GirnarHill |
About: |
Girnar is one of the holiest places in Gujarat, situated near Junagadh at a distance of 327 from Ahmedabad. It is a holy place and an important pilgrimage for both Hindus and Jains. There are a number of temples located here, which have converted it into a township of temples. Amidst the lush green Gir Forest, the mountain range serves as the hub of religious activity. Apart from this, there is a mosque attracting many Muslim pilgrims to the place. This has made Girnar a perfect example of unity in diversity in India.
The tallest of these rises to 945 meters (3600 feet), the highest peak in Gujarat. The first peak of Girnar has a collection of Digambar and Shwetamber temples. The Shwetambar temples are more intricately carved but are more modern in terms of history. A sturdy stone path — a pilgrimage route for both Hindus and Jains — climbs from peak to peak. It is claimed that there are exactly 9,999 steps from the trailhead to the last temple on the highest peak, but the actual number is roughly 8,000. Girnar is dotted with numerous beautifully carved ancient Jain temples. There is a rock at the foot of the hill, bearing an inscription of Ashoka (2nd century BC). It also sports two other inscriptions, which date back to 150 and 455 AD. Girnar is also famous for the Kathiawadi culture. Girnar, a scenic mountain range which rises to 3660 ft above the sea level, is the highest peak in Gujarat. Situated on the outskirts of Junagadh, it is also one of the most sacred pilgrimage centers for the Jain community in the state. Girnar Hill is also home to the lions in India and is 5 km east of Junagadh. Taking a tour to Girnar Hill is one of the most reputed excursions from Junagadh. This hill is one of the commonly visited sites from Junagadh as a number of important temples are located on this hill.The devotees of Hinduism and Jainism frequently visit these temples as they are considered very sacred. To reach the peak of the Girnar Hill of Junagadh, one has to climb as many as 10,000 steps. If the tourists do not want to climb these stairs, then they can opt for the rope chairs. These rope chairs are meant to carry two persons at a time. While approaching the top of the Girnar Hill in Junagadh, the temples that the tourists first come by are five temples of Jainism. Of these five temples, the biggest as well as the oldest one was established to pay homage to the 22nd Jain Tirthankar. The temple meant for the worship of Amba Mata is also quite popular. |
Location info: |
Address:GirnarHill,Junagadh,Gujarat,India |
District: Junagadh |
Nearest City: Juinagadh |
Langauge: Gujarati,Hindi,English |
Best time to visit: October to March |
Climate/Weather: |
Summers 23°- 44°C. Winters 10°-36°C |
History: |
The summit has been an important religious place since the 3rd century. Girnar temples present a true blend of art, religion and devotion. The sculptural art used in these temples is outstanding. They have stood the test the time and the cruelty of various invaders. Despite that, the art forms of the temples still retain their magnificence. The Jain temples at Girnar attract devotees of both Shwetambar and Digambar sects of Jainism. The Neminath Temple at first peak is one of the main attraction of Girnar. It was built during 1128 AD to 1159 AD. |
Interesting things to do: |
Interesting things to Visit: |
Uparkot: This very old fort, from which the city derives its name, stands on the eastern side of Junagarh and is said to have been built in 319BC by Chandragupta. Through the centuries it has survived, the fort has been rebuilt and extended over and over again. The outer walls measure nearly 20m high and an ornate triple gateway here forms the main entrance.The fort has had a long and bloody history. It was besieged 16 times, was completely abandoned between the 7th and 10th centuries till it was rediscovered completely overgrown by jungle.
Ashokan Edicts: Durbar Hall Museum: Junagarh Zoo: Mahabat Maqbara: The city of Junagadh can boast of some beautiful ancient mausoleum erected by the Nawabs of Junagadh in the 18th century in the area around Chitkana Chowk. These mausoleum are charming in their own way, with nicely designed arches, vertical columns, and intricate stone carvings. However, the mausoleum built later; or rather the newer ones are more attractive and lure a greater number of tourists who floch to this place every year. Started in 1878 by Mahabat Khanji and completed in the year 1892 by his successor, Bahadur Kanji, the Mahabat Maqbara, Junagadh houses the tombs of Mahabat Khan, Baha-ud-din, minister of Nawab Rasul Khanji. Bhavnath Mahadev Temple: Gorakhnath Temple: Neminath Temple: This rectangular temple is devoted to Neminath, the famous 22nd Tirthankar of Jainism. The Junagadh Temple of Neminath houses a deity of Lord Neminath. This presiding deity dwells in lotus along with a conch. Carved in black stone, Lord Neminath presents an awe inspiring sight. Amba Mata Temple: Mallinath Temple: Actually the Junagadh Temple of Mallinath is a triple temple. The exteriors of this temple are exquisitely carved and present a stunning sight to behold. At this temple, you would be able to get a captivating insight into Jain religious rituals. Akin to a Hindu temple, pilgrims at this place also offer leaves, fruit, flowers, vermilion, sandalwood paste and grains to the deity, amidst ringing of the bells and chanting of mantras. Once the pooja gets over, these devotees adorn their foreheads with liberal daubs of vermilion as well as sandalwood paste. A generous amount of money is also offered for the upkeep of the shrine.Like the Hindus, the Jains too have a complex ceremony of ablutions prior to the pooja. The men at Junagadh Temple of Mallinath are needed to wear unstitched clothes while offering their respect to the deity. However, the women are permitted in their normal clothes. |
Mobile range info: |
How to reach? |
Nearest Railway Station:Junagadh railway Station |
Nearest Airport:Rajkot at 102km,Connected Mumbai,International airport |
Road Transport:State Transport buses and private luxury coaches connect various centres of Gujarat. It is situated 393 kilometres from Ahemdabad, connected by State Transport buses. |
Nearest Visiting places: |
Somnath: Ituated 79 kms from Junagadh and 25 kms. from Chorwad, is the legendary shore temple of Somnath, one of the twelve most sacred Shiva shrines in India.Legend has it that the Somnath Temple was originally built out of gold by Somraj, the moon god. Then, it was rebuilt by Ravana in silver and then again by Krishna in wood and yet again by King Bhimdev Solanki in stone in the 10th century. The temple was so rich that it had over 300 musicians, 500 dancing girls and even 300 barbers - just to shave the heads of pilgrims!
Mahmud of Ghazni, upon hearing the description of the temple by an Arab traveler by the name Al Biruni, raided the temple in 1024 A.D. and after looting it, carried away camel loads of jewels and gold. Somnath was destroyed six times and rebuilt on every occasion. The temple contains one of the twelve sacred Shiva shrines known as Jyotirlingas. Ahmedpur Mandvi: Chorwad: Madhavpur Beach: The Gir National Park: Delvada: Kamleshwar Dam: Sutrapada: |
Nearest Petrol Pump: |
Petrol Pump:Junagadh,Gujarat,India
HP Petrol Pump:Junagadh,Gujarat,India |
Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation: |
Hotel Shree Paramount:Kalva Chowk,Junagadh,Gujarat,India,Ph:0285 2623983
The Lotus Hotel:Ground floor,Junagadh,Gujarat,India,Ph:0285 2658500 Hotel Shikhar Palace:Shikhar Complex,Jayshree Road, Kalwa Chowk,Junagadh,Gujarat,India,Ph:0285 2626596 |
Things to carry: |
Tips & Suggestions: |
Help Line/Phone Number: |
Police Station:100 |
Nearest Hospital: |
Society/Community Phone Number: |
Link:www.mapsofindia.com |
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Somnath Temple |
Somnath of Prabhas Pattana, situated on the southern coast of Saurastra, in the province of Sorath, now known as Jungadh in the state of Gujarat, holds the prestigious temple of Sri Someshwar, which is supposed to have witnessed the dawn of time. The present temple is an imposing structure: its imposing exterior is adorned with marvellous sculpture; it has a grand sabha mandap in front; its shikhara measures 155 feet. The jyotirlinga installed on the Brahmasila is about four feet in height and is adorned with spectacular sandal paste decorations, a novelty here. There are hundreds of priests in the service of the Lord, attending to His needs, round the clock....more |
Ahmedpur Mandvi Beach |
Mandvi is one of the finest beaches on the Gujarat shoreline. The beach is white and firm, ideal for walks, and the water perfect for swimming. Seemingly unending, with sands ideal for astle building by kids, and shallow waters for a wading, this is a great spot for a family holiday. A variety of water sports like water scooters, skiing, surfing, para sailing, speed boat trips are on offer. Cottage Resort Magico Do Mar is one of the highlight of this beach offering air-conditioned rooms, pleasant lawns, palm groves. The resort bungalow facing garden towards sea offers wonderful sight which should not be missed.When you've had enough of lazing in the sun and are ready for some action and fun, you can participate in any of the numerous beach activities offered on the beautiful Indian beaches!For instance, you could indulge in any of the exciting water sports such as surfing or parasailing, or go swimming in the clear blue sea, or even try your hand at building a sand castle or playing a game of beach volleyball...more |
Chorwad Beach |
A visit to Chorwad Beach in Gujarat, India, offers ample of opportunity to the tourists to know about the ins and outs of the Chorwad Beach in Gujarat, India. Chorwad Beach in Gujarat, India is yet another beautiful and scenic spot which if marketed well can figure high in the itinerary of the domestic and international tourists. Chorwad Beach is an interesting and alluring amalgamation of rocky crags and bowlderish seafront along with jaunty boat rides across the Chorwad seafront and to cap it all with opportunities to visit Porbandar and Somnath and other nearby beach destinations and other travel destinations worth their salt in terms of beauty and ambience....more |
Madhavpur Beach |
Madhavpur is a small town located 60 kms southwest of historic town Porbandar. Madhvapur Beach is one of the beautiful sandy beaches in Gujarat. Beautiful sandy beaches lined here with coconut trees.It is believed that Lord Krishna had married Rukmini in Madhavpur. The Legend is kept alive by holding a fair on Chaitra Sud 12 every year. There is also a Bethak of Mahaprabhuji as Shri Vallabhachrya who had given discourse on Shrimad Bhagwat for seven days here.Madhavpur beach, which made news recently for Tropex-2009 military exercise, has another claim to fame. It is home to a two-decade long conservation project of Green Sea and Olive Ridley turtles: both endangered marine species included in Schedule-1 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.According to the Forest department, over 10,000 baby turtles have been safely released in the Arabian Sea this year.Ever since the conservation work began nearly 20 years ago, around 2 lakh baby turtles have been released into the sea.....more |
Uperkot Fort |
The state of Gujarat boasts of a number of historical Forts and monuments in Junagadh. Built and rebuilt repeatedly the Uperkot Fort, Junagadh one of the two fortifications of the city, has of late become one of the main Tourist attractions in Junagadh. Adding to the advantage of the fort being less thronged has helped it retain the ethnicity without losing any bit of its charm.The fort has many interesting exhibits like the two guns placed on the western wall and believed to have been cast in Egypt. The bigger one is called the Nilamtope and the other one is known as Kadanal. In and around the fort one can find several Buddhist caves...more
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Mahabat Maqbara |
The Mahabat Maqbara in a Junagadh city,The etymological meaning of Junagadh is "old Fort". It is located in the state of Gujarat in the laps of the sacred hills of Girnar in Saurashtra. Amongst the various forts and monuments in Junagadh, one of the major Tourist attractions in Junagadh, the Mahabat Maqbara, Junagadh is an exquisite exhibition of the nineteenth century art and architecture.The yellow mausoleum, Mahabat Maqbara, Junagadh, is a masterpiece of it own kind. The uniqueness of the affluence of silver at the portals teemed with intricate carvings and the winding staircase encircling the four minarets attract a lot of tourists to its site.....more |
Ashokan Edicts |
Ashokan Rock edicts are situated at Lat. 210 31 N; Long 700 28 E. The Rock edicts of Emperor Ashokan were engraved on a granite boulder on the slope of Girinagara or Urjayata Hill. On the eastern face of it was engraved 14 Rock edicts by Ashoka and later epigraphs of Mahakshatrapa Rudradaman I and Skandagupta were also recorded on it, the Rock edict was first reported by James Todd in 1822. The other two epigraphs have a common purpose, which was recording the history of the breaking of dams of Sudarshan Lake occurring because of the turbulent storm waters of river Suvarna Sikta and Palasini rushing down the hill slopes.....more |
Darbar Hall Museum |
Located in the historic city of Junagarh in Gujarat, the Durbar Hall Museum is one of the most famous tourist attractions of Gujarat. The beautiful Durbar Hall was used as durbar (court) of the erstwhile Nawabs of Junagadh. The Durbar Hall has many interesting sections like Picture Gallery, Palanquin, Textile and Arms Gallery.The Durbar Hall Museum displays exciting collections of weapons and armor, belonging to the period of the Junagarh Nawabs along with other interesting curios and artifacts. The Museum also displays silver chains, chandeliers, settees, thrones, palanquins, howdahs, cushions, gowns and a large carpet that was woven in the Junagarh jail....more |
Zoo Museum-Junagadh |
Junagadh Zoo is famous around the world for the Asiatic Lions it boasts of. The zoo is also known as Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden. A trip to Junagadh would remain incomplete without a visit to the Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden.The Junagadh Zoo was built in 1863 by the then Nawab. Incidentally, the zoo is the oldest one in Gujarat. He had set up this zoo in order to save the Asiatic Lion from extinction. Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden is located at around 3.5 km from the center of the city. The zoo is open on all days of the week from 9 in the morning to 6 in the evening. Entry fee to this zoo is Rs 3. Junagadh Zoo is home to 71 species of animals. According to latest reports, there are around 850 animals in the zoo.....more |
Bhavnath Fair |
A visit to Tourism of Gujarat, offers a golden opportunity to the tourist to undertake a tour across Gujarat and also to the bright and charming Bhavnath fair, being celebrated in Gujarat, India. Tourism of Gujarat, offers travel related information that Bhavnath fair in Gujarat, India, is home to a multitude of tourists and devotees who throng the location to be part of the mammoth experience. Bhavnath Fair, in Gujarat, India, is held in Junagadh, annually, with the fair coinciding with the grandiose and very famous festival of Shivratri, being celebrated in the same month as the Bhavnath fair of Junagadh, in Gujarat, India. Bhavnath fair, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and a lot of revelry goes on in the Shiva temples and along with that the temples are visited by Naga Sadhus, and watching them is a novel and enigmatic experience....more |
Madhavpur Fair |
A visit to Tourism of Gujarat, takes the interested tourist on a journey across the length and breadth of Gujarat, situated in India, so that a selective screening of the charms of Madhavpur fair can take place. Tourism of Gujarat, offers travel related information about the grand and colorful Madhavpur Fair, in Gujarat, India. Madhavpur Fair being held in Gujarat, India, is actually held in Madhavpur which is a small town located near the legendary and historic town of Porbandar, situated in Gujarat, India. Madhavpur, situated in Gujarat, India, otherwise is a sleepy, silent town, which comes to life when the stirrings of the grand Madhavpur Fair, being held in Madhavpur, Gujarat, India, wake it up from its deep slumber.....more |
Jamvada waterfall |
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Gira Waterfall |
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Gir Forest National Park |
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Bhadar river |
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