Seeking a holiday in Gujarat mostly involves a tour to Somnath Temple, the first of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples in India, Dwarkadish Temple, one among the Char Dham Circuit, Rann of Kutch, Gir National Park, Diu, the Statue of Unity and a few more. However, covering all the locations in a single vacation might be a challenge as taking long breaks from the daily routine might not be that easy. For those with busy schedules and scanty breaks might customise their Gujarat tour with a blend of culture and wildlife tour. Having said that, plan a tour of Somnath and Gir National Park, the magnificent abode of the Asiatic Lions.
Begin your holiday with a lump sum amount of thrill - Gir National Park
Located between Veraval and Junagadh, this sprawling 1412-sq-km sanctuary is a haven for the endangered Asiatic lion (Panthera leopersica). Navigating through its dense forests on safari is a delight, offering the chance to encounter not only lions but also a diverse array of wildlife and numerous bird species. Entry to the sanctuary is strictly regulated through advanced online safari permits. Alternatively, visitors can explore the Devalia Safari Booking, a fenced-off section of the sanctuary where lion sightings are guaranteed but somewhat orchestrated. Besides lions, the sanctuary is home to 37 other mammal species, including chital, sambar, nilgais, chousinghas, chinkaras, crocodiles, and occasionally leopards. Birdwatchers will also find joy in the park, with over 300 bird species, many of which are year-round residents. However, the sanctuary's human population, primarily the Maldhari herders, has been significantly reduced due to concerns about competition for food resources with wildlife. Despite this, around 1000 people still reside in the park, with their livestock comprising a significant portion of the lions' diet.
• Best time to visit - November to March
• How to reach - Junagadh and Veraval are the nearest railheads, whereas the nearest airport is located at Keshod.
Wrap up your holiday with a tint of culture and worship - Somnath Temple
Situated in Prabhas Patan near Veraval in Saurashtra, the Somnath Temple stands as a testament to India's spiritual heritage. This intricately carved honey-coloured temple holds immense significance, believed to be the sacred spot where the first of the twelve holy jyotirlingas emerged, representing the manifestation of Shiva as a divine column of light. Over the centuries, the temple has endured destruction at the hands of various invaders, including Muslim forces and the Portuguese. However, it has been rebuilt multiple times, with the present structure following the Chalukya style of Hindu temple architecture, completed under the guidance of Vallabhbhai Patel in May 1951. The site of Somnath has long been revered as a pilgrimage destination, owing to its status as a Triveni Sangam, where the Kapila, Hiran, and Sarasvati rivers converge. Legend has it that Soma, the Moon god, once bathed in the Sarasvati River at this very site to restore his lost lustre, symbolising the cycle of waxing and waning of the moon, mirroring the ebb and flow of the tides along this coastal region. The town itself derives its name, Prabhas, meaning "lustre," from this ancient tradition, while alternate names such as Someshvar and Somnath ("The lord of the moon" or "the moon god") further underscore its sacred significance.
• Best time to visit - November to March
• How to reach - Somnath has its railway station and the nearest airport is at Porbandar.
How to Plan the Gir-Somnath Tour?
Day 1 - Arrive at the railway station or airport and proceed towards your pre-booked accommodation near Gir National Park. Depending upon the time of arrival the leftover day is either free for leisure or you can choose to opt for an evening safari.
Day 2 - Dedicate the entire day to the Asiatic Lions. Conduct your advance booking for both morning and evening safaris. Do check the time slots for both Gir and Devaliya jeep safari.
Day 3 - Make a day tour of Somnath Temple, approximately 72 km from Gir National Park. It takes about 2-3 hours to complete the darshan in the temple. However, on special occasions like Shivaratri, it might take prolonged hours to complete the darshan. Return to the hotel or resort after visiting the temple.
Day 4 - Complete your checking out procedures and head towards the airport or railway station for the scheduled departure.
Thus, you can complete the entire tour in just four days, appropriate for a long weekend tour, if coming from the neighbouring cities.
