Spiritual & Monumental Gujarat: Dwarka, Somnath & Statue of Unity
Complete Journey Overview
Spiritual & Monumental Gujarat: Dwarka, Somnath & Statue of Unity
Day 1: Arrival and First Glimpse of Dwarka
Arrival at Jamnagar Airport (HJR)
Arrive at Jamnagar, the nearest airport to Dwarka. Collect your luggage and meet your pre-booked driver.
Road Trip to Dwarka
Embark on a scenic drive from Jamnagar to the holy city of Dwarka. The journey will take you through the rustic landscapes of Saurashtra.
Check-in to your Hotel
Check into your pre-booked hotel in Dwarka. Freshen up and relax for a bit before heading out for the evening.
Lunch at a Local Restaurant
Have a simple and authentic Gujarati lunch at a local eatery. Try a traditional thali to sample various local dishes.
Evening Aarti at Dwarkadhish Temple
Visit the magnificent Dwarkadhish Temple, also known as Jagat Mandir. Witness the mesmerizing Sandhya (evening) Aarti, a spiritually uplifting experience with chants and music. Explore the temple's intricate architecture.
Dinner with Kathiyawadi Flavors
Enjoy a hearty Kathiyawadi dinner. This regional cuisine is known for its spicy and rich flavors. A Kathiyawadi thali is a must-try.
Day 2: The Holy Isles and Jyotirlinga
Pilgrimage to Bet Dwarka
After an early breakfast, travel to Okha Jetty (approx. 30 km) and take a 15-minute ferry to Bet Dwarka island, believed to be the original residence of Lord Krishna. Visit the main temple and other smaller shrines.
Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
On your way back from Okha, visit the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas mentioned in the Shiva Purana. The temple complex features a large, impressive statue of Lord Shiva.
Lunch in Dwarka
Return to Dwarka for lunch. You can try a different restaurant to explore more local culinary options.
Rukmini Devi Temple & Gopi Talav
In the afternoon, visit the Rukmini Devi Temple, dedicated to Krishna's consort, located slightly outside the main town. Also, visit Gopi Talav, a pond associated with the Gopis of Vrindavan.
Evening at Gomti Ghat and Sudama Setu
Spend the evening at Gomti Ghat, a sacred bathing spot. Take a peaceful walk across the Sudama Setu, a pedestrian suspension bridge offering beautiful views of the Gomti river and the temple skyline.
Day 3: Coastal Drive to the First Jyotirlinga
Drive from Dwarka to Somnath
After breakfast and checking out from your hotel, begin the scenic coastal drive towards Somnath.
Stop at Porbandar: Birthplace of Gandhi
En route, stop at Porbandar to visit Kirti Mandir, the ancestral home of Mahatma Gandhi, which is now a memorial. It's a poignant look into the life of the Father of the Nation.
Lunch in Porbandar
Have lunch at a local restaurant in Porbandar before continuing your journey to Somnath.
Check-in at Somnath
Arrive in Somnath and check into your hotel. The city has a serene, spiritual vibe.
Somnath Temple Aarti & Light and Sound Show
Visit the majestic Somnath Temple, the first among the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Shiva. The temple's location by the Arabian Sea is breathtaking. Attend the evening Aarti and stay for the 'Jay Somnath' light and sound show that narrates the temple's tumultuous history.
Dinner near the Temple
Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants or at the Somnath Trust's dining hall, which offers simple, hygienic, and affordable food.
Day 4: Somnath's Serenity & The Road to Vadodara
Morning Darshan and Local Sightseeing
Start your day with an early morning darshan at Somnath Temple. Afterwards, visit the Triveni Sangam (confluence of three rivers), Bhalka Tirth (where Lord Krishna is said to have left his mortal form), and the Gita Mandir.
Breakfast and Check-out
Return to the hotel for breakfast and check out.
Journey to Vadodara
Begin the long drive from Somnath to Vadodara. This will be the longest travel leg of your trip, taking you from the Saurashtra region to Central Gujarat.
Lunch on the Highway
Stop for lunch at a good highway restaurant (dhabha) en route. This is a great way to experience authentic roadside Indian food.
Arrival and Check-in in Vadodara
Arrive in Vadodara, the cultural capital of Gujarat. Check into your hotel and relax after the long journey.
Dinner in Vadodara
Explore Vadodara's vibrant food scene for dinner. You can opt for a fine dining experience or explore the famous street food at Ratri Bazaar.
Day 5: A Tribute to the Iron Man of India
Drive to the Statue of Unity
After an early breakfast, drive from Vadodara to Kevadia, home to the Statue of Unity.
Statue of Unity & Viewing Gallery
Explore the world's tallest statue. Take the high-speed elevator up to the viewing gallery located at the chest level of the statue (153m) for a panoramic view of the Sardar Sarovar Dam and the surrounding Narmada river valley.
Museum and Audio-Visual Gallery
Visit the museum and audio-visual gallery at the base of the statue, which chronicles the life and contributions of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
Lunch at Ekta Food Court
Have lunch at the Ekta Food Court, which offers a variety of cuisines, or the SOU food court for more options.
Explore Surrounding Attractions
Spend the afternoon exploring other attractions within the complex. Use the hop-on-hop-off bus service. Key spots include the Valley of Flowers, the Sardar Sarovar Dam Viewpoint, and the Jungle Safari Park.
Projection Mapping Show
Do not miss the spectacular Projection Mapping Show in the evening, where the statue itself becomes a 182-meter screen for a dynamic show on the life of Sardar Patel.
Return to Vadodara
After the show, drive back to your hotel in Vadodara.
Day 6: A Glimpse of Vadodara's Royalty & Departure
Breakfast and Check-out
Enjoy a final Gujarati breakfast. Try local specialties like Fafda-Jalebi or Poha. Check out from your hotel.
Visit Laxmi Vilas Palace
If your flight schedule permits, visit the magnificent Laxmi Vilas Palace, the residence of the royal family of Baroda. It's an architectural marvel, reportedly four times the size of Buckingham Palace.
Farewell Lunch
Have a final lunch in Vadodara. You could visit Mandap for an authentic and royal Gujarati thali experience.
Departure from Vadodara
Transfer to Vadodara Airport (BDQ) or the railway station for your journey back home, filled with spiritual and monumental memories.
Q.What is the best time to visit these destinations?
The best time to visit Gujarat for this trip is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather is pleasant...
Q.How should I travel between these cities?
The most convenient way is to hire a private taxi for the entire 6-day duration. This gives you flexibility and comfort,...
Q.What are the must-try food items?
You must try the Kathiyawadi Thali, which is spicy and rich. Also, sample famous Gujarati snacks like Dhokla, Khandvi, F...
Q.Are there any specific dress codes or local customs to be aware of?
Yes, for visiting temples like Dwarkadhish and Somnath, modest attire is required. Cover your shoulders and knees. It is...
Q.What should I pack for a trip in January?
Pack light cotton clothes for the daytime and light sweaters or jackets for the cool evenings and early mornings. Comfor...
Q.What are the estimated local costs?
Excluding flights and major shopping, a mid-range budget would be around ₹25,000 to ₹35,000 per person for 6 days. This ...
Q.Any important booking tips?
It is highly recommended to book your Statue of Unity tickets online in advance, especially the viewing gallery slot, to...
