The peninsula of Gujarat known as Saurashtra (formerly Kathiawar) stretches along the coast of the Arabian Sea. About a third of Gujarat is contained within this region, which is neatly divided into western and eastern halves by the Gulf of Kutch and the Gulf of Khambhat. Since this is where the nonviolent national hero Mahatma Gandhi was born, it is also widely celebrated by all Indians. Gandhi is widely credited with leading the country to independence.
The region of Saurashtra is well-known for its dynamic variety because it can be observed swaying from the bustle of city life to the peace and quiet of village life. The peninsula is known for its beautiful beaches, abundant wildlife, and historic temples perched atop the hills. In addition, this area of Gujarat is known for its spectacular displays of color during Navratri.
Top 10 places to visit in Saurashtra, Gujarat
The Gir National Park
Since 1965, Gir National Park in India has provided safe haven for the last remaining wild lions in Asia. The park is situated 65 kilometers to the south-east of Junagadh, and it covers an enormous 1150 square kilometers of land. There are reportedly 400 lions at this park, drawing many visitors who come to marvel at the animals as they roam free. In addition to leopards, antelopes, large deer, gazelle, and wild boars, the sanctuary is home to a number of other endangered species.
This park is close to the Kamleshwar dam, where visitors can experience the thrill of seeing crocodiles and birds in their natural habitat. Some members of the small tribe who once called this area home have remained here in the wilderness despite having been relocated.
Best time to visit Gir National Park: December through April is when most tourists visit.
Gir National Park Open & Close Timing: It is open from 6 AM to 9 AM, 9 AM to Noon, and 3 PM to 6 PM daily (from mid-October through mid-June).
Tickets Price of Gir National Park
Rs.800 for an Indian and Rs.4800 for a foreigner Monday through Friday
Rs.1000 for an Indian and Rs.6000 for a foreigner on Saturday and Sunday.
The Temple of Somnath
The Somnath Temple is a major Hindu pilgrimage site, frequented daily by tens of thousands of worshippers. The temple has always been held in high regard by Hindus because it houses the first of twelve ‘Jyotirlingas’ (a form representing Lord Shiva). Located on the coast of western Gujarat, the temple is only 79 kilometers from Junagadh.
The moon god supposedly used only gold in constructing the temple. However, the temple was eventually rebuilt using a variety of materials, including silver (by King Ravana), sandalwood (by Lord Krishna), and stones (by the rulers). Tourists need not pay anything to enter.
Best time to visit Somnath Temple: The months of October through March are prime time to visit because that’s when most of the major festivals take place.
Somnath temple aarti timing: Aarti and Darshan take place at 7:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 7:00 PM daily.
The Girnar Hill
Located in Gujarat’s Junagadh district, the ancient hill of Girnar is revered as a holy site by Hindus and Jains alike. There are a total of 866 Hindu and Jain temples atop this hill, accessible via a descent of roughly 10,000 steps. Most pilgrims visit this hill on the 14th day of every year for the Parikrama festivals.
From Girnar Taleti, climbers ascend the 2,000 feet to the summit, where they are rewarded with a 360-degree panorama. Seeing the mountain bathed in gold light as the sun rises is the most beautiful sight possible.
Best time to visit Girnar Hill: From October to March is the prime time to visit.
Shatrunjaya Hill
In the Bhavnagar region of Gujarat, at an elevation of 50 m above sea level, is the sacred hill of Shatrunjaya. There are many Hindu and Jain temples here, some of which date back to at least 900 years ago. The Shatrunjaya temple is the holiest Jain temple and the most well-known of all the temples.
Unlike Girnar Hill, which has 10,000 steps to the summit, these are only 3,300 to the top of the world. During Kartik Purnima, the hill hosts a “Teerth Yatra,” which is regarded as a major event by the Jains, who come from all over to pay their respects.
Best time to visit Shatrunjaya Hill: Traveling between October and February is recommended.
Blackbuck National Park
Blackbuck National Park is near Bhavnagar, just 49 kilometers away, and it borders the Gulf of Khambhat. The park’s 34 square kilometers are largely surrounded by undeveloped land and farmland. Blackbucks, an extremely attractive animal with two spiraling horns, are the park’s claim to fame.
Wolves and other animals like striped hyenas and hunting cheetahs draw visitors to the park. There are approximately 1600 blackbucks that are free to roam this area, drawing many tourists in hopes of seeing one of these magnificent animals.
Best time to visit Blackbuck National Park: Visitation is permitted only between the hours of dawn and dusk, from October 16th and June 15th.
Admission is 400 Indian Rupees for a foreigner.
Devbhumi Dwarka
The East Indian city of Devbhumi Dwarka is the third stop on the Chardham Yatra. Because Lord Krishna personally oversaw its operations, this location enjoys special veneration in Indian history. Many devotees make the journey to this play in order to pay their respects at the site of the former kingdom of Lord Krishna.
Dwarkadhish is known for its ancient Krishna temple, which dates back at least 2,500 years and is dedicated to the god. The nearby Rukmini Devi temple, Gomti Ghat, and Bet Dwarka are also important religious landmarks.
Best time to visit Dwarka: The months of October through March are ideal because that’s when most of the area’s festivals take place.
The Uparkot Fort
Historically significant, Uparkot Fort was built by the Mauryan Emperor Chandragupta around 319 BC. On the eastern side of Junagadh, home to a stunning mosque, Buddhist caves, and two step-wells, stands the fort.
Legend has it that this fort held out against a military blockade for 12 years. The view from the rooftop is breathtaking during the day, but it takes on an otherworldly quality at night.
Uparkot Fort Open & Close Timing: The fort is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
Diu
On the southern coast of Gujarat, is a charming town with a uniquely Portuguese flavour. The union territory of India is a popular destination for young tourists looking for peace and quiet. Due to its location across a tidal creek from the mainland, the territory is only reachable by means of a single bridge.
Diu fort, caves, and the island’s gorgeous beaches are just a few of the island’s impressive attractions. The fort is an iconic structure that proudly displays genuine Portuguese heritage. The island’s gorgeous beaches also add an elegant touch to the island’s relatively low skyline.
Best time to visit Diu: The monsoon months of August through October are the best time to visit.
The Great Mosque of Abu Bakr, or Mahabat Maqbara
Nawab Mahabat Khan II of Junagadh commissioned the construction of the magnificent Mahabat Maqbara. Located in Gujarat’s Junagadh district, this mausoleum is a thriving representation of a fusion of European and Islamic architectural styles.
The mausoleum is a popular stop for tourists in search of India’s historical sites. If you’re ever in the Saurashtra area of Gujarat, you absolutely must stop here.
Best time to visit the Great Mosque of Abu Bakr: Visit any time of year, but the winter months of October through March are ideal.
The Tomb of Wazir
The stunning beauty of Wazir’s Mausoleum is another example of such architecture. The fact that it is so close to the original mosque makes it a must-see for many visitors. French-style spiral staircases lead up to each of the four storybook minarets contained within this mausoleum.
It is also a must-see for anyone interested in seeing centuries-old architecture in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat.
Best time to visit the Tomb of Wazir: Visit any time of year, but the winter months of October through March are ideal.
Conclusion
These top 10 attractions in the Gujarat state of Saurashtra will give you a taste of India’s dynamic variety and if you want to travel Gujarat in style then Gujarat Darshan is always there for you to take you to all these amazing places. Contact us to book a great Gujarat Tour Now.
Need to Hire Tempo Traveller in Ahmedabad? We’ve got you covered. Experience the beauty of Gujarat with comfort and convenience as you explore the saurashtra darshan places list.