Places To Visit in Junagadh

Are you looking for an unforgettable tourist experience? Look no further than Junagadh, one of India’s most popular tourist destinations!

Located in the heart of Gujarat, Junagadh boasts an incredible array of top sights and tourist places that will leave you breathless. From the towering Mount Girnar to the historic Uparkot Fort, there’s something here for everyone.

Experience the vibrant local culture and cuisine as you explore the city’s bustling markets and sample delicious Gujarati delicacies. Take a stroll through the stunning botanical gardens or marvel at the intricate carvings of the Mahabat Maqbara mausoleum.

With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder Junagadh is considered one of India’s top tourist destinations. So why wait? Book your trip today and start planning your dream vacation in Junagadh!

About Junagadh

Junagadh is a historic city located in the western Indian state of Gujarat. The city has a rich history that dates back to the ancient times and has been ruled by different kingdoms and empires throughout the centuries.

The earliest known reference to Junagadh can be found in the Mahabharata, an ancient Indian epic, which mentions the city as one of the important places ruled by the Yadava dynasty. The city was later ruled by the Maurya Empire, the Sakas, the Guptas, and the Chudasama dynasty.

In the 15th century, Junagadh came under the control of the Sultanate of Gujarat, which was later conquered by the Mughal Empire. The city remained a part of the Mughal Empire until the 18th century when it was annexed by the Maratha Empire.

The British East India Company took control of Junagadh in 1818 after defeating the Marathas. The city became a part of the British Raj and remained under British rule until India gained independence in 1947.

After India’s independence, the rulers of Junagadh, who were Muslims, decided to accede to Pakistan, which was also created as a separate country for Muslims. However, the majority of the population in Junagadh was Hindu, and they opposed the decision. This led to a conflict between India and Pakistan over the control of Junagadh. The Indian army eventually took control of Junagadh in November 1947, and the city became a part of India.

Today, Junagadh is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. It is known for its historic monuments, such as the Uparkot Fort, the Mahabat Maqbara, and the Jama Masjid. The city is also famous for its wildlife sanctuary, the Gir Forest National Park, which is home to the endangered Asiatic lion.

Architecture of Junagadh

Junagadh has a rich architectural heritage that reflects the city’s diverse history and culture. The city’s architecture is a blend of different styles, including Hindu, Islamic, and European influences.

One of the most prominent architectural landmarks in Junagadh is the Uparkot Fort, which was built during the Mauryan period and later expanded by the Chudasama dynasty. The fort has massive stone walls and gateways, and it houses several ancient temples and caves.

Another famous monument in Junagadh is the Mahabat Maqbara, which is a mausoleum built in the 19th century. The structure features a blend of Islamic and European architectural styles, with intricate carvings, domes, and minarets.

The Jama Masjid is another notable monument in Junagadh. The mosque was built in the 15th century during the Sultanate of Gujarat and features a blend of Islamic and Hindu architectural styles. The mosque has a large courtyard and a prayer hall with elaborate stone carvings and decorations.

The city also has several ancient Hindu temples, including the Amba Mata Temple and the Somnath Temple. These temples feature intricate carvings and sculptures, and they are important pilgrimage sites for Hindus.

Overall, the architecture of Junagadh is a reflection of the city’s rich and diverse history, with influences from different cultures and time periods.

45 Places to Visit in Junagadh

1. Girnar Hill: A sacred hill with 5,000 steps to climb, offering stunning views and a spiritual experience.
2. Uparkot Fort: An ancient fort with impressive walls, underground structures, and a water reservoir.
3. Mahabat Maqbara: A stunning mausoleum built in the late 19th century, featuring intricate architecture and ornate details.
4. Darbar Hall Museum: A museum housed in the old palace of the Nawabs of Junagadh, showcasing a collection of artifacts and memorabilia.
5. Ashoka’s Rock Edicts: Inscriptions on a boulder that date back to the 3rd century BC, providing historical insight into the region.
6. Jama Masjid: A mosque built in the 15th century, featuring impressive architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
7. Narsinh Mehta Lake: A picturesque lake surrounded by lush greenery, offering a peaceful spot for picnics and relaxation.
8. Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden: A zoo featuring a wide variety of animals and birds, including lions, tigers, and elephants.
9. Swaminarayan Temple: A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan, featuring intricate carvings and a peaceful atmosphere.
10. Shri Swaminarayan Mandir: A colorful temple built in the 19th century, featuring intricate carvings and a peaceful atmosphere.
11. Adi-Kadi Vav: An ancient stepwell with impressive carvings and intricate details, providing insight into ancient architecture and engineering.
12. Damodar Kund: A sacred lake surrounded by temples and offering a peaceful atmosphere for meditation and reflection.
13. Parsi Fire Temple: A temple dedicated to Zoroastrianism, featuring intricate architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
14. Chorwad Beach: A beautiful beach with clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere, offering a great spot for relaxation and picnics.
15. Dataar Hills: A series of hills offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a peaceful atmosphere for trekking and hiking.
16. Somnath Temple: A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the coast and featuring impressive architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
17. Navghan Kuvo: An ancient stepwell with intricate carvings and details, providing insight into ancient engineering and architecture.
18. Bhavnath Mahadev Temple: A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the foothills of Girnar Hill and featuring impressive architecture.
19. Ashapura Mata Temple: A temple dedicated to the goddess Ashapura, featuring impressive architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
20. Durbar Hall: A historic hall located in the old palace of the Nawabs of Junagadh, featuring impressive architecture and a collection of artifacts.
21. Jamjir Waterfall: A stunning waterfall located in the Girnar Hills, offering a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views.
22. Gop Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, featuring intricate carvings and a peaceful atmosphere.
23. Gayatri Mandir: A temple dedicated to the goddess Gayatri, featuring impressive architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
24. Moti Baug: A beautiful garden featuring a variety of trees and plants, offering a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation and picnics.
25. Jami Masjid: A mosque built in the 15th century, featuring impressive architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
26. Uperkot Caves: A series of ancient caves with intricate carvings and details, providing insight into ancient architecture and engineering.
27. Bhimnath Mahadev Temple: A Hindu temple
28. Jatashankar Mahadev Temple: A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in a cave and featuring impressive architecture.
29. Narayan Sarovar: A sacred lake surrounded by temples and offering a peaceful atmosphere for meditation and reflection.
30. Keshod Beach: A serene beach with clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere, offering a great spot for relaxation and picnics.
31. Kalwa Beach: A secluded beach with stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
32. Tulsi Shyam Hot Springs: A natural hot spring surrounded by lush greenery, offering a relaxing experience and therapeutic benefits.
33. Bhim Kund: A sacred lake surrounded by temples and offering a peaceful atmosphere for meditation and reflection.
34. Navghan Kuwo: An ancient stepwell with intricate carvings and details, providing insight into ancient engineering and architecture.
35. Mahakali Temple: A Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Mahakali, featuring impressive architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
36. Dattatreya Temple: A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Dattatreya, featuring impressive architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
37. Tulsi Shyam Temple: A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located near the hot springs and featuring impressive architecture.
38. Gadhada Swaminarayan Temple: A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan, featuring intricate carvings and a peaceful atmosphere.
39. Vagheshwari Temple: A Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Vagheshwari, featuring impressive architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
40. Shri Ram Mandir: A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ram, featuring impressive architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
41. Swaminarayan Gurukul: A school established by the Swaminarayan sect, offering a unique educational experience and a peaceful atmosphere.
42. Shri Hari Temple: A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, featuring impressive architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
43. Gokuleshwar Mahadev Temple: A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, featuring impressive architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
44. Shri Radha Krishna Mandir: A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and his consort Radha, featuring intricate carvings and a peaceful atmosphere.
45. Pania Wildlife Sanctuary: A wildlife sanctuary located in the Girnar Hills, offering a variety of flora and fauna and a peaceful atmosphere for nature lovers.

Weather and Best time to visit Junagadh

Junagadh is located in the western Indian state of Gujarat and has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Junagadh is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable.

During the winter months, the temperature ranges between 10 to 25 degrees Celsius, making it the perfect time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoon season in Junagadh lasts from June to September, and the region receives moderate rainfall during this time. The summers, from March to May, are scorching hot with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, and it’s best to avoid visiting during this time.

Overall, the best time to visit Junagadh is during the winter months when the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city’s numerous historical and cultural landmarks.

How To Reach Junagadh

Junagadh is well-connected to other parts of India by road, rail, and air. Here are some of the ways to reach Junagadh:

1. By Air: The nearest airport to Junagadh is located in Rajkot, which is about 100 km away. From Rajkot, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Junagadh.
2. By Train: Junagadh has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. Trains from cities like Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and Delhi halt at Junagadh railway station.
3. By Road: Junagadh is well-connected by road to major cities in Gujarat and other parts of India. You can take a bus from cities like Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Surat to reach Junagadh.
4. By Car: You can also hire a taxi or drive your own car to reach Junagadh. The city is well-connected by road, and the drive from nearby cities like Ahmedabad and Rajkot is quite scenic.

Overall, Junagadh is easily accessible by air, rail, and road, making it a convenient destination for travelers from all over India.

Accommodation options in Junagadh

Junagadh offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the popular options:

1. Hotels: Junagadh has many hotels ranging from budget to luxury. Some of the popular hotels in the city include The Lotus Hotel, Hotel Indralok, and Hotel Harmony.
2. Guesthouses: Guesthouses are an affordable option for travelers who want a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. Some of the popular guesthouses in Junagadh include Girnar Guest House and Hotel Maruti.
3. Homestays: Homestays are a great way to experience the local culture and hospitality. Some of the popular homestays in Junagadh include Patel Farmstay and Rangoli Homestay.
4. Resorts: If you want to indulge in luxury, Junagadh has some excellent resorts like The Fern Gir Forest Resort and Club Mahindra Gir.
5. Budget accommodations: Junagadh also has several budget accommodations like Dharamshalas and lodges for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers.

Overall, Junagadh has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and requirements.

As per users Reviews and Ratings Brief on Top 10 Hotels to Stay in Junagadh

1. The Lotus Hotel: This is one of the top-rated hotels in Junagadh, known for its excellent service, spacious rooms, and great amenities.
2. Hotel Sapphire: This is another popular hotel in Junagadh, known for its comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and convenient location.
3. Hotel Harmony: This hotel offers comfortable rooms, good food, and excellent service, making it a popular choice among travelers.
4. Gir Jungle Lodge: This is a beautiful resort located near Gir National Park, known for its luxurious accommodations, excellent service, and stunning views.
5. Club Mahindra Gir: This is another popular resort near Gir National Park, known for its comfortable rooms, beautiful surroundings, and excellent service.
6. Hotel Vishala: This hotel is known for its convenient location, spacious rooms, and excellent service, making it a popular choice among travelers.
7. Gir Pride Resort: This is a beautiful resort located in the midst of nature, offering comfortable rooms, good food, and excellent service.
8. Hotel Annapurna: This hotel offers comfortable rooms, good food, and excellent service at an affordable price, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious travelers.
9. Hotel Indralok: This is a good budget hotel in Junagadh, offering comfortable rooms, good food, and excellent service.
10. Hotel Magnum Inn: This is another popular budget hotel in Junagadh, known for its comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and convenient location.

Overall, these hotels offer a great mix of comfort, convenience, and excellent service, making them a popular choice among travelers visiting Junagadh.

Travel Tips To know Before Your Trip to Junagadh

Here are some travel tips to know before your trip to Junagadh:

1. Best time to visit: The best time to visit Junagadh is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable.
2. Dress appropriately: Junagadh is a conservative city, and it’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. It’s best to avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing clothing.
3. Language: The official language in Junagadh is Gujarati, but most people also speak Hindi and English.
4. Currency: The currency used in Junagadh is the Indian Rupee (INR). It’s advisable to carry enough cash with you as some shops and restaurants may not accept credit or debit cards.
5. Local transportation: Junagadh has a good public transportation system, including buses and auto-rickshaws. It’s important to negotiate the fare before getting into an auto-rickshaw.
6. Food and water: Junagadh is known for its delicious vegetarian cuisine, but it’s important to be careful about what you eat and drink. It’s advisable to stick to bottled water and avoid eating street food.
7. Respect local customs: Junagadh has a rich culture and tradition, and it’s important to respect local customs and traditions. When visiting religious sites, it’s important to remove your shoes, cover your head, and dress modestly.
8. Safety: Junagadh is a relatively safe city, but it’s important to take necessary precautions, especially when traveling alone or at night. It’s advisable to avoid isolated areas and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Overall, Junagadh is a beautiful city with a rich cultural and historical heritage, and by following these travel tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip.

Food To Eat in Junagadh

Junagadh is known for its delicious vegetarian cuisine, which is a mix of Gujarati and Kathiawadi flavors. Here are some of the must-try foods in Junagadh:

1. Khaman: Khaman is a popular Gujarati snack made from fermented besan (gram flour), steamed and garnished with green chilies, coriander, and mustard seeds.
2. Dhokla: Dhokla is another popular Gujarati snack made from fermented rice and lentil batter, steamed and garnished with green chilies and coriander.
3. Fafda: Fafda is a crispy, savory snack made from besan (gram flour) and spices, served with a sweet and tangy chutney.
4. Thepla: Thepla is a popular Gujarati flatbread made from wheat flour, fenugreek leaves, and spices, usually served with yogurt and pickles.
5. Undhiyu: Undhiyu is a popular Kathiawadi dish made from a mix of vegetables like yam, sweet potato, and beans, cooked in a spiced tomato gravy and garnished with fresh coriander.
6. Kachori: Kachori is a deep-fried, spicy snack made from flour, lentils, and spices, usually served with chutney.
7. Jalebi: Jalebi is a popular Indian sweet made from a fermented batter of flour, yogurt, and sugar syrup, shaped like pretzels and fried until crispy.
8. Shrikhand: Shrikhand is a popular Gujarati dessert made from strained yogurt, flavored with cardamom, saffron, and sugar, usually served chilled.

Overall, Junagadh offers a wide range of delicious vegetarian dishes that are sure to delight your taste buds. Don’t forget to try some of these dishes when you visit Junagadh.

Best Places for Shopping in Junagadh

Junagadh is known for its traditional handicrafts and textiles, and there are plenty of shopping options for visitors looking for unique souvenirs or gifts. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Junagadh:

1. Junagadh Municipal Market: Junagadh Municipal Market is a bustling shopping area that offers a wide range of products, including clothes, jewelry, footwear, handicrafts, and textiles.
2. Girnar Khadi Gramodyog Bhavan: Girnar Khadi Gramodyog Bhavan is a popular destination for visitors looking for authentic Khadi products, including clothes, bed sheets, towels, and other textiles.
3. Chorwad Beach Market: Chorwad Beach Market is a small shopping area located near the beach that offers a range of handicrafts, souvenirs, and beachwear.
4. Mahabat Maqbara Complex: Mahabat Maqbara Complex is a historic complex that offers a range of traditional handicrafts, including pottery, embroidery, and leather goods.
5. Junagadh Haat: Junagadh Haat is a traditional market that offers a range of local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs, including wooden handicrafts, embroidered textiles, and jewelry.
6. Navjivan Shopping Center: Navjivan Shopping Center is a modern shopping complex that offers a range of products, including clothes, electronics, jewelry, and cosmetics.

Overall, Junagadh offers a unique shopping experience for visitors, with a range of traditional handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs that are sure to delight shoppers.

Things you Can buy as a Tourist From Junagadh

Junagadh is known for its traditional handicrafts, textiles, and food products, and there are plenty of things that tourists can buy as souvenirs or gifts. Here are some of the things you can buy as a tourist from Junagadh:

1. Handicrafts: Junagadh is famous for its traditional handicrafts, including wooden handicrafts, pottery, embroidery, and leather goods. Visitors can buy beautiful handcrafted items, such as wooden boxes, carved elephants, embroidered textiles, and leather bags.
2. Textiles: Junagadh is known for its beautiful textiles, including Khadi products, embroidered textiles, and colorful fabrics. Visitors can buy bed sheets, towels, sarees, and other textiles that are made using traditional techniques.
3. Spices: Junagadh is known for its spices, including cumin, coriander, and fenugreek. Visitors can buy fresh spices from local markets, which make for a great addition to any kitchen.
4. Food products: Junagadh is known for its delicious vegetarian cuisine, including snacks like Khaman, Dhokla, and Fafda. Visitors can buy packaged food products like Khakhra, Fafda, and Thepla that are popular snacks from Gujarat.
5. Souvenirs: Visitors can buy souvenirs like miniature replicas of the Girnar Mountain, which is a popular pilgrimage destination. Other souvenirs include keychains, fridge magnets, and postcards that feature iconic landmarks from Junagadh.

Overall, Junagadh offers a unique shopping experience for visitors, with a range of traditional handicrafts, textiles, and food products that make for great souvenirs or gifts.

Nightlife in Junagadh

Junagadh is a small city that is known for its historic and religious sites, and as such, there is not much of a nightlife scene here. However, there are a few places where visitors can enjoy some evening entertainment and relaxation. Here are some options for nightlife in Junagadh:

1. Girnar Hill: Girnar Hill is a popular spot for evening walks and hikes, offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
2. Restaurants: There are plenty of restaurants in Junagadh that offer delicious food and a relaxing ambiance. Visitors can enjoy a meal and drinks at one of the many restaurants in the city, such as Rasoi Restaurant, Tulsi Restaurant, and Chokshi Biryani Centre.
3. Movie Theatres: There are a few movie theatres in Junagadh, such as Chitralekha Cinema and Shivam Cinema, where visitors can enjoy the latest Bollywood movies.
4. Local Markets: Junagadh’s local markets, such as the Junagadh Municipal Market and Junagadh Haat, are open until late in the evening and offer a range of products, including food, handicrafts, and textiles.

Overall, while Junagadh does not offer a vibrant nightlife scene, visitors can still enjoy some evening entertainment and relaxation in the form of walks, dining, shopping, and movies.

Activities and Things to do in Junagadh

Junagadh is a city with a rich history and culture, and there are plenty of activities and things to do for visitors. Here are some popular activities and things to do in Junagadh:

1. Visit the historic sites: Junagadh is home to several historic sites, including the Uparkot Fort, Mahabat Maqbara, and the Girnar Mountain. Visitors can explore these sites and learn about the city’s rich history and culture.
2. Hike the Girnar Mountain: The Girnar Mountain is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and Jains and is also a great spot for hiking. Visitors can climb to the top of the mountain, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
3. Explore the Wildlife Sanctuary: The Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts, offering the chance to see Asiatic lions, leopards, and a variety of other animals.
4. Visit the Museums: Junagadh has several museums, including the Darbar Hall Museum and the Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden Museum, which offer a glimpse into the city’s history and culture.
5. Enjoy Local Food: Junagadh is known for its delicious vegetarian cuisine, including snacks like Khaman, Dhokla, and Fafda. Visitors can enjoy local food at one of the many restaurants in the city.
6. Attend Festivals: Junagadh celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including Navratri, Diwali, and Holi. Visitors can participate in these festivals and experience the local culture and traditions.

Overall, Junagadh offers a range of activities and things to do for visitors, from exploring historic sites and hiking mountains to enjoying local food and attending festivals.

Lesser Known Facts About Junagadh

unagadh is a city with a rich history and culture, and there are several lesser-known facts about this city that may surprise visitors. Here are some of the lesser-known facts about Junagadh:

1. The name Junagadh means “Old Fort” in Gujarati, and the city was named after the Uparkot Fort, which is one of the oldest forts in India.
2. Junagadh was ruled by several dynasties, including the Mauryas, the Kshatrapas, and the Chudasamas, and it was also a part of the Gujarat Sultanate and the Mughal Empire.
3. The Girnar Mountain, which is located near Junagadh, is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Jains, and it is believed to be the place where Neminath, the 22nd Tirthankara, attained enlightenment.
4. Junagadh is home to the oldest rock edict of Emperor Ashoka, which dates back to the 3rd century BCE. The edict is located on the Girnar Mountain and is written in Brahmi script.
5. Junagadh is known for its traditional handicrafts, including wooden handicrafts, pottery, and embroidery, and the city has a rich tradition of textile weaving and block printing.
6. Junagadh is home to several wildlife sanctuaries, including the Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, which is the only place in the world where Asiatic lions are found in the wild.

Overall, Junagadh is a city with a rich history, culture, and natural beauty, and there are several lesser-known facts about this city that make it a fascinating destination for visitors.

 FAQ about Junagadh

Q: Where is Junagadh located?

A: Junagadh is a city in the western Indian state of Gujarat. It is located in the Saurashtra region, at the foot of the Girnar hills.

Q: What is the history of Junagadh?

A: Junagadh has a rich and diverse history. It was ruled by various dynasties, including the Mauryans, the Kshatrapas, the Guptas, and the Chudasamas. In the 15th century, it came under the rule of the Sultanate of Gujarat. Later, it was ruled by the Mughals and the British. It was also the capital of the princely state of Junagadh during the British Raj.

Q: What are some of the tourist attractions in Junagadh?

A: Junagadh has several tourist attractions, including the Girnar Hills, which are a popular pilgrimage site for Jains and Hindus. Other attractions include the Mahabat Maqbara, an ornate mausoleum built in the 19th century, the Uperkot Fort, the Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden, and the Jama Masjid.

Q: What is the economy of Junagadh based on?

A: The economy of Junagadh is primarily based on agriculture and agro-based industries. The region is known for its production of cotton, groundnuts, and mangoes. Other industries in the region include cement, chemical, and pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Q: What is the population of Junagadh?

A: According to the 2011 census, the population of Junagadh was 319,462.

Q: What languages are spoken in Junagadh?

A: The official language of Junagadh is Gujarati. However, Hindi and English are also spoken by many people in the city.

Q: How do I get to Junagadh?

A: Junagadh has a railway station and is well-connected to other cities in Gujarat and India. It is also easily accessible by road, with several state and national highways passing through the city. The nearest airport is located in Rajkot, which is approximately 100 kilometers away.