Looking to spend your holiday in the spiritual realm? Nestled on India’s western coast, Gujarat has emerged as one of the country’s premier destinations for spiritual tourism. The state's "pilgrimage circuits" include iconic sites like Somnath, Dwarka, Pavagadh, and Akshardham, offering both religious fulfilment and cultural enrichment. For both the devout pilgrim and the culturally curious traveller, here is a curated guide to five pilgrimage sites in Gujarat worth visiting.
Located in the Banaskantha district of Gujarat, Ambaji is one of India’s most revered religious destinations. This ancient temple town, nestled in the Aravalli Hills, attracts millions of devotees annually who come to seek blessings from Goddess Amba, a manifestation of Shakti. The main temple, Ambaji Mata Mandir, houses a sacred yantra (symbol). According to Hindu belief Ambaji is recognised as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. It is believed that the heart of the goddess fell here, making it especially significant in the Shakta tradition. Devotees from across the country visit throughout the year—especially during Bhadarvi Poonam, a grand full moon festival. While here, you can also explore other nearby Shakti Peeths and scenic spots in the Aravallis.
What to Do: Enjoy sunset views from Kailash Hill; visit Gabbar Hill for panoramic vistas of the temple town.
Local Tip: Sample local dishes such as Dal Baati Churma, Mohan Maas, and Gatte ki Khichdi.
How to Reach
Air: The nearest international airport is Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad (179 km).
Rail: The closest railway station is Palanpur, approximately 65 km away.
Road: Ambaji is well connected to major cities like Palanpur (65 km), Mount Abu (45 km), Abu Road (20 km), and Ahmedabad (185 km).
On the western coast of Gujarat, where the Gomti River meets the Arabian Sea, lies Dwarka—a city that transcends time. Dwarka is one of the Char Dham (four major pilgrimage sites) and holds immense significance in Hinduism. At its heart lies the majestic Dwarkadhish Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, worshipped here as the King of Dwarka.
Believed to be over 2,500 years old (though the current structure is from the 15th–16th century CE), the five-storey limestone temple is supported by 72 pillars and adorned with intricate carvings. Other notable sites include the Rukmini Devi Temple, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Mandir, and Bet Dwarka—an island believed to have been Lord Krishna’s residence.
Visit year-round, but the city is especially vibrant during Janmashtami and Diwali.
What to Do: Stroll along Gomti Ghat, watch the sunset at Shivrajpur Beach, and visit the lighthouse for sweeping sea views.
Local Tip: Try an authentic Gujarati thali, fresh seafood, Jalebi-Fafda, and shop for religious artefacts.
How to Reach
Air: The nearest airports are Porbandar (95 km) and Jamnagar (145 km).
Rail: Dwarka has a railway station with connections to major cities.
Road: Well-connected via state and national highways to Jamnagar (137 km), Rajkot (226 km), and Ahmedabad (442 km)
Nestled on the Arabian Sea coast in Gir Somnath district, the Somnath Temple stands where history meets faith. Revered as the site of the first Jyotirlinga, it is believed that worship here grants moksha, freeing devotees from the cycle of rebirth. Over the centuries, the temple has been destroyed and rebuilt seven times, each reconstruction a testament to its enduring spiritual importance. Today’s magnificent structure houses the Shiva lingam that gazes out upon the endless sea, symbolising divine omnipresence and the eternal bond between the temple and the ocean.
What to Do: Attend the morning Aarti, explore the nearby Prabhas Patan Museum to trace Somnath’s layered past and wander along Somnath Beach at sunset, watching waves lap against the temple walls.
Local Tip: Carry a light shawl for the evening wind by the sea—and don’t miss the simple seafood thali at local stalls.
How to Reach:
Train: Direct services to Veraval Railway Station (6 km away).
Air: Fly into Rajkot or Porbandar—then enjoy the scenic coastal drive (approx. 200 km or 120 km respectively).
Road: Well connected by highway; taxis and buses run regularly from Veraval, Junagadh and surrounding towns.
Situated in Halol taluka of Panchmahal district, Pavagadh is revered as a sacred Shakti Peetha and pilgrimage site where Jagatajanani Maa Kalika resides atop the highest peak—a presence traced back to Maharishi Vishwamitra’s consecration millennia ago—and where devotees honour the spot believed to bear Sati’s right toes. Following a major redevelopment that was inaugurated in April 2022, it now offers restored temples, monuments and visitor facilities that blend its cultural legacy with modern accessibility.
What to Do: Pay your respects to Maa Kalika at the temple and reflect on the panoramic vistas and the centuries of spiritual heritage that define the mountain.
Local Tip: - Shop for vibrant Gujarati apparel and enjoy the delicious street food.
How to Reach:
Air: Vadodara Airport (around 80 km away) is the nearest.
Rail: Panchmahal Railway Station links the region with major cities.
Road: Frequent buses and taxis run from Vadodara and neighbouring towns to Halol/Panchmahal.
In the heart of Gandhinagar stands the stunning Swaminarayan Akshardham, a pink sandstone temple that represents modern spirituality and traditional Indian craftsmanship. Every inch of the temple features elaborate carvings—depicting stories from the Vedas, Upanishads, and the life of Swaminarayan.
The complex is not just a place of worship but a centre for spiritual learning and cultural exhibitions.
What to Do: Visit Indroda Nature Park, known for its dinosaur fossil exhibits; relax at Sarita Udyan for a picnic.
Local Tip: Savour an authentic Gujarati thali and shop for local handicrafts.
How to Reach
Air: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport is the closest.
Rail: Gandhinagar has its own railway station, connected to major cities.
Road: Located about 30 km from Ahmedabad and well connected by road.
