wires, a technique dating back to 16thC Persia.

Option 2: Visit to the Vintage Car Museum, housed in the former Mewar State Motor Garage and owned by the head of the present Royal Family. All the vehicles on show belonged to the Maharanas of Mewar both past and present and, despite some of them being more than 70-years-old, each one is in working order. There is also an original working Shell petrol pump. 

Early evening - enjoy a boat ride on the Lake Pichola to visit Jag Mandir Island with its exquisite Gul Mahal Pavilion. 

Dinner at Bedla House. The Bedla family traces its roots in Mewar (Udaipur) back to 1527 and, as the premier ‘Jagirdars’, they have played a significant role in the affairs of the state over the centuries. In more recent years, the family has served their delicious cuisine to Queen Elizabeth II, Jacqueline Kennedy, Indira Gandi and various royalties of Rajasthan.  

Day Fourteen

Early check out and transfer to Udaipur airport for your flight to Mumbai

09:15 - depart Udaipur on IndiGo flight

10:40 - arrive at Mumbai airport and meet your representative. Transfer to Trident Nariman Point Hotel (check in available in the afternoon)

Optional afternoon tour to visit some of the highlights of Mumbai. Seee the Jain temple at Mani Bhawan. Drive past Marine Drive and the Flora Fountain with a stop at Kala Ghoda the art district of Mumbai. Stroll around the Gateway to India, a popular seaside promenade. 

Evening - dinner at the hotel

Day Fifteen

Check out of the hotel and transfer to Mumbai airport

13:10 - depart Mumbai on British Airways flight BA0198

18:20 - arrive at London Heathrow

Tour ends

Mumbai: Leela Hotel 5* – 1x night

Conveniently located close to both the international and domestic airports, the Leela Hotel Mumbai sits in several acres of lush, manicured gardens with waterfalls and a lotus-filled fountain. The luxuriously appointed rooms are designed in traditional Indian style and have modern amenities. There are six dining options: The 24-hour Citrus Restaurant which serves international food in a casual setting; Jamavar which offers fine Indian dining, while Chinese and Italian cuisine and drinks are available at the other dining options. There are also two swimming pools, a fitness centre and a fabulous Spa offering a range of therapeutic treatments.

Bhuj: Hotel Prince 3*, premium rooms - 3x nights

Opened in 1974, this was Bhuj's first hotel. Located in the heart of the city, the accommodation is simple and clean. There are two restaurants, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning and a fitness centre. 

Ahmedabad: House of MG – 3x nights

The House of MG is a premier boutique heritage hotel occupying one of the oldest buildings in Ahmedabad. This building, with its courtyards and verandas, has been carefully restored over the last two decades by skilled artisans and every textile and item of furniture has been made by hand, primarily from repurposed materials. Local comes first here – most of the staff come from the surrounding villages, the two restaurants use fresh, seasonal ingredients and the gift shop proudly sells artisanal products. One extra special feature is the gallery showcasing traditional textiles, jewellery and silver from the Mangalda’s family collection. 

Jodhpur: Daspan House – 3x nights

This boutique hotel, is a 1920's former home, transformed with vibrant decor. An ideal escape to a slow life of peace and tranquillity.

Udaipur: Taj Fateh Praksh Palace - 3x nights

This majestic hotel has superb views of Lake Pichola and is a cherished residence of the Royal family. The palace decor has been preserved and restored, ensuring an ambiance of regal opulence.

Mumbai: Trident Nariman Point Hotel 5* - 1x night

Located near the tip of Nariman Point and high over Marine Drive, Trident Nariman Point, enjoys vast panoramas that take in the Arabian Sea and 'Queen’s Necklace' lights along the shoreline of Mumbai and near the beach.

Outbound flights

Day One

20:20 - depart London Heathrow Terminal 5 on British Airways flight BA0199

Day Two

11:10 - arrive in Mumbai 

Flight duration: 9 hours 10 minutes

Internal flights

Day Three

06:20 - depart Mumbai on Air India flight AI601

08:00 - arrive in Bhuj  

Day Nine

07:25 - depart Ahmedabad on IndiGo flight

08:50 - arrive in Jodphur

Day Fourteen

09:15 - depart Udaipur on IndiGo flight

10:40- arrive in Mumbai

Inbound flights

Day Fifteen

13:10 - depart Mumbai on British Airways flight BA0198

18:20 - arrive in London

BA Economy flight includes:

• 2x 23kg checked bags up to 90x75x43cm
• 1x 23kg cabin bag up to 56x45x25cm
• 1x 23kg handbag/laptop bag up to 40x30x15cm

To enquire about flight upgrades, please email us at info@ecttravel.com

Air India Economy includes:

• 1x 25kg checked bag up to 158cm combined dimensions
• 1x 7kg cabin bag up to 55x40x20cm

IndiGo Economy includes:

• 1x 15kg checked bag up to 158cm combined dimensions
• 1x 7kg cabin bag up to 115cm combined dimensions
• 1 x 3kg handbag /laptop bag