Exploring Bagdana, Somnath, and Gir: A 3-Day Adventure
Saturday, September 30: Bagdana
Start your journey by exploring the serene town of Bagdana. Begin your morning with a visit to the Bagdana Jain Temple, a sacred place known for its intricate architecture and spiritual significance. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around the tranquil Bagdana Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and offering a peaceful atmosphere. In the afternoon, indulge in some local cuisine at one of the nearby eateries. In the evening, witness a spectacular sunset at the Rani Ki Vav stepwell, marveling at its elaborate carvings and historical charm.
Bagdana Jain Temple: INR 50, 1-2 hours
Bagdana Lake: Free, 1 hour
Rani Ki Vav: INR 100, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day at Gokul Dhosa, a popular breakfast spot in Bagdana, known for its delicious and crispy dosas. The average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Keshav Garden Restaurant, a charming eatery offering a variety of vegetarian Gujarati dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
In the evening, indulge in a savory dinner at Hotel Manek, a renowned restaurant known for its mouthwatering Punjabi cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Sunday, October 1: Somnath
On the second day, head to the sacred city of Somnath. Begin your morning with a visit to the famous Somnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore the temple complex and witness the captivating Aarti ceremony. In the afternoon, enjoy a serene beach experience at Somnath Beach, where you can relax, take a dip in the Arabian Sea, or simply soak in the sun. In the evening, stroll along the Somnath Promenade, enjoying the gentle sea breeze and panoramic views.
Somnath Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
Somnath Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
Somnath Promenade: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Hotel Sun Plaza, located near Somnath Temple. Enjoy their mouthwatering South Indian dishes and traditional Gujarati breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Hotel Woodlands, a popular vegetarian restaurant near Somnath Beach. Indulge in their extensive thali menu offering a variety of authentic Gujarati dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Hotel Sukh Sagar, a cozy restaurant known for its delectable Punjabi cuisine. Enjoy their rich and flavorful curries, naans, and biryanis. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Monday, October 2: Gir
On the final day, venture into the wilderness and explore Gir, the last refuge of the Asiatic lions. Start your morning with an exciting jeep safari in Gir National Park, where you can spot an array of wildlife, 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 afternoon, take a nature walk in the serene Devalia Park, known for its rich biodiversity. In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance showcasing the vibrant traditions of Gujarat.
Gir National Park Safari: INR 1,000, 3-4 hours
Gir Interpretation Zone: INR 200, 1-2 hours
Devalia Park: INR 50, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Grand Dhaba, a charming restaurant known for its authentic Punjabi cuisine. Indulge in piping hot parathas and lassi, with an average cost of about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to The Coastal Shack, a popular seafood restaurant offering a variety of fresh catches from the nearby coastal region. Enjoy mouthwatering seafood dishes with an average cost of about ₹500 per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Planet Rasoi, a fine dining restaurant that serves a fusion of Indian and international cuisines. Delight in global flavors with an average cost of about ₹800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When visiting Bagdana, don't miss the opportunity to explore the nearby town of Palitana, known for its exquisite Jain temples atop Shatrunjaya Hill. The breathtaking views from the hilltop and the intricate marble carvings of the temples make it a must-visit destination for spiritual seekers and architecture enthusiasts alike. Additionally, while in Gir, consider visiting the Kamleshwar Dam, a serene spot where you can enjoy the scenic beauty and spot migratory birds during the winter months.
To find the best hotel and flight prices for your trip, you can check here.