If architecture, heritage, and history interest you, then Junagadh in the state of Gujarat is an exciting little city to explore. Situated some 100 km inland from Diu on the southern tip of the Saurashtra peninsula, Junagadh is an ancient fortified city with a chequered past and has an interesting mix of mosques, Hindu temples, Buddhist monuments, Gothic archways, and beautiful mansions – not forgetting the splendid Jain Temples on Girnar hill (4 km east). This heritage town gets its name from the ‘old fort’, which encircles the medieval part of the city. Travel to Junagadh to explore the timeless allure of this city of Junagadh.
How to Reach Junagadh?
By Air : The closest airport is at Keshod some 40 kms away, but it would be best to check before if flights are actually operating to this airport. The other airport is Rajkot 107 kms away.
By Rail : Junagadh is connected to Ahmedabad by train.
By Road : From Ahmedabad it is 377 kms to Junagadh via Rajkot.
Best Time to Visit Junagadh
The best time to visit Junagadh is in the winter months between October to March when the weather is pleasant and temperatures remain in the 20-28 degree centigrade range.This is a good time to visit the heritage sites of Junagadh as also the nearby places as the weather is very pleasant.
Fortunately, the summers are not too hot either with the highest temperature just about touching 40 degrees centigrade.
Things to do in Junagadh
Junagadh the ancient city of Gujarat has a varied range of things to do.Take a trip to the centuries old fort, and mosque that are not only an architectural delight but also offer a crash course in history. Trekking and fishing are other activities that you can enjoy here. Savour the delicious Gujarati cuisine and enjoy the festivities at the famous Bhavnath Fair. So come and be a part of this historically rich city of Gujarat.
Places Near Junagadh
Some of the interesting places near Junagadh that you can visit are Sasan Gir National Park, Somnath Temple, or Veraval Beach.
Junagadh is a good base from which to visit the Sasan Gir National Park (54 km), the only home of the Asiatic lion, Chorwad beach (66 km) and the famous Somnath Temple near Veraval (about 80 km).
Somnath Temple is situated at a distance of 79 kms from Junagadh on the face of the Arabian Sea. This famous temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and well worth a visit.
Veraval Beach is a peaceful and scenic place and is just about 6 kms away from Somnath.
Chorwad Beach is 66 kms from Junagadh which is unspoilt and tourist free.
Hotels in Junagadh – Choice is Yours
There are numerous hotels in Junagadh ranging from 3-star, 4-star and 5-star deluxe to budget hotels.