Day 06: Patan – Ahmedabad
This morning the Deccan Odyssey rolls into Patan, the 8th century fortified town, the capital of Gujarat in medieval times.Breakfast over, disembark and drive to the sun temple at Modhera. This grand, awe-inspiring 11th century sandstone monumentwas built by the Solanki dynasty and is dedicated to the sun god. The complex is full of elaborate carvings and the resident priestenjoys explaining the legends they depict. A step tank in front of the temple has 108 shrines that lead down to the water. After visiting the sun temple, drive to Patan to visit the lovely 11th century step well called Rani ki Vav, a fine example of subterranean well architecture. Walk down into the depths of this extravagant step well, one of the biggest in Gujarat, passing hundreds of delicate carvings and statues of Parvati, Shiva, Vishnu and other gods etched into its side walls. It is evident that this well was constructed not just to store water but was also a site for worship and community gatherings. Thereafter, visit Patola house, the centre of the Salvi family’s traditional craft, the creating of exquisite silk Patola sarees. Weavers since the 12th century, the Salvi’s have enjoyed the patronage of the royalty of Gujarat as the sarees created by them have gained the reputation of works of art. Having visited Patola house, drive back to the Deccan Odyssey for lunch on board. The afternoon is at leisure as you proceed towards Nashik. In the evening watch the tapestry of rural India unfold as you sip a sun downer before dinner. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner on board Overnight on Deccan Odyssey.