Port Guide | India | Dive Deep
Porbandar
James Ireton | Editor
Published on 2025-04-07
Welcome to Porbandar, Gujarat's pleasantly chaotic coastal gem, birthplace of the famously peaceful Mahatma Gandhi-though don't expect the local traffic to follow suit in practicing nonviolence. As your floating residence docks, you'll quickly find this salty town has a gloriously unpolished charm: bustling markets thick with spices, a seaside promenade perfect for strolling or observing fishermen passionately debating cricket scores, and Kirti Mandir, Gandhi's humble family abode turned historic site, reminding visitors that global revolutions can indeed begin in modest quarters. Shake off your sea legs by indulging in the local seafood-succulent prawns and fresh pomfret are practically rites of passage-and pair it with hearty Gujarati specialties that'll make your taste buds join in civil disobedience against bland cruise fare. Welcome ashore; dig in, wander widely, and don't hesitate to get a little wonderfully lost.
India has 11 Travel Advisories
Stay up to day with regional travel advisories.
Notes from the Editor
Porbandar is famous as the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi. Travelers may explore local landmarks such as the Kirti Mandir and the beachfront. Local cuisine is highly recommended, featuring seafood and traditional Indian dishes.
Where do cruise ships dock in Porbandar?
Port Name Porbandar
Country India
Region Gujarat
Ship Terminal Porbandar Port
Port Type Dedicated port
Accessibility The port is located approximately 3 kilometers from the city center, accessible via local taxis and auto-rickshaws which are common modes of transport.
What's the weather like in Porbandar?
Best Season to Visit October to March
Climate Tropical wet and dry climate, with hot summers and mild winters.
Weather Notes Travelers should consider the pleasant weather between October and March, and avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall.
Temperature Range 65F to 85F (18C to 29C)
High Temp 100F
Low Temp 52F
Average Temp 75F
What do I need to know about Porbandar?
Language Gujarati
Currency Indian Rupee (INR)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 200,000
Timezone IST (UTC+5:30)
How do I get around Porbandar?
Local taxis, auto-rickshaws, and pre-arranged shuttle services.
What are The Best Things to do in Porbandar?
Discover what you should do while you're in Porbandar.
Historical and cultural landmarks
Kirti Mandir
MG Road, Porbandar
Birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, now a memorial museum.
Distance from Terminal: 1.2 miles
Sudama Temple
Sudama Chak, Porbandar
Only temple dedicated to Lord Sudama, friend of Lord Krishna.
Distance from Terminal: 0.9 miles
Visit Shree Hari Mandir
Sandipani Ashram Road, Porbandar
Modern architectural marvel dedicated to spiritual teachings.
Distance from Terminal: 3 miles
Attend a Bhavai Theatre Performance
Various locations, Porbandar
Watch an authentic Gujarati folk theatre form.
Distance from Terminal: 1.4 miles
Explore Cave Architecture at Khambhalida Caves
Khambhalida, near Porbandar
Ancient Buddhist caves carved uniquely into limestone.
Distance from Terminal: 43 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Gir Forest Lion Safari
Gir National Park, Gujarat
Witness the Asiatic lion in its natural habitat.
Distance from Terminal: 137 miles
Bird Watching at Porbandar Bird Sanctuary
Near Jadeshwar Temple, Porbandar
Spot migratory birds from Siberia and Europe during winters.
Distance from Terminal: 2.5 miles
Madhavput Beach Camel Ride
Madhavpur Beach, Gujarat
Enjoy camel rides on a scenic, serene beach.
Distance from Terminal: 38 miles
Adventure Hiking at Barda Hills
Barda Wildlife Sanctuary
Adventurous hike amidst rare flora and fauna.
Distance from Terminal: 12 miles
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Traditional Garba Night
Various locations, Porbandar
Participate in traditional Gujarati folk dance, Garba.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Camel Milk Ice Cream Sampling
Various shops in Porbandar
Taste unique camel milk delicacies exclusive to the region.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Traditional Pottery Workshop
Local artisans, Porbandar
Hands-on pottery experience in traditional Gujarati style.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
Gujarati Kite Flying Session
Open grounds, Porbandar
Experience vibrant tradition of competitive kite flying.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
Overnight Trips
Dwarka Temple Overnight Trip
Dwarka, Gujarat
Visit one of the sacred Char Dham pilgrimage sites.
Distance from Terminal: 66 miles
Junagadh Heritage Overnight Tour
Junagadh, Gujarat
Explore ancient forts and stepwells in historic Junagadh.
Distance from Terminal: 65 miles
A Little Extra
Porbandar's Kathiavadi Cuisine Tour
Various restaurants in Porbandar
Savor authentic spicy vegetarian meals unique to the region.
Distance from Terminal: 1.5 miles
Handloom Saree Shopping
Various local markets, Porbandar
Shop for handmade Bandhani and Patola sarees unique to Gujarat.
Distance from Terminal: 1.3 miles
India Regional Tip
Tipping Culture In most formal dining establishments, a 10% tip is appropriate. Street vendors or casual eateries do not expect tipping, but small change as appreciation is welcome.