Girnar hill

About Girnar hill

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.

Interesting things to Visit

Ashokan Edicts:
As you wind your way towards Girnar Hill you’ll pass a small roadside building that houses the huge boulder on which King Ashoka had 14 edicts inscribed in Pali script. These edicts are moral lectures laid down by a deeply religious king who had embraced Buddhism after much war and bloodshed. The boulder has some Sanskrit inscrptions ordered by later kings. These mostly pertain to matters of the kingdom.

Durbar Hall Museum:
This museum has the usual display of weapons and armour from the days of the nawabs, with their collections of silver chains and chandeliars, settees and thrones, howdahs and palanquins, and a few cushions and gowns, as well as a huge carpet which was woven in Junagadh’s jail. There is a portrait gallery of the nawabs and local petty princes, including photos of the last nawab with his various beloved dogs.

Junagarh Zoo:
Set up by the nawabs of Junagarh to save the lion from extinction, the zoo was established in 1863. It is home to many lions, tigers and leopards - kids find it particularly fascinating.Don’t miss the museum at the zoo if you are interested in paintings, old manuscripts, archaeological exhbits, natural history and lots more.

Mahabat Maqbara:
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 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:
Located at the foot hills of the Girnar Hills, the Bhavnath Mahadev Temple is one of the foremost Holy Places in Junagadh. Nothing much is known about its precise origin but there is no scope of doubt about its historicity. It has stood their since ancient times. Visited by religious minded devotees all along the year, it is however best known for being the venue of the famous Bhavnath Fair.Held in the month of Magha as per the Hindu calendar (roughly coincides with January/February) this fair is the meeting point of a large number of people and is celebrated with a great deal of mirth and good cheer. It continues for five days. Events include performances put up by folk singers and dancers. One of the most striking features of this fair hosted at the Bhavnath Mahadev Temple is the active participation of the Naga Bavas.

Gorakhnath Temple:
Tourists coming to Junagadh would be captivated by its various museums, temples and forts. In the category of the Holy Places in Junagadh, the Temple of Gorakhnath, Junagadh merits a special mention. As buses ply regularly between Junagadh and other key locations of the State of Gujarat, you would be able to reach this temple without any trouble.Junagadh Temple of Gorakhnath is positioned at the Girnar Hill in the district of Junagadh, Gujarat. Girnar Hill lies about 5 kms to the east of Junagadh. The presiding deity at this temple is Lord Gorakhnath. In the vicinity of this beautiful temple, you would get the chance to see several other Hindu temples along with a number of Jain temples.

Neminath Temple:
Junagadh has a lot to offer to the tourists by way of its temples, museums and forts. Amongst the Holy Places in Junagadh, a significant name is that of the Temple of Neminath, Junagadh. As this temple is well linked to other places of Gujarat via frequent bus services, you can reach here sans difficulty.The construction of this temple began in 1128 AD and was finished in 1159 AD. Two brothers, Vastupal and Tejpal, were the brain behind the construction of Neminath Temple. It was this duo who is also held in high esteem for Mount Abu’s Dilwara temples, a marvelous piece of architecture.

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:
Tourists coming to Junagadh would be fascinated by its picturesque setting. The religious places and historical monuments of Junagadh attract many travelers from every nook and corner of the world. In the register of the Holy Places in Junagadh, the Temple of Amba Mata, Junagadh stands out and merits a special mention. Owing to buses that ply frequently between Junagadh and other chief locations of Gujarat, you can reach the Junagadh Temple of Amba Mata without any trouble.Junagadh Temple of Amba Mata is positioned on top of the Girnar Hill that’s 600 meter in height. The presiding deity at this Hindu temple is Goddess Amba, an incarnation of the mother Goddess. Every year, thousand of pilgrims come to this temple to offer their prayers and seek divine blessings. This temple is especially a place frequented by the newly married couples who arrive at this place to be blessed by the Goddess. It is believed that the blessings of Goddess Amba would ensure eternal conjugal bliss for the couple.

Mallinath Temple:
Tourists coming to Junagadh would be enchanted by its numerous temples, forts and museums. Amongst the Holy Places in Junagadh, the Temple of Mallinath, Junagadh deserves a special mention. As Junagadh is well linked to other key locations of Gujarat via regular bus services, reaching this temple would not pose any problem.The credit of the construction of Temple of Mallinath, Junagadh, Gujarat, India goes to two brothers named Vastupal and Tejpal. Junagadh Temple of Mallinath was erected in 1177 by this duo.

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.

Nearest Visiting places from Girnar Hill Station

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:
Set amidst virgin beaches Ahmedpur Mandvi’s main attraction is the seaside resort, a renovated palace of the Nawab. A few kms. away is a sun kissed beach, offering a safe haven for swimming and water sport facilities.

Chorwad:
It is 66kms. from Junagarh and 23kms. from the fishing centre of Veraval. It is a holiday resort with an isolated beach and is away from bazaars, crowds etc. The sea here is not always calm but the pleasant climate invites a host of tourists every year. Chorwad is perfect for long beach walks and a quiet holiday.

Madhavpur Beach:
A visit to Indian Beach Tours, offers an informative insight into the Madhavpur Beach, situated in Gujarat, in India. Madhavpur Beach, situated in Gujarat, India, is home to the name of Madhav Raoji, and this place finds a mention in the Hindu scriptures, too. The temple of Madhav Raoji is a cynosure of all eyes along with the Madhavpur Beach, in this small town. Old sayings point to the fact that that Lord Krishna got married to Rukmini at Madhavpur Beach.

The Gir National Park:
The Gir National Park, was established on 18th September, 1965, as a Forest Reserve, primarily to conserve the Asiatic lion. The total area under national park status is about 2,450 hectares. It is located in the Junagadh District of Gujarat, about 65 km south-east of Junagadh city, and 90 km east of Keshod Airport, in the Kathiawar (Saurashtra) Peninsula. Sasan, with a forest rest-house, is the headquarters of the sanctuary.The Gir is a mixed deciduous type of forest with teak, ber, flame of the forest, jamun, a variety of acacia, particularly babul. It is a hilly tract with plenty of rivers, and offers the visitor long pleasant drives, through the thick forest cover.

Delvada:
It is a small town located on the Arabian coast, the main attraction here is the Shri delvada teerth, Shri Una teerth dedicated to Shri Adinath Bhagavan is situated 6km north in Una. The gorgeous Ahmedpur Mandvi Beach is also nearby for the tourist to relax.

Kamleshwar Dam:
Situated at the middle of Sasan Gir wildlife sanctuary by 10 km of distance, this dam is the major reservoir in this Sasan area built on the Hiran River. The dam is a crocodile breeding farm and the home for birds too…

Sutrapada:
The major attraction here is the Sun temple that carries values from 8th century as the fundamental form of northern shikhara.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation nearby Girnar Hill Station

**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

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 of Girnar hill

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.

How to reach Girnar hill

• **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.

Helpline & emergency contacts

• **Police Station:**100

• Nearest Hospital:

• Society/Community Phone Number:

• **Link:**www.mapsofindia.com

Best time to visit Girnar hill

October to March.

Timings & opening hours

Dawn to dusk. Temple timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Entry fee & tickets

No entry fee for the hill.

Duration needed

Full day (climb of 10,000 steps takes 4-5 hours one way).

Safety tips

Wear comfortable walking shoes. Carry water. Be prepared for steep climbs.

Things to carry

Water bottle, comfortable walking shoes, hat, sunscreen, camera.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest airport and railway station.

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, and Vi all provide good coverage across Gujarat’s major cities and tourist areas. 4G is generally reliable in Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, and along major highways. Coverage may be weaker in remote areas of Kutch and interior Saurashtra. Most hotels and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Food options are available in the nearest town. Traditional Gujarati thali restaurants and local eateries offer a range of vegetarian dishes.

Things to do at Girnar hill

Climb the hill, visit temples, enjoy panoramic views, and explore the natural surroundings.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pump available in the nearest town.

Frequently asked questions

What is Girnar hill? A hill/scenic destination in Gujarat.

What is the best time to visit? October to March.

Is there a climb involved? Yes, varying difficulty levels.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not currently available for this site. Contact the venue directly or check with your accommodation for the latest accessibility details.

Rules & restrictions

Standard visitor rules apply. Check locally for any specific restrictions at this site.

Best photography spots

The best photography spots are typically during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon). Scout the location first to identify the best angles, and consider the direction of light at different times of day.

Visitor information

Planning your visit to Girnar hill

• Language: Gujarati is the local language; Hindi and English are widely understood at tourist sites.
• Getting around: Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and state transport buses are readily available. Hiring a private vehicle is recommended for comfort.
• What to wear: Light cotton clothing in summer; light woolens in winter. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Modest dress is advised at religious sites.
• Photography: Check for photography restrictions before entering. Some temples and museums may charge a separate camera fee.
• Best time to visit: October to March when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing.
• Local cuisine: Don’t miss Gujarati thali — a wholesome meal with dal, rice, vegetables, roti, and sweets like dhokla, khandvi, and mohanthal.

Nearby facilities

• ATMs: Available in nearby towns and at major tourist sites.
• Medical facilities: Primary health centers and hospitals can be found in district headquarters.
• Restrooms: Public restrooms are available at major tourist spots; carry hand sanitizer and tissues.

Make your visit to Girnar hill comfortable and hassle-free with these practical visitor tips for Gujarat.

Map & location view

Girnar hill is located in the vibrant state of Gujarat, India. The destination is accessible by road and is well-connected to major cities and towns in the region, making it a convenient addition to any Gujarat travel itinerary.

How to reach

• By Air: The nearest airport is connected to major Indian cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Vadodara with regular domestic flights.
• By Rail: The nearest railway station is connected to the Indian railway network with regular trains from major cities across India.
• By Road: State transport buses, private taxis, and self-drive options are available from nearby cities. Gujarat has a well-maintained network of state highways and national highways.

Use GPS navigation or local maps to find the exact location of this destination in Gujarat. The Gujarat Tourism website provides additional travel resources for visitors.