Discover Somnath: A Family-Friendly 3-Day Itinerary
Sunday, August 20: Arrival in Somnath
Welcome to Somnath, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful temples. Start your trip by visiting the magnificent Somnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Marvel at its grand architecture and serene surroundings. In the afternoon, head to the nearby Somnath Beach for a relaxing time by the Arabian Sea. Enjoy the golden sands, gentle waves, and beautiful sunset views. In the evening, explore the Somnath Sound and Light Show, which showcases the history of the temple through captivating visuals and narration.
Somnath Sound and Light Show: Estimated Cost - INR 25 per person, Time Spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Coffee Day located near Somnath Temple. Enjoy a variety of freshly brewed coffees, teas, and delicious breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, try out Shree Jay Ambe Kathiawadi Dhaba located near Somnath Beach. Indulge in authentic Kathiawadi cuisine with a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, visit Madhuram Sweets and Restaurant situated near Somnath Sound and Light Show venue. Savor the flavors of Indian vegetarian delicacies like Dhokla, Khandvi, and Gujarati Thali. Average cost for a meal is about ₹250 per person.
Monday, August 21: Dwarka Day Trip
Embark on a day trip to Dwarka, an ancient city associated with Lord Krishna. Begin your morning by visiting the Dwarkadhish Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna. Explore its beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and experience the divine atmosphere. In the afternoon, head to Bet Dwarka, a sacred island accessible by a ferry ride. Discover ancient temples and enjoy the serene beach on this hidden gem. Return to Somnath in the evening and take a leisurely stroll along the Somnath Promenade, lined with shops and eateries.
Start your day at Hotel Kailash, a popular breakfast spot known for its delicious South Indian dishes. Treat yourself to a crispy dosa or fluffy idli, with average costs of about Rs. 100 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Goverdhan Pure Veg Restaurant. Indulge in a thali meal consisting of a variety of vegetarian dishes, including curries, rice, and bread. The average cost for a meal here is around Rs. 200 per person.
In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner at Madhuram Restaurant. This cozy eatery offers a range of Indian and Chinese delicacies. Try their flavorful biryanis or spicy noodles, with an average cost of about Rs. 300 per person.
Tuesday, August 22: Gir National Park Safari
Experience the wilderness of Gir National Park, home to the majestic Asiatic Lions. Start your day early with a thrilling jeep safari in the park. Marvel at the diverse flora and fauna, including lions, leopards, and various bird species. After the safari, visit the Gir Interpretation Zone to learn more about the wildlife conservation efforts in the region. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely boat ride in the Kamleshwar Dam, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic landscapes.
Gir National Park Safari: Estimated Cost - INR 800-1,000 per person, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
Gir Interpretation Zone: Estimated Cost - INR 50 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Kamleshwar Dam Boat Ride: Estimated Cost - INR 100 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Kamleshwar Restaurant: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Kamleshwar Restaurant, located near Kamleshwar Dam. They offer a variety of delicious breakfast options such as traditional Indian dishes, continental breakfasts, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
Gir Jungle Cafe: For a tasty lunch, head to Gir Jungle Cafe, situated near Gir National Park. This restaurant serves a selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes inspired by local flavors. Enjoy their signature thali, which includes a variety of curries, rice, roti, and dessert. The average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Sasan Village Retreat: Indulge in a delightful dinner at Sasan Village Retreat, a restaurant known for its charming ambiance and authentic Gujarati cuisine. Try their traditional thali and savor the flavors of carefully prepared dishes made with fresh local ingredients. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Somnath, don't miss the chance to visit the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of three holy rivers - Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati. Witness the serene meeting point and soak in the spirituality. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Panch Pandav Gufa, a cave complex associated with the Pandavas from the epic Mahabharata. Explore the intricate caves and learn about the legends associated with them. These hidden gems offer unique experiences and are perfect for a family-friendly adventure.
For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices on Kayak.