Discover Gujarat’s spiritual treasures with our guide to 10 Mystical temples, where divine serenity, stunning architecture, and rich heritage await you.
Gujarat, the land of Lord Krishna, is home to some of India’s most revered temples, each a testament to the state’s spiritual depth and architectural brilliance. From ancient Jyotirlingas to Jain pilgrimage sites, these temples offer a divine experience for travelers and devotees alike.
10 Must-Visit Temples in Gujarat:
1.Somnath Temple, Veraval
Somnath Temple, located on the Arabian Sea coast in Prabhas Patan, Veraval, is the first of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Known as the “Eternal Shrine,” it has been rebuilt multiple times after invasions, symbolizing resilience. The temple’s Chalukya-style architecture boasts intricate carvings, a towering shikhara, and a sacred Shiva lingam. The evening light-and-sound show narrating its history and the nearby Triveni Sangam (confluence of rivers Kapila, Hiran, and Saraswati) enhance its spiritual allure.
Opening Hours:6:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Puja Timings: Morning Aarti (7:00 AM), Evening Aarti (7:00 PM), Light-and-Sound Show (8:00 PM–9:00 PM).
Entry Fee: Free. VIP Darshan: ~₹400. Light-and-Sound Show: ~₹30–₹50.
Note: Photography is restricted inside the sanctum.
What to Do & Nearby Attractions:
Attend the evening Aarti and Light-and-Sound Show for a spiritual experience.
Visit the Triveni Sangam Ghat (2 km) for a holy dip.
Explore Bhalka Tirth (5 km), where Lord Krishna is believed to have left his mortal form (~₹100 by auto).
Relax at Somnath Beach (1 km) or visit the Prabhas Patan Museum (~₹50 entry).
How to Reach:
By Air: The nearest airport is Diu Airport (90 km, ~2 hours). Taxis from Diu to Somnath cost
~₹2,000.
By Train: Veraval Railway Station (7 km). Autos/taxis to the temple cost ~₹100–₹200.
By Road: State buses from Ahmedabad (400 km, ~8 hours) cost ~₹300–₹500. Private
cabs: ~₹6,000–₹8,000.
Local Transport: Autos and cycle rickshaws (~₹50–₹100) are available in Veraval.
Where to Stay:
Luxury Hotels:
The Fern Residency Somnath (~₹4,500–₹6,000/night) offers modern amenities and sea
views.
Lords Inn Somnath (~₹5,000–₹7,000/night) provides comfort near the temple.
Budget-Friendly: Hotel Sukh Sagar (~₹1,200–₹1,800/night) is clean and close to the
temple.
Note: Book in advance during Maha Shivratri for availability
2.Dwarkadhish Temple, Dwarka
Dwarkadhish Temple, or Jagat Mandir, is a five-story architectural marvel dedicated to Lord Krishna, the “King of Dwarka.” A key Char Dham Yatra site, it dates back over 2,500 years, with the current structure from the 15th–16th centuries. The 78-meter spire, adorned with a flag changed thrice daily, and intricate carvings reflect Gujarati craftsmanship. The “Moksha Dwara”(north entrance) and “Swarga Dwara” (south entrance) symbolize salvation and heaven.
Opening Hours: 6:30 AM–1:00 PM, 5:00 PM–9:30 PM.
Puja Timings: Mangla Aarti (6:30 AM), Shringar Aarti (10:30 AM), Evening Aarti (7:00 PM).
Entry Fee: Free. VIP Darshan: ~₹200–₹300.
Note: Mobile phones and cameras are not allowed inside.
What to Do & Nearby Attractions:
Witness the flag-changing ceremony and evening Aarti.
Visit Rukmini Devi Temple (2 km, ~₹50 by auto), dedicated to Krishna’s consort.
Explore Gomti Ghat (1 km) for a serene boat ride (~₹100–₹200).
Head to Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple (15 km, ~₹300 by cab) or Bet Dwarka (30 km by ferry,
~₹20–₹50).
How to Reach:
By Air: Jamnagar Airport (45 km, ~1 hour). Taxis to Dwarka cost ~₹1,500.
By Train: Dwarka Railway Station (2 km). Autos to the temple cost ~₹50.
By Road: Buses from Ahmedabad (450 km, ~9 hours) cost ~₹350–₹600. Private cabs: ~₹7,000–₹9,000.
Local Transport: Cycle rickshaws and autos (~₹30–₹80).
Where to Stay:
Luxury Hotels:
Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Dwarka (~₹5,500–₹8,000/night) offers plush amenities.
The Fern Sattva Resort (~₹6,000–₹9,000/night) is ideal for families.
Budget-Friendly: Hotel Gomti (~₹1,000–₹1,500/night) is simple and near the temple.
Tip: Avoid peak seasons like Janmashtami for better rates.
3.Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple, Gandhinagar
Located in Gujarat’s capital, Akshardham Temple, built in 1992 by BAPS, is a modern marvel dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan. Spanning 23 acres, it’s crafted from 6,000 tons of pink sandstone without steel or cement. Intricate carvings, a 108-foot-tall monument, and lush gardens create a serene ambiance. The Sat-Chit-Anand water show and exhibitions on Indian culture are major highlights.
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM–7:30 PM (closed on Mondays).
Puja Timings: Morning Aarti (6:00 AM, not open to public), Evening Aarti (6:00 PM).
Entry Fee: Free. Water Show: ~₹100–₹150 (adults). Exhibition: ~₹50–₹100.
Note: No electronics allowed; cloakrooms available.
What to Do & Nearby Attractions:
Experience the Sat-Chit-Anand water show (post-sunset).
Explore the temple’s exhibitions on Swaminarayan’s life.
Visit Indroda Nature Park (5 km, ~₹100 by auto, ~₹50 entry) for a zoo and dinosaur fossils.
Stroll through Sarita Udyan (3 km), a peaceful garden.
How to Reach:
By Air: Ahmedabad Airport (25 km, ~40 minutes). Taxis to the temple cost ~₹600.
By Train: Gandhinagar Railway Station (2 km). Autos cost ~₹30.
By Road: Buses from Ahmedabad (30 km, ~1 hour) cost ~₹50–₹100. Cabs: ~₹500–₹800.
Local Transport: Autos and app-based cabs (~₹50–₹150).
Where to Stay:
Luxury Hotels:
Leela Gandhinagar (~₹8,000–₹12,000/night) offers opulent stays.
Courtyard by Marriott Ahmedabad (~₹6,500–₹9,000/night, 20 km away).
Budget-Friendly: Hotel Middle Town (~₹1,200–₹1,800/night) is affordable and central.
Note: Book early during Diwali or Govardhan Puja.
4.Ambaji Temple, Banaskantha
Nestled in the Aravalli hills, Ambaji Temple is one of India’s 51 Shakti Peethas, dedicated to Goddess Amba. The white-marble temple with gold-plated domes houses a symbolic yantra (noidol), worshipped as the goddess. Its spiritual significance peaks during Navratri with a grand fair. The temple’s serene location near the Rajasthan border and its Krishna connection make it
a divine retreat.
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM–9:00 PM.
Puja Timings: Morning Aarti (6:30 AM), Evening Aarti (7:00 PM).
Entry Fee: Free. VIP Darshan: ~₹100–₹200.
Note: Photography is restricted in the sanctum.
What to Do & Nearby Attractions:
Join the Navratri Garba celebrations or evening Aarti.
Climb Gabbar Hill (2 km, via ropeway ~₹100) for panoramic views and a smaller Amba
temple.
Visit Kailash Tekri (5 km, ~₹100 by auto) for a serene picnic spot.
Explore Mount Abu (25 km) for Dilwara Jain Temples (~₹500 by cab).
How to Reach:
By Air: Ahmedabad Airport (186 km, ~4 hours). Taxis to Ambaji cost ~₹3,500.
By Train: Abu Road Station (20 km). Taxis/autos to the temple cost ~₹400–₹600.
By Road: Buses from Ahmedabad (~₹200–₹400, 5 hours). Private cabs: ~₹3,000–₹4,500.
Local Transport: Shared jeeps and autos (~₹50–₹100) in Ambaji.
Where to Stay:
Luxury Hotels:
Hotel Ambaji International (~₹3,500–₹5,000/night) offers modern comforts.
Brahma Hotel Mount Abu (~₹4,000–₹6,000/night, 25 km away).
Budget-Friendly: Hotel Shreeji (~₹800–₹1,200/night) is basic but clean.
Tip: Limited options; book early during Navratri.
5.Shree Shatrunjaya Temples, Palitana
Perched atop Shatrunjaya Hill, this complex of over 800 Jain temples in Palitana is a holiest
Jain pilgrimage site, dedicated to Tirthankaras, particularly Rishabhanatha. The marble carvings
and domes are exquisite, and climbing 3,800 steps symbolizes spiritual liberation. A tentative
UNESCO site, it offers serene hilltop views and architectural splendor.
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Puja Timings: Vary by temple; main aarti at 6:30 AM and 5:30 PM.
Entry Fee: Free. Doli (palanquin) for climb: ~₹2,000–₹4,000 round trip.
Note: No overnight stays on the hill; photography restricted.
What to Do & Nearby Attractions:
Undertake the 3,800-step climb for spiritual fulfillment (~2–3 hours).
Visit the Adinath Temple, the largest on the hill.
Explore Talaja Caves (30 km, ~₹500 by cab) for ancient Buddhist rock-cut structures.
Stroll through Palitana’s markets for Jain artifacts.
How to Reach:
By Air: Bhavnagar Airport (60 km, ~1.5 hours). Taxis to Palitana cost ~₹1,500.
By Train: Palitana Railway Station (2 km). Autos to the hill base cost ~₹50.
By Road: Buses from Ahmedabad (215 km, ~5 hours) cost ~₹150–₹300. Cabs:
~₹3,500–₹5,000.
Local Transport: Dolis for the climb (~₹2,000–₹4,000).
Where to Stay:
Luxury Hotels:
Vijay Vilas Palace (~₹4,000–₹6,000/night) offers heritage charm.
Hotel Shravak (~₹3,000–₹4,500/night) is comfortable.
Budget-Friendly: Sumeru Guest House (~₹800–₹1,200/night) is basic and Jain-friendly.
Note: Limited non-veg food options due to Jain customs.
6.Sun Temple, Modhera
The 11th-century Sun Temple in Modhera, built by the Solanki dynasty, is dedicated to Surya,
the Sun God. A masterpiece of Gujarati architecture, it features a stepwell (Surya Kund), prayer
hall, and sanctum aligned for equinox sunlight. Intricate carvings of deities and celestial beings
are mesmerizing. The annual Modhera Dance Festival (January) showcases classical
performances.
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Puja Timings: No active worship; Aarti at 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM for visitors.
Entry Fee: ₹40 (Indians), ₹200 (foreigners). Photography free.
Note: Managed by ASI; no active puja due to historical status.
What to Do & Nearby Attractions:
Admire the Surya Kund stepwell and carvings.
Attend the Modhera Dance Festival (January).
Visit Rani ki Vav (50 km, ~₹1,000 by cab, ~₹40 entry), a UNESCO-listed stepwell.
Explore Patan’s Sahastralinga Talav (45 km) for historical ruins.
How to Reach:
By Air: Ahmedabad Airport (100 km, ~2 hours). Taxis to Modhera cost ~₹2,000.
By Train: Mehsana Railway Station (35 km). Taxis to the temple cost ~₹800.
By Road: Buses from Ahmedabad (~₹100–₹200, 2.5 hours). Cabs: ~₹2,000–₹3,000.
Local Transport: Autos (~₹50–₹100) in Modhera.
Where to Stay:
Luxury Hotels:
BRG Budget Stay (~₹3,000–₹4,500/night, 30 km in Mehsana).
Hotel Celebration Ahmedabad (~₹4,000–₹6,000/night, 90 km away).
Budget-Friendly: Hotel Shivalik (~₹1,000–₹1,500/night, Mehsana) is affordable.
Tip: Stay in Mehsana or Ahmedabad due to limited options in Modhera.
7.Rukmini Devi Temple, Dwarka
This 12th-century temple in Dwarka, dedicated to Rukmini, Lord Krishna’s consort, is a serene shrine with delicate carvings and a dome-shaped sanctum. Its mythology highlights Rukmini’s devotion, attracting couples seeking marital harmony. Its proximity to Dwarkadhish Temple makes it a key pilgrimage stop.
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM–9:30 PM.
Puja Timings: Morning Aarti (6:30 AM), Evening Aarti (7:00 PM).
Entry Fee: Free. Donations accepted.
Note: Photography allowed outside.
What to Do & Nearby Attractions:
Offer prayers for love and harmony.
Visit Dwarkadhish Temple (2 km) and Gomti Ghat (3 km).
Explore Bet Dwarka (30 km by ferry) for Krishna’s ancient city.
Enjoy a sunset at Dwarka Beach (2 km).
How to Reach:
By Air: Jamnagar Airport (45 km, ~1 hour). Taxis to the temple via Dwarka cost ~₹1,500.
By Train: Dwarka Railway Station (2 km). Autos to the temple cost ~₹50–₹100.
By Road: Buses to Dwarka, then autos (~₹50, 2 km).
Local Transport: Autos from Dwarkadhish Temple (~₹50–₹100).
Where to Stay:
Luxury Hotels:
Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Dwarka (~₹5,500–₹8,000/night).
The Fern Sattva Resort (~₹6,000–₹9,000/night).
Budget-Friendly: Hotel Gomti (~₹1,000–₹1,500/night).
Note: Stay near Dwarkadhish for convenience.
You can also read – Exploring Mathura, Vrindavan & Agra: Complete Guide
8.Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, Dwarka
Near Dwarka, Nageshwar Temple is a Jyotirlinga dedicated to Lord Shiva as the protector from poisons. It features a 25-meter-tall Shiva statue and a self-emergent lingam. Linked to Krishna’s era, its seaside location adds serenity, drawing devotees for spiritual cleansing.
Opening Hours: 5:00 AM–9:00 PM.
Puja Timings: Morning Aarti (5:30 AM), Rudrabhishek (7:00 AM), Evening Aarti (7:00 PM).
Entry Fee: Free. VIP Darshan: ~₹100–₹200. Rudrabhishek: ~₹500–₹1,000.
Note: Photography restricted in the sanctum.
What to Do & Nearby Attractions:
Participate in Rudrabhishek for spiritual cleansing.
Visit the giant Shiva statue and temple garden.
Explore Dwarkadhish Temple (15 km) and Gomti Ghat.
Head to Gopi Talav (20 km, ~₹400 by cab), linked to Krishna’s Raas Leela.
How to Reach:
By Air: Jamnagar Airport (45 km, ~1 hour). Taxis to Nageshwar cost ~₹2,000.
By Train: Dwarka Railway Station (15 km). Autos/cabs to the temple cost ~₹300–₹500.
By Road: Buses to Dwarka, then local transport (~₹50–₹100).
Local Transport: Shared autos from Dwarka (~₹50).
Where to Stay:
Luxury Hotels:
Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Dwarka (~₹5,500–₹8,000/night).
The Fern Sattva Resort (~₹6,000–₹9,000/night).
Budget-Friendly: Hotel Gomti (~₹1,000–₹1,500/night).
Note: Limited options near Nageshwar; stay in Dwarka.
9.Hutheesing Jain Temple, Ahmedabad
Built in 1848, this white-marble Jain temple in Ahmedabad is dedicated to the 15th Tirthankara, Dharmanatha. Its ornate carvings, 52 smaller shrines, and 78-foot-tall manastambha showcase Jain architectural grandeur. The tranquil courtyard offers peace in the bustling city, reflecting Ahmedabad’s Jain heritage.
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM–7:00 PM.
Puja Timings: Morning Aarti (6:30 AM), Evening Aarti (6:00 PM).
Entry Fee: Free. Photography: ~₹100 (permission required).
Note: Follow Jain customs (no leather, modest clothing).
What to Do & Nearby Attractions:
Admire the marble carvings and manastambha.
Visit Adalaj Stepwell (20 km, ~₹400 by cab, ~₹40 entry) for stunning architecture.
Explore Sabarmati Ashram (5 km, ~₹100 by auto, free entry) for Gandhi’s legacy.
Shop at Law Garden Night Market (3 km) for handicrafts.
How to Reach:
By Air: Ahmedabad Airport (8 km, ~20 minutes). Taxis to the temple cost ~₹200.
By Train: Ahmedabad Railway Station (3 km). Autos cost ~₹50–₹100.
By Road: Buses from Gandhinagar (~₹50, 1 hour).
Local Transport: Autos and app-based cabs (~₹50–₹150).
Where to Stay:
Luxury Hotels:
Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad (~₹7,000–₹10,000/night) offers urban luxury.
Novotel Ahmedabad (~₹6,000–₹8,500/night) is modern.
Budget-Friendly: Hotel Volga (~₹1,200–₹1,800/night) is central and affordable.
Note: Plenty of options in Ahmedabad.
10.Bala Hanuman Temple, Jamnagar
By Lakhota Lake, Bala Hanuman Temple is renowned for its continuous chanting of “Shri Ram, Jai Ram, Jai Jai Ram” since 1964, earning a Guinness World Record. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, its lakeside setting and vibrant evening prayers create a unique spiritual experience.
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Puja Timings: Morning Aarti (6:30 AM), Evening Aarti (7:00 PM).
Entry Fee: Free. Donations appreciated.
Note: Photography allowed; join the chanting for a unique experience.
What to Do & Nearby Attractions:
Participate in the continuous Ram Tarak mantra chanting.
Visit Lakhota Lake and Museum (1 km, ~₹50 entry) for history and boating (~₹100).
Explore Khijadia Bird Sanctuary (15 km, ~₹300 by cab, ~₹50 entry) for birdwatching.
Stroll through Ranmal Lake for a serene evening.
How to Reach:
By Air: Jamnagar Airport (6 km, ~15 minutes). Taxis to the temple cost ~₹150.
By Train: Jamnagar Railway Station (5 km). Autos cost ~₹50–₹100.
By Road: Buses from Ahmedabad (300 km, ~6 hours) cost ~₹200–₹400. Cabs:
~₹5,000–₹7,000.
Local Transport: Autos and rickshaws (~₹50–₹100).
Where to Stay:
Luxury Hotels:
Sayaji Hotel Jamnagar (~₹4,500–₹6,500/night) offers modern comforts.
Hotel Aram (~₹3,500–₹5,000/night) is elegant.
Budget-Friendly: Hotel Vishal International (~₹1,000–₹1,500/night) is affordable.
Note: Book early during Ram Navami.
Conclusion:
Gujarat’s temples weave spirituality, history, and architectural brilliance into an unforgettable tapestry. From the sacred Somnath to the vibrant Bala Hanuman, each site offers a unique journey. Stay with us to explore more beautiful and authentic places, as we uncover India’s sacred and cultural wonders for your next adventure!
A helpful video on Somnath Temple, Source Youtube – https://youtu.be/U3wH5YJtaAI?si=UcJQBaSM6IMxdj87
