Junagadh Travel Guide

Junagadh Travel Guide

The city of Junagadh is located in the district of the same name in the Indian state of Gujarat. It is situated at the foot of the Girnar hills and was a part of the erstwhile kingdom of Junagadh in the earlier times. There have been several rulers under different dynasties of the region. It has been subjected to the rule of the Mauryan dynasty, the Solankis, the Mughal Empire and finally was under the British rule.

Today this is a popular tourist destination that sees several thousands of visitors to see some of the fascinating remains of the times. There are various places of interest that are present in Junagadh and will keep you busy with their intriguing history and mesmerizing beauty.

There is the famous Somnath temple here that is a must see for all. Apart from being of religious significance for the Hindus as this is one of the Jyotirlingas there is also a great deal of architectural finesse that can be seen in this. The temple is of Lord Shiva and is his avatar of Somnath that is the ‘protector of the moon god’. The most interesting aspect of this temple is that it has witnessed destructions and damage for more than 6 times and has seen a rebuilding and restructuring of the same magnificence each time. You can also take a trip to the Uparkot Fort and the Shree Swaminarayan Temple. There is also the expanse of the Mandvi Beach that will make for a pleasant trip.

One of the favorite attractions of this place can be a trip to the Girnar Hills. The mountain is at a distance of 6 kilometers from the city and is one of the most picturesque locales available. There are several Jain temples that are also located here and are worth taking a look at. There are other beautiful places here like the Bhimkund, Gaumukhi Ganga and Hanumandhara among several others.

The highest point of the mount is Ambaji Point which is also the point of a temple of Goddess Amba – an incarnation of Durga. The foot of the Girnar Hills towards the eastern regions of the city there are two edicts that had been erected at the time of Emperor Ashoka. The Ashokan edicts are inlaid with messages of peace, harmony and Dharma. These are great pieces of sculpted messages that have withstood the test of time to remain as peace messengers even today.

You must make a plan to visit one of the three oldest zoos in India – the Sakkarbaug Zoo. This is a place where you species of the rare Gir Lions. This is in addition to other wonders of this natural reserve for wildlife. You will also be able to see the incredible Wild Museum here where stuffed animals and various other artifacts of rare value are kept. 

Last Updated: 29/03/2012