We take you into the realms where the Solanki dynasty ruled over Gujarat and constructed buildings of architectural magnificence, more than 10 centuries ago; buildings that remind you of the glory of the era. After your private guide picks you up from your hotel lobby, we head straight to Modhera in Mehsana district to visit the Sun Temple, built in 1028 A.D. by King Bhimdev of the Solanki Dynasty. The king believed he was a descendent of the lineage of the Sun God. The temple was designed in a manner that the first sun-rays of the day are directly cast over Lord Surya’s image. With intricately built archways and exquisite exterior walls, the temple is a remarkable instance of the architecture of the time. Every inch of the temple in covered in images of gods and goddesses and the temple is divided into 3 parts; the Surya Kund, the Sabha Mandap and the Guda Mandap. After revelling in the glory of Modhera, it is time to head to Patan, the charismatic little town, made of fort walls and bustling bazaars. The town that refuses to let its charming aura vanish, is home to beautiful havelis and narrow ‘pols’ or villages. Mingle with bidi (traditional cigarettes) makers and learn how they make these tobacco lights. Other treasures of this rustic town include Patola and Mashru weavers and the snow-white Jain temples. We also stop by the Hemachandracharya Jain Gnan Library, which houses ancient Hindu and Jain texts and the Rani ki Vav step-well, built by queen Udayamati of the Chalukya dynasty, in memory of her husband Bhima I. Also visit the Patola House Museum, and pick up a silk Patola sari to reminisce your visit to this historic town. Your tour concludes when you drop you to your hotel.
