Introduction
Girnar, also known as Revatak Parvata in ancient texts, is
one of the most sacred and majestic mountain ranges of Gujarat. Rising to a
height of about 3672 feet (1,145 meters) above sea level, Girnar is considered
even older than the Himalayas. Located in the Junagadh district of Gujarat,
this mountain is not just a geographical wonder but also a spiritual beacon for
Hindus, Jains, and seekers from all walks of life. The mountain combines
mythology, religion, adventure, and biodiversity, making it one of the most
fascinating destinations in India.
Thousands of pilgrims climb its steps every year, millions
come during annual fairs, and countless others visit to experience the divine
peace and natural charm of this magnificent hill. Girnar is not just a trek—it
is a journey of faith, endurance, and self-discovery.
Natural Setting and Geology
The Girnar mountain is a cluster of volcanic hills that date
back to prehistoric times. It consists of five major peaks—Ambaji, Gorakhnath,
Dattatreya, Oghadh (or Ansuya), and Kalika. Each of these peaks has a religious
shrine at the top and offers breathtaking panoramic views of Junagadh and the
vast stretches of Gir Forest.
The path to the summit is surrounded by lush greenery,
flowing streams during the monsoon, and diverse flora and fauna. The serenity
of the place is often broken only by the chants of pilgrims, temple bells, and
the calls of birds. Girnar truly represents the seamless blend of spirituality
and nature.
Religious and Historical Significance
Hindu Tradition
Girnar holds a very high place in Hindu belief.
Ambaji Temple: Located on the first peak, this temple is
dedicated to Goddess Amba Mata. Newly married couples and devotees climb here
to seek blessings for a prosperous married life and overall well-being.
Gorakhnath Temple: At the highest peak of Girnar stands the
temple of Guru Gorakhnath, the great yogi and saint. Devotees believe that his
spiritual presence still protects the mountain.
Dattatreya Temple: Another peak houses the shrine of Lord
Dattatreya, worshipped as the incarnation of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva
combined. The temple features a three-headed idol of the deity.
Kalika Shrine: The final summit has the temple of Goddess
Kali, the fierce form of Shakti. This site attracts devotees who seek power,
courage, and liberation from fear.
Each peak carries its own mythology and legends, making
Girnar a living testament to India’s spiritual diversity.
Jain Tradition
Girnar is equally sacred for Jains, especially for followers
of both Shwetambara and Digambara sects. It is believed that Lord Neminath, the
22nd Tirthankara, attained Nirvana (salvation) on Girnar. Because of this, the
mountain is also called Mount Neminath.
The most prominent Jain structure is the Neminath Temple,
built around the 12th century. The temple is a masterpiece of Māru-Gurjara
architecture, with intricate carvings, marble pillars, and spiritual symbolism
in every corner. Several smaller temples and tonks (footprint shrines) are
scattered across the mountain, each marking important events of Jain history.
For Jains, a pilgrimage to Girnar is not just a ritual but a
once-in-a-lifetime spiritual accomplishment.
The Pilgrimage and Trekking Experience
Climbing Girnar is both a spiritual practice and a physical
challenge. The mountain has nearly 10,000 steps, which lead to the various
temples and peaks. The journey typically starts from the base at Junagadh, near
the Bhavnath Temple, and continues upward through scenic and spiritual spots.
Some important points along the route include:
Damodar Kund: A sacred tank where pilgrims take a holy dip
before starting the climb.
Bhavnath Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it becomes a hub
of devotion during Mahashivratri.
Domdar Kund: A place of spiritual cleansing believed to wash
away sins.
The trek is challenging but rewarding. Pilgrims chant
mantras and bhajans as they climb, and the higher you go, the more peaceful and
divine the environment becomes.
For those who cannot climb or want a faster way, the Girnar
Ropeway provides a modern alternative. Opened in 2020, it is Asia’s longest
ropeway, stretching 2.3 kilometers and carrying passengers to Ambaji Temple in
just 7–8 minutes. This has made Girnar accessible to more people, while still
preserving the charm of the traditional trek.
Festivals and Fairs
Bhavnath Mahadev Fair
One of the most famous events at Girnar is the Bhavnath
Mela, held during Mahashivratri. It is a five-day festival marked by religious
processions, devotional music, dances, and rituals. The highlight is the
midnight procession of Naga Sadhus, who march with conch shells, drums, and
chants before taking a dip in the Mrigi Kund. The fair attracts lakhs of
devotees from Gujarat and other states.
Girnar Parikrama
Another unique event is the Girnar Parikrama, a 36-kilometer
circumambulation of the entire mountain. It is performed in the month of Kartik
(October–November). Thousands of devotees take part in this symbolic journey,
walking around the sacred hill while chanting and offering prayers.
Other Celebrations
Apart from these, Jain festivals like Paryushan and Diwali
are celebrated with great devotion on Girnar. Hindu festivals such as Kartik
Purnima also witness a surge of pilgrims at the temples. These events transform
the otherwise quiet mountain into a vibrant hub of faith and culture.
Biodiversity and Environment
Girnar is not only about religion—it is also an ecological
treasure. The Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary, spread over 178 square kilometers, was
established in 2008 and serves as an extension of the Gir Forest ecosystem.
This sanctuary is home to Asiatic lions, leopards, jackals,
hyenas, wild boars, antelopes, langurs, and hundreds of bird species. It also
has a rich variety of medicinal plants and trees. During monsoon, the mountain
turns into a green paradise, with waterfalls and mist adding to the mystical
charm. For nature lovers, Girnar offers as much excitement as it does for
pilgrims.
Travel Guide
How to Reach Girnar
By Air: The nearest airport is at Rajkot, about 100
kilometers away. From there, taxis and buses are available to Junagadh.
By Train: Junagadh has a well-connected railway station with
trains from Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Mumbai.
By Road: State transport and private buses run regularly
from major cities of Gujarat to Junagadh.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Girnar is between November and February, when the weather is cool and pleasant. The monsoon season (June to September) is also beautiful with greenery and waterfalls, but the steps can be slippery.Tips for Pilgrims and Trekkers
Start your climb early in the morning to avoid the afternoon
heat.
Carry plenty of water, as prices increase with altitude.
Wear comfortable footwear and light clothing.
Use a palkhi (palanquin) service if you are unable to walk
long distances.
Respect the sanctity of temples by maintaining silence and
following rituals.
Conclusion
Girnar is not just a mountain—it is a spiritual experience,
a cultural treasure, and a natural wonder. Whether you are a Hindu seeking
blessings, a Jain pilgrim aspiring for salvation, a traveler looking for
adventure, or a nature lover in search of wildlife, Girnar has something unique
to offer.
Climbing its steps feels like rising through layers of
history, mythology, and spirituality. Standing at the summit, gazing at the
endless horizon, one realizes why Girnar has inspired saints, poets, and
pilgrims for centuries. It is a place where faith meets endurance, where nature
meets divinity, and where every visitor finds a piece of eternity.
Must vist this place really like a heaven
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