Located at Junagadh is a collection of temples that are very much visited by Hindus and Jains in huge numbers. This place is an amazing blend of ancient architecture, beautiful scenic views and immense positive energy. Girnar temples and ranges get a lot of footfall from many trekkers, devotees and visitors throughout the year. If you are someone who is seeking spiritual enlightenment, having a sudden trek plan or having the urge to explore the history of the place, then Girnar Temple in Gujarat will not disappoint you. It has something for everyone.
The Legacy of Collection of Temples at Girnar
Girnar ranges are a collection of mandirs that are spread like a blanket on the mountain ranges of Girnar. Amazing facts about these temples in Gujarat are that they are older than the Himalayas. These mountains are a collection of many Hindu and Jain temples. The most significant Hindu and Jain shrines are the Dattatreya Paduka and the Neminath Temple.
The Hindu temple is dedicated to Lord Dattatreya while the Jain temple is dedicated to Bhagwan Neminath who is the 22nd tirthankara in Jainism. The other temples in Gujarat at these ranges are the Amba Mata temple, Kalika temple, etc. which help in making the experience of the visitors a mix of mythological beliefs and history.
Timings of Worship at these Girnar Temples in Gujarat
There are different timings of darshan at Girnar temples. Read below to know the timings:
- Dattatreya Paduka– Open all days (5 am to 7 pm). Seasonal timings might vary.
- Neminath Temple– Open all days and is 24 hrs open.
- Amba Mata Temple– The temple is open from 7 am to 9 pm. The darshan is allowed from 7 am to 11:30 am, 12:30 am to 4:30 pm and 6: 30 pm to 9 pm.
- Kalika temple– Open all days (5 am to 7 pm). The timings can vary according to seasons.
Best Time to Visit Girnar Temple
The best time to visit the Girnar temple is:
- Winter Months (October to March) as the weather is pleasant and suitable for trekking.
- Monsoon seasons (July to September) are suitable for visiting the temples and enjoying the views; however, they are not suitable for trekking.
- Summer is a total no-no as the temperature is very high from (March to June).
Additional Tip: You can also visit these temples during the time of festivals like Maha Shivratri (February) and also during the annual Girnar Parikrama Festival (November).
Activities to Do at Girnar Temple
1. A Trek to the Peak: The adventurous people can have their shoes on when coming for a visit at Girnar temples. They can enjoy a good trek of 10,000 steps up the mountain to reach the highest peak to get the darshan of Lord Dattatreya. This journey towards the top is a treat for the trekkers as they are greeted with fresh air, scenic views and an unmatchable spiritual energy.
2. Explore Jain and Hindu Temples: Apart from the above Girnar temples mentioned, many other temples can be visited and explored there. Amba Mata temple is also a significant Hindu temple that can be visited by the newlyweds. This temple is at the Gujarat and Rajasthan border.
3. Enjoy the Girnar Ropeway Ride: This ropeway is excellent for senior citizens, children and those who do not like climbing up the mountains. You can enjoy this ropeway along with the panoramic views of the hills and temples. Girnar Ropeway Ride has cabins which can carry 6 people at a time. The ropeway helps in reducing the travel time up to the Girnar temples.
4. Wildlife Exploration at Gir National Park: Wildlife lovers who love to spot wild animals in the open wild jungle can come to Girnar temples and then enjoy a Wildlife Safari at Gir National Park which adds an amazing twist to your spiritual journey.
5. Experience the Girnar Parikrama Festival: This festival is like an annual fest in a college. This parikrama festival at Girnar takes place in the month of November and is a 36 kms path. There are many devotees who visit Girnar temples for this Girnar Parikrama Festival.
Places to visit nearby the Girnar Hills
- Uparkot Fort(5 kms): This is an ancient fort that gives excellent views of the Girnar temples and Hills. It is also home to Buddhist caves, old cannons and step wells which shows how rich the history of the region is.
- Mahabat Maqbara(6.9 kms): A museum that is constructed in the combination of Indo-Islamic architecture and is famous for its carvings and beautiful minarets.
- Damodar Kund (4.3 kms): This is a kund where Lord Krishna’s grandson was believed to have taken the final rest before his celestial abode.
- Adi-Kadi Vav and Navghan Kuwo (0.3 kms): These are step wells that are carved out of solid rocks and are considered as the architectural marvels of ancient times.
Ways to Reach Girnar Temple
Reaching Girnar Temple is convenient, as Junagadh is well connected to major cities in India.
- By Air: The nearest airports are Rajkot Airport and Diu Airport, well connected to all cities.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is the Junagadh Railway Station which is again well-connected to all cities in Gujarat.
- By Road: Regular buses and private transport are available from all cities.
Conquer the Heights: Trekking towards Goya Hills
For people who love to trek to mountains which are less steep, then you should definitely visit Udaipur in Rajasthan. Udaipur is surrounded by Aravalli Hills on all sides. You can visit Udaipur and enjoy the city attractions while also having some adventurous fun on the hills.
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