3 Days in Rajkot for a Cultural Trip

Rajkot is a city that feels like home with its warm people and rich history. I've spent years exploring its streets, and it never fails to surprise me with its blend of old-world charm and modern energy. This itinerary covers the best of Rajkot's culture, from its royal past to its vibrant present, with plenty of delicious food stops along the way.

Gujarat, gujarat
3 Days
Cultural
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Walking through the grand halls of the Jubilee Garden and Watson Museum, feeling the weight of Rajkot's royal history
Watching the sunset over the city from the rooftop of Swaminarayan Temple while listening to evening prayers
Getting lost in the colorful chaos of Bangdi Bazaar, where you can find everything from traditional jewelry to spicy fafda

Best Time to Visit

OctoberFebruary

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Day 1

Day 1 in Rajkot

Start your Rajkot adventure by diving into its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious local flavors. Visit iconic landmarks, explore bustling markets, and savor authentic Gujarati cuisine.

Activities

Watson Museum and Library
Watson Museum and Library

Kick off your day at this fascinating museum, named after Colonel James Watson. It houses an impressive collection of artifacts, including sculptures, coins, and historical documents that showcase Rajkot's royal past. The library is a quiet retreat with rare manuscripts.

Near Jubilee Garden, Rajkot9:00 AM - 12:30 PM (closed on Mondays)₹20-50 per person
Tips:
  • Don’t miss the section on Mahatma Gandhi’s early life in Rajkot.
  • Photography is restricted in some areas, so check before clicking.
Kaba Gandhi No Delo
Kaba Gandhi No Delo

Step into the childhood home of Mahatma Gandhi, now a museum filled with personal memorabilia, photographs, and letters. The serene atmosphere gives a glimpse into the formative years of the Father of the Nation.

Ghee Kanta Road, Rajkot10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (closed on Sundays)Free entry
Tips:
  • Visit early to avoid crowds.
  • The nearby Ramkrishna Ashram is worth a quick stop if time permits.
Rotary Dolls Museum
Rotary Dolls Museum

A quirky yet delightful stop, this museum features over 1,400 dolls from around the world, each dressed in traditional attire. It’s a fun way to learn about global cultures in one place.

Near Race Course Road, Rajkot10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM (closed on Mondays)₹10-20 per person
Tips:
  • Great for families with kids.
  • The adjacent garden is perfect for a short break.

Must Try Foods

Dhokla (steamed savory cake)
Fafda-Jalebi (crispy snack with sweet syrup)
Undhiyu (winter vegetable medley)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Rajkot Junction (2-3 km, 10-15 minutes by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Rajkot Central Bus Stand (frequent local buses)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Auto-rickshaws and cabs are easily available; Ola/Uber operate here.

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Day 2

Day 2 in Rajkot

Dive deeper into Rajkot's cultural and historical gems, exploring iconic landmarks and savoring local flavors.

Activities

Visit the Rashtriya Shala

Start your day at Rashtriya Shala, a historic school founded by Mahatma Gandhi in 1921. The campus exudes a serene vibe, with its old architecture and lush gardens. It’s a great place to learn about Gandhi’s educational philosophy and his connection to Rajkot.

Rashtriya Shala, near Jubilee Garden, Rajkot9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (best to visit early to avoid the heat)Free
Tips:
  • Carry a hat or umbrella as the campus has open spaces with little shade.
  • Ask the caretakers for stories about Gandhi’s time here—they often share fascinating anecdotes.
Explore Jubilee Garden and Alfred High School
Explore Jubilee Garden and Alfred High School

Just a short walk from Rashtriya Shala, Jubilee Garden is a charming public park with a colonial-era clock tower. Adjacent to it is Alfred High School, where Gandhi studied. The building is now a museum showcasing his early life and Rajkot’s history.

Jubilee Garden, near Race Course Road, Rajkot11:30 AM - 1:00 PMFree for the garden; nominal fee for the museum
Tips:
  • The garden is a great spot for a quick break under the trees.
  • Don’t miss the vintage photographs inside Alfred High School—they’re a window into Rajkot’s past.
Lunch at Kotecha Chowk Street Food Stalls

Head to Kotecha Chowk, a bustling area known for its street food. Try local favorites like fafda-jalebi, khaman, and Rajkot’s famous dabeli. The energy here is infectious, with vendors calling out orders and the aroma of spices filling the air.

Kotecha Chowk, near Kalavad Road, Rajkot1:30 PM - 2:30 PM₹50-200 per person
Tips:
  • Go for the dabeli at the stall near the corner—it’s a local legend.
  • Carry cash as most stalls don’t accept digital payments.

Must Try Foods

Fafda-Jalebi (crispy snacks with sweet jalebi)
Rajkot Dabeli (spicy potato-stuffed bun)
Khaman (fluffy steamed chickpea flour snack)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Rajkot Junction (3 km from Jubilee Garden, 15-20 minutes by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Jubilee Garden Bus Stop (frequent buses from major areas)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and cabs are easily available; Ola/Uber works well in the city.

Day 3

Rajkot Hidden Gems

A relaxed day exploring lesser-known spots and local flavors in Rajkot, perfect for soaking in the city's authentic vibe.

Activities

Morning at Aji Dam Garden
Morning at Aji Dam Garden

Start your day with a peaceful stroll around Aji Dam Garden, a scenic spot loved by locals. The dam offers lovely views, and the garden is perfect for birdwatching or just unwinding. Don’t miss the small zoo nearby, which is a hit with families.

Aji Dam Road, near Aji Dam7:00 AM - 9:00 AM (best in the cool morning)Free (small fee for zoo entry)
Tips:
  • Carry water and sunscreen—shade is limited.
  • Weekends can get crowded with picnicking families.
Explore Bhaktivedanta Swami Temple

This serene ISKCON temple is a hidden gem with beautiful architecture and a calming atmosphere. Even if you're not spiritual, the intricate carvings and peaceful vibe make it worth a visit. Time your visit around the midday aarti for a glimpse of local devotion.

Near Race Course Road10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (before lunch crowds)Free (donations welcome)
Tips:
  • Dress modestly—shoulders and knees covered.
  • Check if photography is allowed inside.
Evening at Race Course Market

Wrap up your trip with a visit to this lively local market. It’s not touristy—just a great place to see Rajkot’s everyday life. Browse for handicrafts, try fresh sugarcane juice, or pick up some Gujarati snacks for the road.

Race Course Road5:00 PM - 6:30 PM (before dinner rush)Varies (budget around ₹200-500 for snacks/shopping)
Tips:
  • Bargain politely if buying souvenirs.
  • Try the fresh 'gathiya' from street vendors—a Rajkot specialty.

Must Try Foods

Gathiya (spicy fried snack)
Sukhdi (jaggery and ghee sweet)
Fresh sugarcane juice with lime

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Rajkot Junction (3-4 km from most spots, 15-20 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Race Course Bus Stand (frequent local buses)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and Ola/Uber easily available; autos are cheaper for short distances

Travel Tips

Start your days early - Rajkot gets quite warm by midday even in cooler months
Don't miss the local street food near Race Course Road in the evenings
Carry cash for small shops and auto-rickshaws as many don't accept digital payments
If you're visiting temples, dress modestly and remove shoes before entering

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