Dwarka and Somnath are two important pilgrimage cities located in the western Indian state of Gujarat. Dwarka lies on the Arabian Sea coast in the Jamnagar district, while Somnath is situated further south in the Gir Somnath district. Many travelers visit both sites to explore their rich religious and cultural heritage.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Dwarka to Somnath. You will learn about different transport options, travel times, fares, and useful tips to plan your journey smoothly and comfortably.

Getting from Dwarka to Somnath – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical option for many pilgrims and tourists. The rail network connects Dwarka and Somnath with regular services, though direct trains are limited.

• The nearest railway stations are Dwarka Railway Station (DWK) and Veraval Railway Station (VRL), which is about 7 km from Somnath Temple. The train journey covers approximately 220 km and takes around 5 to 7 hours depending on the train.

• Direct trains like the Somnath Express run between Dwarka and Veraval but may not operate daily. Checking IRCTC or local railway enquiry is essential for current schedules and seat availability.

• Train fares range from ₹150 to ₹600 depending on the class (Sleeper, 3AC, or 2AC). Trains are generally clean but can be crowded during festival seasons like Janmashtami or Maha Shivratri.

• Booking tickets in advance through IRCTC or authorized agents is recommended, especially during peak pilgrimage times to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Veraval station has basic facilities and is well connected to Somnath by frequent shared autos, private taxis, and buses covering the last 7 km.

Bus

Buses are a flexible and affordable way to travel between Dwarka and Somnath. Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) operates several services daily.

• GSRTC buses run from Dwarka Bus Stand to Somnath Bus Stand covering about 220 km in 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Both ordinary and deluxe buses are available, with fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹400. Deluxe buses offer better comfort with fewer stops and air conditioning.

• Buses depart frequently in the morning and evening, but schedules can be affected by monsoon rains or local festivals, so checking the GSRTC website or bus stand counters is advised.

• Rest stops with food stalls are available on NH51 and NH27 highways, but carrying water and snacks is recommended for convenience.

• Last-mile connectivity from Somnath Bus Stand is easy with auto-rickshaws and shared taxis to the temple and nearby hotels.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Dwarka to Somnath is a comfortable option for travelers who prefer flexibility and want to explore at their own pace. The route is scenic and well-connected by national highways.

• The distance by road is approximately 220 km via NH51 and NH27, taking about 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• The route passes through towns like Porbandar and Veraval, with several toll plazas along NH51 and NH27. Toll charges may total around ₹150 to ₹250.

• Fuel stations and restaurants are available at regular intervals, but it is wise to fill fuel in Dwarka before starting as some stretches have fewer options.

• Driving during early morning or late evening is advisable to avoid heavy traffic near towns and to enjoy cooler temperatures.

• Parking near Somnath Temple is available but can be crowded during festivals. Using hotel parking or public parking lots a little farther away is often easier.

Taxi

Hiring a taxi or cab is a convenient choice for those who want a hassle-free journey without driving themselves. Many local operators and app-based services offer this route.

• Prepaid taxis and private cabs can be booked from Dwarka city or railway station. The fare for a one-way trip to Somnath typically ranges from ₹3,000 to ₹4,500 depending on vehicle type and negotiation.

• Taxi travel time is about 5 to 6 hours via NH51 and NH27, with stops for refreshments or sightseeing possible on request.

• App-based cab services like Ola and Uber may not operate fully on this route; local taxi operators are more reliable for long-distance pilgrim travel.

• Confirm the fare and route before starting to avoid misunderstandings. Many drivers are familiar with popular stops and can suggest places to eat or rest.

• Taxi offers door-to-door service, which is useful if you have heavy luggage or are traveling in a group.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers moving from Dwarka to Somnath. It covers essential actions to make your journey smooth and stress-free.

• Book your train or bus tickets online in advance through IRCTC or GSRTC portals to secure your seat and avoid last-minute rush, especially during festivals.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water bottles, snacks, a hat, and sunscreen, as some travel modes may have limited food options en route.

• Arrive at Dwarka Railway Station or Bus Stand at least 30 minutes before departure to manage ticket checks and boarding comfortably.

• If traveling by car or taxi, check the vehicle condition, fuel level, and route on GPS apps like Google Maps or MapMyIndia before starting your journey.

• Plan short breaks at known rest stops or dhabas along NH51 and NH27 for meals and refreshments to stay refreshed during the 5 to 6-hour journey.

• On arrival at Somnath, use prepaid auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs for last-mile travel to your hotel or the temple to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a bottle of drinking water and avoid consuming street food unless it is from a trusted and clean outlet to prevent stomach issues during travel.

• Keep your valuables like mobile phones, wallets, and tickets secure and within sight, especially in crowded trains and bus stands.

• Use official websites or trusted agents for booking tickets to avoid scams and fake tickets, which can be common during peak pilgrimage seasons.

• Local transport in Somnath includes shared autos and cycle rickshaws; negotiate fares beforehand or insist on meter usage to avoid overcharging.

• If traveling by car, carry a physical copy of your driving license, vehicle registration, and insurance documents, as police checks are common on highways.

• During monsoon (July to September), expect occasional delays due to road conditions and plan extra travel time. Avoid night travel in heavy rains for safety.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Dwarka to Somnath is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, making road and rail travel comfortable.

Summer months (April to June) can be very hot, with temperatures rising above 40°C, which may make daytime travel tiring. Monsoon season brings heavy rains and slippery roads, causing occasional delays.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Janmashtami (Dwarka) and Maha Shivratri (Somnath) unless you want to experience the crowd and festivities, as transport options get crowded and prices rise.

• Early morning departures help avoid city traffic and heat, especially when traveling by road.

• Fog is generally not a problem in this coastal region, but heavy rains during monsoon can reduce visibility and slow down trains and buses.

• Plan your journey to avoid late-night arrivals in Somnath, as public transport options reduce after dark.

Arrival at Somnath & What to Expect

When you arrive at Somnath, most travelers get down at Veraval Railway Station or Somnath Bus Stand. Both are well connected to the temple and nearby hotels.

Prepaid auto-rickshaws and private taxis are available outside the station and bus stand. It is best to use prepaid counters or trusted app-based cabs to avoid overcharging. Many hotels also offer pick-up services if informed in advance.

Accommodation options near Somnath Temple range from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Staying close to the temple helps you avoid daily travel hassles and enjoy early morning or evening temple visits.

Local transport includes cycle rickshaws and shared autos, which are convenient for short distances but always agree on the fare before boarding.

Conclusion

Traveling from Dwarka to Somnath is straightforward with multiple options like train, bus, car, and taxi. The train and bus are budget-friendly choices, while self-drive and taxi offer more comfort and flexibility. Planning your trip in advance and booking tickets early will ensure a smooth journey.

Remember to consider seasonal factors like monsoon rains and festival crowds when scheduling your travel. With proper preparation and practical tips from this guide, you can confidently enjoy your pilgrimage or sightseeing trip between these two sacred cities in Gujarat.