Things To Do
in Porbandar
Porbandar is a coastal city in Gujarat, India, best known as the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi and for its fishing harbour and low, sandy beaches. The city blends historical sites, modest colonial-era architecture, active fishing life and a strong Gujarati cultural identity. Visitors find a relaxed pace, good seafood and vegetarian Gujarati cuisine, and easy access to nearby wildlife and pilgrimage destinations.
Porbandar is a compact town that works well as a short cultural stop or a base for day trips to Gir, Somnath and coastal attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Kirti Mandir, the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, where you can admire the intricate architecture and learn about Gandhi's life. Stroll through the peaceful surroundings of the temple, appreciating the serene atmosphere and beautiful gardens. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Gujarati breakfast at a nearby local eatery, sampling dishes like dhokla and khandvi.
In the afternoon, visit the Sudama Mandir, dedicated to the childhood friend of Lord Krishna, and marvel at its unique design and tranquil ambiance. Next, take a leisurely walk along the scenic Porbandar beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the soothing sound of the waves. Stop for lunch at one of the beachside shacks, where you can savor fresh seafood dishes while enjoying stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
As the sun sets, head to the lighthouse where you can enjoy panoramic views of the coastline as the sky transforms into a canvas of colors. Spend some time at the beach, witnessing the locals engage in evening activities like kite flying and playing cricket. Wrap up your day with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, indulging in delicious regional cuisine.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading out to the tranquil Chowpatty Beach. Here, you can engage in various water sports, such as jet skiing and banana boat rides, to get your adrenaline pumping. Take in the refreshing sea breeze and enjoy the playful atmosphere as you splash around in the water.
After an exhilarating morning, enjoy a relaxing lunch at a beachfront cafe, where you can savor some traditional snacks like pav bhaji. Spend your afternoon lounging on the beach, sipping fresh coconut water while soaking up the sun and watching the local fishermen at work. You might also want to join a beach volleyball game with other tourists and locals for some fun.
As the sun begins to set, take a leisurely stroll along the beach, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the beautiful sunset views. Head to a local eatery for dinner, where you can relish some spicy street food delicacies. End the evening by enjoying a cultural performance at a nearby venue, showcasing the rich heritage of Gujarat.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee / Tea and snacks | $0.8-2 |
| 🚕Short auto-rickshaw/taxi ride | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room (per night) | $12-30 |
| 🎟️Museum or small attraction entry | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong historical significance as Gandhi's birthplace and related sites
- Relaxed coastal atmosphere with authentic local life and seafood
- Affordable travel costs and easy short itineraries
- Good base for day trips to Gir, Somnath and other Saurashtra attractions
- Limited nightlife and fewer upscale amenities compared with larger cities
- Public transport options are limited for independent travel outside town
- Hot and humid summers can be uncomfortable for some travelers
- Medical facilities for serious emergencies may require transfer to larger cities
- "Kem cho?" - How are you?
- "Majama" - I am fine
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Maaf karjo" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Kyaan chhe...?" - Where is...?
Places to Visit in Porbandar
Visit one of these nice places.
The birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi and its museum present strong historical framing and architectural details—best photographed in soft morning light.
Colourful fishing boats, nets and fishermen provide authentic coastal scenes; sunrise and early morning activity offer excellent light and candid shots.
Low-rise colonial-era buildings and palaces offer architectural interest and textured street scenes.
Bustling market life—spices, sweets, fruit stalls and local vendors make lively street photography subjects.
Nearby wetlands host migratory and resident bird species—great for wildlife and landscape photography during migratory seasons.
Food in Porbandar
Porbandar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A multi-dish meal of rotis, rice, dal, vegetable preparations, kadhi and sweets; available at local thali eateries across town—ideal to taste a broad range of Gujarati flavors.
Must-Try!
Classic Gujarati breakfast/snack—crispy gram flour sticks (fafda) served with spicy chutney and sweet jalebi; common at local sweet shops and morning stalls.
Fresh catch prepared as fried fillets, curries or tawa (pan) dishes at seaside shacks and small family-run restaurants near the harbour.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Busy market area with street-food vendors selling fafda, khandvi, chaat, sweets and tea; good for sampling quick local bites and snacks.
Small shacks near the fishing harbour offer freshly cooked fish and simple coastal snacks—best for seafood lovers and lively harbour photography.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Wear modest clothing in public and for temple visits; shoulders and knees covered are appreciated, especially in religious sites.
Remove shoes before entering temples, speak softly, and follow any posted rules; photography may be restricted in some areas.
A handshake is common in urban settings; traditional 'Namaste' (joining palms) is always welcome. Use your right hand for giving/receiving items.
Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon; be mindful of local conservative norms, particularly in smaller communities.
Safety
Tipping in Porbandar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is modest: round up taxi fares, tip hotel porters 20–50 INR, and leave 5–10% at mid-range restaurants if service is not included. Small tips are appreciated for guides and drivers.
Cash (INR) is widely used, especially in markets and small eateries; ATMs are available in town. Major hotels and some restaurants accept cards; UPI and other mobile payment apps are commonly used for quick payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid from March to June with temperatures often above 35°C (95°F). Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon, carry sun protection, water and light clothing.
June to September brings moderate to heavy rains; beaches may be rough and some rural roads can become difficult—expect lush vegetation and fewer tourists.
November to February offers the most pleasant weather—cool, dry and ideal for sightseeing, beach walks and day trips to nearby wildlife parks and temples.
Porbandar at Night
Hiking in Porbandar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular pilgrimage and trekking destination with staircases and trails offering panoramic views; about a few hours' drive from Porbandar—suitable for a full-day trip.
Hilly, less-crowded landscapes near Porbandar with opportunities for nature walks and wildlife spotting; best visited with a local guide.
Easy, flat walks along the shoreline and between fishing hamlets—ideal for sunrise/sunset strolls and low-effort exploration of coastal life.
Airports
How to reach Porbandar by plane.
Small domestic airport serving Porbandar with limited flights to regional hubs; convenient if schedules match your plans.
Major regional airport approximately 130–160 km away (travel time ~3–4 hours by road); more frequent domestic connections and good road links to Porbandar.
Another regional airport about 100–140 km away providing an alternative with road transfer options to Porbandar.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents are Gujarati-speaking Hindus involved in trade, agriculture and service sectors.
Small but significant Muslim and other minority communities contribute to the town's cultural and commercial life, with their own neighborhoods and market stalls.
Coastal communities engaged in fishing and related maritime trades form an important socioeconomic group around the harbour.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the dominant sport—played in streets, parks and school grounds; locals follow domestic and international matches closely.
Traditional regional sport popular in villages and local competitions; occasionally organized at community events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Porbandar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian food is readily available and varied; many eateries specialize in Gujarati thali and snacks, so vegetarians will find plenty of options.
Vegan options exist but require asking—many Gujarati dishes use ghee or dairy; request no ghee/dairy and most vegetable preparations or dal can be adjusted.
Rice-based dishes and many dals are gluten-free, but breads like rotli/chapati are wheat-based; notify vendors about gluten sensitivity as cross-contamination in street food is possible.