How to get to Keshod

When planning a journey to India, it is worth finding out in advance how to get to Keshod — a small city in the state of Gujarat, which often serves as a convenient transit point for tourists heading to the region's famous nature reserves and temples. You can reach this destination in various ways by choosing the most suitable route: taking a domestic flight, using the railway network, or travelling by road. If you decide to visit Keshod, this city will become an excellent starting point for immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the western part of the country.

Travellers can fly directly to Keshod: the city is served by its own airport (IXK). This is the most comfortable option, allowing you to save time and avoid long overland transfers.

Alternatively, you can use the airports of neighbouring cities — Diu or Rajkot. They often offer a more flexible flight schedule, and getting from there to your destination is easy via taxi or a regular bus, allowing you to enjoy the local landscapes along the way.

Rail travel is one of the most popular and accessible ways to reach the city. Keshod has its own railway station (code: KSD), which ensures stable connectivity with other settlements in the state of Gujarat.

Trains regularly arrive here from major transport hubs such as Rajkot and Ahmedabad, as well as from Veraval. By choosing this mode of transport, travellers can cover the distance in comfort, enjoying the colourful views from the window, and arrive directly within the city limits, which significantly simplifies further logistics.

Bus services in the state of Gujarat are excellently developed, so reaching your destination by land will not be difficult. The popular route from bustling Rajkot takes about 3–4 hours, during which the bus covers approximately 150 kilometres through picturesque terrain.

If you are travelling from the coast, a convenient option would be a trip from Diu: the distance of 90 kilometres can be covered in just 2.5 hours. Regular connections are also established with the city of Jamnagar, from where the journey of about 160 kilometres will take approximately 4 hours.

Travelling by car opens up a great opportunity to see the scenic roads of Gujarat at your own pace. The shortest route leads from Diu: a distance of about 90 kilometres can be covered in just two hours, while the journey from Rajkot (150 km) will take approximately three and a half hours. The road from Jamnagar, stretching about 160 kilometres, will require up to four hours of driving.

Many tourists prefer to hire a taxi for intercity trips to travel with maximum comfort. The cost of such a transfer is usually calculated per kilometre and averages between 3,000 to 5,000 Indian rupees for a one-way trip, depending on the class of the vehicle and the chosen route.

A trip to Keshod promises to be enriching if you prepare for local features and cultural nuances in advance. To ensure your visit to this city is as comfortable and hassle-free as possible, we have compiled several useful recommendations.

1. Clothing and Climate: The region has a hot climate, so opt for light clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. Given the conservative traditions of Gujarat, tourists are advised to dress modestly: cover your shoulders and knees, avoiding outfits that are too revealing when visiting the city and temples.
2. Transport: For moving around within the city, auto-rickshaws are the most convenient option. Be sure to agree on the fare before boarding or insist on using the meter, as fixed prices for tourists are not always applicable.
3. Finances: The main currency is the Indian Rupee. Although some hotels may accept cards, local shops, stalls, and markets predominantly deal in cash. Always keep a supply of small notes for paying fares and making small purchases.
4. Health and Hygiene: Drink only bottled water and check the seal integrity when purchasing. Avoid drinks with ice in street cafes and do not forget to use repellents, especially in the evening, for protection against insects.
5. Communication: Locals mainly speak Gujarati, but many understand Hindi. English is less common than in major tourist centres, so having an offline translator on your phone or knowing a couple of basic phrases will be very useful.
6. Local Etiquette: When entering any temple or private home, you must remove your shoes. It is customary to greet locals with palms pressed together at the chest, and passing money or eating food should be done only with the right hand.
7. Alcohol Restrictions: Please remember that India is diverse in its laws, and the state of Gujarat is a "dry" state. The sale and consumption of alcohol here are strictly restricted and require special permits for tourists, so please refrain from attempting to purchase alcohol illegally.
8. Planning Excursions: Since Keshod often serves as a starting point for trips to Gir National Park, plan your safari in advance. Entry permits for the reserve are best booked online several weeks ahead, as quotas fill up quickly.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid common tourist mistakes and focus on exploring the culture and nature of this hospitable corner of the country. Have a pleasant and safe journey!