Exploring Gujarat on a Shoestring: The Ultimate Guide to Gujarat Ultra-low Budget Tour
Gujarat is a state that offers everything from rich history and vibrant culture to thrilling adventures and spiritual retreats. What’s even better is that it is an incredibly budget-friendly destination. Whether you’re a student, a backpacker, or simply someone looking to travel without breaking the bank, Gujarat can cater to all your needs. With a bit of smart planning and savvy choices, you can explore this remarkable state on an ultra-low budget while creating lifelong memories. Here’s how you can see the best of Gujarat without spending much, plus tips and tricks for stretching every rupee.
It is common for the travelers to land in Ahmedabad and start their journey of exploration from there. However, Gujarat is one of the states that literally carries an airport terminal in almost every district. This came as a surprise to me. From Rajkot and Jamnagar to Surat and Bhavnagar and Bhuj, the state is filled with airports enabling both public and tourists to directly reach their preferred destinations instead of landing in Ahmedabad. So, let’s explore and learn about various tourist destinations in Gujarat below in no specific order and without talking much about the obvious city of Ahmedabad.
1. The Statue of Unity: The Iron Man Icon
The Statue of Unity, located in Ekta Nagar, is the world’s tallest statue and a tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s “Iron Man.” Standing at a towering 182 meters, this statue draws tourists from all over the world. However, visiting it doesn’t have to be an expensive affair. This is a pride of India and one of the rare statues in the world which was constructed purely based on donations from the public and not using the tax payer’s money. Ekta Nagar is located around 150 Kms from Surat and approximately 90 Kms from Vadodara. It takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Ekta Nagar from Surat if one takes a taxi. By bus, slightly more.
Gujarat in ultra-low budget: Getting to Ekta Nagar Cheaply
Ekta Nagar is well-connected by public transportation. The cheapest way to get there is by state buses, which cost around ₹150-₹200 ($2-3) from Surat and Vadodara, or about ₹350 ($4) if you’re coming from Ahmedabad. These buses are comfortable and frequent, making them the best option for budget-conscious travelers. For even lower costs, consider taking the train, which is often the most economical mode of transport. Train tickets from Ahmedabad to Ekta Nagar are as low as ₹500 – 1500 ($5 – $15) if booked in advance.
For those coming from further afield, Surat and Vadodara have airports with domestic flights from various parts of India. Once you reach either city, buses or shared taxis can get you to the Statue of Unity at minimal cost.
Exploring the Statue and Nearby Attractions
The Statue of Unity itself is a fascinating experience, and the ticket prices here are not cheap. Yes, they have to purchased online and they are pricey. Costs anywhere between ₹ 300 to ₹ 3000 based on the facilities and luxury one looks forward to enjoying, especially to enter the statue and to get the bird’s eye view from top. Basic entry tickets start at ₹150 ($2), giving you access to the viewing gallery and the museum dedicated to Sardar Patel’s life. For the best experience, bring your own snacks and water to avoid high-priced food at the tourist center.
Ekta Nagar carries around 22+ attractions apart from the Statue of Unity which is the main attraction. It takes more than a day to explore all these attractions. Hence, staying in and around Ekta Nagar is recommended. Once inside, there’s no need to spend on private tours or cabs—Ekta Nagar provides free bus services that shuttle visitors between the various attractions, including the Butterfly Park, Jungle Safari, and Cactus Garden. These buses are reliable, and though they might be a little crowded during peak times, they save you a ton on transport costs within the area. However, if you have limited time and want to cut down on waiting times to catch the bus, it would be ideal to hire the electric auto rickshaws for half day or one full day depending on the need. Of course, they come at a price ranging from ₹ 800 to ₹ 1500 ($10 – $17).
To make the most of your visit, plan your trip to coincide with the evening projection mapping show, where stunning visuals are projected onto the statue. This show is free for all visitors, and it beautifully narrates Sardar Patel’s life story in an artistic light display. To cap off your day, visit the Shoolpaneshwar Temple nearby for the peaceful evening Aarti ceremony along the Narmada River—a serene experience.
Pro-Tip for Budget Travelers
While the food court at the Statue of Unity offers a variety of dishes, many visitors find the food to be overpriced and average in quality. To save on meals, pack your own food or stop at a local eatery on your way to the statue for an inexpensive meal. You can also book your Statue of Unity tickets online to avoid any hidden fees or surcharges. For more details on the nearby places of interest, do read the blog on Ekta Nagar and Statue of Unity.
2. Gujarat in ultra-low buget: BrahmaKund – A Historical Gem
Bhavnagar is located on the western side of Gujarat where it is geographically divided from Surat in the east by Arabian Sea. i.e. one can take a cruise to reach Surat or Bhavnagar from either sides. Bhavnagar connects to the most ancient part of the world has ever witnessed, the Dwarka and Somnath. Dwarka as a city is at least 5000 years old and goes back to the era of God Krishna.
BrahmaKund in Sihor, Bhavnagar, is an ancient step-well with both historical and mythological significance. The best part? It’s completely free to visit, making it a perfect destination for budget-conscious travelers interested in history and architecture. But one must ensure that BrahmaKund is combined along with other visits in and nearby Bhavnagar to make the trip really budget-friendly.
The Story of BrahmaKund
Legend has it that King Siddhartha, who later became Buddha, was once plagued by a skin disease and was miraculously cured after bathing in the waters of BrahmaKund following a vision from Lord Brahma. To honor the god, Siddhartha built the intricate step-well that stands today, adorned with small temples and statues. Locals believe the step-well is over 2,000 years old and, despite being neglected over the years, its spiritual significance remains strong.
Getting There
The best way to reach BrahmaKund is by local bus or shared rickshaw from Bhavnagar, which costs around ₹30-₹50 ($0.5-0.7). Once you reach Sihor, a short rickshaw ride to BrahmaKund will set you back about ₹50 ($0.7), or you could walk if you’re feeling adventurous and want to soak in the local atmosphere.
Since BrahmaKund is a remote location, there are no ticket booths, tourist shops, or guides vying for your attention—making it a peaceful, cost-free site to explore. However, do bring your own water and snacks as there are no food vendors nearby, which could save you from spending unnecessarily once you’re there.
Pro-Tips for travelers
- Pack Smart: Carry plenty of water and snacks. Gujarat can get extremely hot, and BrahmaKund’s secluded location means you won’t find vendors nearby.
- Respect the Space: Locals still perform rituals here, so be respectful of their customs and maintain the sanctity of the area.
- Ideal to come in group. Due to the remoteness of this location, it is not possible to expect to reach the place through public transportation. Hence, hiring a taxi or a tourist van is necessary. This place can be visited at a slice of the budget provided one comes in group and share the travel expenses.
Also consider visiting Nishkalank Mahadev Temple, another off-the-beaten-path temple in Bhavnagar that’s only accessible during low tide. It’s a great way to combine spiritual experiences with your historical exploration, all while keeping your expenses minimal.
3. Dwarka: A Holy City with Adventure at a Low Cost
Dwarka is one of the four Chardham pilgrimage sites in India, but beyond its spiritual allure, it offers budget-friendly options for travelers interested in adventure, history, and culture. It is the city of God Krishna that he built 5000+ years ago. Most of the actual city is submerged in water with only a small portion of it standing tall as an island (Beyt Dwarka).
Spirituality in full throttle
Dwarka’s main draw is the Dwarkadhish Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple has no entry fee, and you can participate in the daily Aarti for free, making it an excellent spiritual experience for those on a budget. You can explore nearby temples like the Rukmini Devi Temple and Nageshwar Jyotirlinga without paying any entrance fees. However, this is one of the ultra-busy pilgrimages visited by thousands of devotees on a daily basis. So, one may take up to 3 hours to get the darshan. The good news is that this place caters to tourists of varied interests and not just the pilgrims. Yes, Dwarka has some wonderful adventurous activities to pursue and amply spend a day’s time on. While it is possible to explore Dwarka Gujarat in ultra-low budget, in order for the tourist to have a sense of satisfaction and ensure covering all activities, it is recommended to spend some more on adventurous activities in Dwarka.
Thrilling Adventure for Minimal Cost
While Dwarka is a pilgrimage destination, it’s also a hub for low-cost adventure activities. Scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters of Beyt Dwarka is surprisingly affordable, costing just ₹2,000 ($25) for a session. This price includes the training, equipment, and the dive itself, which makes it a bargain for adrenaline seekers. If you’re feeling adventurous but don’t want to spend much, consider jet skiing or quad biking along the Gomti River, both of which cost around ₹100-150 ($1.2-2) per ride.
Another fun activity is taking a camel ride along the riverbank, costing a mere ₹50 ($0.7). These short but fun rides are perfect for families, offering a unique way to explore the landscape.
Budget Travel Hacks for Dwarka
- Accommodation: You can find decent accommodation in Dwarka, however, the cost is not that lower compared to other regions of Gujarat. At ₹1500-₹4000 ($15-50) per night, one can find decent accommodations with all necessary facilities. Many budget hotels offer basic amenities, and some even provide complimentary breakfast.
- Local Transport: Get around Dwarka by using public buses and shared rickshaws, which cost ₹10 – ₹30 – ₹60 ($0.4-0.7) for most routes. Avoid taxis unless absolutely necessary, as they can be more expensive.
4. The Roro Ferry: Ultra-Affordable Sea Travel
This is a classic example of traveling through Gujarat in ultra-low budget. Gujarat’s Roro Ferry (Roll-on, Roll-off) service between Bhavnagar’s Ghogha port and Surat’s Hazira port is an ultra-cheap way to travel, cutting down your journey time while giving you a mini-cruise experience.
Gujarat in ultra-low budget – Why the Roro Ferry is Budget Gold
The ferry ride is priced at just ₹650 ($8) for executive seating, making it an affordable and scenic way to travel between Surat and Bhavnagar. The 4-hour journey saves you a hefty amount of time and money compared to an 8-hour road trip. What’s more, you can transport your vehicle on the ferry for a small additional fee, making it a perfect option for road-trippers looking to save on fuel and tolls. One can even transport their car or van from either side of Bhavnagar to Surat for as low as ₹1000 ($14).
The ferry has three decks—vehicles are parked on the lower deck, while passengers can relax in the middle deck’s lounge or enjoy panoramic views of the ocean from the open-air top deck. The top deck is the best spot to enjoy the sea breeze and snap some Instagram-worthy photos—an experience that feels luxurious but comes at no extra cost.
Eating and Drinking on a Budget
The onboard canteen offers delicious vegetarian meals, but prices can be on the higher side. To keep costs down, pack your own snacks or grab a bite from a local eatery before boarding the ferry. Many budget travelers recommend bringing a packed lunch to enjoy on the top deck while taking in the views.
5. Gujarat in ultra-low budget – Girnar Hill: A Natural and Spiritual Retreat at almost zero cost
Girnar Hill, located in Junagadh, offers both spiritual and natural beauty, with its ancient temples and trekking opportunities. If you’re on a shoestring budget but still crave a dose of adventure, Girnar is your go-to destination.
Trekking or Ropeway? You Decide! The most budget-friendly option to explore Girnar is by trekking the 9,999 steps to the summit, which will cost you absolutely nothing except your energy. For those who prefer a faster, less strenuous option, the Ropeway is a great choice. It costs around ₹500 ($6), and in just 7.5 minutes, you’ll reach the summit, where breathtaking views await.
The hill gives a beautiful view of the forests as one climbs up. One can also visit so many temples as one ascends. Can you imagine, there are 800+ temples on this hill. While Girnar has a similar sounding name with that of the Gir national park, both are two different places. Gir national park is at least 90 minute drive from Junagadh.
More details on the Girnar hills, the peak temples, ropeway reservations etc. can be found with all the details in this blog on Girnar hill temples and ropeway.
Exploring the Warmth of Gujarat in ultra-low budget: Tips to know while planning a tour
If planned properly, a family of three or four can explore the length and breadth of Gujarat in under ₹ 50000 ($700). Yes. Surprisingly, it is possible. One may want to exclude or keep the flight charges as variable as it varies depending on the planning phase.
Embarking on a December journey to Gujarat might sound counterintuitive for those seeking a winter escape, but our experience in Dwarka challenged the typical notions of weather in this vibrant Indian state. As the northern regions of Bhaarat shivered in icy cold temperatures, we found ourselves sweating under the warm Gujarat sun. This unique weather phenomenon set the tone for an extraordinary travel adventure.
Vegetarian Delight
Gujarat, a state where around 80% of the population adheres to a vegetarian diet, offers a culinary experience like no other. Non-veg food enthusiasts may find it challenging, but for us, it was a delightful change. Even sea cruises, such as the one from Bhavnagar to Surat, surprised us with an exclusively vegetarian menu. The novelty of this culinary choice added an unexpected layer of excitement to our journey.
Cruising the Arabian Sea
A fascinating aspect of traveling through Gujarat is the opportunity to take a 4-hour cruise between districts, thanks to the separation of Surat and Bhavnagar by the Arabian Sea. This cost-effective adventure provided a unique perspective of the coastal beauty, making it a must-do for those seeking something beyond the usual road travel.
Speed limit
Navigating through Gujarat is a breeze, thanks to well-maintained roads that connect its diverse landscapes. The state’s friendly and welcoming people contribute to a sense of safety, with an added touch of honesty that minimizes the risk of being cheated. However, be prepared for a leisurely pace, as cabs maintain a maximum speed of 80 km per hour, ensuring safety but also slowing down your itinerary.
Prohibitions
Gujarat has its share of unique regulations. Alcohol enthusiasts should take note that the sale and consumption of alcohol are not permitted within the state. This cultural nuance adds an interesting facet to the travel experience. Especially solo travelers, please be informed.
Poor Sanitation
While the warmth of Gujarat extends to its people, cleanliness standards, especially in public restrooms, might leave visitors taken aback. Whether in hotels, malls, motels, cruises, or tourist spots, the consistency of less-than-pleasant restroom conditions proved to be a notable aspect of our journey. Exploring various districts revealed a mix of untidy, muddy landscapes peppered with pockets of plastic waste. While the beauty of Gujarat lies in its diverse places of importance, there is a need for collective efforts to address cleanliness aspect.
Sip and Saucer Culture
Tea lovers will find joy in Gujarat’s unique tea culture. Served in small cups resembling shots, the locals often prefer to drink tea using the saucer. This tradition adds a touch of authenticity to the tea-drinking experience, inviting travelers to embrace the local customs.