Girnar

Girnar, also spelled Girnār, is a prominent hill located near the city of Junagadh in the western Indian state of Gujarat. The hill rises steeply from the surrounding terrain and has long been a focal point for religious devotion, pilgrimage, and historical settlements. Its summit dominates the landscape and is accompanied by a complex of temples and shrines on the slopes.

The most notable aspect of Girnar is its religious significance, particularly for Jainism. The hill hosts a large cluster of Jain temples, with several dedicated shrines at the summit and along the lower slopes. Hindu temples and other shrines are also present, reflecting the site’s broad devotional importance. The place is frequented by pilgrims, especially during fairs and festival periods.

Access to the summit is gained by a well-known stairway and a winding path that negotiates the rugged terrain. The ascent, which covers thousands of steps, is undertaken by devotees and trekkers alike and may take several hours depending on pace and weather. Pilgrims often combine the climb with visits to temples and historical remains along the way.

Historically, Girnar has a long record of religious and cultural activity. Archaeological remains, rock-cut caves, and inscriptions point to centuries of Jain and Hindu worship, as well as early monastic and settlement sites. Today, Girnar remains a major site for pilgrimage, supported by regional authorities and drawing visitors from across Gujarat and beyond.