A 24-Hour Quick Guide To Girnar, Gujarat's Hill Of Temples

An ancient hill near the town of Junagadh, Girnar is as famous for its temples as it is for the spectacular views it affords travellers who choose to make their way right to the top. Rising dramatically from the plains like a lone sentinel, this hill, also called Revatak Parvata, is home to multiple Jain and Hindu temples, making it a destination that is visited by devotees all year round. This winter, take a day out to explore the best of Girnar, from ancient temples and scenic views to a bit of thrilling trekking.

Trek To GirnarBegin your day early at the foothills of Girnar to catch the first light on this sacred mountain. The best way to explore the hill is to embrace the 10,000-step ascent. It is certainly a challenging climb, but you’ll be rewarded with views of Junagadh unlike anywhere else. However, if you don’t want to stretch your feet, you can always take the ropeway from Girnar Taleti which takes you halfway, till Ambaji Temple. Neminath TempleThe first stop of your ascent are the Jain temples; the largest and oldest among them is the Temple of Neminath, built in the 12th century and dedicated to the 22nd Tirthankar. It is because of this temple that the Jain community considers Girnar as Mount Neminath. Nearby, the Triple Temple of Mallinath, dedicated to the 9th Tirthankar and built in 1177 by two brothers, attracts monks and spiritual leaders, especially during festivals.

Ambaji TempleIf you’ve taken the ropeway instead of the steps, the first major stop on your journey will be the Ambaji Temple, perched 3,300 feet above sea level. Here, you’ll see many newly-weds worshipping Goddess Amba for a happy married life. The view from this temple is breathtaking, with surrounding hills and valleys offering a glimpse of Gujarat’s natural beauty. On the second peak, you’ll find the Gorakhnath Temple followed by Oghad Ansuya peak.

Dattatreya Temple And Kalika TempleThe fourth peak is home to the Dattatreya Temple, one of Girnar’s most revered sites, located further up the mountain. The temple is dedicated to Lord Dattatreya, who is believed to have meditated here. Here there is a shrine dedicated to a three-faced incarnation of Vishnu. This part of the climb might feel challenging, but the serene temple and panoramic views are worth the effort. You can then make the final journey to Kalika Temple, dedicated to Goddess Kali. Also Read: Damodar Kund and Bhavnath Mahadev Temple Once you’re back at the base, make your way to the Damodar Kund, a sacred lake at the foothills of Girnar, and the adjoining temple. The Bhavnath Temple nearby is also the site of a huge Bhavnath Mela over five days in the month of Magha (January–February), which brings hundreds of nagas to the city.

How To Reach GirnarThe nearest airport from Junagadh is Rajkot, situated at a distance of 102 km from the city. You can also reach Junagadh by road as well as daily trains that run between the city and Rajkot. Also Read: