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Girnar hills are a group of hills located in the Junagadh district of Gujarat in India. It is a center for both Hindu and Jain pilgrims, who come to visit numerous temples and shrines located on the hills. Girnar hills are considered immensely significant in the religious aspect of India. The hills have a total height of 1117 meters (3666 feet) and a total of 10,000 stairs to reach the top. Climbing to the top of the Girnar hills is considered a challenging trek that takes around 5-6 hours.
However, there are alternatives available like ropeways and vehicles for pilgrims with physical limitations. The top of the hills houses the shrine of Lord Dattatreya, who is considered an incarnation of Lord Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. Pilgrims believe that Lord Dattatreya resides at the summit of the hills.
The hills also have many other Hindu and Jain temples and shrines such as Amba temple, Neminath temple, and Bhimkund temple. Girnar hills hold great importance for both Hindu and Jain communities. Every year, pilgrims come from all over India to visit these temples and seek blessings from the deities. The annual pilgrimage season is considered a pious event and attracts a large number of devotees.
Apart from its religious significance, Girnar hills offer a panoramic view of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The hilltops are generally covered with clouds, which make it a mesmerising experience for visitors. The hills have a rich flora and fauna and are considered a natural habitat for many animals such as Asiatic lions, foxes, and Indian leopard. For visitors who wish to stay on the hills, there is an ashram and numerous lodges available that provide comfortable accommodation. However, it is advised to wear comfortable and appropriate clothing as it is a religious site. Also, photography is prohibited in certain areas of the hills.
Girnar hills are a fascinating place to visit, rich in religious, natural, and cultural significance. It is a perfect destination for pilgrims, trekkers, and nature lovers alike, offering a unique and spiritual experience.
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Places To Visit In Girnar Hills
Girnar Hills is a popular pilgrimage site in Gujarat, India. Here are some notable places to visit in Girnar Hills:
- Amba Mata Temple: Dedicated to Goddess Amba, this temple is a significant pilgrimage site on Girnar Hills. It attracts devotees seeking blessings. This is an ancient temple located on the Girnar Hills. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and architecture.
- Dattatreya Temple: Located at the highest point of Girnar Hills, this temple is dedicated to Lord Dattatreya. The climb to this temple involves ascending around 10,000 steps.
- Neminath Temple: A prominent Jain temple dedicated to Lord Neminath, the 22nd Tirthankara of Jainism. It features intricate carvings and is a revered pilgrimage spot.
- Jain Temples: Girnar Hills house several Jain temples dedicated to different Tirthankaras. They showcase exquisite architecture and are of great spiritual importance.
- Mallinath Temple: Another significant Jain temple on Girnar Hills, dedicated to Lord Mallinath. Pilgrims visit this temple as part of their Girnar Parikrama.
- Gorakhnath Peak: The highest peak on Girnar Hills, also known as Dattatreya Peak or Gorakhnath Peak. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Girnar Parikrama Path: Girnar Parikrama is a circular pilgrimage route around Girnar Hills. Pilgrims undertake this sacred journey, covering various temples and sacred spots.
- Bhartrihari Caves: Believed to be the meditative abode of Saint Bhartrihari, these caves are carved into the rock face of Girnar Hills and offer a serene atmosphere.
- Junagadh Gate: A historical gate that serves as an entrance to the Girnar Hills area. It has historical and architectural significance.
- Ramji Mandir: A temple dedicated to Lord Rama, this site attracts devotees and offers a peaceful setting for worship.
- Malavela Hanuman Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, known for its religious importance and the annual fair held during Hanuman Jayanti.
- Gir National Park: While not on Girnar Hills themselves, the Gir National Park is nearby and known for its population of Asiatic lions. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore the park.
- Revati Kund: A sacred water tank believed to have mythological significance. Devotees often take a ritual dip in the kund during their pilgrimage.
- Girnar Kshetra Parikrama Path: This path takes pilgrims around the sacred sites on Girnar Hills, allowing them to complete the Girnar Parikrama.
- Dudheshwar Mahadev Temple: A Shiva temple with a serene ambiance, attracting devotees and visitors seeking spiritual solace.
When visiting Girnar Hills, it’s advisable to be mindful of the cultural and religious significance of the places.
Beauty Of Girnar Hills
Girnar Hills is also known for its natural beauty, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
The Girnar Hills have a rich biodiversity and offer a unique experience to visitors by providing an opportunity to observe and appreciate the natural beauty of the region.
The Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary is located on the Girnar Hills and is known for its abundant flora and fauna. The sanctuary covers an area of around 258 square kilometres and is home to a variety of animals. The wildlife sanctuary provides an ideal habitat for endangered species and contributes significantly to the conservation of biodiversity.
Key Takeaways
- Girnar Hills are significant for their religious and cultural importance. They host several temples, including those dedicated to Jainism and Hinduism, making it a pilgrimage site.
- Festivals like the Girnar Parikrama and the Maha Shivaratri festival attract a large number of devotees to Girnar Hills. Girnar Parikrama is a circumambulation (circular pilgrimage) around the Girnar Hills, considered a sacred ritual by devotees.
- Girnar Hills are accessible by road, and Junagadh is well-connected by road to major cities in Gujarat. There are accommodation options in Junagadh city, which is in proximity to Girnar Hills. Pilgrims and tourists can find various hotels and guesthouses.
- Girnar Hills have historical significance with the presence of ancient monuments, inscriptions, and temples dating back to different periods.
- In ancient times, the Jain community is believed to have settled near the hills, and many of the temples on the hills date back to the mediaeval period. One of the main attractions of Girnar Hills is the religious significance of the place. The hills house numerous Hindu and Jain temples and shrines, dedicated to various deities.
- There are no restrictions to visit Girnar Hills, but it is advised to wear comfortable and appropriate clothing as it is a religious site. Also, photography is prohibited in certain areas of the hills.
- Girnar Hills of Junagadh, Gujarat is famous for Kesar Mangoes. Kesar mangoes, precisely known as Gir Kesar mangoes, are cultivated at the foothills of Girnar near Junagadh in Gujarat, Western India.
Frequently Asked Questions on Girnar Hills
Where are Girnar Hills located?
Girnar Hills are located near Junagadh in the state of Gujarat, India.
Are there wildlife sanctuaries near Girnar Hills?
Yes, Girnar Hills are close to the Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its population of Asiatic lions.
How tall is Mount Girnar?
The highest peak of Girnar Hills, known as Gorakhnath Peak or Dattatreya Peak, stands at an elevation of 1,031 metres (3,383 feet).
What is the best time to visit Girnar Hills?
The best time to visit Girnar Hills is during the cooler months, from October to March, to avoid the extreme heat of summer.
How many steps are there to reach the top of Girnar Hills?
There are a total of 10,000 stairs to reach the top of Girnar Hills. It is considered a challenging trek for pilgrims.
