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THE HOLY SADHUS OF BHAVNATH

And below: THE COLORFUL TRIBALS OF INDIA’S MIDDLE KINGDOM (MP) AT THE BHAGORIYA FAIR
Below: THE TRIBES AND TEXTILES OF GUJRAT
Live India Tours has specialized over the years in cross cultural bridge building
with the unique tribes that are to be found in India even now in the 21 st
century. Besides the north eastern corner of India, the central indian forests
and western desert in Madhya Pradesh and Gujrat, also offer unique
opportunities.

The tribal fairs based on the lunar calendar are particularly colorful.
 BHAVNATH FAIR TOUR PROGRAM

History – BHAVNATH FAIR =

The Bhavnath Mahadev temple is a shrine ensconced in myths and legends of the Puranic era. The Shiva linga
here is said to have emerged of its own divine intention. Reportedly, when Shiva and Parvati were traveling
over the Girnar Hills their divine garment fell over the present Mrigi Kund, making this place an auspicious site
for Shiva worshippers. Even today, the naga bavas are known to bathe in the holy Mrigi Kund before joining
the Mahashivaratri procession. The fair itself is so ancient that its precise origins are unknown.

When = The fair during Mahashivaratri is held for five days commencing from the Hindu calendar date of
Magh Vad 11, during the Gregorian months of February-March (04 March’2019)

DAY 01 ARRIVE DELHI BY: INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT

Arrive Delhi by International Flight.

Today you will arrive at Delhi’s International Airport. Following customs, immigration formalities and baggage
collection, our representative will meet you as you at the arrival terminal building and transfer to Hotel (Check
in time is 1200 Hrs).

Delhi - India’s capital and a major gateway to the country. Delhi is a bustling metropolis, which successfully
combines in its folds - the ancient with the modern. Amidst the fast spiraling skyscrapers the remnants of a
bygone time in the form of its many monuments stand as silent reminders to the region’s ancient legacy.

Overnight at Hotel

DAY 02 DELHI

After breakfast you will proceed for visit of Old & New Delhi.

Enjoy unique yet fascinating experience of Old Delhi – Happily Chaotic.

You will visit Jama Masjid – the largest mosque of Asia, followed by a private tricycle rickshaw ride through
the lanes of Chandni Chowk, also known as Silver Street. Next we shall drive past the mighty Red Fort, built by

the Emperor Shah Jahan – the builder of Taj Mahal. Conclude the tour of Old Delhi with visit to Gandhi
Memorial where Mahatma Gandhi was shot dead.

Later visit New Delhi: The tour to Imperial Delhi will include a visit to the Qutub Minar, which is the tallest
stone tower in India. The Qutub Minar was started in 1199 AD by Qutub-ud-Din Aibak and completed by the
sultan's successor and son-in-law, Iltutmish. The building is 72.5 m high and has 379 steps from the bottom to
the top.
Our drive back to the hotel will be through one of the most colonial part of New Delhi called Raisina Hill. Drive
past the Presidential House and India Gate - a war memorial arch.

Overnight at Hotel

DAY 03 DELHI- AHMEDABAD BY: FLIGHT

After breakfast transfer to Airport to board flight to Ahmedabad.

Flight 6E 161, Depart Delhi at 1100 Hrs, Arrive Ahmedabad at 1235 Hrs

Assistance on arrival at Ahmedabad Airport and transfer to Hotel.

Ahmedabad, the city of Ahmed Shah (Medieval ruler of Gujarat), is known for its rich past and its association
with the Mahatma (Great Soul), also known as Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi. The city offers the traveler a
unique style of architecture, which is a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles (Indo-Saracenic style of architecture).
The monuments of Ahmedabad mainly date back to the 15th century. Ahmedabad has been known for its
industry since medieval times. Presently it is famous for its textile mills and is often referred to as the
'Manchester of the East'.
Afternoon visit Adalaj Vav, one of the finest of the Gujarati step-
wells, with carvings depicting intricate motifs of flowers and birds.
It was built by Queen Rudabai in 1499 and it provided a cool and
secluded retreat during the hot summer months

Visit Jama Masjid and Sidi mosque, famous for it’s shaking
minarets. Sidi mosque was built by Sidi Sayid, Ahmad Shah/’s
slave, in AD 1573. The mosque is famous for its stone tracery and the motifs of the banyan tree on its
windows. It is located near the Lal Darwaza (Red Gateway) and is very close to the river end of the Relief Road.
Afternoon visit the Sabarmati Ashram, home to Gandhi from 1917 to 1930, the Indian Institute of
Management designed by Louis Khan in 1962, and the city’s cheerful, teeming bazaars along with a trip to
Vishala, designed along the lines of a traditional Gujarati village, with a surprisingly fascinating utensils
museum.

Overnight at Hotel
DAY 04 AHMEDABAD – GONDAL BY: SURFACE

After breakfast drive to Gondal (250 Kms, 05 Hrs Drive). Gondal - The capital of the former princely State of
Gondal, was ruled by the Jadeja Rajput clan, till the independence of India. It is a fortified town located on the
river Gondali. Present day Gondal is a testimony to the great visionary ruler Sir Bhagwatsinhiji, who introduced
social reforms, planned the development of Gondal town and created a model state of Saurashtra in late 19th
and early 20th century.
On arrival check in at hotel. Rest of the day at leisure or personal activity.

Overnight at Hotel

DAY 05 GONDAL – JUNAGARH BY: SURFACE

After breakfast visit Gondal - Gondal has much to offer by way of sightseeing to the visitors. Built in 1875 AD
by Maharajah Bhagwat Sinhji for his son Yuvraj Bhojraji, the Riverside Palace is set in lawns and gardens beside
the river Gondali. There are two marvelously appointed sitting arrangement-the living room furnished in
typical colonial style with chandelier, antique wooden furniture and sofas, and the Indian room decorated

with beadwork, brassware and paintings-and many pleasant sit-outs on the terraces and galleries overlooking
either the river or the garden.

Later drive to Junagarh (65 Kms, 01 Hr Drive). Junagadh was the capital of the Junagadh State under the
Muslim rulers of Babi Nawabs. In Gujarati, `Junagadh' literally means an ancient fort. The junagadh town is
located at the foothills the sacred hill of Girnar and occupies a special place in the history of Gujarat.

Later visit Mela ground and Akhadas, Bhavnath Mahadev Mela …

The celebrations for traditional religious festivals are probably the

highest in India. This festival is to honour Lord Shiva- the third God
of Hindu Triad (Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiv) and destroyer of all evil.
With over 1008 names, he is represented as a ‘Linga’ a symbol of
regeneration. The Bhavnath Mahadev Temple here is a shrine ensconced in myths and legends of the Puranic
era. The Shiva Linga here is said to have emerged of its own divine intention. Reportedly, when Shiva and his
consort, Parvati were cruising over the Girnar Hills, their divine garments flew away and fell into the present
Mrigi Kund, making this place an auspicious site for Shiva worshippers. The fair itself is so ancient that its
precise origins are unknown. Like any other Indian Mela, you will see the people in their traditional colorful
dresses enjoying themselves. Another novelty is Naga bavas /Sadhus…as one sees them in Kumbh Mela.

The ‘naga bavas’ bathe in the holy Mrigi Kund before joining the Mahashivaratri procession which starts
around 9 pm leading to The Temple situated at the foot of Mount Girnar about 8km away from the city of

Junagadh. Girnar is a holy abode of the 9 nathas or gods who are considered to be eternal and 84 siddhas or
religiously uplifted souls.

Overnight at Hotel

DAY 06 JUNAGARH (MAHAPUJA)

The Mahapuja of Lord Shiva will be taking place at mid night on Maha Shivratri.

The Naga Bavas (Sages in Nudity) march in procession when the Puja
ceremony begins around 9pm. A palanquin carrying a decorated idol
of Lord Dattatreya precedes them. Seated on Elephants, they hold
flags and blow conch shells. On the way, they perform dances and
exhibit sword sports and other interesting activities. They reach the
temple at midnight and take a bathing plunge in the Mrigi Kund (tank)
at midnight. Unlike Kumbh Mela, only three akhadas (three groups of
Sadhus) take part.
It is firmly believed that Lord Shiva himself visits the shrine on this occasion. Folk music and dances are
performed on the occasion.

Overnight at Hotel

DAY 07 JUNAGARH – BHUJ BY: SURFACE

After breakfast drive to Bhuj (330 Kms, 06 Hrs Drive).

Later visit DSP/ Collectrate Office of Bhuj **.

** NOTE: Permit is must for the interior villages with personal presence, will assist for the procedure. Timing
of DSP/ Collector Office Monday to Saturday - 10.30 to 1700 Hrs except second Saturday/Sunday & Public
Holidays.

Overnight at Hotel
DAY 08 BHUJ

After breakfast visit Aina mahal-Mirror palace, wonderful collection and mirror walls and roof. Bit of Bhuj
Market and some heritage buildings of Bhuj (which survived the earthquake) After lunch visiting Mr.
Alimohmad (tie & dye) and Aari Embroiders. Later afternoon we'll move to Bhujodi village to see some
weaving, meet Vankabhai Rabari and Block printers if you're interested.
Evening visit Mr. Wazir’s Museum to see (and even buy if you like) his personal collection of real select
embroidery items, being conducted by a very capable guide Kuldip Gadhvi (+91-93270 54172)

Overnight at Hotel

DAY 09 BHUJ – HODKA

After breakfast drive up north to Banni via visiting Kala Raksha Museum & Nirona village (rogan art, lacquer
work and bell making depending on time and your interest) Lunch at Hodka resort, afternoon break, before go
to Dhordo village to learn about Mutva embroidery and see the White Rann of Kutch (Salt plains)

Leaving Bhuj for Banni, we visit KALA RAKSHA, just 25 km away- a museum of Kutch arts and a centre for
promoting Kutch embroidery, as also training centre for the local people

BANNI area of the Rann of Kutch you would find to be the most interesting as
also informative

Embroidery
The embroidery craft is carried from generation to generation with
embroidered articles forming an important part of 'Dowry' given to the brides.
Some of the important embroidery works in Kutchis known as: Rabari
embroidery, Ahir embroidery, Bavalia embroidery or 'Kutchi Bharat', Sindhi
embroidery, Aari work, Soof embroidery. Mutva embroidery in Banni (Dhordo
village) is famous for Gotam stich or Sindhi Kadai.

In Banni area the embroidery work is also done on leather shoes or 'Mojdi', purses bags, belts, wallets etc.
Hodka village in Banni is famous for Meghwal embroidery and leather work.

Take a late evening walk in the village you will see the villagers, busy with their normal chores .Dinner around
8pm with local folk singers/musicians.
Overnight at Hotel

DAY 10 HODKA

After breakfast leave for Dhordo village, and on to the White Rann of Kutch. (when the marshy salt flats
become snow white after the shallow water dries up each season before the monsoon rains set in) Watch a
demonstration on Mutva Embroidery by the grand daughter of Gulbeg, and also see Mud & mirror work…
Afternoon leave for Ludiya village, see painted huts, mud work and embroidery work, spending an hour there
before going to Khavda. Before sunset around 1800 Hrs, reach the top of the Kalo Dungar (black hills-1500 ft
highest hill of Kutch) to get a magnificent view of the great Rann of Kutch.

Overnight at Hotel

DAY 11 HODKA – DASADA BY: SURFACE

After breakfast drive to Dasada (335 Kms, 07 Hrs Drive), on the way you will be coming across Rabaris on the
move:

Rabaris nomadic or semi-nomadic families in Kutch number up to about 2500 to 3000 White dress is common
to all Rabari men while their women wear black Ahirs numbering about three lacks, they worship Ramdev pir
and used to sell milk or ghee; Jats were herders who migrated from Iran to Kutch in search of new grazing
areas. All of them are Muslims and have similar marriage and dowry customs. The men care for the animals
and women remain in camp looking after their families. They sell ghee; The Fakiranis who comprise the
smallest of the three Jat communities and are nomads, inhabit the swampy coastal regions; the HARIJANS or
Meghwals live all over Kutch. The men do leather work; wood carving and women do embroidery and
patchwork. They worship Ramdev pir.

On arrival at Dasada, check in at Hotel. Dasada is very famous for game drive in the little Rann of Kutch to see
the Asiatic wild Ass.

Overnight at Hotel

DAY 12 DASADA – PATAN- DASADA BY: SURFACE

After breakfast enjoy a Jeep safari through the rann of Kutch to see the rare species of the “Indian Wild Ass”.

Later start visiting the tribals in the nearby villages and in their homes. Then leave for the historic city of Patan,
(70 km) known for its Patola silk weavers, who practise an intricate weaving technique called double ikkat
which involves dyeing both the warp and weft threads according to the final design before setting them on
the loom for weaving, resulting in an extremely rich fabric.
Nearby areas are known for their rich array of handicrafts including embroideries of Rabaris, Bharwads, Jaths,
Muthwas, Sodhas, Lohanas, etc, besides bandhini tie-and-dye, block printing, woodcarving, metal crafts and
pottery.

Overnight at Hotel
DAY 13 DASADA – MODHERA – AHMEDABAD BY: SURFACE

After breakfast drive to Ahmedabad en-route visit Modhera (145 Kms, 03 Hrs Drive); The 11th century Sun
temple is easily one of the finest examples of devotional temples in western India.
The exterior of temple is carved with traditional erotic scenes, rivalling at Konark and Khajuraho, and
depictions of various Gods and, while inside are friezes of the Mahabharata and portrayed on the pillars.
Then, visit Bahucharaji Mataji's Temple, an abode of Rajrajeshwari Maa Bahuchara whose blessing cures any
physical disability and impotency.

Later drive to Ahmedabad. Evening take a short round of the city founded in 1411 AD - a city that combines
the contrasts and contradictions of India, as perhaps no other City in the Country.

Overnight at Hotel

DAY 14 AHMEDABAD - DELHI BY: FLIGHT

After breakfast transfer to Airport to board flight to Delhi.

Flight: TBA

Assistance on arrival at Delhi Airport and transfer to Hotel.

Rest of the day free to explore the local market. Overnight at Hotel

DAY 15 DELHI – BACK HOME BY: FLIGHT

Early morning transfer to Airport to board flight to back home.

***** Return For Another Memorable Trip With Us *****

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