To enhance connectivity across the Saurashtra region, the Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) has launched two new bus services — Somnath-Dwarka and Veraval-Bhavnagar. The initiative is aimed at providing convenient and affordable travel options for pilgrims, residents and daily commuters.
Veraval ST Depot Manager Dilip Shamla said the growing influx of devotees to Somnath in recent years highlighted the need for a direct transport link between Somnath and Dwarka, two of Gujarat’s most significant pilgrimage destinations. Both towns are major centres of religious importance and attract thousands of visitors annually as part of the Jyotirlinga and Char Dham pilgrimage circuits.
The newly launched Somnath-Dwarka Express bus will depart daily from Somnath at 6.30 am and travel through Mangrol and Porbandar before reaching Dwarka. The return journey will begin from Dwarka at 2.30 pm. The service has been designed primarily to facilitate easier travel for pilgrims visiting the two holy sites.
GSRTC has also introduced a direct Veraval-Bhavnagar bus service. The bus will leave Veraval at 5.30 am every day and pass through Somnath, Kodinar, Una, Mahuva and Rajula before arriving in Bhavnagar. The return service will depart from Bhavnagar at 2 pm. The route is expected to significantly improve connectivity between South Saurashtra and the Gohilwad region.
Transport officials believe the new services will benefit a wide range of passengers, including pilgrims, students, traders, office-goers and residents of rural areas. The routes are also expected to encourage greater use of public transport and reduce reliance on private vehicles.
The move has been welcomed by the Somnath Trust and tourism stakeholders, who say the direct Somnath-Dwarka connection will boost religious tourism, while the Veraval-Bhavnagar route will strengthen regional transport links and improve accessibility across Saurashtra.