Here is a comprehensive guide to Useful Local Apps & Websites for Junagadh, designed specifically for tourists and city visitors. This list includes trusted, practical, and up-to-date digital tools to help travelers navigate, book, explore, and stay safe while in Junagadh — no additional resources needed.
1. Local Transport & Navigation
A. Google Maps (App & Web)
- Use: Real-time navigation, public transport routes, walking trails (e.g., Girnar Hill trek), restaurants, and attraction ratings.
- Website: https://maps.google.com
- Tip: Download the offline map of Junagadh before your trip.
B. OLA Cabs (App)
- Use: On-demand cab services (limited coverage in Junagadh).
- Alternative: Use local auto-rickshaws or call taxis from hotels.
C. GSRTC Official Website & App
- Use: Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation for booking intercity/state buses.
- Website: https://gsrtc.in
- Features: Timetables, online ticket booking, seat availability
- Tip: Junagadh to Gir, Somnath, and Rajkot routes are frequently available.
2. Railway & Intercity Travel
A. IRCTC Rail Connect (App) / Indian Railways Website
- Use: Train bookings to/from Junagadh Junction, live status, seat availability
- Website: https://www.irctc.co.in
- Requirement: Create an IRCTC user account (passport required for foreigners)
B. Where is My Train (App)
- Use: Track real-time train status without internet
- Best for: Travelers unfamiliar with Indian rail delays or platform changes
3. Tourist Attractions & Activities
A. Gujarat Tourism Official Website
- Use: Tour plans, e-permits, and detailed information on Girnar, Gir National Park, Bhavnath, and Uparkot
- Website: https://www.gujarattourism.com
B. Gir National Park Online Safari Booking
- Use: Book lion safaris, check fees, visitor rules
- Website: https://girlion.gujarat.gov.in
- Tip: Book well in advance during peak season (Nov–March)
C. Incredible India Website
- Use: National-level tourism guide, city and regional info
- Website: https://www.incredibleindia.org
4. Hotel & Accommodation Booking
A. Booking.com / Agoda / Goibibo / MakeMyTrip
- Use: Hotel reservations in Junagadh and nearby areas (Gir, Somnath)
- Tip: Check reviews and amenities like early check-in or tour desk
B. Airbnb India
- Use: Short stays with local hosts, home-stay options
- App/Website: https://www.airbnb.co.in
5. Food & Dining
A. Zomato
- Use: Restaurant search, user reviews, menus, online food delivery (limited areas in Junagadh)
- Website: https://www.zomato.com
B. Swiggy
- Use: Food delivery from select restaurants
- Note: Only available in central parts of Junagadh; rural areas may not be covered
6. Forex, Banking & Utilities
A. Western Union Agent Locator
- Use: Find licensed foreign exchange centers near your location
- Website: https://locations.westernunion.com
B. Thomas Cook Forex Tool
- Use: Find nearest money changers, check live forex rates
- Website: https://www.thomascook.in/foreign-exchange
7. Local News & Updates
A. Divya Bhaskar (Gujarati)
- Use: Local news in Gujarati; useful for cultural event updates, local alerts
- Website: https://www.divyabhaskar.co.in/local/gujarat/junagadh
B. Sandesh News
- Use: Local and state news, traffic reports, weather
- Website: https://www.sandesh.com
8. Emergency & Help Services
A. MySafety India App
- Use: SOS alerts, location sharing with family
- Tip: Useful for solo travelers or women travelers
B. Aarogya Setu (Govt. Health App)
- Use: Emergency health updates, nearby COVID/testing centers, local medical alerts
- Note: May still be required for travel through government zones or transport checkpoints
9. SIM Cards & Recharge
A. MyJio / Airtel Thanks / Vi App
- Use: Manage data plans, local SIM recharges, customer service
- Tip: For foreign nationals, a passport and visa are needed for purchasing a local SIM card at a telecom store.
10. Cultural & Language Help
A. Google Translate (App)
- Use: English to Gujarati translations (text & speech)
- Feature: Offline mode can help in markets and remote villages
B. Simply Learn Gujarati (App)
- Use: Learn essential Gujarati phrases with audio – helpful for greetings, shopping, or emergencies
Summary: Must-Have Apps for Junagadh Visitors
| Need | Recommended App/Website |
|---|---|
| Navigation | Google Maps |
| Train Booking | IRCTC / Where is My Train |
| Bus Travel | GSRTC |
| Safari & Wildlife | girlion.gujarat.gov.in |
| Hotel Booking | Booking.com / MakeMyTrip / Airbnb |
| Food Delivery | Zomato / Swiggy |
| Currency Exchange | Thomas Cook / Western Union |
| Local Language | Google Translate / Simply Learn Gujarati |
| Medical Emergency | Aarogya Setu / MySafety |
| Tourism Info | gujarattourism.com / incredibleindia.org |