Rajkot is a major city in Gujarat known for its rich culture and history. Somnath, located on the Arabian Sea coast, is famous for its ancient Somnath Temple and spiritual significance. Many travelers journey from Rajkot to Somnath to explore this sacred site and enjoy the coastal scenery.

This guide will help you understand the main travel options between Rajkot and Somnath. You will learn about trains, buses, driving routes, and flights, along with practical tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Rajkot to Somnath – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical choice for many. It offers a comfortable ride with scenic views and is suitable if you prefer a relaxed journey.

• Rajkot Junction (RJT) is the main railway station where you board trains heading towards Veraval, the nearest station to Somnath, about 7 km away.

• Trains like the Somnath Express and Veraval Express connect Rajkot to Veraval, taking approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, with fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹400 depending on class.

• Train frequency is moderate, with 3-4 trains daily; booking tickets in advance via IRCTC is recommended, especially during festivals or weekends.

• Veraval station has auto-rickshaws and prepaid taxis for the last 7 km to Somnath Temple, which takes about 15-20 minutes.

• During monsoon, trains may face minor delays due to track maintenance near coastal areas, so plan accordingly.

Bus

Buses are widely used and connect Rajkot to Somnath with many daily departures. This option suits budget travelers and those who want direct road access.

• Rajkot Central Bus Station operates state-run and private buses to Somnath, covering about 190 km via NH27 and NH51 highways.

• Travel time ranges from 4.5 to 6 hours depending on bus type and traffic; fares typically range from ₹150 to ₹350.

• Volvo and deluxe buses offer more comfort and fewer stops, while ordinary buses are cheaper but crowded and slower.

• Frequent buses run from early morning until late evening, but booking tickets in advance during holidays is advised to avoid full buses.

• Road conditions are generally good, but toll plazas on NH27 may cause minor delays during peak hours.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Rajkot to Somnath gives flexibility and the chance to explore nearby attractions. The route is well-connected and scenic.

• The distance is about 190 km via NH27 and NH51, taking roughly 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• Driving allows you to stop at places like Junagadh or Gir National Park, adding value to your trip.

• Fuel costs for the one-way trip will be around ₹1,200 to ₹1,800 depending on vehicle mileage and fuel prices.

• Roads are mostly two-lane highways with toll plazas; expect some traffic near towns and during festival seasons.

• Use GPS navigation apps like Google Maps for real-time traffic updates and to find good rest stops with food and fuel.

Flight

There is no direct flight between Rajkot and Somnath, but flying can be part of your journey if you connect via nearby airports.

• Rajkot Airport offers flights to major cities like Mumbai and Ahmedabad, but no direct flights to Somnath.

• The nearest airport to Somnath is Diu Airport, about 90 km away, with limited flights mostly from Mumbai and Ahmedabad.

• From Diu Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Somnath, which takes around 2 to 3 hours by road.

• Flights are not the most practical option for this route due to limited connectivity and additional road travel.

• If you choose to fly, book tickets well in advance and check flight schedules carefully to avoid long layovers.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Rajkot to Somnath to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

• Book your train or bus tickets online via IRCTC or MSRTC websites a few days before travel to secure your seat and avoid last-minute hassles.

• Reach Rajkot Junction or the bus station at least 30 minutes before departure to find your platform or bus easily and manage luggage comfortably.

• If traveling by train, confirm your coach and seat number on the ticket and keep your ID proof ready for verification during the journey.

• For self-drive, check your vehicle’s condition, fuel level, and GPS setup before starting the trip to avoid breakdowns or navigation issues.

• Carry some snacks and water, especially if traveling by bus or car, as rest stops may be limited and food quality varies on the route.

• Upon arrival at Veraval station or Somnath bus stand, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola or Uber for safe and fixed-price local transport to your accommodation or temple.

Practical Travel Tips

• Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables openly, especially in crowded trains and bus stations, to prevent theft.

• Drink only bottled water and eat freshly cooked food from trusted vendors during stops to avoid stomach issues common in Indian road travel.

• Book tickets early during festival seasons like Maha Shivratri or Navratri when Somnath sees a surge in pilgrims and transport gets crowded.

• Use local auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs for short distances in Somnath; always agree on fares beforehand if no meter is used.

• Pack light but include essentials like a hat, sunscreen, and an umbrella, as the coastal sun can be strong and sudden rains occur during monsoon.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling, especially in monsoon months, as heavy rains can cause roadblocks or train delays near the coast.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

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

Avoid traveling during the peak monsoon season from July to September, as heavy rains can disrupt transport and cause slippery roads.

• Festival periods like Maha Shivratri attract large crowds to Somnath, leading to packed trains and buses; plan early or avoid these dates for a relaxed journey.

• Summer months (April to June) can be hot and dusty, especially on the road; start early mornings to avoid midday heat.

• Early morning departures help avoid city traffic in Rajkot and reduce travel time on highways.

• Monsoon rains may cause delays on NH27 and near coastal railway tracks; keep extra travel time if traveling during this season.

Arrival at Somnath & What to Expect

When you arrive at Veraval railway station or Somnath bus stand, you will find several options for local transport. Prepaid taxis and auto-rickshaws are available outside both stations for the short 7 km ride to Somnath Temple and nearby hotels.

Somnath town has a range of accommodations from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels near the temple. Many travelers prefer staying close to the temple for easy access to early morning prayers and evening aarti. App-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate in the area but may have limited availability during peak pilgrimage times.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to travel from Rajkot to Somnath is by train, offering a balance of comfort, affordability, and convenience. Buses provide a budget alternative with frequent services, while driving gives you flexibility to explore en route. Flights are less practical due to limited connectivity.

Plan your journey by booking tickets early, especially during festival seasons, and prepare for local transport options upon arrival. With this guide, you can confidently travel from Rajkot to Somnath and enjoy your spiritual and cultural visit without stress.