Overview
- Total Duration: 4 Days, 3 Nights
- Destinations Covered: Junagadh → Gir → Rajkot
- Travel Mode: Flight and Self Drive
- Highlights: Historic Trails of the erstwhile princely state of Junagadh, looking for a lion in Gir National Park and Vintage Car ride at the Postcard Gir.
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration in Junagadh (Bellevue Sarovar Premiere Junagadh)
~(Damages Rs 3824 + Food Bill)
Last October, I planned a short getaway to Gujarat to celebrate my birthday. We flew with Indigo on a long, connecting flight via Mumbai, but most of the journey was covered using flight vouchers I had earned over the past year by completing milestone spends on both my and my wife's HDFC Regalia Gold credit cards.
My onward journey was from Chandigarh to Rajkot via layover at Mumbai and return to Chandigarh via Delhi. During our layover at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, we made the most of the wait. We had an early breakfast at the AMEX Lounge, courtesy of my AMEX Platinum Charge Card, followed by a complimentary foot massage at the Ode Spa using my Dreamfolks membership that came with the IDFC Wealth Credit Card. It was a refreshing way to start the trip.
We landed in Rajkot and picked up a self-drive car from a local vendor, Lucky Self Drive. While I usually prefer exploring at my own pace and opt for self-drive rentals, I wouldn’t recommend this particular provider. The car was poorly maintained—it was dirty, and the AC barely worked. Luckily, the October weather was manageable, but if it had been peak summer, it would’ve been extremely uncomfortable.
The drive from Rajkot to Junagadh wasn’t smooth either, as the highway was under construction for widening, which made the road conditions quite poor. We finally reached our hotel by early afternoon, grabbed a quick lunch, and set off for the Girnar Ropeway, looking forward to visiting the hilltop temples. Unfortunately, it was closed due to high wind speeds, which made ropeway travel unsafe. Since we were with our toddler, trekking on foot was never part of the plan, so we decided to skip it and head to Uparkot Fort instead.
Uparkot Fort
Uparkot Fort is one of the oldest forts in India, originally built around 319 BCE by Emperor Chandragupta Maurya. Over the centuries, it has seen multiple rulers and numerous battles—some sieges reportedly lasting over 12 years. The fort is perched on a plateau, offering sweeping views of Junagadh city and beyond.
The restoration work done recently by Savani Heritage is impressive. The fort is clean, well-marked, and efficiently managed. Entry fees and guide charges are clearly displayed, and all guides are officially employed, which ensures fair pricing and a smooth, hassle-free experience. This level of organization is rare at heritage sites and added a lot of value to our visit.
Inside, the fort has plenty to explore:
- Adikadi Vav and Navghan Kuvo – ancient stepwells that go several stories deep into the ground, showcasing remarkable craftsmanship
- Buddhist caves – dating back to the 2nd–3rd century, believed to have been used by monks as meditation cells
- Historic cannons – including the massive Neelam and Manek, once used to guard the fort against invaders
The entire area is quite stroller-friendly—a detail we discovered a bit too late since we’d left ours in the car! The views from the fort, especially during golden hour, were breathtaking and made for some great photo moments.
Mahabat Maqbara
Next, we visited Mahabat Maqbara, an underrated gem in Junagadh. Built in the late 19th century during the rule of Nawab Mahabat Khan II, the maqbara is a stunning mix of Indo-Islamic and Gothic architecture. The building features spiraling minarets, onion domes, finely carved marble exteriors, and even French-style windows—making it look like something out of a fairy tale.
As the sun began to set, the structure looked even more magical, bathed in soft golden light. It was peaceful, quiet, and gave us a chance to pause and take it all in.
By the time we returned to the hotel, we were exhausted. Since we had a satisfying meal at lunch, we decided to keep dinner light and ordered room service. The hotel was modest but clean. The rooms were a bit compact but had everything we needed. What stood out, though, was the North Indian food—it tasted just right. I enjoy Gujarati cuisine, but when it comes to North Indian dishes, I prefer them without the local twist. Thankfully, the chef got it spot on.
Day 2 – Change of Plans and a Day of Slow Luxury (The PostCard Hotel Gir)
~(Damages 1,11,000 AMEX MR Points + Food Bill)The next morning, after settling our food bill, we set out once again for the Girnar Ropeway, hoping the weather would finally cooperate. But just like the previous day, it was closed again due to high winds. We took that as a clear sign that perhaps it just wasn’t meant to be this time around.
Instead, we decided to head straight to Somnath Temple, thinking we’d grab breakfast on the way, finish darshan, and then check in to The Postcard Hotel, Gir. However, we couldn’t find a decent breakfast spot on the route, so we decided to test Postcard’s famous anytime check-in policy. Sure enough, we arrived at the hotel by 8:30 AM, and were warmly welcomed.
To kick things off, I booked a table at their restaurant using EazyDiner. Having stayed here before with Subhankar and Sumanta, I knew the property well—every nook and corner felt familiar. We were welcomed with their signature drink—a refreshing blend of sugarcane juice and lemon—and soon sat down for a truly royal breakfast. I used my IndusInd Pioneer Heritage Credit Card to avail a great discount, which made it even sweeter.
Once we were done with breakfast, we were escorted to our villa—and like always with Postcard, the space took our breath away. The villas are thoughtfully designed, with high ceilings that create a sense of openness and calm. The natural light flows beautifully through large windows and glass doors, giving the rooms a warm, inviting glow through the day. The interiors are minimal yet elegant, adorned with local art pieces and handpicked decor that celebrate the region’s culture without overwhelming the space. Everything—from the furniture to the layout—feels curated for comfort, with plenty of room for a toddler to run around freely and safely.
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After settling in, we decided to drop the plan for Somnath altogether and just slow down. We had a light lunch, again using my IndusInd EazyDiner credit card for a 25% discount, and then took a nap before spending a relaxed evening by the pool.
Later that evening, we had a special storytelling session with Jashu Bhai, a local guide from the Maldhari community and a well-known lion tracker in the region. Traditionally engaged in buffalo herding and dairy farming, the Maldharis have lived in harmony with the Gir forest for generations. Jashu Bhai shared gripping tales from his youth—about how buffaloes instinctively defend themselves and their owners when confronted by lions, and how Maldharis have developed a sixth sense when it comes to navigating these wild terrains. Jashu Bhai has an incredible talent for mimicking animal sounds and brings the forest to life with his stories. His session was a delight for all of us—especially for our little one.
The Postcard Gir is nestled in a vast Kesar mango orchard, home to one of Gujarat’s most iconic mango varieties, native to the nearby Talala Village. The lush surroundings add a distinct charm to the property and offer a serene retreat right at the edge of the Gir forest. What truly sets The Postcard Gir apart is not just its stunning location on the fringes of the Gir forest, but the way it effortlessly blends luxury with warmth and simplicity. The entire property is built around the idea of slow living, encouraging guests to pause, breathe, and reconnect. There are no buffet counters or noisy crowds here—every meal is cooked fresh, tailored to your preferences, and served at your own pace. Their no-TV, limited Wi-Fi policy makes it a perfect place to digitally detox, and the absence of a formal reception desk adds to the relaxed, home-like atmosphere. Thoughtful touches like locally made bath products, books on Gir’s wildlife, and Postcard’s signature welcome drink show how detail-oriented the brand is. The staff goes above and beyond—whether it’s Mr. Subin Pillai managing things like a personal concierge, or the F&B team remembering your child’s meal preferences without being told twice. This was my third Postcard stay, and while the brand continues to impress, I did miss some of their earlier curated luxuries like Perfora dental kits and TWG teas. Still, Postcard Gir remains one of those rare places where comfort, nature, and meaningful service come together seamlessly—and where doing nothing feels like doing everything.
Day 3 – A Safari, A Surprise, and A Rain-Kissed Birthday (The PostCard Hotel Gir)
The next morning, we set out for the much-anticipated Gir Lion Safari. It’s worth noting that Asiatic lions in their natural habitat are found only in two parts of the world today—India’s Gir Forest in Gujarat and select regions in southern Africa. Having seen lions up close during our trip to South Africa in August, I was excited to witness them again—this time in my own country.
We headed out at dawn in a brand-new Gypsy vehicle, part of the recent upgrade undertaken by the Gujarat Forest Department to modernize the safari fleet. The cool morning breeze, the rustling of dry leaves, and the calls of birds created an atmosphere full of anticipation. However, despite our excitement, luck wasn’t on our side—we couldn’t spot any lions during our drive through the core zone of Gir National Park. While the thrill of the natural forest experience was still enjoyable, time wasn’t. With our return flight the next day, we decided to skip a second attempt.
For those planning a quick trip to Gir, here’s a valuable tip: Gir offers two safari experiences—one through the raw, unrestricted wilderness of Gir National Park, and another within the Devaliya Interpretation Zone, which is a fenced but sprawling reserve. In Devaliya, lion sightings are almost guaranteed, and you might even spot leopards—especially the man-eaters, which are kept in secure enclosures for public safety. If you’re visiting for just a day or two, Devaliya is your best bet. For the full experience of Gir National Park, plan at least three days to increase your chances of spotting lions in the wild.
After returning to the hotel, we were welcomed back with cold towels and freshly pressed sugarcane juice—one of those signature Postcard touches that make every return feel like coming home. We had a leisurely breakfast, thanks to their flexible anytime breakfast policy, which really lets you embrace a slower, more relaxed holiday rhythm.
Later in the afternoon, after lunch, we were surprised with something completely unexpected—a vintage car ride through the countryside. We had no idea this was part of our stay, and it added a charming, nostalgic twist to the day. The open-top car, the quiet village roads, and the golden afternoon light made it a memory we’ll always cherish.
By evening, the skies opened up, and it started to rain—a gentle, refreshing shower that transformed the entire resort. Everything looked even more beautiful: the stone paths glistened, the trees danced in the wind, and the earthy scent of wet soil filled the air. We made the most of it by ordering a hot plate of mixed bhajiyas and kadak Kathiyawadi chai from the menu and enjoyed them by the porch, watching the rain fall.
Since it was my birthday, the staff had gone the extra mile. They decorated a quiet corner of the restaurant and surprised me with a beautifully crafted cake. The warmth in their gesture was truly heartwarming. For dinner, since we had already tried their signature Gujarati thali the previous night, we went with the à la carte menu, which featured a local twist on Indian classics. I also used my Axis Bank birthday benefit voucher on EazyDiner and managed to get a whopping 50% off on the bill—a great bonus to end the day.
We chose to have all our meals at the property. One might think you’d get bored dining at the same place, but not at Postcard. Their lunch and dinner menus change daily, keeping things interesting and delicious every time. I’ve forgotten the names of many of the staff, but I truly want to thank each one of them—especially the team at the F&B counter, who went out of their way to ensure everything was perfect. One of the most heartwarming aspects of our stay was how the staff took special care of our toddler’s meals. Every dish for him was prepared complimentary, yet it never felt like a shortcut was taken. The meals were fresh, nutritious, and thoughtfully curated—with zero processed ingredients, no refined sugar, and absolutely no preservative-laden shortcuts.
As expected, the Postcard staff was exceptional—something that has always stood out in every stay with them. Mr. Subin Pillai, the resort manager, was nothing short of a genie for us throughout our three-day stay—ensuring everything we needed was just a word away. The entire team went above and beyond to make us comfortable. What touched us the most was how the support staff took such good care of our naughty toddler, playing with him while we enjoyed our meals in peace. To our surprise, he didn’t cry even once when he was with them!
The Postcard Gir also hosts paid cultural experiences, one of the most unique being the traditional fire dance by the Siddi community. The Siddis are descendants of the Bantu people from East Africa, primarily from countries like Mozambique, Ethiopia, and Sudan, who settled in parts of Gujarat centuries ago. Their energetic and rhythmic fire dance is not just a performance—it's a powerful expression of identity and heritage that adds a mesmerizing edge to the evening.
With our hearts full and stomachs even fuller, we called it a night—grateful for another day well spent in the quiet luxury of Gir.
Day 4 – Pottery, Packed Memories & The Journey Home (The PostCard Hotel Gir)
Our final morning at The Postcard Gir began at a wonderfully unhurried pace. After a slow breakfast, we participated in a pottery-making session—a hands-on and grounding experience that offered us a rare connection with local craftsmanship. For city folks like us, getting our hands into the clay and shaping something from scratch was both therapeutic and memorable. Our toddler, naturally, added his own touch of artistic chaos to the moment!
We checked out around noon, and in true Postcard style, the staff handed us a complimentary packed lunch for the road—even though it wasn’t included in our plan. Small, thoughtful gestures like these are what consistently elevate the Postcard experience.
We then began our return journey via the Junagadh bypass, headed toward Rajkot. Along the way, we stopped at a delightful and lesser-known attraction—The International Dolls Museum, managed by the Rotary Club of Rajkot. With over 1,500 dolls from more than 100 countries, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into world cultures through miniature representations. Traditional outfits, themed exhibits, and intricate detailing make this a must-visit, especially with kids. Our toddler was absolutely mesmerized, jumping from one glass case to the next, thrilled to see dolls dressed as warriors, brides, monks, and dancers from across the globe.
By the evening, we reached Rajkot Airport, returned our rented Tata Tigor (₹8,000 for 4 days + approx. ₹3,500 on fuel and tolls), and began winding down the trip. While Rajkot offers good air connectivity, it’s not the most convenient airport for travelers heading to Gir, especially if you're relying on hotel transfers. The distance—roughly 200 km—makes it both time-consuming and costly.
Also worth noting: Rajkot Airport does not have any lounge, so don’t count on a quiet or premium waiting experience before your flight.
If you’re looking for easier access to Gir:
- Keshod Airport (just 71 km away) is the closest and most practical choice.
- Diu Airport (around 80 km from Gir) also offers direct connectivity from Mumbai, and is perfect if you’re planning to extend your itinerary.
On our way back we missed our connection at the Delhi Airport due to delay caused by Indigo but they offered us a overnight stay in a hotel and return via a early morning flight but we refused to take it since we had our home in Delhi and travelled by road next day.
Before closing the chapter on this trip, I have to highlight one of the smartest travel decisions I made: booking our stay at The Postcard Gir using an American Express Experience voucher, redeemed against 1,11,000 Membership Rewards (MR) points. The cost of a two-night stay at this property—along with a safari—typically comes to around ₹80,000, which means I got a value of approximately ₹0.72 per MR point (₹80,000 ÷ 1,11,000 points).
For those who value luxury, personal service, and thoughtfully curated experiences, this is where credit card perks truly make a difference. Whether it’s exclusive lounge access, restaurant discounts, wellness privileges, or premium hotel redemptions like this one, using your cards wisely can unlock exceptional travel without overspending.
💳 Credit Card Perks Used on the Trip:
- HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Cards (mine & wife’s)
↳ Flight vouchers earned via milestone spends - AMEX Platinum Charge Card
↳ Complimentary access to AMEX Lounge at Mumbai Airport
↳ Redeemed 1,11,000 MR points via AMEX Experience Voucher for a ₹80,000+ stay at Postcard Gir (~₹0.72/point value) - IDFC Wealth Credit Card (Dreamfolks membership)
↳ Free foot massage at Ode Spa, CSMIA - Diners Club Black Credit Card
↳ Booked Bellevue Sarovar Premiere with cash to earn 10X reward points on hotel spends - IndusInd Pioneer Heritage Credit Card
↳ Dining discounts at The Postcard Gir (including breakfast) via EazyDiner - IndusInd EazyDiner Credit Card
↳ 25% off on lunch using EazyDiner at The Postcard Gir - Axis Bank Magnus Credit Card
↳ Birthday benefit voucher: 50% off on à la carte dinner at The Postcard Gir via EazyDiner
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