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Places to visit in Junagadh

Steeped in history and spirituality, Varanasi – Uttar Pradesh offers countless experiences for every traveler. Discover sacred ghats, historic temples, and unique cultural landmarks among the top places to visit in Varanasi.

Junagadh Fort

Perched majestically on a plateau, this ancient fort is a monument to Junagadh’s formidable history. Its massive walls and gateways, like the intricately carved Neelam and Hathi Pol, have withstood sieges for centuries.

Within its grounds lie remarkable structures such as the historic Jama Masjid and ancient rock-cut stepwells. The fort offers commanding panoramic views of the city and the distant Girnar hills.

Mahabat Maqbara

A stunning 19th-century mausoleum known for its exquisite Indo-Islamic architecture and intricate silver doorways.

Ashoka's Rock Edicts

A large boulder on Girnar’s foothills inscribed with 14 edicts by Emperor Ashoka in Brahmi script.

Durbar Hall Museum

Located in the Old Palace, it houses the royal collection of weapons, palanquins, and artifacts of the Nawabs.

Jama Masjid

A grand, historic mosque built within Uparkot Fort, featuring 140 carved pillars and a serene courtyard.

Adi-Kadi Vav & Navghan Kuvo

Carved deep into the rock of Uparkot Fort, these ancient stepwells are marvels of pre-medieval engineering and water conservation. Adi-Kadi Vav is named for the two slave girls believed to have been sacrificed during its construction, while Navghan Kuvo’s spiral staircase descends to a cool, deep water source.

Both structures showcase the ingenuity required to sustain life within a fortress. Their dark, atmospheric interiors offer a stark and tangible connection to the past.

Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden

Established in 1863, this is one of India’s oldest zoos and a vital conservation center. It was originally created to provide purebred Asiatic Lions to the world and continues this legacy through its breeding program.

The expansive, naturally landscaped enclosures house a variety of fauna, including lions, leopards, and antelopes. It serves as both a recreational spot for families and an important institution for wildlife preservation.

Moti Baug

A beautifully landscaped garden and public park adjacent to the Mahabat Maqbara complex.

Bhavnath Mahadev Temple

An ancient Shiva temple at the base of Girnar, famously associated with the Bhavnath Fair during Mahashivratri.

Damodar Kund

A sacred stepped water tank at Girnar’s foothills, believed to be filled by the holy Yamuna River.

Girnar Hill & Temples

Rising abruptly from the plains, this sacred mountain is a major pilgrimage site for both Jains and Hindus. The climb of nearly 10,000 steps passes a stunning cluster of temples, including the intricately marble-clad Jain Neminath Temple and the ancient Amba Mata Temple.

The summit offers breathtaking views and a profound sense of spiritual achievement. The annual Girnar Parikrama, a grand circumambulation of the hill, draws thousands of devotees.

Gir National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary

The sole home of the majestic Asiatic Lion, Gir is a globally renowned wildlife destination. This sprawling dry deciduous forest and savannah ecosystem protects a delicate balance of predators and prey, including leopards, hyenas, and spotted deer.

A safari through its rugged terrain offers an exhilarating chance to spot the iconic lions in their natural habitat. It stands as a triumphant symbol of successful conservation efforts.

Sasan Gir Village

The gateway village to Gir National Park, with safari booking offices and forest lodges.

Sonapur (Sonmath) & Hiran River

A picturesque spot where the Hiran River flows, ideal for a peaceful picnic and nature walk.

Khodiyar Mata Temple (Gadu)

A revered temple of Goddess Khodiyar located on an island in a dam reservoir.

Mendarda Village (Historical Sites)

This historic village is a repository of ancient architecture, most famous for the magnificent stepwell known as the Navghan Kuvo. Scattered across the area are several ancient temples and smaller stepwells, reflecting the region’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.

It provides a quieter, more authentic glimpse into Saurashtra’s past away from the main tourist circuits. The site’s weathered stones tell silent stories of a bygone era.

Bileshwar Shiva Temple

A charming 12th-century stone temple near Veraval, known for its intricate carvings and peaceful setting.

Veraval Port & Fishing Harbour

A major fishing port where you can witness the bustling daily catch and boat activity.

Somnath Temple

One of the twelve Jyotirlingas, a magnificent and spiritually powerful temple on the Arabian Sea coast.

Chorwad Beach & Palace

A serene, lesser-visited beach located near the former summer palace of the Nawabs of Junagadh. The coastal palace, now a heritage property, showcases a blend of European and Indian architectural styles.

The black-sand beach offers calm waters and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for a relaxed stroll away from crowds. It is a perfect spot for history enthusiasts seeking a tranquil seaside retreat.

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