A Family-Friendly 3-Day Itinerary in Gir and Somnath

Saturday, August 12: Exploring Gir

Start your trip by visiting the Gir National Park, renowned for its Asiatic lion population. In the morning, embark on an exciting jeep safari through the park to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Enjoy the lush greenery and keep an eye out for other wildlife like leopards, deer, and crocodiles. Afterward, head to Devalia Safari Park, also known as the Gir Interpretation Zone, to witness more wildlife up close. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the Kamleshwar Dam, enjoying the serene atmosphere and beautiful views.

• Gir National Park Safari: INR XXXX (estimated cost), 3-4 hours
• Devalia Safari Park: INR XXXX (estimated cost), 2-3 hours
• Kamleshwar Dam: Free, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious and hearty breakfast at Hotel Annapurna. This family-friendly restaurant offers a variety of options such as traditional Indian dishes like masala dosa and fluffy omelettes. The average cost for a meal here is about 150 INR per person.
• For lunch, head to Gir Jungle Lodge. This restaurant serves a delectable mix of Indian and continental cuisine, with options like butter chicken and pasta. The average cost for a meal here is about 300 INR per person.
• In the evening, enjoy a memorable dinner at Toral Dining Hall. Known for its authentic Gujarati thali, this restaurant offers a wide array of traditional dishes like dal, roti, and vegetable curry. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.

Sunday, August 13: Somnath Temple and Beach

Start your day with a visit to the famous Somnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore the magnificent architecture and soak in the spiritual ambiance of this ancient temple. Afterward, head to Somnath Beach for a relaxing afternoon. Enjoy the golden sands, indulge in water sports, or simply unwind with a book under the shade of palm trees. In the evening, witness the enchanting Aarti ceremony at Somnath Temple, where devotees offer prayers and light diyas.

• Somnath Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
• Somnath Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
• Evening Aarti at Somnath Temple: Free, 1 hour

Monday, August 14: Girnar Hill and Junagadh

Embark on a thrilling trek up Girnar Hill, an important pilgrimage site in Gujarat. Start early in the morning to avoid the heat and climb the 9999 steps to reach the peak. Along the way, visit various temples and soak in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. After descending, head to Junagadh, a historic city known for its architectural marvels. Explore the Uparkot Fort, step into the ancient Buddhist caves, and visit the iconic Mahabat Maqbara, a stunning mausoleum. Conclude your day with a visit to the Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden, home to a diverse range of wildlife.

• Girnar Hill Trek: Free, 6-8 hours
• Uparkot Fort: INR XXXX (estimated cost), 2-3 hours
• Mahabat Maqbara: INR XXXX (estimated cost), 1-2 hours
• Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden: INR XXXX (estimated cost), 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When visiting Gir and Somnath, make sure to explore the lesser-known attractions that locals adore. Visit the Kamnath Mahadev Temple, located amidst scenic surroundings and known for its peaceful atmosphere. Take a trip to the nearby Mul Dwarka Beach, a serene and secluded spot where you can relax and enjoy the tranquility. For an authentic taste of Gujarati cuisine, don't miss out on trying the local delicacies at the Gir Forest Lodge. It's a great place to unwind and savor the flavors of the region.