Exploring Somnath Temple in Gujarat: A Family-Friendly 2-Day Itinerary

Tuesday, August 22: Arrival in Somnath

Morning: Upon arrival in Somnath, start your day by visiting the iconic Somnath Temple. This famous shrine is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Marvel at the beautiful architecture and learn about the temple's rich history and religious significance. Take part in the morning aarti (prayer ceremony) for a spiritual experience.

Afternoon: Enjoy a delicious Gujarati lunch at a local restaurant near the temple. Afterward, head to the serene Somnath Beach, located just a short distance away. Relax on the sandy shores, let the kids build sandcastles, or take a dip in the Arabian Sea. Take a leisurely walk along the promenade and enjoy the scenic views.

Evening: As the evening approaches, visit the Somnath Sound and Light Show. This captivating show narrates the history of the temple through a combination of lights, sound effects, and storytelling. It's an excellent way to learn about the legends and folklore associated with Somnath Temple.

• Somnath Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Somnath Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Somnath Sound and Light Show: Estimated Cost - INR 25 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour

Restaurants

• Ankur Cafe: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Ankur Cafe, located just a few minutes away from Somnath Temple. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options, including delicious omelettes, crispy dosas, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• Maheshwari Dhaba: For a satisfying lunch, head over to Maheshwari Dhaba, a popular eatery known for its authentic Gujarati thali. Enjoy a traditional thali meal with a variety of mouthwatering dishes such as dal, vegetable curry, roti, and rice. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• The Grand Thali: Indulge in a memorable dining experience at The Grand Thali for dinner. This stylish restaurant offers a wide range of North Indian and Gujarati dishes, served in unlimited quantities. Feast on delicious curries, breads, and desserts while enjoying the elegant ambiance. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.

Wednesday, August 23: Exploring Somnath

Morning: Start your day by visiting the Bhalka Tirtha, a sacred site associated with Lord Krishna's departure from Earth. Explore the temple complex, which houses an ancient banyan tree and a shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna. Take a moment to soak in the spiritual atmosphere and learn about the mythology behind this place.

Afternoon: Head to the nearby Triveni Sangam, where the rivers Hiranya, Kapila, and Saraswati merge with the Arabian Sea. Take a boat ride along the confluence and witness the unique meeting of the rivers. The serene surroundings and the confluence hold religious significance, making it a peaceful and picturesque spot.

Evening: Conclude your trip with a visit to the Prabhas Patan Museum. This museum showcases artifacts, sculptures, and exhibits related to the history and cultural heritage of Somnath. It provides insights into the region's ancient past and the importance of Somnath Temple. Spend some time exploring the museum before bidding farewell to this enchanting destination.

• Bhalka Tirtha: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Triveni Sangam: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Prabhas Patan Museum: Estimated Cost - INR 20 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Somnath Cafe: Start your day with a delicious and hearty breakfast at Somnath Cafe. They serve a variety of traditional Indian breakfast items like poha, upma, and masala dosa. The average cost for a meal here is about 100 INR per person.
• Sanskriti Restaurant: For lunch, head to Sanskriti Restaurant, known for its authentic Gujarati thali. Enjoy a spread of unlimited vegetarian dishes like dal, kadhi, vegetable curries, and roti. The average cost for a meal here is about 250 INR per person.
• Breeze Restaurant: Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Breeze Restaurant. This waterfront restaurant offers a range of seafood options including fish curry, prawn masala, and tandoori

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Somnath, make sure to visit Gita Mandir, a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is adorned with intricate carvings and paintings depicting scenes from the Bhagavad Gita. The temple also houses a small museum showcasing artifacts related to Lord Krishna and the epic Mahabharata.

For nature enthusiasts, a trip to Gir National Park is highly recommended. Located nearby, this wildlife sanctuary is home to the majestic Asiatic lions. Take a safari tour to spot these incredible creatures in their natural habitat, along with other unique flora and fauna.

Another hidden gem is the Ahilya Mandir, a small temple situated on the banks of the Triveni Sangam. It offers a peaceful and serene environment, perfect for introspection and meditation. Take a moment to enjoy the tranquility and connect with your inner self.

Check here to find the best deals on hotels and flights for your trip to Somnath Temple, Gujarat.