The Jewel of the Saurashtra Coast
Nestled along the serene Arabian Sea in Bhavnagar district, Mahuva is often called the “Kashmir of Saurashtra.” This charming coastal town is famous for its lush greenery, coconut trees, spiritual temples, pristine beaches, and old-world charm. Though small, Mahuva offers a refreshing mix of nature, spirituality, and coastal beauty, making it an ideal one-day getaway destination in Gujarat.
This article provides a complete one-day itinerary for Mahuva, along with key attractions, travel tips, and must-know details — perfect for travelers looking to explore the town in a single day.
How to Reach Mahuva
By Road: Mahuva is well connected by NH-51 and lies about 100 kilometers from Bhavnagar and around 300 kilometers from Ahmedabad.
By Train: Mahuva Junction connects to major cities such as Bhavnagar, Surat, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai.
By Air: The nearest airport is in Bhavnagar, approximately 100 kilometers away, with regular taxis and buses available to reach Mahuva.
Morning – Spiritual and Cultural Start
8:00 AM — Arrive in Mahuva and Breakfast
Start your morning with a traditional Gujarati breakfast such as farsan, thepla, or khaman dhokla paired with a cup of tea at a local café near the bus stand or railway station.
9:00 AM — Visit Vighnahar Parshwanath Digambar Jain Mandir
Begin your day with a peaceful visit to one of Mahuva’s most revered shrines. This ancient Jain temple, dedicated to Lord Parshwanath, is more than a thousand years old. It is constructed with intricate carvings and features a serene marble courtyard.
- Why visit: Spiritual calm, architecture, and religious importance.
- Time to spend: 1–1.5 hours
- Entry Fee: Free (donations accepted)
10:30 AM — BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Mahuva
Next, visit the BAPS temple, known for its beautiful white marble work and divine atmosphere. The temple complex is clean, organized, and surrounded by scenic landscapes.
- Highlight: Spiritual experience, architecture, and photography.
- Time to spend: 1 hour
- Entry Fee: Free
Afternoon – Coastal Vibes and Relaxation
12:00 PM — Lunch at a Local Eatery
Stop for a hearty lunch at a local restaurant. Try the traditional Gujarati thali or coastal seafood specialties if you are non-vegetarian. Mahuva is known for its groundnuts, coconuts, and mangoes, so don’t forget to enjoy some fresh juice or coconut water.
1:00 PM — Mahuva Beach (Bhavani Beach)
After lunch, head to Mahuva Beach, one of the cleanest and most peaceful beaches in Saurashtra. The coastline is lined with coconut trees, giving it a tropical atmosphere that is rare in Gujarat.
- Things to do: Walk along the beach, enjoy local snacks, click sunset photos, and relax under the palms.
- Best time: Early afternoon to sunset.
- Time to spend: 1–2 hours
- Entry Fee: Free
Evening – Heritage and Local Life
3:00 PM — Visit Firangi Deval Temple (Kalsar Village)
Located a short drive from Mahuva town, the Firangi Deval Temple is an ancient stone structure dating back to the 7th century. Built in early Solanki architectural style, it’s partly in ruins but offers a fascinating experience for history enthusiasts and photographers.
- Highlight: Ancient ruins, architecture, and heritage photography.
- Time to spend: 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Entry Fee: Free
4:30 PM — Return to Mahuva Beach for Sunset
Return to the beach to catch the sunset. The orange and golden hues reflecting on the waves make for an unforgettable coastal view and a perfect end to your day.
6:00 PM — Evening Tea and Local Market Visit
Stroll through the local market where you can shop for groundnuts, mango products, and handmade items. Try local snacks like bhajiya, pattice, or kulfi with a cup of tea from a street vendor.
7:30 PM — Dinner and Departure
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant or a seaside café before wrapping up your trip. Many travelers return to Bhavnagar or stay overnight at a nearby resort for a peaceful end to the day.
Popular Attractions in Mahuva
| Rank | Place | Description | Avg. Time | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vighnahar Parshwanath Digambar Jain Mandir | Ancient Jain shrine over 1000 years old, known for marble carvings and peaceful ambiance. | 1–1.5 hours | Free |
| 2 | BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Mahuva | Modern temple with white marble architecture and calm surroundings. | 1 hour | Free |
| 3 | Mahuva Beach (Bhavani Beach) | Palm-fringed clean beach ideal for walking, photos, and sunset views. | 1–2 hours | Free |
| 4 | Firangi Deval Temple (Kalsar) | Ancient 7th-century stone temple, perfect for heritage and architecture enthusiasts. | 45 min – 1 hour | Free |
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather and clear skies.
- Local Specialties: Groundnuts, coconuts, Kesar mangoes, and kharek (dried dates).
- Ideal For: Day trips, spiritual travelers, photographers, beach lovers, and families.
- What to Carry: Sunscreen, water bottle, camera, and comfortable walking shoes.
Final Thoughts
Mahuva may not be a conventional tourist hotspot, but that’s precisely what makes it special. With its unspoiled beaches, peaceful temples, friendly locals, and old-world charm, Mahuva stands as a hidden gem on Gujarat’s coastline — offering a refreshing one-day escape from the city.
Whether you are a spiritual traveler, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone seeking tranquility by the sea, Mahuva welcomes you with its calm waves, coconut breeze, and warm hospitality.