Things To Do
in Shiv
Shiv is a small historic town perched along winding lanes and centuries-old temples. Located near the coordinates 26.1831 N, 71.25 E, it blends traditional markets with scenic river views. The bustling Old City offers vibrant street life, crafts, and welcoming locals.
Visitors can wander at a relaxed pace, savor Gujarati flavors, and capture candid moments around historical sites.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Amber Fort, where you can explore its majestic architecture and learn about its rich history. Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani breakfast at a local eatery nearby. The picturesque views from the fort will leave you mesmerized.
In the afternoon, head to the City Palace, a magnificent blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture. Take your time to wander through the museum and appreciate the royal artifacts on display. Wind down with a leisurely stroll through Jantar Mantar, the astronomical observatory.
As the sun sets, visit the beautiful Hawa Mahal to witness its stunning pink façade illuminated by the golden hues of the evening light. Enjoy a ceramic workshop to engage with local artisans. End the day with a delicious dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city.
Begin your adventure with an early morning hot air balloon ride over Pushkar for breathtaking views of the desert landscape and the sacred Pushkar Lake. Have a serene breakfast at one of the many cafes overlooking the lake. The tranquil morning atmosphere is perfect for reflection and relaxation.
Spend your afternoon exploring the vibrant streets filled with local handicrafts, spiritual items, and colorful textiles. Visit the Brahma Temple, one of the few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma, and soak in the spiritual aura. Grab a quick lunch at a local eatery, sampling some delicious vegetarian dishes.
As dusk approaches, enjoy the sunset over Pushkar Lake while participating in an evening Aarti ceremony, surrounded by the sounds of spiritual chants. Afterward, explore the local market for unique souvenirs. End your day with a traditional Rajasthani meal under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Tea or coffee | $0.5-2 |
| 🚇One-way local transport | $0.2-0.6 |
| 🛍️Local market item | $1-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals
- Walkable Old City with photogenic streets and temples
- Excellent vegetarian Gujarati cuisine and street snacks
- Affordable lodging and food compared with larger cities
- Limited nightlife and nightlife venues
- Very hot summers and uneven sidewalks in some areas
- Narrow lanes can be crowded and difficult for large bags
- Less English signage outside major spots
- "Namaste" - Hello
- "Kem cho?" - How are you?
- "Hu Gujarati bolu chhu." - I speak Gujarati.
- "Mane madad joiye." - I need help.
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Krupya" - Please
Places to Visit in Shiv
Visit one of these nice places.
A vantage point within the old fort precinct offering sweeping views of the city skyline and river bend, ideal at dawn or dusk.
Narrow lanes with colorful walls, hanging textiles, and lively market scenes—great for candid street photography.
Wide paths along the river with boats and locals, perfect for golden-hour portraits and long-exposure shots.
Quiet, sunlit courtyards with intricate carvings; seek permission before photographing deities and rituals.
Food in Shiv
Shiv Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy potato-based filling stuffed in a bun, toasted with peanuts and chutneys for a flavorful street snack found in most market lanes.
Must-Try!
A hearty winter mixed-vegetable curry with methi muthia, typically shared with puris or rotis at family-style eaterys.
Steamed gram-flour cake served with tangy chutneys; a fluffy, savory snack popular at snack stalls and homes.
Thin spiced flatbread made with fenugreek leaves, often enjoyed with yogurt or pickle as a light meal or snack.
Crispy gram-flour wafers paired with sweet jalebi; a classic Gujarati street-food combo enjoyed at dusk markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market street where you can sample multiple snacks, find fresh produce, and shop for textiles and trinkets.
Concentrated stalls offering hot snacks like dabeli, khaman, and bhajia with quick, friendly service.
Evening market along the riverfront with small bites, fruit carts, and casual seating to unwind after a day of exploring.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly and remove shoes before entering temple precincts. Ask for permission before photographing people or ceremonies.
A respectful Namaste is preferred. Address locals politely and avoid raising voices in public.
Avoid public displays of anger, and respect local customs during festivals and rituals.
If invited into a home, acceptance of tea or snacks is common; wash hands before meals and try shared dishes with caution if you have dietary restrictions.
Ask before photographing people, especially in residential areas or during ceremonies.
Even basic phrases in Gujarati go a long way; learning a few words helps with local interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Shiv
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common for good service in restaurants and for guides, typically around 5–10% where service charge is not included. Small tips for rickshaw pullers are appreciated.
Cash (INR) is widely accepted, especially in markets. Cards are accepted at larger restaurants and hotels. Digital wallets and UPI are increasingly common in shops and eateries; carry some cash for street stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with peak daytime temperatures often in the 95–105°F (35–40°C) range. Hydration, light clothing, and sun protection are essential; plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Humid with regular showers and lush greenery. Rain can make paths slippery; carry a light rain shell and waterproof footwear.
Mild to cool with pleasant days and cooler evenings. Perfect for walking tours and photography; occasional fog can soften light in the mornings.
Shiv at Night
Hiking in Shiv
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A half-day loop with viewpoints over the town and surrounding plains; suitable for casual hikers.
Scenic path through scrub and small valleys; best in cooler months for comfort and wildlife viewing.
Evening-friendly trail offering sunset views over the river and town lights.
Airports
How to reach Shiv by plane.
Domestic flights connect Bhavnagar; roughly a short drive from Shiv with taxi or ride-hailing options.
Regional airport serving multiple destinations; convenient for connections to major Indian cities.
Major international airport with broad domestic and international connections; typically the best option for long-haul travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant demographic with strong traditions, markets, and family-centered culture.
Active in markets and workshops; often multilingual and welcoming to visitors.
Active in cafes and cultural events; contributes to the town’s vibrant daily life.
Often found at temples, parks, and community centers; valued for their stories and traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport across towns in the region, with local matches and informal games common in parks and schools.
Popular in schools and outdoor fields, especially among youth and college-age players.
Traditional regional sport occasionally seen in local events and cultural gatherings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shiv.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Gujarati cuisine is largely vegetarian; look for bhajia, dahi, and dal-based dishes. If you have special dietary needs, ask for oil-free or ghee-free options and confirm no meat stocks in broths.