Family Friendly Itinerary: Dwarka, Somnath, and Diu
Friday December 22: Arrival in Dwarka
Welcome to Dwarka! Start your trip by visiting the famous Dwarkadhish Temple in the morning. This magnificent temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. Afterward, head to the Rukmini Devi Temple, a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna's consort. In the afternoon, explore the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines in India. Enjoy the serene surroundings and seek blessings. In the evening, take a stroll along the Dwarka Beach and witness the breathtaking sunset.
Dwarkadhish Temple: Free entry, approximately 2 hours
Rukmini Devi Temple: Free entry, approximately 1 hour
Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple: Free entry, approximately 1 hour
Dwarka Beach: Free entry, approximately 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Hotel Guruprerna. This family-friendly restaurant offers a variety of Indian and continental breakfast options. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
For a scrumptious lunch, head to Dwarka Food Bazaar. This restaurant serves a wide range of vegetarian dishes, including local Gujarati specialties. You can enjoy a hearty meal here for an average cost of around 300 INR per person.
In the evening, treat your taste buds to a delightful dinner at Saffron Restaurant. Known for its mouthwatering seafood and North Indian cuisine, this restaurant offers a cozy ambience. The average cost for a meal at Saffron Restaurant is about 500 INR per person.
Saturday December 23: Exploring Dwarka
On day two, continue your exploration of Dwarka. Start your morning with a visit to Bet Dwarka, an island located near the main town. Take a boat ride to reach the island and explore the ancient temples and beautiful beaches. In the afternoon, visit the Gomti Ghat and take a holy dip in the river Gomti. Explore the nearby markets for local handicrafts and souvenirs. In the evening, witness the Aarti at the Dwarkadhish Temple, a divine ceremony filled with devotion and spirituality.
Bet Dwarka: Boat ride cost - INR 50 per person, approximately 3-4 hours
Gomti Ghat: Free entry, approximately 1-2 hours
Local Markets: Shopping cost varies, approximately 1-2 hours
Dwarkadhish Temple Aarti: Free entry, approximately 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Hotel Guruprasad, a popular restaurant known for its delicious South Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try the vegetarian thali at Krishna Bhog Pure Veg Restaurant. They serve a variety of authentic Gujarati dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For dinner, feast on seafood at Soul Curry - The Restaurant. They offer a wide range of fresh seafood delicacies cooked in coastal flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Sunday December 24: Journey to Somnath
Today, leave Dwarka and embark on a journey to Somnath. In the morning, visit the Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple, a beautiful temple located on a hillock near the sea. Enjoy the panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the temple's serene environment. Then, proceed to the Somnath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines and a significant pilgrimage site. Explore the temple complex and learn about its rich history. In the afternoon, relax at the serene Somnath Beach and enjoy the tranquility. In the evening, witness the enchanting Sound and Light Show at the Somnath Temple, depicting the temple's historical significance.
Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple: Free entry, approximately 1-2 hours
Somnath Temple: Free entry, approximately 2-3 hours
Somnath Beach: Free entry, approximately 1-2 hours
Sound and Light Show: Entry fee - INR 25 per person, approximately 1 hour
Restaurants
Breakfast: Shree Jagannath Puri Restaurant
A popular breakfast spot in Somnath offering a variety of South Indian and North Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Lunch: Hotel Shiv Sagar
A family-friendly restaurant known for its delicious vegetarian thali meals. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Dinner: Platinum Restaurant
A multi-cuisine restaurant with a spacious dining area and a diverse menu. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Monday December 25: Exploring Diu
On the final day, head towards the nearby island of Diu. Start your morning by visiting the magnificent Diu Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the fort's architecture and enjoy stunning views of the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, relax at Nagoa Beach, known for its golden sands and clear waters. Enjoy water sports activities or simply sunbathe. In the evening, explore the vibrant markets of Diu and indulge in some local delicacies. Don't miss the sunset at the serene Ghoghla Beach, a perfect way to end your trip.
Diu Fort: Entry fee - INR 10 per person, approximately 2-3 hours
Nagoa Beach: Free entry, water sports activities cost varies, approximately 2-3 hours
Local Markets: Shopping cost varies, approximately 1-2 hours
Ghoghla Beach: Free entry, approximately 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at O'Coqueiro. This cozy restaurant offers a variety of options including traditional Indian breakfast dishes. The average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
For a delightful lunch, head to Bon Appétit. This restaurant offers a mix of Indian and international cuisine, with a focus on seafood dishes. The average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Hoka - The Lounge Bar & Restaurant. Known for its relaxed ambiance and delicious food, this restaurant offers a diverse menu including Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. The average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Dwarka, make sure to visit the Dwarka Lighthouse for panoramic views of the city and the sea. In Somnath, take a walk along the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of three holy rivers, and witness the peaceful coexistence. In Diu, don't miss a visit to St. Paul's Church, known for its exquisite architecture and tranquil ambiance. These hidden gems offer unique experiences and provide insights into the local culture and spirituality.