Catch an evening flight from Mumbai to Vadodara after 7:00 PM; this gets you out late but keeps daytime free. If no suitable flight is available, take an overnight train Mumbai Central → Vadodara (many depart ~10:00–11:30 PM).
Check in and have a late dinner or room service — many hotels can serve dinner or provide packed meals if restaurants are closed; rest well for an early start.
Visit the Statue of Unity complex and take the elevator to the viewing gallery for panoramic views; the gallery and exhibitions typically run 9:00 AM–5:00 PM — prebook your time slot.
Short visits to the Sardar Sarovar Dam viewpoint, Valley of Flowers and Cactus Garden for photos and relaxed walking; gardens are usually open during daylight (approx 8:00 AM–6:00 PM).
Begin the long road journey across Saurashtra to Somnath/Veraval (approx 400–470 km). Expect ~8–9 hours driving including one or two rest stops; plan for an evening arrival.
Attend the early morning aarti and darshan for a quieter, more devotional experience; Somnath temple opens early (around 4:00–5:00 AM for morning rituals) — confirm local times.
Short drives to the nearby Bhalka Tirth (linked to Krishna legend) and Triveni Sangam for quick religious and scenic stops; sites are open during daylight hours.
Visit the Prabhas Patan museum to see artifacts connected to Somnath’s history; museum hours generally start around 9:30 AM — if closed early, explore the old town and the beach promenade.
Drive to Rajkot airport (approx 3.5–5 hours, ~200 km depending on route), aiming for a late-afternoon/evening flight to Mumbai; include buffer for traffic and check-in.
Fly back to Mumbai (approx 1h10m) on an evening flight; schedules vary — book a flight that leaves Rajkot after you arrive with comfortable buffer time.