Dwarka is a sacred city located on the western coast of Gujarat, known for its ancient temples and spiritual significance. Surat, a major commercial hub in Gujarat, lies inland and is a common starting point for pilgrims and tourists heading to Dwarka.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Surat to Dwarka using trains, buses, cars, and flights. You will get practical advice on travel times, fares, and what to expect during your journey.

Getting from Surat to Dwarka – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and convenient option for many travelers between Surat and Dwarka. It offers comfort and affordability with several trains connecting the two cities.

• Surat Railway Station (ST) is well connected to Dwarka Railway Station (DWK) with direct trains taking around 8 to 10 hours, covering approximately 450 km.

• Train fares range from ₹200 for sleeper class to ₹800 for AC classes, making it an economical choice for most travelers.

• Trains run daily but tend to be crowded during festival seasons like Navratri and Janmashtami, so booking tickets early on IRCTC is advisable.

• Food options on trains vary; it is best to carry snacks or buy from station vendors at Surat or intermediate stops like Rajkot.

• Monsoon season may cause minor delays due to track maintenance, so check live train status before departure.

Bus

Buses provide a flexible and affordable way to reach Dwarka from Surat, suitable for budget travelers and those preferring road travel.

• State-run GSRTC buses depart from Surat Central Bus Station to Dwarka regularly, with journey times around 9 to 11 hours covering about 460 km via NH51 and NH27.

• Bus fares typically range from ₹300 to ₹600 depending on the type of bus—ordinary, deluxe, or Volvo AC coaches.

• Buses operate mostly in the early morning and evening, but frequency reduces late at night; booking tickets online or at the station is recommended.

• Road conditions are generally good, but monsoon rains can cause occasional delays and slippery patches, especially near coastal areas.

• Rest stops with food and restroom facilities are available at major towns like Jamnagar and Porbandar along the route.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Surat to Dwarka offers flexibility and the chance to explore Gujarat’s scenic western coast at your own pace.

• The distance is about 460 km via NH51 and NH27, taking roughly 8 to 9 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• Major toll plazas on this route include the Hazira and Rajkot tolls, so keep cash or FASTag ready for smooth passage.

• Fuel stations and eateries are available at regular intervals, with popular stops near Rajkot and Jamnagar for refreshments.

• Driving during early morning or late evening helps avoid city traffic in Surat and Jamnagar but be cautious of fog in winter months near Dwarka.

• Self-drive cars can be rented from Surat with providers offering both manual and automatic vehicles; ensure valid driving license and insurance before starting.

Flight

Although Dwarka does not have a commercial airport, flying part of the way can save time for travelers preferring air travel combined with road transport.

• The nearest airport to Dwarka is Jamnagar Airport (JGA), about 130 km away, with regular flights from Surat’s Surat Airport (STV) taking around 1 hour.

• Flight fares between Surat and Jamnagar typically range from ₹2,000 to ₹4,000 depending on the airline and booking time.

• From Jamnagar Airport, you can hire prepaid taxis or use app-based cabs like Ola and Uber to reach Dwarka in about 3 hours by road.

• Flights may be limited in frequency, so booking well in advance is important, especially during peak travel seasons.

• Weather conditions such as fog in winter can cause flight delays, so check flight status before departure.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Surat to Dwarka, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.

• Book your train or bus tickets online via IRCTC or GSRTC websites at least a week in advance to secure your preferred travel date and class.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank, as some trains and buses may have limited food options during the journey.

• Arrive at Surat Railway Station or Bus Station at least 30 minutes before departure to avoid last-minute rush and find your platform or bus stand easily.

• If driving, plan your route using GPS apps and check for toll plazas and fuel stations along NH51 and NH27 to avoid surprises.

• Upon arrival in Dwarka, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs for safe and reliable local transport to your hotel or temple.

• Keep your ID and booking confirmations handy throughout the journey, as they may be required for ticket checks or hotel check-ins.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a bottle of purified water and avoid drinking tap water during the journey to prevent stomach issues common in Indian travel.

• Use official prepaid taxi services or trusted app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in Dwarka to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.

• Book train and bus tickets early, especially during festivals like Janmashtami or Navratri, when demand surges and availability drops.

• Carry a small first-aid kit with basic medicines for motion sickness or minor ailments, as medical facilities may be limited en route.

• Keep your luggage secure and avoid leaving valuables unattended, especially at crowded stations and bus stands.

• During monsoon, check weather updates and train/bus running status as heavy rains can cause delays or route changes.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Surat to Dwarka is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and roads are dry. Avoid traveling during the peak monsoon season from June to September due to heavy rains and possible delays.

Festival periods like Navratri and Janmashtami see a large influx of pilgrims to Dwarka, leading to crowded trains and buses. Planning your trip outside these times ensures a more comfortable journey.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals when transport services are overcrowded and ticket prices may rise.

• Monsoon rains can cause slippery roads and occasional flooding, so check weather forecasts before starting your journey.

• Early morning departures help you avoid city traffic in Surat and reach Dwarka before evening, making local commuting easier.

• Winter fog near coastal areas can reduce visibility, so drive carefully or choose daytime travel during December and January.

Arrival at Dwarka & What to Expect

Dwarka Railway Station and bus stands are well connected to the city center and major temples. Upon arrival, you will find prepaid taxi counters and app-based cab services like Ola and Uber for easy local travel.

Popular areas to stay include near Dwarkadhish Temple and the main market, offering a range of hotels and guesthouses. Auto-rickshaws are also available for short distances but agree on fares beforehand to avoid confusion.

The city is compact, so many attractions are within walking distance, but local transport is useful if you have luggage or prefer convenience. Keep your phone charged and use offline maps for navigation in areas with weak network coverage.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to travel from Surat to Dwarka depends on your priorities. Trains offer a balance of comfort and affordability, while buses provide flexibility for budget travelers. Driving yourself allows freedom to explore en route, and flights combined with road travel save time for those willing to spend more.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and knowing local transport options will make your journey smooth and enjoyable. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip from Surat to Dwarka and experience the spiritual charm of this ancient city without hassle.