Explore the lively city of Rajkot, Gujarat, with its colourful culture, lively markets, and delicious cuisine. Visit Mahatma Gandhi's childhood home, Swaminarayan Mandir, Rotary Dolls Museum, and Aji Dam or go street shopping at Bangdi Bazaar. Local festivals and authentic Gujarati cuisine make Rajkot a unique and memorable experience for every traveller.

When it comes to popular travel spots in Gujarat, places like Ahmedabad, Gir, Somnath, or Dwarka usually steal the show. However, Rajkot, the fourth largest city in Gujarat, located in the middle of Saurashtra, has its own charm. From its rich cultural heritage and vibrant bazaars, to its delicious regional cuisine - there are plenty of things to do in Rajkot. Explore the picturesque streets of Bangdi Bazaar, visit the grand Swaminarayan Mandir to seek blessings, check out the interesting exhibits of the Rotary Dolls Museum, or visit Mahatma Gandhi’s childhood home, all the while enjoying delicious regional dishes.

Best Things to Do in Rajkot

So, the next time you plan a holiday, book Rajkot tour packages for a memorable getaway. Here is what you can do on your trip: -

• Spend a Peaceful Evening at Aji Dam
• Visit the Historic Kaba Gandhi No Delo
• Explore the Rotary Dolls Museum
• Shop at the Bustling Bangdi Bazaar
• Take a Stroll in Jubilee Garden
• Attend Local Festivals
• Taste the Flavours of Rajkot
• Pay Your Respects at Swaminarayan Mandir
• Discover Local History at Watson Museum
• Visit the Khambhalida Buddhist Caves

Spend a Peaceful Evening at Aji Dam

For anyone looking to step away from the city’s bustle, Aji Dam offers the perfect retreat. Situated just a short drive from the city, it is one of the scenic places to visit in Rajkot, combining natural beauty with a sense of calm. Beyond its vital role in supplying water to Rajkot, the dam is surrounded by a beautifully maintained garden, picnic areas, and even a small zoo, making it a popular choice for families as well as nature enthusiasts. One of the best places to visit in Rajkot during evenings, Aji dam provides a peaceful setting. As the sun begins to set, a cool breeze drifts across the water, birdsong fills the air, and the shimmering reflections of the fading light create a peaceful, almost timeless atmosphere.

Visit the Historic Kaba Gandhi No Delo

One of the important places to see in Rajkot is Kaba Gandhi No Delo, the childhood residence of Mahatma Gandhi. This historical site offers a look into the formative years of the Father of the Nation. The home has been transformed into a museum featuring photographs, personal items, and other objects from Gandhi's life and philosophy. Walking through this modest hall evokes a sense of history and connects you with the formative years of one of history’s greatest leaders. For history lovers and anyone interested in India’s freedom struggle, this is one of the best things to do in Rajkot, Gujarat.

Explore the Rotary Dolls Museum

If you are looking for something a little different, the Rotary Dolls Museum is one of the unique things to see in Rajkot. Home to more than 1,600 dolls from over 100 countries, it’s like taking a miniature trip around the world. Each doll is dressed in traditional attire, capturing the spirit of the culture it represents. And while kids are naturally drawn to it, adults often find themselves just as intrigued by the sheer variety and the fine details. The museum was founded with the idea of encouraging cultural exchange, and it delivers on that promise beautifully. Every section feels like a small window into another country’s traditions and way of life. It manages to be both educational and entertaining, one of the things to do in Rajkot, India, that families can enjoy together.

Shop at the Bustling Bangdi Bazaar

A visit to Rajkot is never complete without shopping from the city's markets - Bangdi Bazaar is the epicentre of shopping in Rajkot. Counted among the popular things to do in Rajkot, the market is known for colourful bangles. It is a bustling, vibrant marketplace, with stalls selling jewellery, clothing, handicrafts, and more, making it one of the must-visit places to see in Rajkot. The assortment of bangles in bright colours and designs is a sight to behold. Apart from bangles, you will find traditional Gujarati attire, embroidered fabrics, and local crafts. If you enjoy street shopping and bargaining, Bangdi Bazaar will give you an authentic local experience.

Take a Stroll in Jubilee Garden

If you are looking for a break from sightseeing, make your way to Jubilee Garden, one of Rajkot's most popular public parks and a highlight of Rajkot India tourism. It is large and offers ample greenery, fountains, and even some amusement rides for kids. It is located alongside some important buildings/landmarks, such as the Watson Museum, Lang Library, and Alfred High School. A walk in the early evening will provide you with interesting views of local life in Rajkot, as families and students fill up this lively area, making it one of the relaxing things to do in Rajkot, Gujarat.

Attend Local Festivals

To see the spirit of Rajkot, one of the things to do in Rajkot, India, is visiting around the time of festivals like Navratri or Uttarayan (Kite Festival). All over Rajkot, there will be lively Garba dancing during Navratri, and the atmosphere will be alive with the sights and sounds of music, dance, and colour. Likewise, the Uttarayan festival will flood the skies of Rajkot with thousands of colourful kites, making it one of the most exquisite things to see in Rajkot.

Taste the Flavours of Rajkot

Food is an inseparable part of any travel experience, and is one of the primary things to do in Rajkot. The Gujarati thali is an absolute favorite and it features unlimited varieties of farsan (snacks), dal, kadhi, roti, rice, and sweets. There are several local eateries and restaurants around the city that serve genuine cuisine that is delicious and filling. Trying street foods, such as khaman dhokla, fafda-jalebi, sev khamani and pani puri is one of the top things to do in Rajkot, Gujarat. You should definitely try traditional Indian sweets like ghari, moong dal halwa, and sukhdi if you have a sweet tooth.

Pay Your Respects at Swaminarayan Mandir

Among the many remarkable places to visit in Rajkot, the Swaminarayan Mandir is both a place of worship and an architectural rarity. Built in 1907, the temple contains intricate carvings and beautiful domes, and has a tranquil atmosphere. It is devoted to Lord Swaminarayan, and attracts both worshippers and tourists. Regardless of your religious beliefs, it is one of the most wonderful things to do in Rajkot, especially when it comes to witnessing the beautiful and peaceful environment. The chanting, prayers, and intricate stonework all create an experience that is both spiritual and cultural.

Discover Local History at Watson Museum

If you are someone who likes delving into local history, one of the places to see in Rajkot is the Watson Museum, which is located inside Jubilee Garden. The museum showcases artefacts from the Indus Valley Civilisation, including sculptures, rare coins, textiles, and manuscripts that reflect the cultural journey of Gujarat. The museum, named after Colonel John Watson, is one of the ideal places to see in Rajkot to understand the historical significance of Rajkot and Saurashtra.

Visit the Khambhalida Buddhist Caves

Situated roughly 65 km from the city, these ancient caves are one of the beautiful places to see near Rajkot. These Buddhist caves belong to the 4th - 5th century AD, and it is assumed they were carved out during the western Kshatrapa rule. The site features three caves carved out of limestone rock. The middle cave is the largest and contains a chaitya (prayer hall) and ornate carvings that demonstrate the Kushana and Satavahana styles. Surrounded by serene hills, the site offers an ambience of spirituality and tranquility. Although the caves are not as grand in scale as other notable caves in India, their simplicity and historical significance makes them one of the best attractions near Rajkot.

 

At first glance, Rajkot may not seem like a tourist destination but that’s exactly what makes it special. It is a city of where tradition meets modernity, where history is interwoven in daily life, and where food, culture, and local festivals keep the spirit dynamic. Visiting Mahatma Gandhi's childhood home, unique museums, shopping in a bangda bazaar, and savouring the local food and culture are some of the best things to do in Rajkot. So, the next time you are planning a trip through Gujarat, try Rajkot - you will leave with stories, tastes, and memories that will remain long after your journey is over.

 

FAQs

Q1. What’s up with “siesta/city pause” in Rajkot?

Many shops, especially small ones, close in the early afternoon (around 1‑2 pm to 4 pm) for lunch and rest. This is still very much a tradition. Tourists who are unprepared may find many stalls shut during those hours. So if you plan on sightseeing, it is better to front‐load your afternoon or explore indoor places then.

Q2. What is “Kaba Gandhi No Delo” exactly, and why visit it?

It’s the childhood home of Mahatma Gandhi. You get insights into his upbringing and early influences. And it’s not just a static building - it has stories, family context, often less crowded than mainstream Gandhi sites, so more intimate for many visitors.

Q3. What local festivals or cultural performances can tourists catch?

Navratri is huge:

Not just dance, but folk colours, traditional dress, whole city energy. For an authentic version, smaller local grounds are better than big “tourist‑type” venues.

Dayro:

Folk singing and storytelling in Gujarati. Late nights, in certain temples and community spaces. Visitors who understand or follow local languages and culture can get a richer experience.

Q4. Is Rajkot more of an industrial / commercial city, or is it tourist‑friendly?

Rajkot is both. There is a strong industrial base (watch parts, gold markets, small manufacturing) alongside a slowly growing heritage and tourism infrastructure.

But the tourism facilities (hotels, guided tours, signage, etc.) are less dense than in more famous cities. So visitors should plan ahead.

Q5. What are some hidden cultural “vibes” you shouldn’t miss?

The wood houses in old lanes, stained glass windows, and wood carvings in older parts of town. These contrast sharply with modern concrete structures and are often missed.

Local cafés and hangouts in less touristy suburbs (Kalawad Road, etc.) are great for experiencing daily life, people‑watching, and local food.