Some journeys stay with you long after they end—not because of the destination alone, but because of the road, the solitude, and the stories you collect along the way. This was one such journey: a solo, multi‑day road trip across Maharashtra and Gujarat, driven entirely by curiosity, confidence, and a deep love for the open road.
Day 1: Pune to Nashik – A Calm Beginning
I started my journey on a Monday afternoon, leaving Pune around 3 PM. The drive to Nashik was smooth and comfortable, a perfect warm‑up for the adventure ahead. I reached Nashik around 8 PM, checked in, and called it an early night. A good night’s sleep was essential—the real journey was just about to begin.
Day 2: Nashik to Ahmedabad – Ghats, Forests, and a Surprise Expressway
The day began with coffee, and by 8 AM I was back on the road. Soon after, I entered Saputara, and from there, the drive turned incredibly scenic. The route through the ghats and the stretch passing through the Purna Wildlife Sanctuary was a visual treat—lush greenery, winding roads, and rivers flowing alongside in certain regions.
Just before Navsari, near Tankal, Google Maps diverted me onto NE4, and what followed was an unexpected delight. I found myself on the Mumbai–Vadodara–Delhi Expressway, a high‑speed corridor with a maximum speed limit of 120 kmph. The drive was effortless, uninterrupted, and honestly exhilarating.
I stopped at a food plaza along the way for a traditional Kathiawadi lunch before continuing onward. Thanks to the expressway, reaching Ahmedabad felt easy, and I arrived around 5:30 PM. After dealing with some city traffic and checking into my hotel, I rested for the night.
Day 3: Ancient Stepwells, Modhera, and the Road to Dholavira
While planning my route to Modhera, I stumbled upon an old stepwell—locally known as a “bav.” Curious, I decided to add it to the itinerary.
I started early at 7:30 AM and reached the bav first. The architecture was remarkable, a clear reflection of the brilliance of ancient designers and craftsmen. From there, I headed to the Modhera Sun Temple. Visiting the temple in its calm, peaceful surroundings was a wonderful experience. I tried capturing its beauty on camera, but some things simply need to be felt—no photograph can truly do justice to that level of craftsmanship.
After lunch on the way, I continued my drive toward Dholavira, making sure to reach before sunset. My stay was at White Rann Resort.
Traveling solo, I was looking for a place that was peaceful, non‑touristy, and convenient for covering major nearby attractions. White Rann Resort checked all those boxes. The atmosphere was warm and homely, especially since the host family stays on the property. Accommodation options included private cottages and rooms with basic amenities, including hot water. Dinner and breakfast were included and prepared in a simple, homely style. For anyone seeking a quiet and comfortable stay in Dholavira, I would definitely recommend it.
That evening, I headed out to witness the sunset near the starting point of the famous Road to Heaven. After dinner, I enjoyed a peaceful and restful sleep.
Day 4: Dholavira, White Rann, and the Weight of History
After a homely breakfast, I started at 8 AM for the Harappan site at Dholavira. Standing amidst a 5,000‑year‑old civilization was humbling. The advanced techniques for water conservation, city planning, and trade left me in awe—and slightly philosophical. It made me question whether we have truly advanced, or merely evolved differently.
From there, I visited Kala Dungar (Black Hills) and Datta Mandir, before heading to Dhordo White Rann. The drive along the Road to Heaven was spectacular, with views of pelicans and flamingoes adding magic to the journey.
My first experience of the White Rann was serene and memorable. I didn’t linger too long, but the vastness and silence made a lasting impression. After lunch, I started for my next halt.
Day 5: Halvad – A Necessary Pause
Starting a bit late meant I reached Halvad, midway between Bhuj and Ahmedabad, around 7:30 PM. I had dinner, rested well, and prepared mentally for the long drive the next day.
Day 6: Halvad to Vapi – Smooth Miles
I hit the road at 7 AM and followed the same expressway route. By 4:30 PM, I reached Vapi, where my hotel was conveniently located right next to the highway. Since I had planned to stop there anyway, I took a few short breaks along the way. The stay was comfortable, followed by dinner and a good night’s sleep.
Day 7: Vapi to Pune – Traffic and Triumph
The final leg began early at 7 AM and turned out to be the most traffic‑heavy stretch. Passing through Vapi, Vasai, Virar, Thane, and Mumbai meant inevitable congestion. As expected, the Mumbai–Pune Expressway tested my patience, but despite the traffic, I managed to reach home by 3 PM.
Final Thoughts
This journey was truly a lifetime experience—a solo, multi‑day road trip that pushed boundaries and rewarded me with unforgettable memories. I enjoyed every moment, grateful for my trusted companion, Thar Roxx, and for my family, who believed I could take on this journey alone.
Sometimes, the road doesn’t just take you to places—it helps you discover yourself.
