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Junagadh!

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Population

0.32 million

schedule

Best Time

October to March

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Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (₹)

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location_on Gujarat map West India 🏛️ Heritage Heritage Travel Junagadh Gujarat Girnar Uparkot Fort Buddhist Caves Lions Heritage

Junagadh, located in Gujarat, is a city steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty. It's famous for the Girnar mountain, the historic Uparkot Fort, and ancient Buddhist cave complexes.

Junagadh offers a unique blend of history, religion, and wildlife. Pros include exploring ancient forts, climbing the sacred Girnar, and the chance to spot lions in nearby Gir National Park. Cons include the arduous climb to Girnar and limited high-end accommodation options.

Reaching Junagadh is best done via Rajkot airport or train. Allow at least 2-3 days to explore the major sites and experience the city's culture. Be prepared for a lot of walking and climbing.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to March

22-35 degrees C

Pleasant and dry weather makes it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The days are sunny and the nights are cool.

Why Visit:

This is the best time for climbing Girnar, exploring the fort, and visiting nearby Gir National Park. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities and wildlife spotting opportunities are high. Diwali celebrations also fall within this period.

Tip: This is peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. Book accommodations and transportation in advance.

Shoulder Season

July to September

27-33 degrees C

Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, making climbing Girnar difficult and potentially dangerous. The landscape turns lush and green.

Why Visit:

The monsoon season offers a different perspective of Junagadh with its verdant surroundings. However, outdoor activities are limited, and some attractions might be temporarily closed due to heavy rain.

Tip: Travel during the monsoon is more affordable, but be prepared for disruptions due to rain. Check weather forecasts before planning outdoor activities.

Avoid

April to June

35-42 degrees C

Extremely hot and dry weather makes it uncomfortable for sightseeing. Climbing Girnar is particularly challenging during this time.

Why Avoid:

Avoid visiting Junagadh during these months due to the scorching heat. Outdoor activities are strenuous, and the heat can be unbearable.

Note: Some indoor attractions might offer respite from the heat, but overall, it's best to avoid this period unless you have a specific reason to visit.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Uparkot Fort

⏱ 3-4 hours ₹30 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

Uparkot Fort is an ancient fort with a history spanning over 2300 years. It houses several historical structures, including Buddhist caves, stepwells,...

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Girnar Mountain

⏱ 6-8 hours Free

Girnar is a collection of mountains considered sacred by Hindus and Jains. It is famous for its 10,000 steps leading to various temples at the summit....

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Mahabat Maqbara

⏱ 1 hour ₹20 (Indians), ₹400 (foreigners)

Mahabat Maqbara is a 19th-century mausoleum showcasing a unique blend of Indo-Islamic and Gothic architecture. It is known for its intricate carvings,...

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Buddhist Caves

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹25 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

These ancient caves are believed to date back to the 3rd-4th century AD. They feature intricate carvings and are a testament to the region's Buddhist ...

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Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden

⏱ 2-3 hours ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)

Sakkarbaug Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in India, established in 1863. It is home to a variety of animals, including Asiatic lions, leopards, and bea...

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Damodar Kund

⏱ 1 hour Free

Damodar Kund is a sacred lake considered holy by Hindus. It is believed to be the place where Lord Krishna bathed....

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Things To Do

attractions

Gir National Park Safari

⏱ 3-4 hours 💰 ₹4500-6000 per jeep

Embark on a jeep safari through Gir National Park, the last refuge of the Asiatic lion. The park is also home to leopard...

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attractions

Trekking to Datar Peak

⏱ 4-5 hours 💰 Free

Trek to Datar Peak on Girnar mountain for panoramic views of Junagadh and the surrounding landscape. The trek is moderat...

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attractions

Cooking Class

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 ₹800-1200 per person

Learn to prepare traditional Gujarati dishes in a hands-on cooking class. Discover the secrets of local cuisine....

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attractions

Village Visit

⏱ 3-4 hours 💰 ₹500-800 per person

Visit a nearby village to experience the rural life of Gujarat. Interact with the locals and learn about their tradition...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Raas Garba Performance

2-3 hours | ₹200-500

Raas Garba is a traditional Gujarati folk dance performed during Navratri. It involves energetic mov...

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celebration

Janmashtami Celebrations

Full day | Free

Janmashtami celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna with prayers, dances, and devotional songs. Junagad...

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Diwali Celebrations

Several days | Free

Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated with lamps, fireworks, and sweets. It is a time for fa...

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celebration

Visiting a Local Ashram

2-3 hours | Donation based

An ashram is a spiritual retreat where people can meditate and learn about Hindu philosophy. It offe...

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celebration

Attending a Local Wedding

Variable | Invitation only

Witness the vibrant and colorful traditions of a Gujarati wedding. These are elaborate affairs with ...

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celebration

Local Handicraft Shopping

2-3 hours | Variable

Explore the local markets for traditional Gujarati handicrafts. These include textiles, embroidery, ...

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View all cultural experiences

Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Gujarati Thali
Gujarati Thali

A platter of various Gujarati dishes (try at local restaurants)

Dhokla
Dhokla

A steamed savory cake made from fermented batter (available at sweet shops)

Thepla
Thepla

A flatbread made with spices and vegetables (try at local restaurants)

Undhiyu
Undhiyu

A mixed vegetable dish cooked underground (seasonal dish, try during winter)

Lasaniya Batata
Lasaniya Batata

Potatoes cooked with garlic and spices (available at street food stalls)

Where to Eat

Sasuji Dining Hall

Sasuji Dining Hall

₹₹

Gujarati

📍 City Center

A popular restaurant serving authentic Gujarati cuisine. Known for its delicious thalis and friendly service. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly.

Gujarati Thali

₹500-700 for two

Hawa Mahal Restaurant

Hawa Mahal Restaurant

₹₹

Multi-cuisine

📍 Near Uparkot Fort

Offers a variety of dishes to cater to different tastes. Known for its good quality food and pleasant ambiance. The restaurant is located in a heritage building.

IndianChineseContinental

₹600-800 for two

Street Food Spots

MG Road

MG Road

💰 Budget: ₹50-100 per person

⚠️ Tips: Be cautious about hygiene. Opt for stalls with a high turnover of customers. Go in the evening.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Junagadh

More restaurants & dishes from Junagadh

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

City Center

The heart of Junagadh, close to shops, restaurants, and attractions. It can be crowded and noisy.

Best For: First-time visitors

Near Railway Station

Convenient for travelers arriving by train. It offers a range of budget hotels and easy access to transportation.

Best For: Budget travelers

Bilkha Road

A quieter area on the outskirts of the city. It is home to some of the luxury resorts and offers a more relaxed atmosphere.

Best For: Those seeking peace and quiet

Accommodation Options

Budget

💰

₹800-1200/night

Hotel President

📍 Near Railway Station

A basic hotel with clean rooms and essential amenities. Conveniently located near the railway station.

₹800-1200/night

Hotel Leo

📍 City Center

Offers simple rooms and a restaurant. It is located in the heart of the city.

₹700-1000/night

Mid-Range

🏨

₹1500-2500/night

Click Hotel Junagadh

📍 Near Moti Baug

Comfortable rooms with modern amenities. Offers a restaurant and conference facilities.

₹1500-2500/night

Hotel Bali

📍 Near Zanzarda Road

Well-maintained rooms and a restaurant serving Indian and Chinese cuisine. It has good reviews for service.

₹1200-2000/night

Luxury

₹3500+/night

The Fern Leo Resort & Club, Junagadh

📍 Bilkha Road

Offers luxurious rooms, a swimming pool, and a spa. Known for its excellent service and amenities.

₹3500+/night

Lords Inn Junagadh

📍 Near Sardar Patel Chowk

Features spacious rooms, a restaurant, and a fitness center. Centrally located, making it easy to get around.

₹3000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Rajkot Airport (RAJ), 100km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Junagadh Junction (JND)

Main railway station with trains from major cities. Located in the city center.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 18-20 hours (₹800-2500)
  • From Mumbai: 10-12 hours (₹600-2000)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Junagadh Bus Terminal
Routes:
  • From Ahmedabad: 6-7 hours (₹400-700)
  • From Rajkot: 2-3 hours (₹200-400)

Note: Trains more comfortable, buses more frequent.

Getting Around

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

💰 ₹50-150 depending on distance

Best for: Short distances within the city

Bargain before starting your journey. Confirm the fare beforehand. Insist on meter or negotiate.

directions

Local Bus

💰 ₹10-30 per ride

Best for: Budget travel

Buses can be crowded. Check bus routes and schedules at the bus terminal. Not ideal for tourists.

directions

Car Rental

💰 ₹1500-2500 per day

Best for: Exploring nearby areas like Gir National Park

Hire a car with a driver. Driving conditions can be challenging. Ensure proper documentation.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Light, breathable clothing is recommended, especially during the summer months. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Carrying a scarf or shawl is a good idea.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1000, Mid: ₹2500, Luxury: ₹5000+

ATMs: ATMs are readily available in the city center.

Cash vs Card: Cash is widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted at larger establishments.

Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in local markets and for auto-rickshaw fares.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water. Avoid tap water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants. Be cautious of street food.

Common Issues: Heatstroke and dehydration are common during the summer. Carry ORS.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good coverage. SIM cards are available at the airport and in the city.

WiFi: Wi-Fi is available at some hotels and restaurants.

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: Gujarati is the local language. Hindi and English are also widely spoken. Basic Hindi phrases are helpful.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹50-100

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