Rajkot offers an exciting blend of heritage, food, and fun—all on a budget! Whether you're a student, traveler, or local explorer, discover these 15 budget-friendly experiences in Rajkot with insider tips and SavePlus India savings hacks that keep your wallet happy while maximizing your fun.
Visit the Watson Museum
Housed in Jubilee Garden, Watson Museum is a heritage lover’s delight. It preserves Rajkot’s colonial legacy alongside Gujarat’s local artifacts. With everything from sculptures to coins and paintings, the museum offers a culturally rich experience. Visitors can learn about the Indus Valley Civilization and the British era. Educational institutions often bring students here for affordable field trips. It’s calm, uncrowded, and easy on the wallet.
- Home to ancient relics, tribal art, and vintage textiles.
- Interactive sections explain Rajkot’s past in visual form.
- Entry is just ₹5, making it ideal for repeated visits.
Cost: ₹5 for Indian citizens, ₹50 for foreign nationals.
Pro Tip: Visit during Gujarat Tourism Week in January for free guided tours and events.
Seek Peace at Swaminarayan Mandir
This grand marble temple is both spiritually uplifting and visually stunning. Known for its peaceful vibes, intricate carvings, and community service, it attracts devotees and tourists alike. The temple offers serene prayer sessions, bhajans, and cleanliness like no other. Entry is free, and you can spend hours soaking in the ambiance. It’s especially beautiful during festive seasons like Diwali. Great for solo and family visits.
- Open to all with no entry fee or restrictions.
- Evening aartis are musical, rhythmic, and peaceful.
- Spotless premises and water dispensers available for free.
Cost: ₹0
Pro Tip: Visit during Diwali for the lit-up mandir experience, including community prasad.
Relax at Jubilee Garden
Jubilee Garden is Rajkot’s central green space where locals go to unwind. Surrounded by heritage buildings and museums, it’s perfect for a relaxed morning or evening. The wide paths are great for walkers, and families often set up picnics here. The garden also hosts fairs and food stalls, especially during festivals. Street vendors selling ice cream and chaats line the entrance. It’s safe, spacious, and lively.
- Ideal for morning jogs, yoga, or reading under trees.
- Close to Watson Museum and Lang Library.
- Enjoy spicy snacks from vendors for ₹20–₹50.
Cost: Free entry; food/snacks cost extra.
Pro Tip: Use PhonePe to pay food vendors and unlock UPI cashback offers.
Watch a Show at Hemu Gadhavi Hall
Named after a celebrated Gujarati folk artist, this hall is a hub for cultural events. You'll find plays, concerts, and poetry sessions here almost every week. It’s a platform for local talent and seasoned performers alike. Ticket prices are super affordable, often less than the cost of a movie. The ambiance is welcoming, and shows are hosted in multiple languages. Ideal for art lovers on a budget.
- Regular shows in Gujarati, Hindi, and regional dialects.
- Folk music, drama, and comedy acts attract locals.
- Family-friendly with secure seating and good acoustics.
Cost: ₹20–₹50
Pro Tip: Follow Rajkot Municipal Corporation's event updates for free-entry cultural nights.
Explore Rashtriya Shala’s Khadi Workshops
Rashtriya Shala was established by Mahatma Gandhi and still echoes his values. It showcases the history and process of khadi-making—spinning, dyeing, and weaving. Visitors can interact with artisans and even try their hand at weaving. The khadi store sells handmade, eco-friendly clothes at affordable rates. You can also join weekend workshops that require minimal fees. It’s both educational and deeply rooted in Indian heritage.
- Learn how khadi threads are spun and loomed.
- Buy affordable and authentic handwoven clothing.
- Ideal for eco-conscious and heritage-focused travelers.
Cost: ₹10 for entry, ₹50–₹100 for workshops.
Pro Tip: Visit on Sundays for interactive sessions with senior artisans.
Shop Local at Bangdi Bazaar
For budget fashion and accessories, Bangdi Bazaar is your go-to. Famous for its bangles, bindis, and dress materials, it’s a colorful market bursting with energy. Bargaining is common, so you can get great deals. Perfect for a wedding or festive shopping on a shoestring. The market lanes are narrow but packed with treasures. Best visited in the morning when it's less crowded.
- Traditional and artificial jewelry under ₹200.
- Many shops accept UPI—no need to carry cash.
- Local fabrics and accessories are perfect for Navratri.
Cost: ₹50–₹200 depending on items.
Pro Tip: Use Ajio discount codes online to compare rates before purchasing offline.
Hang Out at Race Course Grounds
The Race Course is a massive open area ideal for jogging, playing sports, or simply relaxing. It’s Rajkot’s favorite community hangout, especially during evenings. Locals gather for yoga, cricket, and morning walks. You’ll find food stalls, balloon vendors, and pet walkers too. With free access, it's perfect for budget-conscious families and college students. Pets are allowed, making it a great spot for animal lovers.
- Enjoy kite flying, cricket, or peaceful walks.
- Open gym and jogging track available.
- Evening snack stalls offer local treats like puffed rice and sugarcane juice.
Cost: Free
Pro Tip: Use BigBasket coupons to prep a home-packed picnic basket.
Snap Pictures at Aji Dam & Gardens
This man-made dam is a peaceful escape on the outskirts of Rajkot. Surrounded by lush greenery and a zoo, it’s great for a weekend getaway. Photographers love the scenic views and the birds that flock here. You can visit the adjoining garden or enjoy a quick bite from stalls. There’s even a boating facility on occasion. Safe, clean, and naturally beautiful—it’s a hidden gem.
- Family-friendly and pet-friendly outdoor location.
- Great picnic spot during monsoon and post-monsoon.
- Local stalls offer tea, corn, and sandwiches.
Cost: ₹10–₹30
Pro Tip: Visit between August and October for greenery and fewer crowds.
Visit Lang Library & Reading Room
Lang Library is a peaceful haven for book lovers. Established during the British era, it houses Gujarati, Hindi, and English literature. The ambiance is serene, with high ceilings and quiet corners. Locals visit to prepare for exams or simply unwind. The library also maintains rare manuscripts and children's books. It’s perfect for knowledge seekers on a tight budget.
- Extensive collection of reference and regional books.
- Free reading zone for registered members.
- Low-cost monthly access for students.
Cost: ₹5 for a day pass; ₹20 for a monthly pass.
Pro Tip: Carry an Aadhaar card to register on the spot and gain instant access.
Try Thrifty Food Hopping in Limda Chowk
Limda Chowk is Rajkot’s ultimate street food destination. From spicy chaats to sweet Jalebi-Fafda combos, it’s every foodie’s dream. You can sample multiple dishes without exceeding ₹100. The area is crowded but energetic and flavorful. Vendors accept UPI and digital payments, making transactions easy. Perfect for foodies, students, and night owls.
- Top eats: Dhokla, Bhajiya, Pav Bhaji, Ice Dish.
- All items priced ₹20–₹50—affordable and tasty.
- Great for group hangouts or late-night cravings.
Cost: ₹30–₹100
Pro Tip: Check Zomato Rajkot offers for extra savings at nearby restaurants.
Join a Free Heritage Walk
Heritage walks in Rajkot offer a guided peek into its glorious past. Organized by local NGOs or tourism bodies, these walks cover historical sites, old markets, and temples. You’ll hear intriguing stories from Rajkot’s freedom struggle and royal lineage. They usually start early morning to avoid crowds and heat. Suitable for history buffs and Instagrammers alike. It’s an enriching experience—without a price tag.
- Explore old alleys, stepwells, and iconic buildings.
- Free or tip-based guides share fascinating local tales.
- Walks last 90 to 120 minutes—perfect weekend activity.
Cost: Free to ₹30
Pro Tip: Join Telegram groups or Couchsurfing forums to catch upcoming walk invites.
Enjoy Budget Movie Nights
Why splurge at multiplexes when you can enjoy the same film for less? Rajkot’s single-screen theatres offer pocket-friendly tickets and old-school charm. Morning and weekday shows are especially cheap. Snacks are reasonably priced too—perfect for students or family outings. The vibe is nostalgic, and the savings are real. Tickets can be booked online using discount codes.
- Classic cinema halls: Galaxy, Yash, and Blue Bell.
- Snacks like popcorn and soda are under ₹50.
- Weekday tickets start at just ₹50.
Cost: ₹50–₹100
Pro Tip: Use BookMyShow coupon codes with SBI cards for additional cashback.
Save on Daily Shopping with Online Offers
Daily essentials don’t have to be boring—or expensive! Rajkot shoppers can make the most of online platforms like BigBasket, Blinkit, and Amazon Pantry. These apps frequently run city-specific promotions and bank offers. Combined with UPI payment discounts, you can bring your grocery bill down significantly. It’s perfect for homemakers, students, and working professionals managing tight monthly budgets.
- BigBasket uses Wednesday offers for up to ₹100 off on fresh fruits, vegetables, and kitchen essentials.
- Blinkit saves every Sunday with UPI-based discounts—ideal for last-minute grocery needs.
- Amazon Pantry avails SBI/Amazon Pay card offers during monthly sales for flat 15–25% savings.
Cost: Savings range from ₹100 to ₹400 monthly based on smart usage.
Pro Tip: Combine SavePlus India coupon codes with bank and wallet offers for maximum discount on essentials.
Attend a Free Art or Music Workshop
Rajkot’s creative circles regularly organize free or low-cost workshops. From Garba classes to painting or pottery sessions, there’s something for every age group. These are typically held at community centers or educational institutions. It’s a fun, social, and skillful way to spend your weekend. Ideal for students, homemakers, and anyone exploring hobbies.
- Art, dance, and craft workshops every weekend.
- Affordable registration fees (₹20–₹100 max).
- Many workshops offer free materials or kits.
Cost: ₹20–₹100
Pro Tip: Follow Eventshigh, Townscript, and Facebook local events to stay updated.
Experience Rajkot Melas & Seasonal Bazaars
Rajkot’s local fairs are pure joy—colorful, lively, and budget-friendly. Whether it’s Diwali Dhamaka, Navratri bazaars, or Republic Day exhibitions, there's always something happening. You’ll find stalls selling handcrafted goods, home decor, snacks, and clothing. Cultural performances are often free to attend. Perfect for festive shopping or family outings without burning a hole in your wallet.
- Diwali melas offer lanterns, sweets, and apparel discounts.
- Navratri brings dandiya nights and fashion stalls.
- Kids enjoy games, rides, and puppet shows for ₹10–₹30.
Cost: ₹0–₹50
Pro Tip: Use UPI apps like Paytm and PhonePe—some stalls offer QR-code-based scratch card rewards.
Conclusion
Rajkot proves that rich experiences don’t need deep pockets. With thoughtful planning, digital payments, and insider tips from SavePlus India, you can enjoy everything—from temples and museums to food trails and fairs—on a budget. Let our expert shopping hacks and exclusive India-specific promo codes keep your wallet full and your heart fuller.
FAQ
What are the best free things to do in Rajkot?
Visit Swaminarayan Mandir, Jubilee Garden, Race Course Grounds, and local melas.
How can I find Rajkot-specific discount codes?
Head to SavePlus.in and search by store name or category for exclusive coupons.
Are there any safe places in Rajkot for solo female travelers?
Yes. Most public parks, temples, and shopping areas are safe during daylight with CCTV surveillance.
What’s the cheapest way to travel within Rajkot?
Use local buses, shared autos, or rent a cycle. UPI-enabled e-rickshaws are budget-friendly too.
Which season is best to explore Rajkot on a budget?
Post-monsoon and winter months (September to February) are ideal due to cool weather and festival melas.