Diu to Junagadh Car Rental Taxi Fare and Route Guide
Diu to Junagadh by car is a 145-kilometre drive through the Saurashtra heartland—approximately 3 to 3.5 hours depending on traffic and route. A sedan taxi costs ₹4,700 one way. An SUV runs ₹5,200 to ₹7,400. A 14–26 seater Tempo Traveller costs ₹13,200 to ₹15,500. Junagadh is one of Gujarat’s most historically rich cities—the former capital of the Junagadh princely state, nestled at the foot of the sacred Girnar Hills. Whether you are heading for an Asiatic lion safari at Gir National Park, a spiritual pilgrimage up Girnar Hill, or an architectural exploration of Uparkot Fort and Mahabat Maqbara, this guide covers everything you need to know about booking a car rental from Diu to Junagadh.
Route Overview – Diu to Junagadh by Car
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Shortest Route | 145 km — Diu → Una → Kodinar → Veraval Bypass → Keshod → Junagadh |
| Alternative Route | 155 km — Diu → Dolasa → Prachi → Veraval → Keshod → Junagadh |
| Travel Time | 3–3.5 hours (shortest route, depending on traffic) |
| Road Condition | Smooth coastal highway near Diu; single-lane stretches via Una; Veraval Bypass and Keshod–Junagadh stretch are well-maintained four-lane |
| Best Time to Drive | Early morning (6:00–8:00 AM) or late afternoon |
| Taxi Fare (Sedan) | ₹4,700 one way |
| Taxi Fare (SUV) | ₹5,200–₹7,400 one way |
| Tempo Traveller | ₹13,200–₹15,500 one way |
Taxi Fare Breakdown – What You Actually Pay
Taxi fares from Diu to Junagadh depend on vehicle type, trip type (one-way or round trip), and the booking platform. Here is what you can expect in 2026:
| Vehicle Type | Models | Capacity | Luggage | One-Way Fare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sedan | Swift Dezire | 4 seater AC | 2 bags | ₹4,700 |
| SUV | Ertiga | 6 seater AC | 2 bags | ₹5,200 |
| SUV (Premium) | Innova Crysta | 6 seater AC | 4 bags | ₹7,400 |
| Tempo Traveller | 14 Seater | 14 seater AC | 10 bags | ₹13,200 |
| Tempo Traveller | 17 Seater | 17 seater AC | 10 bags | ₹13,500 |
| Tempo Traveller | 26 Seater | 26 seater AC | 10 bags | ₹15,500 |
Why does the Ertiga only hold 2 bags? Most commercial taxis in Gujarat run on CNG. The cylinder is mounted in the boot, which eliminates virtually all luggage space. A Swift Dezire or Ertiga will comfortably hold only 2–3 medium bags. If you have heavy luggage, explicitly request an Innova Crysta or ask the operator to fit a roof carrier before the car arrives.
What’s included: Driver allowance and fuel. What’s extra: Toll charges (typically ₹100–₹150 for this route), parking fees, and the UT/State Border Tax. Because Diu is a Union Territory and Junagadh is in Gujarat, commercial yellow-plate taxis cross a strict geopolitical border. They are required to pay a border tax (typically ₹300–₹500) at the Tad or Una police checkposts. The Booking Rule: Always ask the cab operator explicitly: “Is the Diu-Gujarat border tax included in this quote, or will the driver demand it in cash at the checkpost?” Never assume it is included in the base fare.
Round trip tip: If you plan to return to Diu after your Junagadh visit, book a round-trip cab. Most operators charge ₹12–₹14 per km for round trips, which works out cheaper than two one-way bookings. A round trip (290 km total) typically costs ₹4,200–₹5,200 for a sedan. Why is a round trip sometimes cheaper than a one-way? Indian outstation taxi operators typically charge one-way travellers for the empty return journey anyway—so a ₹4,700 one-way fare already includes the driver’s dead-heading cost. A round-trip booking eliminates that dead-head charge, making the per-km rate significantly lower.
Car Rental Options – How to Book
You have several options for booking a car rental from Diu to Junagadh:
Online Aggregators
- MakeMyTrip: Sedan from ₹4,700. Book online, pay online or cash to driver.
- CabBazar: Sedan from ₹4,500. Offers one-way, round trip, and multi-stop options.
- GozoCabs: One-way from ₹4,800. Round trip from ₹13/km.
- Savaari: Sedan from ₹4,900. Known for well-maintained cars and professional drivers.
Local Taxi Agents in Diu
Local taxi stands are located near Diu Airport, Diu Fort, and Nagoa Beach. Negotiate directly—fares are often ₹200–₹400 lower than online platforms. However, verify the car condition and driver credentials before booking. Ask for a written receipt with the driver’s mobile number.
Route Options – Which Road to Take
Route 1: Via Veraval Bypass – Keshod (Fastest – 145 km)
Diu → Una → Kodinar → Veraval Bypass → Keshod → Junagadh. This is the shortest and fastest route—145 km, approximately 3 to 3.5 hours. The road follows the coastal highway through Una and Kodinar, then turns north at the Veraval bypass toward Keshod and continues inland to Junagadh. The Veraval bypass and Keshod–Junagadh stretch are well-maintained four-lane roads. This is the recommended route for most travellers.
Route 2: Via Prachi – Veraval Town (Scenic – 155 km)
Diu → Dolasa → Prachi → Veraval → Keshod → Junagadh. At 155 km, this route adds 10 km but passes through Prachi—an ancient town with Buddhist and Hindu archaeological remains. You enter Veraval from the east and pass through the town before heading north. This route is ideal if you want to combine a heritage stop or a Veraval fishing harbour visit with your Junagadh journey.
Recommendation: Take Route 1 if your priority is reaching Junagadh quickly. Take Route 2 if you want to explore Prachi or Veraval on the way. Both routes pass through the Veraval corridor before turning north toward Keshod and Junagadh.
En Route Stops – What to See Along the Way
| Stop | Distance from Diu | What to See |
|---|---|---|
| Ahmedpur Mandvi Beach | 10 km | Scenic beach across the creek from Diu, calm waters |
| Una | 20 km | Coastal town, local temples, tea break |
| Kodinar | 50 km | Town with weekly bazaar, gateway to Somnath region |
| Prachi (via Route 2) | 55 km | Ancient Buddhist and Hindu archaeological remains |
| Sutrapada | 68 km | Ancient sun temple ruins, coastal scrub landscape |
| Veraval Bypass / Veraval | 92 km | Fishing harbour, Somnath Gateway—only if taking Route 2 through town |
| Keshod | 135 km | Keshod Airport, Akshaygadh, last major town before Junagadh |
| Junagadh | 145 km | Uparkot Fort, Mahabat Maqbara, Girnar Hills, Sakkarbaug Zoo |
Best Time to Drive
Early morning (6:00–8:00 AM): The best window. Light traffic, cool temperatures, and the Saurashtra countryside in morning light. You reach Junagadh by 9:30 AM—perfect for an early visit to Uparkot Fort before the heat sets in.
Late afternoon (4:00–6:00 PM): Good for reaching Junagadh before sunset. The setting sun over Girnar creates dramatic light at the foothills. Traffic is moderate.
Avoid: Midday (11:00 AM–3:00 PM) in summer (April–June) when temperatures cross 40°C. Night driving is not recommended—single-lane roads, no streetlights, and occasional wildlife crossings near the Gir corridor.
Things to Do in Junagadh
Junagadh is one of Gujarat’s most historically layered cities—forts, mausoleums, sacred hills, and wildlife all within easy reach:
- Uparkot Fort: With roots dating back to the Mauryan Empire (around 319 BC) and later fortified by the Chudasama dynasty, this citadel has witnessed the rise and fall of multiple empires. Rock-cut step-wells like Adi-kadi Vav and Navghan Kuwo, impressive stone gateways, and panoramic views of the city make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
- Mahabat Maqbara: The stunning mausoleum of the Nawabs of Junagadh, built in the late 19th century. Intricate Islamic architecture with blend of Indian and Persian design elements. One of Gujarat’s most photogenic monuments.
- Girnar Hills & Ropeway: Sacred mountain cluster at Junagadh’s doorstep. The famous trail has 9,999 steps total—Ambaji Temple sits around step 5,000, which is also where the Asia’s longest ropeway (2.3 km) terminates. From Ambaji Hill, dedicated pilgrims continue climbing to Gorakhnath and Dattatreya Peak at the summit. Junagadh is the base for all Girnar pilgrimages. Your cab can drop you directly at Girnar Taleti (the ropeway base station), 5 km east of Junagadh city centre—inform your driver beforehand.
- Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden: One of India’s oldest zoos (est. 1863). Famous for breeding pure Asiatic lions for international conservation programs. Also houses a museum with ancient coins, Persian manuscripts, and natural history specimens.
- Damodar Kund: Sacred lake at the foothills of Girnar. Hindu pilgrims bathe here before climbing Girnar. Surrounded by temples and ghats.
- Willingdon Dam: Built on the Kalwa river at the foot of Girnar. Scenic spot for a quiet afternoon visit. The reservoir is a popular picnic area.
Gateway to Gir National Park & Somnath
Junagadh is one of the key gateways to Sasan Gir National Park—approximately 65 km by road. The drive to Gir takes about 1.5 hours through the forest corridor. Junagadh is also 55 km from Somnath Temple—approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
| Destination from Junagadh | Distance | Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Sasan Gir National Park | 65 km | 1.5 hours |
| Somnath Temple | 55 km | 1–1.5 hours |
| Veraval | 55 km | 1–1.5 hours |
| Keshod Airport | 45 km | 1 hour |
| Rajkot | 120 km | 2.5 hours |
Tip: The core Gir Jungle Safari is closed every year from June 16 to October 15 for monsoon rejuvenation. During this period, only Devalia Safari Park is available. Book safaris online at girlion.gujarat.gov.in 60–90 days in advance for core permits during peak season (November–February). Gir safari timings shift by season: winter mornings start at 6:30 AM; summer mornings start at 6:00 AM.
Return Options – Junagadh to Diu
If you are not booking a round-trip cab, here are your options for returning to Diu:
- Pre-booked round-trip cab: The most convenient option. Your driver waits during your visit and returns you to Diu.
- GSRTC bus: Buses run from Junagadh to Diu via Keshod and Una. Frequency: 15+ buses daily. Last bus: around 7:30 PM. Journey: 3.5–4.5 hours with stops. Check GSRTC website for live timings.
- Local taxi: Available at the Junagadh bus stand and railway station. Fares may be higher than pre-booked cabs due to limited supply.
- Train: Junagadh Railway Station is on the broad-gauge line connecting to Rajkot, Ahmedabad, and Veraval. Trains like the Junagadh–Ahmedabad Express run daily. However, there is no direct train to Diu—travel to Veraval or Keshod and continue by bus or cab.
Safety Tips for the Drive
- Carry water bottles and snacks—limited shops between Una and Kodinar
- Fill fuel in Diu, Kodinar, Veraval, or Keshod—limited petrol pumps on the Keshod–Junagadh stretch
- Keep windows up during forest stretches—monkeys may attempt to grab food
- Drive slowly near villages—cattle and pedestrians cross without warning
- Carry cash—ATMs are limited in Junagadh’s old city area
- Avoid self-driving at night—single-lane roads, no streetlights, wildlife on road
- Download offline maps—mobile signal is patchy in the Gir forest corridor
- Luggage capacity warning: Many hatchbacks and sedans in Gujarat are CNG-fitted, with cylinders occupying the boot. If you have heavy luggage, request an SUV with a roof carrier when booking.
- Alcohol warning: Diu is a Union Territory with relaxed liquor laws. Gujarat enforces strict prohibition. Taxis exiting Diu into Gujarat pass through police checkposts near Tad and Una. Carrying alcohol from Diu into Gujarat carries severe legal penalties. Do not carry any alcohol in the taxi.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance from Diu to Junagadh?
The shortest route is 145 km via Una, Kodinar, the Veraval bypass, and Keshod. The alternative route via Prachi is 155 km. The journey takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours via the shortest route.
How much does a taxi from Diu to Junagadh cost?
A sedan (Swift Dezire) costs ₹4,700 one way. An SUV (Ertiga) costs ₹5,200. An Innova Crysta costs ₹7,400. Round-trip fares for a sedan covering 290 km total are generally ₹4,200–₹5,200.
How long does it take to reach Junagadh from Diu?
Approximately 3 to 3.5 hours via the shortest route (Una–Kodinar–Veraval Bypass–Keshod). Early morning departures are fastest due to minimal traffic.
Do Gujarat cabs have CNG tanks that eat luggage space?
Yes. Almost every commercial sedan and Ertiga in Gujarat runs on CNG, with the cylinder in the boot. A Swift Dezire or Ertiga holds only 2–3 medium bags. For heavy luggage, book an Innova Crysta or request a roof carrier.
How does the UT border tax work?
Diu is a Union Territory; Junagadh is in Gujarat. Commercial cabs crossing this border are stopped at the Tad or Una police checkposts and charged ₹300–₹500. Confirm with the operator before booking whether this charge is included in the fare or payable in cash.
Can I reach Sasan Gir from Junagadh?
Yes. Sasan Gir is 65 km from Junagadh—approximately 1.5 hours by car. Junagadh is one of the main gateways to Gir, along with Keshod and Veraval.
How do I get to Girnar from Junagadh?
Girnar Hills are right at Junagadh’s doorstep—about 5 km from the city centre. Your cab can drop you directly at Girnar Taleti (the ropeway base station) instead of the city centre—just tell your driver. The ropeway covers 2.3 km to Ambaji Hill, saving roughly 5,000 steps. From Ambaji, the trail continues another 4,999 steps to Dattatreya Peak at the summit. Book ropeway tickets online in advance via the official portal to avoid 1–2 hour queues during peak pilgrimage periods (Kartik Purnima, Mahashivratri).
Can my Diu cab drop me directly at the Girnar Ropeway?
Yes. Girnar Taleti (the ropeway base station) is 5 km east of Junagadh city centre, directly on the road from Keshod. If Girnar is your primary destination, inform your driver before departure—they can drop you at Taleti instead of continuing into the city. This saves you an auto-rickshaw ride back out.
Is it safe to drive at night from Diu to Junagadh?
No. The corridor includes unlit single-lane roads, wandering cattle, and occasional wildlife near the forest fringe. Plan your departure so you arrive at Junagadh well before dusk.
