Route Explorer

Somnath to Dwarka

The Somnath to Dwarka pilgrimage route is a sacred journey through Gujarat's coastal region, covering approximately 235 kilometers. By road, the trip takes about 4.5 hours, making

Distance

235 km

Duration

4.5 hrs

Overview

The Somnath to Dwarka pilgrimage route is a sacred journey through Gujarat's coastal region, covering approximately 235 kilometers. By road, the trip takes about 4.5 hours, making it a popular day trip or overnight journey for devotees. The route passes through the historic town of Junagadh and the Gir Somnath district, offering glimpses of rural Gujarat and the Arabian Sea. Often combined on the same Gujarat pilgrimage circuit, this route connects two of the twelve Jyotirlingas, allowing pilgrims to complete their darshan of both shrines in a single trip. The journey is well-served by roads, with options for private cars, state transport buses, and trains, ensuring accessibility for all types of travelers.

Route Map

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Transport Options

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By Car

Driving from Somnath to Dwarka is the most convenient and flexible option, allowing you to stop at scenic spots and temples along the way. The route is well-maintained, passing through Junagadh and Porbandar, with good highway conditions.

Distance

235 km

Duration

4.5 hours

Highlights

•Scenic coastal views and Girnar hills near Junagadh
•Visit the historic Uparkot Fort in Junagadh
•Stop at Porbandar, birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi
•Drive along the Arabian Sea coastline near Dwarka

Fuel and Tolls

Fuel costs for a standard car (approx. 12 km/l) and toll charges on NH51 and state highways.

•Petrol cost: ₹1,500–₹1,800 (approx.) for the round trip
•Toll charges: ₹100–₹150 one way on NH51
•Parking at Dwarka temple: ₹50–₹100 per day

Car Rental

Private taxis and self-drive options are available in Somnath for the journey to Dwarka.

•Taxi fare (one way): ₹3,500–₹5,000 depending on car type
•Self-drive rental: ₹2,500–₹3,500 per day excluding fuel
•Driver charges (if hired): ₹500–₹800 per day

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By Train

There is no direct train between Somnath and Dwarka, but you can take a train from Veraval (near Somnath) to Rajkot, then another train to Dwarka. This option is scenic but requires careful planning.

Distance

235 km (via Veraval and Rajkot)

Duration

6–8 hours (including transfer)

Highlights

•Scenic train ride through Saurashtra's countryside
•Opportunity to see Girnar hills from the train
•Experience local rail travel and stations
•Connects via Rajkot, a major city with amenities

Train Fares

Indicative fares for second class (sleeper) and AC classes for the entire journey.

•Sleeper class (Veraval to Rajkot): ₹150–₹200
•Sleeper class (Rajkot to Dwarka): ₹120–₹180
•AC 3-tier (full journey): ₹500–₹700

Schedule and Booking

Trains from Veraval to Rajkot and Rajkot to Dwarka run daily, but timings may require an overnight halt in Rajkot.

•Veraval to Rajkot: Saurashtra Express (departs ~15:30, arrives ~19:30)
•Rajkot to Dwarka: Somnath Express (departs ~06:00, arrives ~08:30)
•Book tickets online via IRCTC or at station counters

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By Bus

State transport (GSRTC) and private buses operate between Somnath and Dwarka, with a change at Junagadh or Porbandar. This is the most economical option, though it takes longer due to stops.

Distance

235 km

Duration

6–7 hours

Highlights

•Lowest cost travel option
•Opportunity to see local villages and towns
•Multiple daily departures from Somnath bus stand
•Comfortable Volvo buses available on some routes

Bus Fares

Indicative fares for ordinary and luxury buses.

•Ordinary bus (Somnath to Junagadh): ₹60–₹80
•Ordinary bus (Junagadh to Dwarka): ₹120–₹150
•Volvo AC bus (direct via Porbandar): ₹300–₹400

Bus Schedule

GSRTC buses depart frequently from Somnath, but direct buses to Dwarka are limited; most require a transfer.

•Somnath to Junagadh: every 30 minutes from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
•Junagadh to Dwarka: every hour from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM
•Direct bus via Porbandar: 2–3 departures daily

Stopovers En Route

Junagadh

100 km from Somnath

A historic city known for the Girnar hills, Uparkot Fort, and ancient Buddhist caves. Pilgrims often stop here to visit the Mahabat Maqbara and the famous Somnath Mahadev Temple (not to be confused with Somnath).

Restaurants and dhabas serving Gujarati thaliATMs and fuel stationsTourist information center near the bus stand

Porbandar

170 km from Somnath (or 65 km from Junagadh)

The birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, featuring the Kirti Mandir and Sudama Temple. A peaceful stop to stretch and explore the coastal town's heritage.

Cafes and snack stalls near the beachPublic restrooms and parking areasHandicraft shops selling local items

Travel Tips

•Start early (by 6 AM) to avoid heat and reach Dwarka by noon for darshan.
•Carry sufficient water and light snacks, as food options on the highway are limited.
•Book train or bus tickets in advance during peak pilgrimage seasons (Shravan, Kartik).
•Use the Somnath Trust's free shuttle service to reach the temple from the bus stand.
•Wear comfortable footwear as temple premises require walking barefoot.
•Check weather and road conditions during monsoon (June–September) as some low-lying areas may flood.

Budget Estimate

road

Petrol cost: ₹1,500–₹1,800 (approx.) for the round trip

Toll charges: ₹100–₹150 one way on NH51

train

Sleeper class (Veraval to Rajkot): ₹150–₹200

Sleeper class (Rajkot to Dwarka): ₹120–₹180

There is no direct train between Somnath and Dwarka, but you can take a train from Veraval (near Somnath) to Rajkot, then another train to Dwarka. This option is scenic but requires careful planning.

bus

Ordinary bus (Somnath to Junagadh): ₹60–₹80

Ordinary bus (Junagadh to Dwarka): ₹120–₹150

State transport (GSRTC) and private buses operate between Somnath and Dwarka, with a change at Junagadh or Porbandar. This is the most economical option, though it takes longer due to stops.