Dwarka and Somnath, two of Gujarat’s most sacred pilgrimage sites, are steeped in spirituality and history. Dwarka, the legendary kingdom of Lord Krishna, and Somnath, home to one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, attract millions of devotees and travelers each year. Whether you’re planning a spiritual journey or a cultural exploration, reaching these divine destinations is straightforward with various transportation options. This guide simplifies how to get to Dwarka and Somnath, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
Why Visit Dwarka and Somnath?
Before diving into the travel details, let’s understand why these destinations are so special:
- Dwarka: Revered as one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, Dwarka is home to the magnificent Dwarkadhish Temple. The city’s coastal charm, historical ruins, and sites like Bet Dwarka and Nageshwar Jyotirlinga make it a must-visit.
- Somnath: Located along the Arabian Sea, Somnath boasts the ancient Somnath Temple, a symbol of resilience and devotion. Attractions like Triveni Sangam and Bhalka Tirth add to its spiritual allure.
Both cities are about 230-250 km apart, making it convenient to visit them together. The journey between them offers scenic coastal views and a glimpse into Gujarat’s vibrant culture.
How to Reach Dwarka
Dwarka is well-connected by air, rail, and road, with options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here’s how you can get there:
1. By Air
Dwarka itself doesn’t have an airport, but nearby airports make air travel convenient:
- Jamnagar Airport (JGA): Approximately 130 km from Dwarka, this is the closest airport. It connects to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad. From Jamnagar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Dwarka (2.5-3 hours).
- Porbandar Airport (PBD): About 133 km away, this is another option with limited connectivity. Taxis or buses from Porbandar take around 2.5-3 hours to reach Dwarka.
- Tip: Book flights early for better deals, especially during festival seasons like Janmashtami, when Dwarka sees a surge in visitors.
2. By Train
Dwarka has its own railway station (Dwarka Railway Station, DWK), well-connected to major cities:
- From Delhi: Trains like the Uttaranchal Express or Okha Express take around 24-28 hours.
- From Mumbai: The Saurashtra Express and other trains cover the distance in 14-16 hours.
- From Ahmedabad: Trains like the Okha Passenger or Somnath Express take 8-10 hours.
- Tip: Book train tickets in advance via IRCTC, especially for sleeper or AC coaches, as Dwarka is a popular destination.
3. By Road
Dwarka is accessible via well-maintained highways, ideal for those who prefer driving or bus travel:
- From Ahmedabad: Approximately 440 km, the journey takes 7-8 hours by car or bus. Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) operates regular buses, and private luxury coaches are also available.
- From Rajkot: Around 225 km, it’s a 4-5 hour drive or bus ride.
- Car Rentals: Hiring a cab from cities like Ahmedabad or Jamnagar offers flexibility to explore nearby attractions like Shivrajpur Beach.
- Tip: The coastal route via NH51 is scenic, so consider a private taxi for comfort and spontaneous stops.
How to Reach Somnath
Somnath is equally accessible, with Veraval serving as the nearest transport hub. Here’s how to plan your journey:
1. By Air
Somnath doesn’t have an airport, but nearby options include:
- Diu Airport (DIU): About 90 km away, it’s the closest airport with flights from Mumbai and Ahmedabad. A taxi or bus from Diu to Somnath takes 1.5-2 hours.
- Porbandar Airport (PBD): Around 133 km, it’s another option, with a 2.5-3 hour drive to Somnath.
- Tip: Diu is closer, but checks flight availability, as Porbandar may offer more connections.
2. By Train
Veraval Railway Station (VRL), just 7 km from Somnath, is the nearest railhead:
- From Delhi: Trains like the Jabalpur-Somnath Express take 26-30 hours.
- From Mumbai: The Veraval Express and other trains cover the distance in 16-18 hours.
- From Ahmedabad: The Somnath Express and other trains take 7-9 hours.
- Local Transport: From Veraval, auto-rickshaws or taxis to Somnath cost ₹100-200 and take 10-15 minutes.
- Tip: Check train schedules on IRCTC, and opt for morning arrivals to maximize your day in Somnath.
3. By Road
Somnath is well-connected by road, offering scenic drives along Gujarat’s coastline:
- From Ahmedabad: About 400 km, the journey takes 7-8 hours by car or bus. GSRTC and private buses are frequent, and taxis are available for hire.
- From Rajkot: Around 190 km, it’s a 4-hour drive or bus ride.
- From Diu: Approximately 90 km, the drive takes 1.5-2 hours, perfect for combining a beach getaway with your pilgrimage.
- Tip: The route via NH47 is smooth, and hiring a cab allows stops at places like Junagadh or Gir National Park.
Traveling Between Dwarka and Somnath
The journey between Dwarka and Somnath is a highlight, covering 230-250 km (4.5-6 hours by road). Here’s how to travel between them:
1. By Bus
- GSRTC Buses: Regular buses operate between Dwarka and Somnath, costing ₹200-300. The journey takes 5-6 hours, with departures every few hours.
- Private Buses: Luxury coaches offer more comfort, with fares around ₹500-800.
- Tip: Book tickets in advance during peak seasons like Maha Shivratri or Janmashtami.
2. By Train
- There’s no direct train between Dwarka and Somnath, but you can travel via Veraval:
- Take the Somnath-Okha Express (Train No. 19251) from Veraval to Dwarka (8-9 hours, ₹200-600 depending on the class).
- Alternatively, travel via Rajkot for more train options, though it’s longer (10-12 hours).
- Tip: Trains are budget-friendly but less convenient than buses or cabs for this route.
3. By Cab/Taxi
- Hiring a private cab is the most comfortable option, costing ₹3,000-5,000 for a one-way trip. The drive takes 4.5-5 hours via NH51 or NH47.
- Stops En Route: Visit Porbandar (Kirti Mandir, Sudama Temple) or Madhavpur Beach for a memorable detour.
- Tip: Negotiate fares upfront or book through reliable operators like Gujarat Trips or Indian Temple Tour for a hassle-free experience.
4. By Self-Driven Car
- Rent a car from Ahmedabad or Rajkot for flexibility. The roads are well-maintained, and fuel costs are around ₹2,000-3,000 one-way.
- Tip: Download offline maps, as some rural stretches may have weak network coverage.
Sample Itinerary for Dwarka and Somnath
To make the most of your trip, here’s a suggested 4-day itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Dwarka (by flight to Jamnagar or train). Visit Dwarkadhish Temple, Gomti Ghat, and attend the evening aarti.
- Day 2: Explore Bet Dwarka (by ferry), Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, and Rukmini Temple. Overnight in Dwarka.
- Day 3: Travel to Somnath (5-6 hours by cab/bus). Visit Somnath Temple, attend the evening aarti, and enjoy the light and sound show.
- Day 4: Explore Bhalka Tirth, Triveni Sangam, and Somnath Beach. Depart from Veraval or Diu.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Best Time to Visit: October to March offers pleasant weather (15-28°C), ideal for sightseeing. Avoid summer (April-June) due to heat and humidity.
- Book in Advance: Reserve flights, trains, and hotels early, especially during festivals like Janmashtami (Dwarka) or Maha Shivratri (Somnath).
- Dress Modestly: Temples require conservative clothing (covering shoulders and knees). Remove shoes before entering.
- Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws and taxis are widely available in both cities for short distances.
- Stay Options:
- Dwarka: Budget (Hotel Krishna, ₹1,000-2,000/night), mid-range (Hotel Guruprerna, ₹2,500-4,000), or luxury (The Fern, ₹5,000+).
- Somnath: Budget (Shree Somnath Trust Lodge, ₹800-1,500), mid-range (Hotel Sun Plaza, ₹2,000-3,500), or luxury (The Fern Residency, ₹5,000+).
- Cash and Connectivity: Carry some cash for small expenses, as rural areas may have limited ATMs. Mobile networks are generally reliable.
- Respect Local Customs: Follow temple rituals, avoid photography where prohibited, and be mindful of crowds during aarti.
Why Choose a Combined Dwarka-Somnath Trip?
Visiting Dwarka and Somnath together offers a perfect blend of devotion, history, and natural beauty. The journey connects you with Gujarat’s spiritual heart, from the rhythmic chants at Dwarkadhish Temple to the serene waves lapping at Somnath’s shores. Whether you’re seeking blessings or soaking in cultural heritage, these destinations promise an enriching experience.
Conclusion Reaching Dwarka and Somnath are easier than ever, thanks to Gujarat’s robust transport network. Whether you prefer the speed of flights, the affordability of trains, or the flexibility of road trips, there’s an option for every traveler. Plan your itinerary, pack comfortable clothing, and embark on a divine journey to these sacred cities. Let Dwarka and Somnath inspire your soul with their timeless spirituality and charm.
