Rajkot Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Rajkot with this comprehensive travel guide, featuring must-see attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, local culture, safety tips, and more.


Introduction to Rajkot

Rajkot is a city located in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat, in Western India. It is the fourth-largest city in Gujarat, and it has a rich historical and cultural significance. Rajkot is known for its handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry production and is a commercial hub of Saurashtra. The city is also famous for its delicious cuisine and vibrant street food culture. If you are planning to visit Rajkot, here is a comprehensive travel guide to help you plan your itinerary.

List of Places to Visit in Rajkot

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Watson Museum and Library: This museum showcases the historical and cultural identity of Saurashtra. The museum houses a wide range of artifacts, including sculptures, manuscripts, ancient coins, and more.

  2. Kaba Gandhi No Delo: Kaba Gandhi No Delo is the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, who is revered as the Father of the Nation. The house now serves as a museum, and it exhibits the life and work of Mahatma Gandhi.

  3. Mahatma Gandhi High School: This school is one of the oldest schools in Rajkot, and it is deeply connected to the life of Mahatma Gandhi. The school was founded by his father, Karamchand Gandhi, and it is the place where Mahatma Gandhi studied.

Natural Attractions of Rajkot: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Race Course Ground: Race Course Ground is a popular park in Rajkot, and it is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenic views. The park has a jogging track, a playground, and a beautiful lake.

  2. Pradyuman Park: Pradyuman Park is a beautiful park, and it is a popular spot for picnics and family outings. The park has a children’s play area, a walking track, and a boating lake.

  3. Aji Dam: Aji Dam is a scenic location on the outskirts of Rajkot, and it is a popular destination for nature lovers. The dam has a beautiful lake, and it is a great spot for bird watching, hiking, and fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rajkot

  1. Kaba Gandhi No Delo to Rashtriya Shala: This is a popular cycling route in Rajkot, and it covers a distance of around 10 km. The route takes you through some of the historical landmarks of Rajkot, including Kaba Gandhi No Delo and Rashtriya Shala.

  2. Shri Ramakrishna Ashrama to Amrutamandap: This is a scenic hiking trail in Rajkot, and it covers a distance of around 5 km. The trail takes you through a beautiful forest, and it offers stunning views of the valley.

Best Things to Do in Rajkot: Activities and Tours

  1. Heritage Walk: Take a heritage walk through the ancient city of Rajkot, and explore its rich history and culture. The walk will take you through some of the significant landmarks, including Watson Museum, Kaba Gandhi No Delo, and Mahatma Gandhi High School.

  2. Food Tour: Rajkot is famous for its delicious cuisine and vibrant street food culture. Take a food tour and savor the traditional and authentic flavors of Rajkot.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rajkot

Day Activity
1 Heritage Walk and visit to Watson Museum and Library
2 Hiking/Biking tour to Shri Ramakrishna Ashrama
3 Visit to Kaba Gandhi No Delo and Mahatma Gandhi School
4 Visit to Pradyuman Park and Race Course Ground
5 Food Tour of Rajkot
6 Visit to Aji Dam
7 Relaxation Day

Food and Drink Scene of Rajkot

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Kathiawadi Thali: Kathiawadi Thali is a traditional meal of the Kathiawar region, and it is a must-try in Rajkot. The thali consists of a variety of dishes, including Gujarati dal, baingan bharta, aloo sabzi, rice, and roti.

  2. Dhokla: Dhokla is a famous Gujarati snack, and it is a staple food in Rajkot. It is a steamed cake made from fermented batter, and it is served with green chutney and sweet tamarind sauce.

  3. Kachori: Kachori is a spicy snack made with dough filled with a spicy mixture of moong dal and spices. It is a popular street food in Rajkot.

Local Beverages

  1. Buttermilk: Buttermilk is a refreshing and healthy drink, and it is a part of the local cuisine of Rajkot. It is made by churning yogurt, and it is flavored with spices like cumin, coriander, and mint.

  2. Masala Chaas: Masala Chaas is a spicy buttermilk, and it is a popular drink in Rajkot. It is flavored with spices like cumin, coriander, and black salt.

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

  1. The Imperial Palace: The Imperial Palace is a luxury hotel, and it is located in the heart of Rajkot. The hotel offers a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, a spa, and a fitness center.

  2. Marasa Sarovar Portico: Marasa Sarovar Portico is a mid-range hotel, and it is located near the airport. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and a range of services, including a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness center.

  3. Hotel Jyoti: Hotel Jyoti is a budget hotel, and it is located in the city center. The hotel offers basic amenities, including room service and a restaurant.

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

  1. Handicrafts: Rajkot is famous for its handicrafts, including traditional jewelry, wooden carvings, and colorful textiles. You can find them in the local markets, including Bangdi Bazaar and Soni Bazaar.

  2. Spices: Rajkot is a hub for spices, including cumin, coriander, and turmeric. You can buy them in the local markets, and they make for an excellent souvenir or gift.

Local Culture and Customs of Rajkot

Rajkot has a rich cultural heritage, and it is known for its vibrant and colorful festivals. The locals are welcoming and hospitable, and they take pride in their traditions and customs. Some of the significant festivals celebrated in Rajkot include Navratri, Diwali, and Holi.

Best Time to Visit Rajkot

The best time to visit Rajkot is during the winter season, from November to February. The weather is pleasant, and the temperature remains between 10 to 25 degrees Celsius. It is an excellent time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rajkot

Do:

  1. Respect the local customs and traditions.

  2. Try the local cuisine and street food.

  3. Carry appropriate clothing, especially if you plan to visit religious places.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t litter or disrespect the environment.

  2. Don’t click pictures without seeking permission.

  3. Don’t wear revealing or skimpy clothing.

Safety and Health

Safety in Rajkot

Rajkot is a safe city, and the crime rate is relatively low. However, it is always advisable to take precautions, especially if you are traveling alone at night. Avoid walking in dark or deserted areas and be aware of your surroundings.

Health in Rajkot

Rajkot has a good healthcare system, and there are several hospitals and clinics in the city. However, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions, including carrying a first aid kit and drinking only bottled water.

Getting to Rajkot: Transportation Options and Logistics

Rajkot is well-connected by air, road, and rail. The nearest airport is Rajkot Airport, which is located around 5 km from the city center. There are several daily flights connecting Mumbai, Delhi, and other major cities to Rajkot.

Airports Near Rajkot

  1. Rajkot Airport

  2. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad (220 km)

Bus Stations Near Rajkot

  1. Rajkot Bus Station

  2. Punitnagar Bus Station

Other Options

  1. Trains: Rajkot Junction is the main railway station, and it is well-connected to major cities across the country.

  2. Taxis: You can hire a taxi or a cab to travel within the city.

How to Get Around in Rajkot

Rajkot has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. The city also has a well-connected network of cycle rickshaws, which is an affordable and convenient way to travel within the city.

Where to Go Next from Rajkot: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Junagadh: Junagadh is a city located around 100 km from Rajkot, and it is known for its historical landmarks and natural beauty. Some of the significant attractions of Junagadh include Uparkot Fort, Girnar Temple, and Mahabat Maqbara.

  2. Dwarka: Dwarka is a city located around 230 km from Rajkot, and it is one of the Char Dham Pilgrimage sites in India. It is a significant religious destination, and it is famous for its temples, including Dwarkadhish Temple and Nageshwar Jyotirlinga.

Conclusion

Rajkot is a vibrant and colorful city, and it offers a unique blend of culture, history, and modernization. From the ancient monuments to the scenic natural beauty, there is something for everyone in Rajkot. Plan your trip to Rajkot, and immerse yourself in its rich heritage and culture.

Sacred Heart Syro-Malabar Cathedral (also called Prem Mandir) Sacred Heart Syro-Malabar Cathedral (also called Prem Mandir) Ramakrishna Ashram Ramakrishna Ashram Crystal Mall Crystal Mall