Junagadh is renowned for its historical significance, beautiful architecture, and religious monuments. It is famous for the Uparkot Fort, Ashoka's Rock Edicts, the Girnar Hill, and as a gateway to the Gir National Park, which is the sole home of the Asiatic lions.
The best time to visit Junagadh is from October to March when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing. Summers can be very hot and should be avoided.
Tourists can reach Junagadh by air, with the nearest airport being in Rajkot, which is about 102 kilometers away. By train, Junagadh is well connected to major cities in Gujarat and other Indian cities. Road travel is also convenient as the city is well-connected by a network of state and national highways.
Yes, the Gir National Park, which is about 65 kilometers from Junagadh city, is a major wildlife attraction where tourists can spot the Asiatic lion. The Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden in Junagadh is also a place where one can see varied animal species.
Tourists can find a range of accommodation options in Junagadh, from budget hotels to more luxurious resorts, especially near tourist spots and in the city center.
Navratri and the Girnar Lili Parikrama are significant cultural festivals in Junagadh that attract a lot of tourists. These events are celebrated with great enthusiasm, featuring traditional dance, music, and religious ceremonies.
Tourists should not miss visiting the Uparkot Fort, the ancient Buddhist caves, the Mahabat Maqbara, the Girnar Hill which requires climbing over 9,000 steps, and the Edicts of Ashoka engraved on large boulders.
Yes, tourists should try local Gujarati cuisine, which includes dishes like Dhokla, Khandvi, Thepla, Khakhra, and sweets such as Ghevar and Chikki while in Junagadh.
Tourists can shop for traditional Gujarati handicrafts, Bandhani sarees, embroidered items, silverware, and traditional jewelry in Junagadh markets such as Kalwa Chowk and Chittakhana Chowk.
While it is not required to hire a guide in Junagadh, having a guide can enhance the experience as they can provide detailed historical and cultural context to the various sites and help navigate through the city.