Palitana Travel Guide
Palitana, located on the western side of Gujarat, is known as one of the finest religious spots in India. It is the 48th largest city in India and is considered the world’s first “Pure Vegetarian” city. Palitana is 50 km from the city center and falls under the Bhavnagar district. The holy Shatrunjaya hill is located in Palitana and serves as its base.
Nestled atop a grand hill in Palitana are more than 850 Jain temples, each adorned with exquisite carvings. These temples, believed to have been constructed over 900 years by devoted followers, are a popular destination for holy tourism. Alongside other revered locations like Chandragiri, Mount Abu, and Girnar, Shatrunjaya is considered one of the most sacred places for the Jain community. If you plan to visit this wondrous city, read on for a brief travel guide.
Places to visit in Palitana
Palitana has several bustling bazaars where you can indulge your shopping urge. You can make the most of your spare time during your tour of Palitana by shopping in the Palitana bazaars, where you can pick up various handcrafted items and woven bamboo products. Not only bazaars but also there are many tourist attractions in Palitana. Check out the list below:
- Shatrunjaya Hill
- Shri Vishal Jain Museum
- Hastagiri Jain Tirth
- Gopinath Beach
- Talaja
Things to do in Palitana
Palitana is primarily a religious destination with numerous Jain temples. Therefore, your itinerary will mainly consist of visiting these temples and seeking blessings. However, there are other activities to explore during your stay. Let us take a quick look at them.
- Take a holy visit to the temples
- Get mesmerized by the greatness of Shatrunjaya Hills
- Witness the beauty of Gopinath Beach
- Let your spirits fly high at the beach
- Go for shopping
- Know more about Jainism.
Best time to visit Palitana
India’s summer season is known for its challenges, and Palitana is no exception with hot temperatures. However, March and April are more relaxed and more suitable for visiting. The southwest monsoon brings rainfall to Palitana. The pleasant season starts from the end of June until September. The winter season lasts until the end of February and early March, bringing a refreshing morning breeze, mild afternoon sun, and a decrease in temperature at night. All these factors contribute to a comfortable stay for anyone visiting Palitana.
How to reach Palitana
Palitana is extensively connected to all the major cities in Gujarat. From Bhavnagar, the town is situated at a distance of 51 km and, hence, can be conveniently reached through various means of transportation such as airways, railways, and roadways. The frequency of buses running from Bhavnagar to Palitana makes traveling easy for those looking at transport at affordable rates. These buses are available every hour. Another route that one can choose to go by road is to board a bus from Diu, Ahmedabad, Talaja, and Una. Get more details about how to reach Palitana here.
Accommodations in Palitana
Find the best deals on hotels in Palitana with our Palitana package. Choose from budget and luxury rooms that will make your stay in Palitana unforgettable. We’ve carefully selected the top hotels in Palitana that offer exceptional amenities and services to meet all your needs. You can choose from HOTEL OM PALACE & PARTY PLOT, Rangoli Park Hotel & Resort, Hotel 4REN, and many more. Enjoy your stay in Palitana with comfort and convenience.
Where to eat in Palitana?
If you’re visiting Palitana in Gujarat, India, a popular pilgrimage site, you can indulge in various vegetarian options highlighting the area’s diverse culinary traditions. To experience the local cuisine, head to the nearby eateries and try the traditional Gujarati thali, a lavish platter comprising rotis, dal, vegetables, and sweets. Jain culture largely influences the cuisine, which stresses a purely vegetarian diet and avoids root vegetables. Some of the highly recommended restaurants in Palitana include Sankalp Restaurant, Jagruti Restaurant, and Swagat Restaurant, to name a few.
How to get around in Palitana?
Navigating Palitana is pretty simple. To visit the main attraction, Shatrunjaya Hill, you can ascend over 3,800 stairs or opt for a traditional sedan chair (doli) ride. Walking and bicycle rickshaws are commonly used for transportation around the town. It’s essential to wear comfortable shoes and respect the local customs and environment as you explore this holy place.
Travel tips
- Always have some food with you.
- There are few hotels in Palitana, so book your rooms in advance.
- Respect the local culture and etiquette.
- Carry a camera with you; you will always want to remember your trip.
