Junagadh is a city of temples, forts and ancient inscriptions, and it is the gateway to Gir National Park. Staying at Bhavnath Taleti puts the most sacred sites within easy reach. Here is what to see, nearest first.
Within walking distance of the ashram
- Bhavnath Mahadev temple and Mrigi Kund — the ancient Shiva temple at the base of Girnar, and its sacred tank. See the Bhavnath Mela guide.
- Damodar Kund — a revered bathing tank near the foot of Girnar, with a temple dedicated to Radha Damodar, traditionally part of the pilgrimage route.
- Girnar Taleti and the stairway — the start of the 9,999-step climb. Read the Girnar climb guide.
On the road between Girnar and Junagadh
- Ashoka’s Rock Edicts — fourteen edicts of the emperor Ashoka, inscribed in the 3rd century BCE on a large granite boulder beside the road to Girnar, and also bearing a later inscription of the Kshatrapa ruler Rudradaman. A short stop of importance to history lovers.
- Girnar Ropeway base — near the foot of the hill, for those who want to ride up to Ambaji.
In Junagadh city
- Uparkot Fort — an ancient hill fort whose origins are dated to the Mauryan period, containing Buddhist caves and rock-cut stepwells. Access has at times been restricted for renovation, so check that it is open before you go.
- Adi Kadi Vav and Navghan Kuvo — remarkable stepwells carved into rock, linked with the fort area.
- Mahabat Maqbara — a 19th-century mausoleum with ornate Indo-Islamic and European-influenced architecture and spiral minarets, roughly 1 km from Junagadh railway station.
- Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden — one of India’s oldest zoos, established in 1863, with a role in Asiatic lion conservation and a natural history museum.
- Darbar Hall Museum — artefacts from the princely state of Junagadh.
Day trips from Junagadh
- Sasan Gir (Gir National Park) — about 65 to 77 km away and the only natural habitat of the Asiatic lion. Safaris must usually be booked in advance, and the park is normally closed during the monsoon months, so check the season.
- Somnath — one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines, roughly 95 km from Junagadh on the coast.
- Dwarka and Porbandar — longer day trips or stops on a wider Saurashtra circuit.
A simple two-day plan
| Day | Plan |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Early start for the Girnar climb or ropeway (see the climb guide); rest in the afternoon; evening at Bhavnath Mahadev temple. |
| Day 2 | Morning at Damodar Kund and Ashoka’s edict; Uparkot Fort, stepwells and Mahabat Maqbara in the afternoon; or a long day trip to Sasan Gir or Somnath. |
For a pilgrim-focused stay, base yourself at Bhavnath Taleti. See room categories, how to reach us, or call +91 63961 95527.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best places to visit near Girnar?
Bhavnath Mahadev temple and Mrigi Kund, Damodar Kund, Ashoka’s Rock Edicts, Uparkot Fort, Mahabat Maqbara and Sakkarbaug Zoo, with Gir National Park and Somnath as day trips.
How far is Gir National Park from Junagadh?
Sasan Gir is about 65 to 77 km from Junagadh. Safaris should be booked in advance and the park is normally closed during the monsoon.
How far is Somnath from Junagadh?
Somnath is roughly 95 km from Junagadh, about two hours by road.
How many days do I need in Junagadh and Girnar?
Two days covers the Girnar climb and the main city sights. Add one to two more days for Sasan Gir and Somnath.