Divine Hills and Temples: Palitana Jain Temple Trekking Tour

Rajkot , India

Divine Hills and Temples: Palitana Jain Temple Trekking Tour

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10h - 14h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on a spiritual journey with the Divine Hills and Temples: Palitana Jain Temple Trekking Tour. Begin your day at 6:00 AM in Rajkot, driving 215 km to Palitana. The picturesque journey offers glimpses of the Aravalli Hills. Upon reaching Palitana, trek 3.5 km to the top of Shatrunjaya Hill, consisting of 3750 steep steps. The challenging trek is rewarded with breathtaking views. Explore intricately carved Jain temples along the way, each narrating unique histories. By 1:00 PM, reach the summit, housing over 800 temples dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras. Enjoy the spiritual ambiance and panoramic views. Descend by 2:30 PM, returning to Palitana for a Gujarati lunch and exploration of the local market. Conclude the day with a return to Rajkot by 9:00 PM, completing this enriching Jain pilgrimage experience.

Available options

Car, Guide & Entrance

Car, Guide & Entrance<br/>Pickup included

Car Only

Includes: Private Car with Driver.<br/>Pickup included

Car, Guide, Entrance & Lunch

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary & Lunch.
<br/>Pickup included

Car & Guide

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

English speaking local guide, if option selected.

Entrance fees to monuments, if option selected.

Private AC car/van for pick up and drop off from/to your hotel.

Lunch, if option selected.

Government Taxes.

Bottled water in the car.

Detailed itinerary

Morning:

6:00 AM: Start your day early in the morning from Rajkot and drive to Palitana, which is approximately 215 km away. Enjoy the scenic drive through the countryside of Gujarat, with the Aravalli Hills in the backdrop.

10:00 AM: Arrive at Palitana, a renowned pilgrimage site for Jains, and proceed to the base of Shatrunjaya Hill.

Begin your trek to the top of Shatrunjaya Hill, which is approximately 3.5 km long and comprises around 3750 steep steps. The trek is challenging but rewarding, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Afternoon:

10:30 AM: As you ascend the hill, you'll encounter numerous intricately carved Jain temples, each with its unique architecture and history. Take your time to explore these temples and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of Jainism.

Admire the exquisite marble carvings, sculptures, and precious stones that adorn the temples, and learn about the Jain Tirthankaras (spiritual leaders) revered in these temples.

1:00 PM: Reach the summit of Shatrunjaya Hill, where you'll find the revered Palitana Jain Temple complex. This complex consists of more than 800 temples dedicated to various Jain Tirthankaras.

Spend some time soaking in the spiritual atmosphere and enjoying the panoramic views from the hilltop. The serene surroundings and the divine aura of the temples create a unique experience.

Evening:

2:30 PM: Begin the descent back to the base of the hill. Take your time to carefully descend the steep steps and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surroundings.

4:00 PM: Return to Palitana and have a delicious Gujarati lunch at a local restaurant. Gujarati cuisine is known for its unique flavors and vegetarian delicacies, which are a must-try during your visit to Gujarat.

After lunch, you can take some time to explore the local market and pick up souvenirs or artifacts related to Jainism or Gujarat's rich cultural heritage.

Evening:

5:00 PM: Depart from Palitana and drive back to Rajkot.

9:00 PM: Arrive back in Rajkot by late evening, depending on the pace of your return journey.

What's not included

Camera charges at monuments.

Gratuities and optional activities.

Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness

About Rajkot

Rajkot, the fourth-largest city in Gujarat, is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and modernity. Known as the cultural capital of Saurashtra, it offers a rich heritage, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. The city is also the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, India's revered leader.

Top Attractions

Aji Dam

Aji Dam is a picturesque lake and a popular spot for picnics and boating. It's especially beautiful during the sunset.

Nature 2-3 hours Free (Boating charges apply)

Rajkumar College

Founded in 1870, Rajkumar College is a historic educational institution with beautiful architecture and a rich legacy.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Jyotindra Davé Art Gallery

This art gallery showcases a variety of traditional and contemporary artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and crafts.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free (Donations welcome)

Rajkot Municipal Corporation Building

This iconic building is a fine example of colonial architecture and houses the municipal corporation offices.

Architectural 30 minutes Free

Kaba Gandhi No Delo

This is the ancestral home of Mahatma Gandhi, India's revered leader. It has been converted into a museum showcasing his life and work.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (Donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dhokla

A steamed fermented cake made from rice and chickpea flour, often served with chutney.

Snack Vegetarian, Vegan

Khandvi

A soft, rolled snack made from gram flour and yogurt, flavored with mustard seeds and curry leaves.

Snack Vegetarian

Fafda-Jalebi

A popular breakfast combination of crispy gram flour fritters (Fafda) and sweet fried dough (Jalebi).

Breakfast Vegetarian

Undhiyu

A mixed vegetable dish cooked in a special clay pot, with a unique blend of spices.

Main Course Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Wildlife safari in Gir National Park Boating at Aji Dam Picnic at Aji Dam Spa and wellness treatments Visit to Kaba Gandhi No Delo Art gallery tours Outdoor activities and sightseeing Experience the local culture and cuisine

Best Time to Visit

October to March

The best time to visit Rajkot is during the winter and early spring when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15°C to 35°C 59°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Gujarati, English
Widely spoken: Hindi, English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Rajkot is generally safe for travelers, but petty crimes like pickpocketing and scams can occur in crowded areas. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
• Use reputable transportation services and negotiate fares in advance.
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.

Getting there

By air

Rajkot Airport • 4 km from city center

By train

Rajkot Junction

By bus

Rajkot Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common mode of public transport in Rajkot. They are affordable and cover most parts of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Ola, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Alkapuri Jubilee Garden Rajkot City

Day trips

Somnath Temple

250 km • Full day

Somnath Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines and a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus. It's located near the coast and offers beautiful views.

Dwarka

220 km • Full day

Dwarka is an ancient city and a major pilgrimage site for Hindus. It's one of the Char Dham (four sacred abodes) and is mentioned in ancient Hindu texts.

Gir National Park

150 km • Full day or overnight

Gir National Park is the only natural habitat of the Asiatic lion and offers a unique wildlife experience. It's a great place for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Festivals

Navratri • September-October (dates vary each year) Diwali • October-November (dates vary each year) Uttarayan • January 14

Pro tips

Visit during the winter months (October to March) for the best weather and outdoor activities.
Try the local cuisine, including Gujarati thali, Dhokla, and Fafda-Jalebi.
Explore the historic landmarks and museums to learn about the city's rich cultural heritage.
Take a day trip to Gir National Park to see the Asiatic lions and experience wildlife.
Shop for local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs at the markets and shopping malls.