Travel Stories

Road Tripping from Junagadh: Discover Gujarat’s Hidden Treasures

Junagadh, nestled at the foothills of Girnar, is the perfect starting point for unforgettable road trips. From ancient forts to serene beaches and wildlife safaris, Gujarat’s wonders are just a drive away. Buckle up for these epic routes

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Integer volutpat convallis bibendum.

1. Junagadh to Gir National Park (65 km | 1.5 Hours)

Theme: Wilderness & Wildlife
Route: NH51 → SH25 (smooth, scenic roads).
Stops:
- Gir National Park: Spot Asiatic lions on a budget-friendly shared jeep safari (₹1,200/person).
- Devalia Safari Park: A smaller, quicker alternative (₹200 entry).
- Local Eats: Try Bajra Rotla (millet bread) with lasan chutney at dhabas en route.
Stay: Budget-friendly forest lodges (₹1,500/night) or return to Junagadh.

2. Junagadh to Somnath & Diu (220 km | 4 Hours)

Theme: Spirituality & Seaside Bliss
Route: Junagadh → Veraval → Diu (NH51 and coastal roads).
Stops:
- Somnath Temple: One of India’s 12 Jyotirlingas (free entry).
- Somnath Beach: Meditate by the Arabian Sea at sunrise.
- Diu: Explore Portuguese-era forts, churches, and Nagoa Beach.
Budget Tip: Split a taxi with friends (₹3,500/day) or take GSRTC buses (₹200–₹300).

3. Junagadh to Palitana (180 km | 3.5 Hours)

Theme: Sacred Mountains & Jain Heritage
Route: NH27 → SH6 (well-maintained highways).
Stops:
- Shatrunjaya Hill: Climb 3,800 steps to 900+ Jain temples (free, but hire a guide for ₹500).
- Palitana City: Visit the Adinath Temple and savor Jain thalis (₹150–₹200).
Pro Tip: Start early to avoid midday heat on the climb.

4. Junagadh to Madhavpur Beach (100 km | 2 Hours)

Theme: Coastal Culture
Route: Junagadh → Porbandar → Madhavpur (scenic rural roads).
Stops:
- Madhavpur Beach: Ride horses on the sand or attend the Madhavpur Mela (March–April).
- Porbandar: Visit Kirti Mandir (Mahatma Gandhi’s birthplace).
Eats: Fresh seafood at beach shacks (₹200–₹400/meal).

Road Trip Essentials for Gujarat

Vehicle Rentals: Hire a Tata Nexon (₹1,200/day) or scooters (₹300/day) in Junagadh.
Fuel Stops: Reliable pumps on NH51 and NH27.
Local Snacks: Pack fafda, thepla, and sukhdi for energy.
Safety: Avoid night driving on rural roads; carry a physical map (network gaps).