Stay Better

Confirm the check out time on arrival and request a late departure if needed. Several listings indicate check out at nine in the morning, which can be inconvenient for guests leaving later. Staff are usually flexible when asked in advance.

Visit Santram Mandir in the early morning, when the atmosphere is calm and devotional. Remove shoes before entering and dress modestly. The temple's community kitchen reflects its long tradition of service.

Plan a half day to Anand and Karamsad. Combining the Amul plant tour with Sardar Patel's memorial house gives a rich picture of modern Gujarat's history and economy. Check Amul tour timings in advance.

Try a full Gujarati thali for lunch, either at the hotel or in a local restaurant. It is sweet, savoury and abundant, and refills are usually unlimited.

Remember that Gujarat is a dry state. Alcohol is not sold in restaurants without a permit, and the hotel does not serve it. Foreign tourists can obtain temporary permits in some cities, but the process is bureaucratic.

Ask for a room away from the banquet hall during wedding season. Events can bring music and crowds in the evening, and a quieter room makes a big difference.

If visiting the kidney hospital, ask reception about transport timing. Staff are used to helping families of patients and can arrange early taxis to the hospital and back.

Avoid travelling to Dakor on full moon festival days unless you want to join the pilgrimage. Roads are crowded with walking devotees, and the temple becomes extremely busy.