Delhi, the bustling capital of India, is well connected to many parts of the country, including the sacred town of Somnath in Gujarat. Somnath is famous for its ancient temple and coastal charm, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike. Traveling from Delhi to Somnath is a popular route for those seeking spiritual solace or a weekend getaway by the Arabian Sea.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Delhi to Somnath, including trains, buses, self-drive options, and flights. You will find detailed information on travel times, costs, and tips to help you plan your journey confidently and comfortably.

Getting from Delhi to Somnath – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a preferred mode for many due to affordability and the experience of Indian Railways. Though the journey is long, trains offer a direct and scenic route to Somnath.

• Key stations:

  Trains depart from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) and arrive at Veraval Junction (VRL), the nearest station to Somnath, about 7 km away.

• Duration and cost:

  The journey takes approximately 24 to 28 hours covering around 1,400 km. Ticket prices range from ₹500 for sleeper class to ₹2,500 for AC 3-tier.

• Frequency and service:

  Trains like the Somnath Express and Veraval Express run 3-4 times a week. Booking via IRCTC well in advance is recommended due to high demand during festival seasons.

• Comfort and tips:

  Opt for AC classes for overnight comfort. Carry your own food or buy at station stalls, but be cautious of hygiene. Night travel can be restful but keep valuables secure.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  Auto-rickshaws and prepaid taxis are available at Veraval station to reach Somnath temple, usually costing ₹100-150.

Bus

Buses offer a budget-friendly option, though the journey is lengthy and less comfortable compared to trains or flights. It suits travelers who prefer road travel and want to explore Gujarat en route.

• Operators and routes:

  State-run buses like GSRTC and private Volvo coaches operate from Delhi ISBT to Somnath via Ahmedabad or Rajkot.

• Duration and cost:

  The trip can take 30 to 36 hours depending on the route and bus type. Ticket prices vary from ₹1,000 for non-AC to ₹2,000 for Volvo coaches.

• Booking and frequency:

  Buses run daily but fewer direct services exist; many require a change at Ahmedabad or Rajkot. Booking online via GSRTC or private portals is advised.

• Comfort and stops:

  Volvo buses offer reclining seats and onboard amenities. Frequent stops for refreshments and restrooms are available but expect some road bumps on NH48 and NH27.

• Challenges:

  Long hours on the road can be tiring. Avoid night travel during monsoon due to slippery roads in Gujarat’s hilly areas.

Car/Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Somnath is an adventurous option for those who enjoy road trips and want to explore at their own pace. The route covers diverse landscapes and several tourist spots.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH48 and NH27, covering approximately 1,400 km and taking around 24 hours of driving time without long breaks.

• Road conditions:

  National highways are mostly well maintained with toll plazas en route. Fuel stations and eateries are frequent, especially near major towns like Ahmedabad and Rajkot.

• Stops and sightseeing:

  Consider stopping at Ahmedabad for a break or sightseeing. Gir National Park is also nearby Somnath for wildlife enthusiasts.

• Driving tips:

  Avoid night driving in rural Gujarat due to poor lighting. Plan overnight stays in cities like Udaipur or Ahmedabad to break the journey.

• Car rentals:

  Self-drive cars or taxis can be booked from Delhi through providers like Zoomcar or local agencies. Ensure valid permits and check vehicle condition before departure.

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach near Somnath from Delhi. However, there is no direct flight to Somnath, so travelers must combine air travel with road transport.

• Nearest airport:

  Diu Airport (DIU) is the closest, about 70 km from Somnath. Alternatively, flights to Rajkot Airport (RAJ), 110 km away, are available.

• Flight details:

  Daily flights operate from Delhi to Rajkot via airlines like IndiGo and Air India. Flight duration is around 2 hours.

• Connecting transport:

  From Rajkot or Diu, taxis or buses can be hired to reach Somnath, taking 2-3 hours by road.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights early to get better fares. Use apps like MakeMyTrip or IRCTC Air for combined flight and train/bus bookings.

• Advantages:

  Flying saves significant travel time and is ideal for short trips or those who prefer convenience over cost.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan their journey from Delhi to Somnath efficiently, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether by train, bus, or flight, secure your seats at least 2-3 weeks in advance, especially during festivals like Maha Shivratri when Somnath sees a surge in visitors.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at New Delhi Railway Station or ISBT at least 1 hour before departure to avoid last-minute rush and find your platform or bus bay comfortably.

• Pack essentials for long travel:

  Carry water, snacks, and a power bank. For train journeys, bring a light blanket and toiletries for overnight comfort.

• Plan your arrival time:

  If arriving by train or bus late at night, pre-book a taxi from Veraval or Rajkot to Somnath to avoid waiting or haggling.

• Local transport on arrival:

  Use prepaid taxis or Ola/Uber from Veraval station or Rajkot airport for safe and hassle-free transfers to your hotel or the temple.

• Accommodation booking:

  Reserve hotels in Somnath or nearby Veraval in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons, to ensure availability and better rates.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on trains and buses:

  Keep your belongings secure and avoid isolated compartments. Use lockable bags and stay vigilant during night travel.

• Food and water:

  Prefer bottled water and eat from trusted vendors. Carry dry snacks for long journeys to avoid hunger during delays.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC for trains, GSRTC or private portals for buses, and airline websites or apps for flights. Early booking ensures better prices and availability.

• Local commute apps:

  Ola and Uber operate in Veraval and Rajkot, providing reliable local transport. Prepaid taxis are available at stations but compare fares before boarding.

• Luggage handling:

  Label your bags clearly and keep valuables in your carry-on. For self-drive, secure luggage properly to avoid damage on bumpy roads.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Avoid monsoon travel on highways due to waterlogging and slippery conditions. Summers can be hot, so carry sun protection and hydrate well.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Delhi to Somnath is during the cooler months and outside major festivals for a comfortable experience. Weather and traffic conditions vary seasonally.

Winter months from November to February offer pleasant temperatures ideal for travel and sightseeing. Avoid peak summer months due to intense heat in Gujarat.

• Avoid traveling during Diwali and Maha Shivratri weekends when trains and roads are crowded.

• Monsoon season (July-September) can cause delays on highways due to heavy rains and occasional flooding.

• Early morning departures from Delhi help avoid city traffic and ensure timely arrivals.

• Plan return trips avoiding weekends to escape heavy traffic near Somnath and Veraval.

Arrival at Somnath & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Veraval station or nearby airports, travelers find well-marked prepaid taxi counters and local transport options to reach Somnath temple. The town is calm and spiritually vibrant, with easy access to the famous Somnath Jyotirlinga temple.

Local buses and auto-rickshaws are available but may be less reliable for tourists. Most prefer taxis or app-based cabs. Nearby attractions include Bhalka Tirth and Gir National Park. Accommodation ranges from budget lodges to mid-range hotels close to the temple.

Conclusion

Among the options, train travel stands out as the most economical and practical choice for most travelers, offering direct connectivity and a chance to experience Indian Railways. Flights combined with road travel provide speed and comfort for those short on time.

With proper planning and advance bookings, your journey from Delhi to Somnath can be smooth and enjoyable. Whether you choose the scenic train route, a road trip, or a quick flight, this sacred destination awaits with its timeless charm and spiritual aura.