One Day Picnic Spots Near Gujarat

Gujarat, often called the “Land of Legends,” is one of India’s most culturally rich and diverse states. Famous for its Gir lions, white desert of Kutch, Somnath temple, and vibrant festivals like Navratri, the state is also home to countless scenic escapes and heritage treasures that make it ideal for quick getaways.

When city life feels overwhelming, planning a trip to one day picnic spots near Gujarat is a wonderful way to relax, explore, and make memories. From peaceful beaches and lush wildlife sanctuaries to ancient forts and spiritual shrines, every corner of Gujarat has something fascinating to offer.

Whether you are traveling with family, friends, or planning a couple’s day out, these destinations bring together the best of nature, history, and culture in just a short trip.

10 Best One Day Picnic Spots Near Gujarat

1. Gir National Park – For Wildlife Lovers

Gir is world-famous as the only home of the Asiatic Lions. A safari here lets you spot lions, leopards, jackals, and hundreds of bird species. Families and nature lovers can enjoy an adventurous outing in the middle of the wild.

• Speciality: Home of Asiatic Lions, safari experience, rich biodiversity.
• Fun Fact: Gir has over 600 lions today, making it one of the greatest conservation success stories of India.

2. Somnath Temple – For Spiritual Seekers

Somnath is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and carries immense mythological significance. The temple stands proudly on the shores of the Arabian Sea, offering both spirituality and stunning views.

• Speciality: Ancient temple architecture, sea-facing shrine, spiritual vibes.
• Fun Fact: The temple has been rebuilt several times after being destroyed, symbolizing resilience and devotion.

3. Saputara Hill Station – For a Refreshing Escape

Nestled in the Western Ghats, Saputara is Gujarat’s only hill station. It’s perfect for nature lovers with its lakes, gardens, tribal culture, and cool weather.

• Speciality: Hill station charm, boating at Saputara Lake, tribal museum.
• Fun Fact: Saputara means “Abode of Serpents” and is connected with many tribal legends.

4. Lothal – For History Buffs

Lothal is one of the most famous sites of the Indus Valley Civilization. Visitors can see the world’s earliest dockyard, ancient bead-making units, and archaeological remains that date back thousands of years.

• Speciality: Ancient ruins, Harappan heritage, educational tours.
• Fun Fact: Lothal’s dock is believed to be the earliest known in the world.

5. Polo Forest – For Adventure and Peace

Located near Vijaynagar, Polo Forest is a green paradise with rivers, ancient temples, and trekking trails. It’s ideal for camping, photography, and nature walks.

• Speciality: Trekking trails, 15th-century temples, lush greenery.
• Fun Fact: The name “Polo” is derived from the Marwari word “Pol,” meaning gate.

6. Diu – For Beach Lovers

Though technically a Union Territory, Diu is easily accessible from Gujarat. It offers serene beaches, Portuguese forts, and churches. Perfect for a mix of relaxation and exploration.

• Speciality: Nagoa Beach, Diu Fort, water sports, laid-back vibes.
• Fun Fact: Diu was under Portuguese rule for over 450 years before being integrated with India in 1961.

7. Ratanmahal Sloth Bear Sanctuary – For Unique Wildlife

This lesser-known sanctuary is home to the sloth bear, along with leopards, hyenas, and several bird species. It’s a refreshing escape into Gujarat’s wildlife diversity.

• Speciality: Spotting sloth bears, trekking opportunities, untouched nature.
• Fun Fact: The sanctuary is located near the Madhya Pradesh border, making it a cross-cultural nature zone.

8. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park – UNESCO Heritage Site

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a mix of forts, palaces, mosques, temples, and stepwells. It offers a deep dive into Gujarat’s medieval history and architecture.

• Speciality: UNESCO site, blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture, scenic views.
• Fun Fact: Pavagadh hill is believed to be a part of the Himalayas carried by Hanuman during the Ramayana.

9. Velavadar Blackbuck National Park – For Wildlife Photography

This park is famous for its large herds of blackbucks, wolves, and endangered birds like the lesser florican. It’s a treat for photographers and wildlife lovers.

• Speciality: Blackbuck sightings, grassland ecosystem, birdwatching.
• Fun Fact: The park’s open savannah landscape is often compared to African grasslands.

10. Dwarka – For Heritage and Religion

Known as the legendary kingdom of Lord Krishna, Dwarka is a major Char Dham pilgrimage site. The Dwarkadhish Temple and scenic Gomti Ghat attract both devotees and tourists.

• Speciality: Ancient temples, spiritual aura, coastal charm.
• Fun Fact: Archaeologists have discovered remains of an underwater city off Dwarka’s coast, believed to be linked to Krishna’s kingdom.

Major Highlights of One Day Picnic Spots Near Gujarat

• Wildlife & Nature: Gir, Velavadar, Polo Forest, Ratanmahal for safaris, trekking, and forest walks.
• History & Heritage: Lothal, Champaner-Pavagadh, Dwarka for ancient ruins and cultural richness.
• Beaches & Relaxation: Diu and Somnath for sea views, sunsets, and peace.
• Family Fun: Saputara Hill Station, Somnath Temple, and Polo Forest for safe and exciting day trips.

One Day Picnic Spots Near Gujarat: Quick Overview

Travel Tips for Picnic Spots Near Gujarat

• Best Time to Visit: October to March is ideal for pleasant weather. Monsoons (July–September) are great for waterfalls and greenery.
• What to Carry: Water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, hats, and comfortable shoes.
• Family-Friendly Choices: Saputara, Somnath, and Gopi Talav (near Surat) are perfect for safe family outings.
• For Adventure Lovers: Try trekking in Polo Forest or a safari in Gir National Park.
• Respect Heritage & Nature: Do not litter at wildlife sanctuaries, beaches, or heritage monuments.

Gujarat is a state where nature meets history, and spirituality blends with adventure. From the roars of lions in Gir to the calming waves at Diu, from ancient Harappan ruins in Lothal to the divine temples of Somnath and Dwarka, every destination offers something extraordinary.

So, if you’re looking for one day picnic spots near Gujarat, you don’t have to go far—adventure, peace, history, and culture are waiting just around the corner.

Pack your bags, gather your family or friends, and let Adotrip guide you to these hidden gems and iconic locations. After all, the best journeys are often the ones closest to home.

Frequently Asked Questions about One Day Picnic Spots Near Gujarat

Q1: Which hill station is best for a one day trip near Gujarat?
A1: Saputara is Gujarat’s most popular hill station, perfect for boating, gardens, and tribal culture, located about 400 km from Ahmedabad.

Q2: Which is the best picnic spot in Gujarat?
A2: Gir National Park for wildlife, Somnath Temple for spirituality, Saputara for nature, and Champaner-Pavagadh for heritage make the top choices.

Q3: Which wildlife sanctuary is close to Gujarat for a one day outing?
A3: Gir, Velavadar, Polo Forest, and Ratanmahal Sanctuary are ideal for spotting lions, blackbucks, sloth bears, and migratory birds.

Q4: What are some must-visit heritage sites in Gujarat?
A4: Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park (UNESCO site), Lothal (Indus Valley ruins), and Dwarka (Krishna’s kingdom) are must-visits for history buffs.