Gujarat, often referred to as the Land of Legends, is a culturally rich state in western India, renowned for its temples, architectural wonders and spiritual heritage. From intricately carved ancient shrines to massive modern temples. Gujarat temple trail offers a blend of history devotion and architectural splendor. These temples are not just places of worship but also centers of cultural significance that attract millions of pilgrims and travelers each year.
In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore 14 Famous Temples in Gujarat that you should include in your travel itinerary. Alongside their history and significance, we’ll provide details about how to reach, the best time to visit, nearby attractions, and tips for an enriching experience.
Here Check Out the list for visit Famous Temples in Gujarat
1. Somnath Temple: The Eternal Shrine of Shiva
The Somnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most revered temples in India and the first of the 12 Jyotirlingas (sacred abodes of Shiva). Located in the coastal town of Prabhas Patan, the temple is renowned for its stunning Chalukyan-style architecture and its spiritual legacy, dating back to ancient times. Over the centuries, the temple has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, standing as a symbol of resilience and faith.
Why Visit?
- Witness the breathtaking architecture and carvings of the temple.
- Experience the Aarti (prayer ceremony) and the mesmerizing sound of waves crashing on the temple’s edge.
- Learn about the temple’s rich history, dating back to 2000 BCE.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is Diu Airport, 65 km away.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Veraval, just 7 km away.
- By Road: Somnath is well-connected by buses and taxis from major cities like Ahmedabad (410 km) and Rajkot (200 km).
Best Time to Visit
- October to March is the best time to visit, as the weather is pleasant.
Nearby Attractions
- Triveni Sangam: The confluence of three holy rivers—Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati.
- Bhalka Tirth: A site associated with Lord Krishna’s final moments.
- Somnath Beach: A serene spot to relax after your temple visit.
2. Dwarkadhish Temple: The Abode of Lord Krishna
Situated in the sacred city of Dwarka, the Dwarkadhish Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is one of the Char Dhams (four sacred pilgrimage sites) in India. This 2,500-year-old temple is a masterpiece of Nagara-style architecture and holds immense religious significance for Hindus.
Why Visit?
- Explore the seven-story temple, intricately carved and adorned with a towering 52-meter Shikhar (spire).
- Participate in the Mangla Aarti, a divine early-morning prayer experience.
- Visit the Gomti Ghat, where pilgrims take a holy dip in the Gomti River.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jamnagar Airport, 137 km away.
- By Train: The Dwarka Railway Station is just 2 km from the temple.
- By Road: Regular buses and taxis connect Dwarka to major cities like Jamnagar and Rajkot.
Best Time to Visit
- October to March is ideal for visiting Dwarka due to the comfortable weather.
Nearby Attractions
- Bet Dwarka: A small island believed to be Lord Krishna’s original residence.
- Rukmini Devi Temple: Dedicated to Krishna’s consort.
- Nageshwar Jyotirlinga: One of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas, located 16 km from Dwarka.
Suggested Itineraries for Gujarat tour:
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3. Akshardham Temple, Gandhinagar
The Akshardham Temple in Gandhinagar, the capital of Gujarat, is a stunning modern temple dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan, the founder of the Swaminarayan sect. Built using pink sandstone, the temple is an architectural marvel that attracts devotees and tourists alike.
Why Visit?
- Admire the intricate carvings, stunning domes, and lush gardens surrounding the temple.
- Experience the Sat-Chit-Anand Water Show, a fascinating blend of spirituality and technology.
- Learn about Swaminarayan’s teachings and Indian culture at the exhibition halls.
How to Reach
- By Air: The temple is just 25 km from Ahmedabad Airport.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Gandhinagar Railway Station, 2 km away.
- By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from Ahmedabad and nearby cities.
Best Time to Visit
- Open throughout the year, but evenings are particularly beautiful with the temple lit up.
Nearby Attractions
- Indroda Nature Park: A zoological park located just 5 km away.
- Sabarmati Ashram: A historical site in Ahmedabad, 30 km from the temple.
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4. Ambaji Temple: The Shakti Peetha
The Ambaji Temple, located in Banaskantha district, is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, dedicated to Goddess Amba, a form of Goddess Durga. The temple has no idol, and the deity is worshiped in the form of a sacred symbol known as the Yantra.
Why Visit?
- Participate in the Navratri celebrations, which are vibrant and energetic.
- Admire the Marble architecture of the temple and its serene surroundings.
- Climb the Gabbar Hill, believed to be the original site of the goddess’s shrine.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is Ahmedabad Airport, 180 km away.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Abu Road, 22 km from the temple.
- By Road: Accessible by buses and taxis from Ahmedabad and Mount Abu.
Best Time to Visit
- Visit during Navratri (September–October) to experience grand celebrations.
Nearby Attractions
- Gabbar Hill: Accessible via ropeway or trek.
- Mount Abu: A hill station located 50 km away.
5. Sun Temple, Modhera
The Sun Temple in Modhera, built in the 11th century by the Chalukya dynasty, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dedicated to Surya (the Sun God), the temple is a marvel of ancient Indian architecture.
Why Visit?
- Admire the intricate carvings and the temple’s alignment with the sun.
- Visit the Surya Kund, a massive stepwell surrounded by beautifully carved shrines.
- Witness the annual Modhera Dance Festival, held in January.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is Ahmedabad, 102 km away.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Mehsana, 26 km away.
- By Road: Easily accessible via buses and taxis from Ahmedabad and Mehsana.
Best Time to Visit
- October to March for comfortable weather and the Modhera Dance Festival.
6. Bhalka Tirth, Somnath
Located near Somnath, Bhalka Tirth is a significant site where Lord Krishna is believed to have left his mortal body. It is an important pilgrimage spot for devotees of Lord Krishna.
Why Visit?
- Visit the Shri Krishna Nijdham Prasthan Tirtha Mandir, which commemorates Krishna’s final moments.
- Enjoy the peaceful and spiritual atmosphere of the site.
How to Reach
- By Air: Diu Airport is 65 km away.
- By Train: Veraval Railway Station is 7 km away.
- By Road: Accessible by taxis from Somnath or Veraval.
Best Time to Visit
- October to March.
7. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
The Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, near Dwarka, is one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is known for its massive Shiva statue and tranquil surroundings.
Why Visit?
- Witness the towering 80-foot Shiva statue.
- Experience the divine aura of this sacred site.
How to Reach
- By Air: Jamnagar Airport is 137 km away.
- By Train: Dwarka Railway Station is 18 km away.
- By Road: Connected by taxis from Dwarka.
Best Time to Visit
- October to March.
8. Bala Hanuman Temples in Gujarat
Located on the banks of Lakhota Lake in Jamnagar, the Bala Hanuman Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The temple is world-famous for its continuous chanting of the mantra “Shri Ram, Jai Ram, Jai Jai Ram”, which has been ongoing since 1964, earning it a place in the Guinness Book of World Records.
Why Visit?
- Witness the uninterrupted 24/7 chanting of Lord Ram’s name, which creates a deeply spiritual atmosphere.
- Visit the temple during evening prayers for a truly divine experience.
- Enjoy the serene views of Lakhota Lake near the temple.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jamnagar Airport, just 8 km away.
- By Train: Jamnagar Railway Station is 3 km from the temple.
- By Road: Easily accessible by road from nearby cities like Rajkot (90 km).
Best Time to Visit
- Open year-round, but evenings are particularly peaceful.
Nearby Attractions
- Lakhota Lake and Lakhota Palace Museum
- Pratap Vilas Palace
9. Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Ahmedabad
The Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Kalupur, Ahmedabad, is the first temple of the Swaminarayan Sampraday, built in 1822. It is a magnificent temple known for its intricate carvings, colorful designs, and historical significance.
Why Visit?
- Admire the heritage architecture, crafted with Burma teak wood and vivid colors.
- Experience the calm and spiritual atmosphere of the temple.
- Learn about the life and teachings of Lord Swaminarayan.
How to Reach
- By Air: Ahmedabad Airport is just 10 km away.
- By Train: The temple is close to the Ahmedabad Railway Station (2 km).
- By Road: It’s well-connected to all parts of Ahmedabad.
Best Time to Visit
- Visit during Janmashtami or Kartik Purnima, when the temple hosts grand celebrations.
Nearby Attractions
- Manek Chowk (Street Food Market)
- Sabarmati Ashram
- Sidi Saiyyed Mosque
10. Hutheesing Jain Temple, Ahmedabad
The Hutheesing Jain Temple, built in 1848, is a stunning example of Jain architecture. Dedicated to Lord Dharmanatha, the 15th Jain Tirthankara, the temple is known for its intricately carved marble façade and peaceful ambiance.
Why Visit?
- Marvel at the delicate marble carvings and architectural beauty of the temple.
- Explore the meditation halls for a tranquil experience.
- Learn about Jain philosophy and culture.
How to Reach
- By Air: Ahmedabad Airport is 9 km away.
- By Train: The temple is 5 km from Ahmedabad Railway Station.
- By Road: Auto-rickshaws and taxis make it easily accessible.
Best Time to Visit
- Open year-round, but mornings are the best time for a peaceful visit.
Nearby Attractions
- Bhadra Fort
- Calico Museum of Textiles
11. Rukmini Devi Temples in Gujarat
Located just 2 km from the famous Dwarkadhish Temple, the Rukmini Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Rukmini, the consort of Lord Krishna. The temple is smaller but equally stunning, with intricate carvings that depict various mythological tales.
Why Visit?
- Learn the mythological story behind why Rukmini is worshipped separately from Lord Krishna.
- Admire the intricate carvings on the temple walls.
- Enjoy the peaceful surroundings away from the hustle of Dwarkadhish Temple.
How to Reach
- Located just 2 km from Dwarkadhish Temple, accessible by rickshaws or on foot.
Best Time to Visit
- October to March.
Nearby Attractions
- Dwarkadhish Temple
- Bet Dwarka
12. Shamlaji Temples in Gujarat
The Shamlaji Temple, located on the banks of the Meshwo River, is an important Vaishnavite temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It dates back to the 11th century and is a major pilgrimage site in Gujarat.
Why Visit?
- Admire the marble and sandstone carvings that make the temple an architectural gem.
- Witness the annual Shamlaji Fair, which attracts thousands of devotees.
- Explore the serene riverside surroundings.
How to Reach
- By Air: Ahmedabad Airport is 125 km away.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Shamlaji Road, just 3 km from the temple.
- By Road: Well-connected to Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar.
Best Time to Visit
- November during the Shamlaji Fair.
Nearby Attractions
- Khedbrahma Temple
- Meshwo Dam
13. Bhavnath Mahadev Temple, Junagadh
The Bhavnath Mahadev Temple, located at the foothills of Mount Girnar, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a prominent pilgrimage site, especially during the Bhavnath Fair held in February.
Why Visit?
- Witness the grandeur of the Bhavnath Fair, marked by rituals and celebrations.
- Explore the temple as part of your trek to Mount Girnar, a sacred hill for Hindus and Jains.
- Experience the spiritual energy of this ancient site.
How to Reach
- By Air: Rajkot Airport is 105 km away.
- By Train: Junagadh Railway Station is 8 km from the temple.
- By Road: Buses and taxis are available from Junagadh city.
Best Time to Visit
- February during the Bhavnath Fair or October to March.
Nearby Attractions
- Mount Girnar
- Gir National Park
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14. Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temples in Gujarat
Perched on a tiny island surrounded by the Arabian Sea, the Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This serene temple is especially unique because it gets submerged during high tide.
Why Visit?
- Witness the stunning sight of the temple surrounded by the sea.
- Enjoy the scenic sunrise and sunset views from the temple.
- Participate in the annual Shravan Month Festival dedicated to Lord Shiva.
How to Reach
- Located 1.5 km from Dwarkadhish Temple, accessible by a short walk or rickshaw.
Best Time to Visit
- October to March.
Nearby Attractions
- Dwarkadhish Temple
- Nageshwar Jyotirlinga
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Conclusion
From ancient shrines to modern architectural wonders, these 14 famous temples in Gujarat are a testament to the state’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a pilgrim, history enthusiast, or traveler, each temple offers a unique experience steeped in devotion, art, and mythology. Make these temples part of your Gujarat itinerary to explore the sacred and timeless beauty of this incredible state.
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