Day 9: Ahmedabad - Modhera (110 Kms) - Patan (40 Kms) - Mount Abu (150 Kms)
Today morning, drive for an excursion visit to architectural beauty of Sun temple at Modhera(102 km from Ahmedabad), Rani-ki-vav at Patan(127km from Ahmedabad) and a beautiful stepwell at Adalaj.
Modhera: The Sun temple of Modhera is one of the finest examples of Indian architecture of its period. Built in 1026 A.D. the temple is dedicated to the Sun-God, Surya and stands high on a plinth overlooking a deep stone-steeped tank. Every inch of the edifice, both inside and outside is magnificently carved with Gods and Goddesses, birds, beasts and flowers. Sun Temple of Modhera was built by King Bhimdev I (1026-27) and bears some resemblance to the later and far better known, Sun Temple of Konark in the state of Orissa, which it predates by some 200 years. Like that temple, it was designed so that the dawn sun shone on the image of Surya, the sun God, at the time of the equinoxes. The main hall and shrine are reached through a pillared porch and the temple exterior is intricately and delicately carved. As with the temple of Somnath, this fine temple was ruined by Mahumad of Ghazni.
Patan: Home of the famous patola silk saris, Patan is a beautiful old town with Jain temples and carved wooden houses. Rani ki vav (step well) is an excellent example of subterranean architecture of Gujarat. The exclusively carved side walls, pillars, beams, series of steps and platforms lead to the elaborately carved water well. Every surface is adorned with finelly chiseled sculptures of maidens and Hindu deities, religious motifs and geometrical patterns. Rani ki Vav represents the finest of the Indian sculptures and architecture.
Sidhpur: Sidhpur is a sacred town, around 103 km north of Ahmedabad. It is situated on the left bank of the River Saraswati, around 24 kms upstream of Anhilwad Patan, the old capital of Gujarat. The town is a revered destination, flanked by temples, kunds, ashrams and other sacred structures.
The town also holds importance for the Bohra Muslims, an affluent Muslim community spread all over the world. They have contributed significantly to the development of Sidhpur. Their old Havelis and mansions, some over 100 years old have a markedly European flavor and a walk through the 'Bohra Vad' is like a stroll through an England.
Ambaji: 94 km from Ahmedabad is one of the major Shakti-piths of India, situated in the Arasur hills. The Ambaji Temple contains no idol, but an inscribed Yantra in the niche. Ambaji is essentially a temple town-with a temple dedicated to Goddess Ambaji at the center.
Continue drive to Mount Abu.
On arrival, check in check in at Hotel for an overnight stay.
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