Porbandar Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Porbandar, Gujarat with this comprehensive travel guide featuring the best places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Introduction to Porbandar

Porbandar is a coastal city located in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat, India. It is famously known as the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation. Apart from its historical significance, Porbandar offers a unique blend of architecture, culture, and natural beauty. The city is known for its stunning beaches and magnificent temples, making it a popular tourist destination. This guide will take you through some of the best things to do and see in Porbandar, so you can plan a memorable trip to this beautiful city.

List of Places to Visit in Porbandar

If you’re visiting Porbandar, there are plenty of places to explore. From museums and historical landmarks to natural attractions and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kirti Mandir: This is the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi and is considered a national monument. The museum showcases pictures, paintings, and other artifacts related to his life and work.
  • Sudama Mandir: This temple is dedicated to Sudama, a friend of Lord Krishna according to Hindu mythology. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and carvings.
  • Nehru Planetarium: This planetarium located in the city center is a great place to learn about astronomy and space science.

Natural Attractions of Porbandar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Porbandar Beach: Known for its serene and peaceful atmosphere, Porbandar Beach is a great place to relax and unwind. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, take in the views of the sea, and enjoy the sunset.
  • Barda Hills Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary located on the Barda Hills is home to various species of flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy a jeep safari and spot animals like deer, blackbucks, and migratory birds.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Porbandar

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Porbandar has plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking. Here are some popular routes in the area:

  • Porbandar Beach to Chhara Rajpara: This route is approximately 10 km long and offers stunning views of the coastline.
  • Porbandar to Krishna Kutir: This route is approximately 20 km long and takes you through the Barda Hills Wildlife Sanctuary.

Best Things to Do in Porbandar: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Kirti Mandir: As mentioned above, this is the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi and is a must-visit site for anyone interested in history and culture.
  • Take a Jeep Safari: The Barda Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place to spot wildlife and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
  • Visit the Sudama Mandir: This temple is not only culturally significant, but it’s also a great spot for photography enthusiasts who will appreciate the intricate carvings and architecture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Porbandar

If you have a week to spare in Porbandar, here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan your trip:

Day 1: Visit Kirti Mandir and Sudama Mandir Day 2: Relax at Porbandar Beach Day 3: Take a Jeep Safari at Barda Hills Wildlife Sanctuary Day 4: Visit Nehru Planetarium and the Rana Bapu’s Mahal Palace Day 5: Explore the Chowpati and Huzoor Palace Day 6: Take a day trip to Dwarka and attend the evening aarti at Dwarkadhish Temple Day 7: Visit the Porbandar Bird Sanctuary and end your trip with an evening stroll at Nayana Beach

Food and Drink Scene of Porbandar

No trip to Porbandar is complete without trying some local delicacies. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Khaman-Dhokla: These are steamed chickpea flour cakes that are a popular breakfast item in Gujarat.
  • Khandvi: This snack is made from gram flour and is seasoned with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and other spices.
  • Sev Usal: This dish consists of dried peas, farsan, and tomatoes served with fried bread.

Local Beverages

  • Chaas: This is a refreshing drink made from yogurt and water, seasoned with herbs, spices, and salt.
  • Soda: A popular drink in Gujarat, this fizzy soda comes in various flavors like lemon, orange, and cola.

Where to Stay in Porbandar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of options for accommodation in Porbandar, catering to all budgets. Here are some recommendations:

  • The Imperial Hotel: This is a luxury hotel located near Porbandar Beach offering stunning sea views and excellent amenities.
  • Hotel Sheetal: This is a mid-range hotel located in the heart of the city, with clean rooms and a restaurant.
  • City Guest House: This is a budget-friendly guest house located near the railway station, offering clean and comfortable rooms.

What to Buy in Porbandar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for something to take home as a souvenir, Porbandar has plenty of options. Here are some recommendations:

  • Bandhani Sarees: These are colorful sarees made using the tie-and-dye technique, popular in Gujarat.
  • Antique Jewelry: Porbandar is known for its antique jewelry, featuring intricate designs and motifs.
  • Traditional Handicrafts: You’ll find various handicrafts like pottery and handloom products reflecting the local culture.

Local Culture and Customs of Porbandar

Porbandar is a city with a rich cultural heritage. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are expected to respect local customs and traditions. Gujarat is a dry state, and alcohol consumption in public is strictly prohibited. Visitors are also expected to dress modestly and cover their heads when entering religious places.

Best Time to Visit Porbandar

The best time to visit Porbandar is during the winter season, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and mild. Summers can be scorching, and monsoons can be unpredictable and hinder outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Porbandar

Do:

  • Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting religious places.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local food and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Consume alcohol in public areas.
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.
  • Litter and harm the environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Porbandar

Porbandar is a relatively safe city compared to other Indian cities. However, visitors are advised to take precautions like not carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, avoiding isolated areas, and taking a registered taxi or auto-rickshaw.

Health in Porbandar

Visitors to Porbandar should take precautions and ensure they have all necessary vaccinations before traveling. It’s important to drink bottled water and avoid street food to avoid any health issues.

Getting to Porbandar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Porbandar

The nearest airport to Porbandar is the Porbandar Airport, which connects to major Indian cities like Mumbai and Ahmedabad.

Bus Stations Near Porbandar

Porbandar is well-connected by bus, and there are several bus terminals located in the city, with frequent services to nearby cities and towns.

Other Options

Porbandar can also be reached by rail, with direct trains available from major cities like Ahmedabad and Mumbai.

How to Get Around in Porbandar

Porbandar is a relatively small city, and most of the major attractions are located within a few kilometers of each other. Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses are readily available to get around the city.

Where to Go Next from Porbandar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Dwarka: Located around 105 km from Porbandar, this is a sacred Hindu city known for the Dwarkadhish Temple.
  • Junagadh: Located around 100 km from Porbandar, this city is known for its historical monuments and natural beauty.

Conclusion

Porbandar is a city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring museums and historical landmarks, spotting wildlife on a jeep safari, or relaxing at the beach, Porbandar has something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.