Junagadh

Junagadh, at the foothills of the sacred Girnar Hill, is one of Gujarat’s most historic cities. The old town preserves layers of Mauryan, Indo-Greek, Nawabi and princely influences in its fortifications, darwazas, maqbaras and palaces. The Uparkot Fort, with its deep stepwells and old cannons, gives a sense of Junagadh’s strategic importance. Girnar Hill, dotted with Jain and Hindu temples, is a major pilgrimage climb, especially during fairs and special yatras. The city also lies close to Gir National Park, famous for Asiatic lions, making Junagadh an attractive base for wildlife trips. Ashokan edicts carved into rock near the city point to its ancient significance. Markets selling local snacks, pickles and Kathiyawadi flavours ensure food is part of the experience. Good road and rail connectivity makes Junagadh easy to combine with Somnath, Porbandar, Diu and other Saurashtra spots. For travellers who like a mix of heritage city, spiritual climbs and wildlife excursions, Junagadh offers all three in one compact region.