Family-Friendly 5-Day Itinerary to Somnath and Dwarka

Friday, November 3: Arrival in Somnath

Morning: Start your trip by arriving in Somnath. Visit the famous Somnath Temple, a revered Hindu pilgrimage site, and immerse yourself in its spiritual ambiance. Explore the temple complex and witness the evening aarti (prayer) ceremony.

Afternoon: Head to the nearby Triveni Sangam, the meeting point of three holy rivers – Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride and take in the serene surroundings.

Evening: Take a leisurely stroll along the Somnath Beach and witness a glorious sunset over the Arabian Sea. Indulge in some local street food and relish the flavors of Gujarat.

• Somnath Temple: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Triveni Sangam: Cost - Boat ride fees, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Somnath Beach: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Sahayak, known for its freshly brewed coffee and delectable sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, head to Mahesh Lunch Home, a seafood paradise offering a wide range of delicious fish and prawn dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
• In the evening, savor the authentic taste of Gujarat at Swad Restaurant, serving traditional thali meals with a variety of vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.

Saturday, November 4: Exploring Somnath

Morning: Visit the Kamnath Mahadev Temple, located in a serene and picturesque setting. Experience tranquility as you stroll through the beautifully maintained gardens surrounding the temple.

Afternoon: Explore the Junagadh Gate, a historical landmark that once served as the entrance to the city. Visit the Somnath Museum nearby to learn about the rich history and heritage of the region.

Evening: Enjoy a camel ride along the Somnath-Kodinar highway and witness the rural beauty of Gujarat. Experience the thrill of sandboarding on the dunes.

• Kamnath Mahadev Temple: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Junagadh Gate: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Camel Ride: Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, November 5: Journey to Dwarka

Morning: Check out from your hotel in Somnath and head to Dwarka, approximately a 4-hour drive away. Enjoy the scenic road trip and take in the beautiful countryside.

Afternoon: Upon arrival in Dwarka, visit the ancient Dwarkadhish Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna. Explore the intricately carved architecture and witness the grandeur of the temple.

Evening: Take a boat ride to Bet Dwarka, an island nearby, and explore the ancient temples and scenic beauty. Enjoy a mesmerizing sunset boat ride back to Dwarka.

• Dwarkadhish Temple: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Boat Ride to Bet Dwarka: Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 3-4 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Blue. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast items, from fluffy pancakes to hearty omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, visit The Saffron Tree. This Indian restaurant serves flavorful curries, biryanis, and other traditional dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
• Indulge in a delightful dinner at Marina Bay. This seafood restaurant offers a wide selection of fresh catches prepared in various styles. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.

Monday, November 6: Dwarka Sightseeing

Morning: Visit Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Seek blessings and explore the serene temple premises.

Afternoon: Explore the Rukmini Devi Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna's consort, Rukmini. Admire the beautiful architectural details and learn about the mythological significance of the temple.

Evening: Take a stroll along the Gomti Ghat and witness the evening Aarti ceremony. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and interact with the friendly locals.

• Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Rukmini Devi Temple: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Gomti Ghat: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, November 7: Departure

Morning: Check out from your hotel in Dwarka and bid farewell to the beautiful city. Depart for your next destination or head back home with unforgettable memories of Somnath and Dwarka.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Somnath, make sure to visit Bhaluka Tirtha, a sacred pond believed to be connected to Lord Krishna's pastimes. The tranquil surroundings and the sense of spirituality make it an ideal place for quiet introspection.

In Dwarka, don't miss out on visiting Gopi Talav, a serene lake associated with the childhood pastimes of Lord Krishna. This hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat away from the bustling tourist spots.