Porbandar's beach locally known as 'Chowpati' has a long, sandy expanse along the ocean. Construction activities to provide attractions and manage litter and facilities on Chowpati Beach started in around 2003. It has been furnished with well-arranged seating for tourists and commuters; there is a skating rink for children. The Chowpati ground has been used for the 'Janamastmi Fair', an annual festival. This place is well equipped with a circuit house and a range of hotels nearby for visitors. The best time to visit is October to March. As per the reference in Sudama Charitra of Skanda Purana, a religious text with plenty of geographical information, the present Porbandar city was names after Goddess Porav, and was located along the river banks of Asmavati.