Depart Rajkot early for a cooler summer start and pleasant long-drive vibes; stop for fresh chai and biscuits at Dada Dungar Chai Stall on the highway to stretch and enjoy the sunrise.
Arrive in Junagadh and head straight to Uparkot Fort to explore the ramparts and ancient stepwells with fewer crowds and softer morning light.
Walk to the nearby Adipurushak Jain Temple for a tranquil visit admiring intricate carvings, then grab a quick breakfast of khandvi and fafda at Shaurya Snacks.
Visit the serene Mahabat Maqbara to photograph its unique Gothic-Mughal architecture and enjoy the pleasant morning breeze in the surrounding garden.
Stop by Rao Restaurant for an early, hearty Gujarati lunch or thali to fuel up before any afternoon activities; try the dal, rotla and seasonal farsan.
Drive to Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden for a relaxed post-lunch stroll to see native wildlife and the botanical exhibits; ideal for kids and to beat the mid-afternoon heat under shaded paths.
Head to Chamunda Hill (short drive) and visit the Chamunda Mata Temple-take in the hilltop views of Junagadh and enjoy a cool coconut water from a roadside vendor.
Explore the ancient engineering marvel Jonha Falls viewpoint and nearby picnic spots (seasonal flow permitting); sip masala chai from a local stall while enjoying the countryside scenery.
Return toward town and stop at Nawabi Restaurant or Rajawala Sweets for light snacks - try the junagadhi fafda, jalebi or a refreshing lassi to recharge before evening plans.
Drive up to the base area of Girnar Hills for a short, scenic walk and to prepare for the sunset approach; hire a local guide if you plan to attempt a few of the early steps for sunset views.
Drive toward Uparkot Fort ramparts or nearby viewpoint to watch the sunset glow on the old city walls and enjoy a cool evening breeze; pick up cold drinks or fresh sugarcane juice from a local vendor near the fort entrance.
Stroll down to Mahabat Maqbara precinct again for softer golden-hour photos and to see the illuminated domes as evening lights come on; pause at Natwar Parlour for an ice cream or falooda.
Head to Rao Restaurant or Nawabi Restaurant (if you prefer another option) for an early dinner of local Gujarati specialties or kebabs, choosing a table with outdoor seating to savour the night-drive vibe afterward.
Take a relaxed night drive around Junagadh's lit avenues, passing by Adipurushak Jain Temple and central bazaars to experience the local nightlife; stop briefly at Rajawala Sweets for a take-away box of sweets to enjoy later on the drive back.
If your family enjoys scenic drives, begin the cool night journey back toward Rajkot-plan a coffee/tea break at a well-lit highway dhaba such as Highway Spice Dhaba to stretch legs and enjoy the pleasant summer night-air.
Estimated arrival in Rajkot (depending on stops); unwind at home or a local cafe like Shree Krishna Cafe for a late-night snack, or head straight home to rest after a full, enjoyable day.
| Place / Activity | Cost |
|---|---|
| Dada Dungar Chai Stall (highway chai stop) | ₹50 |
| Uparkot Fort (Junagadh) | ₹30 |
| Adipurushak Jain Temple | Free |
| Shaurya Snacks (breakfast: khandvi & fafda) | ₹120 |
| Mahabat Maqbara | Free |
| Rao Restaurant (Gujarati thali lunch) | ₹250 |
| Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden (ticket) | ₹100 |
| Chamunda Mata Temple (Chamunda Hill) | Free |
| Jonha Falls viewpoint (seasonal) | Free |
| Nawabi Restaurant / Rajawala Sweets (snacks & sweets) | ₹150 |
| Girnar Hills (base area short walk / local guide optional) | Free |
| Local guide for Girnar short walk (optional) | ₹300 |
| Cold drinks / sugarcane juice (vendor near Uparkot) | ₹60 |
| Natwar Parlour (ice cream / falooda) | ₹80 |
| Dinner at Rao Restaurant or Nawabi Restaurant (evening meal) | ₹300 |
| Highway Spice Dhaba (night tea/coffee stop) | ₹60 |
| Shree Krishna Cafe (late-night snack, optional) | ₹120 |
| Rajawala Sweets (take-away sweets) | ₹200 |
| Estimated Total (per person) | ₹2,473 |