20 Places to Visit in Rajkot, Tourist Places & Top Attractions

Gandhi Museum

Image Credit : mgmrajkot.com

Mahatma Gandhi’s paternal house, where he spent his childhood is among the most important places to visit in Rajkot. He had lived in a house off the Gheekanta Road from 1881 to 1887 AD which was known as Kaba Gandhi No Delo.

The house has now been converted into a Smruti museum and is managed by an NGO. It depicts the life of Gandhi Ji through pictorial representation and preserved artifacts. Some of his personal belongings are on display and his love for handwoven cloth is being kept alive through a small weaving school in the premises. Popular among historians the museum is equivalent to a shrine for Gandhi followers.

Timings: Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM; 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM

Sunday: 10:00 AM onwards

Location: 8, Nav Lane, Dela Vadi, Khadia, Rajkot

Best time to visit: October to February

Green Leaf Water World

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Ranked as one of the best water parks in the city, Green Leaf Water World is among the fun places to visit in Rajkot. Located just 5 kilometers away from the city it is ideal for splashing around and chilling during summers. This amusement park offers resort-style amenities and is a fun place for adventure-loving water babies with several adrenaline-pumping slides and raft rides.

The family-friendly and safe atmosphere allows you to spend a relaxing day while you make memories for a lifetime. Apart from the thrilling rides, you can lounge around the pools and enjoy rain dance. The park also has kids friendly play rides and interactive water activities to keep children engaged. You can also opt for a scrumptious lunch or dinner while booking tickets. Poolside can also be booked for chilled out parties with friends and family.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Entry Fees: Rs. 500

Location: Behind B. A. Dangar College, Ghanteshvar Jamnagar Road, Rajkot

Best time to visit: July to November

Baps Shri Swaminarayan Mandir

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is a revered Hindu temple on Kalawad Road. It is one of the most beautiful spiritual places to visit in Rajkot. Dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan, the temple was built using Ancient Vedic Shilpa Shastra techniques in 1998 by Swaminarayan Sampradaya.

The Sampradaya follows Vaishnava traditions and belongs to a socio-spiritual Hindu organization BAPS. The astounding beauty of the temple attracts visitors of different religions from all over the country. The charitable trust running the temple organizes events for the celebration of Indian cultural heritage and is renowned for its humanitarian services.

Timings: 7:30 AM to 10:15 AM, 11:15 AM to 12:00 noon,

4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, 7:00 PM to 8:15 PM

Location: Kalavad Road, Ravipark Society, Rajkot

Best time to visit: November to March

Iskcon Temple

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ISKCON Temple is among the most revered places to visit in Rajkot. Dedicated to the practice of bhakti-yoga this center comprises a temple of Hare Krishna known as Sri Sri Radha Neelmadhav Dham and an ashram. The center was built in 2003 by His Holiness Mahavishnu Goswami Maharaj and inaugurated by the then Chief Minister of Gujarat Shri Narendra Modi and Mr. Alfred Brush Ford (Ambarish Das), owner of the Ford Auto motors-US.

The temple is located on Kalawad Main Road and its majestic architecture allures pilgrims from across the country. The idols in the temple are strikingly beautiful and devotees gather to witness the spectacular Maha Aarti of the divine in his peaceful form. The ISKCON trust is responsible for the maintenance of the temple premises and also organizes religious and cultural events all around the year.

Timings: 5:00 AM to 12.30 PM, 4.30 PM to 8.30 PM

Location: Kalawad Main Road, Rajkot

Best time to visit: August to March

Nyari Dam

Built over the Nyari river, the Nyari Dam is breathtakingly beautiful and a fun picnic spot. Frequented by locals and tourists alike, it is among the popular places to visit in Rajkot. The scenic beauty of the dam is unmatched and during winters it turns into a bird watchers zone with migratory birds flocking the area.

The area around the dam is well-kept to match the tranquillity of the place. You can visit the spot for spending a relaxing day amidst nature as the children’s play area keeps the little ones engaged and several food stalls serve refreshments. Watching the gorgeous sunset in the romantic ambiance makes the experience more memorable.

Timings: Open all-day

Location: Nyari Dam Road, Rajkot

Best Time to Visit: December to February

Randarda Lake

A 100-year-old natural lake on the outskirts of the city, Randarda Lake is one of the best places to visit in Rajkot for nature lovers. Located near Pradyuman Zoological Park, this beautiful lake is a bird watcher’s paradise. The lake is shallow and provides a natural ecosystem for around 160 species of indigenous birds and around 60 species of migratory birds. Besides, a nearby nursery managed by the forest department provides tree cover to the birds for roosting.

You can spend time looking at different species of ducks, geese, pelicans, egrets, herons, and hens. Spotting birds such as black-tailed god-wit, rosy pastor, pheasant tailed jacana, purple moorhen, wigeon, common teal, pelican and spoonbill frolicking in the water at sunrise or sunset is a delight.

Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Location: Near Pradhyuman Park Zoo, Rajkot

Best Time to Visit: December to February

Pradhyuman Zoological Park

Spread across a sprawling 137 acres, the Pradhyuman Zoological Park is also known as the Rajkot Prani Sangrahalaya. Located near Lalpari Lake on the outskirts of the city, the zoo is maintained by Rajkot Municipal Corporation. The zoo is home to various rare animals, birds, and trees in a natural environment. You can witness Gir lion, tiger, crocodile, leopard, fox, elephant, deer, and other wild animals.

The reptile enclosure has a great collection of snakes including Indian rock python, rattle-snake, king cobra, etc. A wide variety of migratory birds flock the area during the cooler months (October to February). The zoo is well equipped with eateries, drinking water, restrooms, and seating spots. Golf carts are also available for senior citizens. You can easily spend a day hanging out and having fun with your family at this place. It is a favorite picnic spot among locals as well.

Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Closed on Fridays)

Entry fees: Rs. 10 for adults

Rs. 5 for children

Rs. 50 for foreigners

Location: Pradhyuman Park, Near Lalpari Lake, Rajkot

Best time to visit: February to June

Fun World

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Fun World is the first-ever amusement park in Gujarat and attracts adventure lovers from across the country. Set up in 1990, the park is listed among the tourist places in Rajkot as it has around 1.2 million visitors annually. Popular among the tourists and locals alike, Fun World has 26 amusement rides including some adrenaline-pumping roller coasters and is spread over a sprawling 5 acres. In addition to the entertainment activities, the park offers lip-smacking refreshments.

You can indulge in some traditional finger-foods while enjoying the thrilling rides and swings. The park also features a gymnasium, a swimming pool and a separate area for sports such as cricket, football, etc. Attractive discounts are available on special occasions and from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM on all days, except Sundays and national holidays. Fun World is an ideal spot for spending some fun time with your kids and family.

Timings: 3:00 PM to 11:30 PM

Entry fees: Rs. 20 for adults
Rs. 15 for children

Location: Race Course Ground, Rajkot

Best time to visit: July to November

Khambhalida Caves

Located near Gondal town are the popular Khambhalida caves also known as the Rajkot Caves. Discovered by the renowned archaeologist, Shri P. P. Pandya in 1958, these Buddhist caves are a major attraction among the tourists. Three caves had been cut out of limestone rocks in the 4th – 5th century AD.

The central cave known as a 'chaitya' has a worn-out stupa, where according to popular belief Buddhist monks had meditated during ancient times. The entrance of the chaitya has two large sentinel sculptures known as the Bodhisattvas- Padmapani (on the right) and Vajrapani (on the left). These sculptures are similar to those of the late Kushan-Kshatrapa period. Maintained by the Archaeology Department of Gujarat, the caves lure history buffs from across the country and are among the prominent tourist places in Rajkot.

Timings: Open all-day

Location: Khambhalida, Gujarat

Best Time to Visit: April to October

The Eldorado Park

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Located approximately 20 kilometers away from the city, Eldorado Park is one of its kind water park cum amusement park in the Saurashtra Region. Created by Alliance Amusement Pvt. Ltd., it caters to people of all age groups through its 22 thrill rides and 12 water rides. It is a fun place to spend a day with family and kids as the Kids Park, Toy Train ride, Baby Pool for kids are great to keep children engaged.

A 7D Theatre, Rain Dance and fun activities like Crazy River, Smashing Car ensure you have the best of times. An elegant restaurant serves lip-smacking authentic Indian dishes. The environment is also suitable for adventure lovers and there is no dearth of activities for you to indulge. Tickets can be bought individually for the water park and amusement park or in combination at a discounted rate.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Entry fees: Rs. 500 for adults (above 120 cm)

Rs. 300 for children (below 120 cm)

Location: Jamnagar Highway, Taraghadi, Rajkot

Best time to visit: July to November

Ranjit Villas Palace

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Among the most beautiful places to see in Rajkot is the Ranjit Vilas Palace. A famous landmark in Rajkot, the royal palace overlooking the town of Wankaner was built in an area of around 225 acres. The palace was constructed in 1907 by Maharaja Amar Singh Ji, atop a hill. The palace is the cultural heritage of the Jhala dynasty and it attracts many visitors every year. It is an architectural marvel created by the fusion of Mughal domes, Franco-Italian window panes, Gothic arches, Italian fountains, and Victorian balconies.

The spectacular palace is still the residence of the royal family. A part of it has been converted into a museum where paintings, artifacts, armaments, and cars owned by the royal family are put up on display. You can visit the palace to marvel at its grandiose architecture and admire the rich heritage of the royal family.

Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Entry Fees: Rs. 30

Location: Palace Road, Hathi Khana, Vardhman Nagar, Rajkot

Best time to visit: November to March

Race Course Grounds

Race Course grounds are expansive grounds ideal for sports and cultural events located in the heart of Rajkot city. The main attractions include an indoor stadium built to match Olympic standards, a cricket ground that can host international matches and grounds for other outdoor sports such as football, hockey, volleyball, etc. The Ground is a recreational spot with fun activities for all age groups and fitness levels like Bal Bhavan, Fun World, and Children Traffic Park for kids.

A gym, and swimming pool for fitness enthusiasts and lush lawns with walking trails for the elderly. You can spend a day at the Race Course Grounds, relaxing in the gardens, lounging around the swimming pool or working out in the gymnasium. There are food joints that serve refreshments and proper seating arrangements are available for senior citizens. Being located in the center of the city it is easily accessible and is equally popular among locals and tourists.

Timings: Open all-day

Location: Airport Main Road, Race Course, Maruti Nagar, Rajkot

Best time to visit: November to March

Aji Dam

Aji Dam, built in the 1950s over the Aji River is the most important dam out of the four dams built on it. Located on the outskirts of Rajkot, the dam is referred to as the ‘lifeline of Rajkot’. It provides drinking and agricultural water to the city and keeps it clean by maintaining the ecological balance. A beautiful park and zoo near the dam make it one of the most visited tourist places in Rajkot.

The picturesque views of the river and park are breath-taking. The park is a popular picnic spot as it features an amusement park, a children’s park, and a food court. The zoo has a wide variety of animals, reptiles, and birds along with an aquarium. You can enjoy the tranquil environment of the park and spend a relaxing day with friends and family.

Timings: Open all-day

Location: Near Bhavnagar Road, Rajkot

Best time to visit: October to March

Ishwariya Park

Inaugurated in 2008 by the then Chief Minister of Gujarat Mr. Narendra Modi, Ishwariya Park is one of the eminent tourist places in Rajkot. It is situated 10 kilometers away from the city on the Jamnagar Highway. Spread over 77 acres, this large park is an ideal picnic spot. The park has a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, a lake, a golf course, and a musical fountain to keep you entertained. There are jogging and walking tracks along with a playground for children.

The tranquillity of the space attracts nature lovers and weary souls as the environment is peaceful and ideal for spending a relaxing day. Escaping the bustle of the city you can spend time with your family boating in the lake, worshipping in the temple and unwinding amidst nature. The best time to enjoy the park’s splendor is during autumn or spring season i.e. from October to February.

Timings: Tuesday to Saturday 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM Sunday 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Mondays Closed)

Entry fees: Rs. 20 for adults

Rs. 10 for children

Location: Near Jamnagar Highway, Rajkot

Best time to visit: October to February

Rotary Dolls Museum

This unique museum was conceived by celebrated Rotarian Mr. Deepak Agrawal in 2001, it was inaugurated in 2004 and is one of the most interesting places to visit in Rajkot. Spread over 9000 square feet, the museum intends to spread knowledge about the culture and traditions of different countries from across the world.

The Rotary Dolls Museum is registered in the prestigious Limca Book of Records for the most number of ethnic dolls with the flags of their country, from all over the world. You can visit the museum to view over 1600 dolls from 102 countries. To promote love, care and concern for humanity the dolls are dressed in the traditional attire of their countries. This museum is a great place for kids and adults alike, to learn about different cultures around the world, in a fun way.

Timings: 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM; 3:30 PM to 7:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)

Entry fees: Rs. 25 for adults

Rs. 15 for children above 5 years

Rs. 35 for photography

Location: Heera-Panna, 2ndfloor Nagrik Bank Building Yagnik Road, Opp, Jagnath Plot, Rajkot

Best time to visit: October to April

Lalpari Lake

One of the most exotic picnic places to visit in Rajkot, Lalpari Lake is located on the outskirts of the city. Constructed in 1895 as a part of Victoria Golden Jubilee Water Works, the lake is around 0.9 square kilometers in size. The astounding beauty of the lake amplifies against the backdrop of hillocks covered with lush greenery. In addition to the landscape, the lake attracts some rare species of migratory birds.

The Lalpari lake is popular among locals as a picnic spot and tourists as a bird watching venue. You can spot beautiful birds such as black-tailed godwit, rosy pastor, common teal, pheasant tailed jacana, purple moorhen, pelican, and spoonbill. The surreal beauty of the lake at sunrise and sunset makes it a must-visit spot for nature lovers. The area is clean and well maintained enhancing the tranquility of the place.

Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Location: Lalpari Road, Rajkot

Best time to visit: July to March

Jubilee Garden

Located in the heart of the city, the opulent Jubilee Garden is a popular leisure spot. This sprawling park provides relief to the bustling city and is ideal for an unwinding getaway with your family. Suitable for recreation the lush greenery is accompanied by swings and rides for children.

You can visit the park at any time of the day as there are many trees to provide shade and it is easily accessible from any place in the city. In addition to its natural charm, the garden houses the historic Watson museum, Arvindbhai Maniyar Auditorium (also known as Connaught Hall), and Lang Library. ‘Chevdo’, a popular Gujarati snack, served by the local vendors, is another popular attraction at the park. During winters flowers and migrated birds add to the ethereal beauty of the place, making it one of the most stunning places to see in Rajkot.

Timings: Open all-day

Location: Jubilee Rd, Lohana Para, Rajkot

Best time to visit: October to April

Bhootnath Mahadev Temple

Located around 40 kilometers from Rajkot city, the Bhootnath Mahadev Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is among the least explored places to visit in Rajkot. A quick road trip will take you to a small temple in an idyllic set up surrounded by lush greenery and hills.

The location is not frequented by tourists so it is not crowded but the enchanting beauty of the place makes it a must-visit spot. The area experiences high winds throughout the year, so you can see lots of windmills. You can add some fun to your spiritual visit to the temple by hiking and trekking in the nearby hills. You can spot peacocks, monkeys and other animals around the place.

Timings: Open all-day

Location: Near Halenda Village, Rajkot

Best time to visit: August to March

Jagat Mandir

Jagat Mandir, also known as Universal Temple, is located on Yagnik Road inside the premises of Ramkrishna Ashram. It is a must-visit place in Rajkot for spiritual devotees. Dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, this modern temple was built in 1934. The 168 feet high temple was designed by Shri Madhukar Thakor and is inspired by the Shri Ramakrishna Temple at Belur Math.

The red stone temple houses a white marble image of Bhagwan Sri Ramakrishna sitting on a Lotus flower with idols of Lord Hanuman (on the left) and Lord Ganesha (on the right). The temple has characteristics dedicated to different religions such as Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, and Buddhism. In addition to the temple, the ashram has a library, bookstore, guest house, Ayurveda Center, and a gallery with exhibits from the life of Shri Ramakrishna Paramhansa.

Timings: 8:00 AM to 7:30 PM

Location: Indraprasth Nagar, Kotecha Nagar, Rajkot

Best time to visit: November to March

Watson Museum

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Managed by the state government of Gujarat, Watson Museum celebrates the long history of the state. The historical relics that are exhibited in the museum were documented by Colonel John Watson, a British political agent of Kathiawar Agency. Located in the Jubilee Garden area of the city it is one of the most important museums in Gujarat.

Portraits and photographs of rulers of Saurashtra, invaluable belongings of the Jadeja Rajput dynasty, sculptures from Ghumali, tribal artifacts, coins, jewelry and archaeological finds from the Indus Valley sites are preserved at the museum. Being the oldest and the best museum in the Saurashtra region it is one of the most interesting places to see in Rajkot for history enthusiasts. Guided tours are available along with a reference library.

Timings: 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM; 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Public Holidays)

Entry fees: Rs. 5 for Indian citizens.

Rs. 2 for students on an educational tour conducted by a school or college.

Rs. 50 for foreigners

Location: Jawahar Road, Opposite BSNL Office, Jubilee Garden, Rajkot

Best time to visit: October to February

Which are the places to visit in Rajkot in 2 days?

Rotary Doll Museum: Mentioned in the Limca Book of Records for its unique collection of dolls, this is a must-visit. See dolls dressed in attires native to India and parts of the world like blue-eyed Barbie, husk dolls, Santa Claus dolls, and hundreds of glove & string puppets.

Khambhalida Caves: Also known as Rajkot caves, these are a set of three 4th-century Buddhist caves. The central cave is known as chaitya and consists of a worn-out stupa that’s flanked by 2 sentinel stone statues of Bodhisattva and Vajrapani.

Nyari Dam: Nestled amidst 4.5 acres of lush gardens, this place is perfect to watch a beautiful sunset. The place is a haven for bird watchers to see migratory birds and enjoy a picnic enveloped in a cool misty breeze.

Kaba Gandhi no Delo: This historical place is where Mahatma Gandhi lived when his father was Rajkot’s Diwan. It is now a museum that houses rare memorabilia and personal belongings of Gandhi.
What are the best things to do in Rajkot?

Tuck in delicious food: No trip to Rajkot is complete without sampling the delicious foods like Dhokla, Thepla, Kadhi, Undhiyu, Sev Usal, Khamman, Patra, etc. Don’t miss to enjoy desserts like Shrikhand, Ghughra, and Jalebi.

Shopping: Rajkot is famous for its beautiful handicrafts, textiles, and artworks. Pick up Bandhani sarees and mirror-embroidered clothes from Gujari Bazaar, colourful lac bangles from Bangdi Bazaar, Meenakari furniture, and home décor stuff from Dhebar Road.

Enjoy fun rides: Beat the heat as you enjoy super fun rides and slides like SkyFall, River cruise, Tornado, Wavy Blizzard, Mat Racer, etc at Krishna Water Park. The Mystic Wave Pool and the Kideez Pool here are perfect to enjoy rain dance

Enjoy a handloom-weaving workshop: One of the most offbeat things to do here is to visit the home of a textile weaver to see how the world-famous single ikat silk is weaved. You can also take part in patola weaving workshops and learn how to colour fabrics in natural dyes.
Which are the best places to visit in Rajkot at night?

Food streets: Rajkot’s true culinary flavours are best savoured at its vibrant food streets where you can sample hundreds of delicious foods. Some of the best food streets are Race Course Grounds, Yagnik Road, Khau Gali, and Raiya Chokdi.

Race Course Grounds: This snazzy place is perfect to enjoy an array of activities ranging from strolling with friends, and cycling to horse riding and even playing a cricket match! This is also where you will find scores of street food stalls.

Fun World: One of the most fun places to visit at night, you can enjoy House of Horrors, Fantasy Train, Sky Train, Hara-Kiri, and horse riding. This is also a great place to enjoy movies, live entertainment, and puppet shows.
What is famous in Rajkot?

Rajkot is famous for being the home of Gandhi long before he became Mahatma and had spent his childhood. Besides, Rajkot is loved for its delicious Gujarati food available at food streets and restaurants. Its traditional fabric silk Patola is famous for its beautiful and innovative prints.
What should I buy in Rajkot?

While in Rajkot, you must pick up its amazing Patola fabric and ikat silk. It is also famous for its intricate crafts made of silver, wood, and metals. Dry snacks like dry fruit farali chivda, khakhra, fafda, garlic chutneys, gathiya, and dhokla are a must-buy to carry back home.
What is the best time to visit Rajkot?

Winter months (October-February) are the best to enjoy outdoor attractions and fun activities here. The temperatures range between a pleasant 13-28°C accompanied by a cool and pleasant breeze.
How many days are required to visit Rajkot?

2 nights and 3 days are enough for this compact city to see its intriguing museums, heritage landmarks like Mahatma Gandhi’s house, and temples like Jagat Mandir and Swaminarayan Temple. This time is also sufficient to try a variety of food and visit the beautiful markets.