Here is a 1-day travel itinerary for visiting Botad, Gujarat, along with a comparison table of top places to visit based on popularity, average time spent, and entry fees.
Morning
- Start early at Kashtabhanjan Hanuman Mandir in Salangpur, a revered temple with significant local faith and healing rituals. Expect long queues, especially on weekends.
- Next, visit BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Sarangpur, which is architecturally impressive and important for devotees of the Swaminarayan Sampraday.
Midday
- Take a short drive to Gadhada to visit the historic Swaminarayan Mandir, constructed under the supervision of Swaminarayan himself.
- Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant or temple Dharamshala, which may offer authentic vegetarian food (prasad).
Afternoon
- Continue the trip to Velavadar Blackbuck National Park (also called Velavadar National Park), famous for blackbucks and other wildlife. Perfect for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and photography.
- If time permits, explore local shopping malls or wellness spas like City Mall and Shivanjali Wellness for relaxation.
Evening
- Stroll or relax at Botad’s local parks or Bortalav Lake if looking for a quieter wrap-up to the day.
- Head back, or stay overnight if planning a rural stay at a Dharamshala or heritage hotel nearby.
Comparison Table: Top Places in Botad
| Place | Popularity | Avg. Time Spent | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kashtabhanjan Hanuman Mandir | Very High | 1.5 – 2 hours | Free |
| BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir (Sarangpur) | High | 1 – 1.5 hours | Free |
| Swaminarayan Mandir, Gadhada | High | 1 hour | Free |
| Velavadar Blackbuck National Park | High | 2 – 3 hours | ₹60 (Indians) |
| Khodiyar Mandir | Medium | 45 min – 1 hour | Free |
| City Mall | Medium | 1 hour | Free |
| Shivanjali Wellness & Spa | Medium | 1 hour | Varies |
| Bortalav Lake / Picnic Spots | Medium | 45 min – 1 hour | Free |
- Popularity is based on visitor frequency and cultural/religious significance.
- Avg. Time Spent is an estimate and can vary by interest and crowd.
- Entry Fee is indicative, especially for the national park where fees apply for Indian and higher for foreign tourists.
This itinerary covers Botad’s religious, historical, and natural highlights in a single day, ideal for both pilgrims and general travelers.