Discover 2000+ years of rich history, ancient monuments, and legendary rulers of Junagadh
Years of History
Major Dynasties
UNESCO Sites
Ancient Monuments
A journey through the centuries of Junagadh's rich heritage
Junagadh came under the Mauryan Empire. Emperor Ashoka inscribed the famous Rock Edicts here, making it one of the most important historical sites in India.
The Kaling rulers established their influence over Junagadh, continuing the region's development as a center of culture and administration.
Brief period of Greek influence in Junagadh, adding Hellenistic elements to the local culture and architecture.
The Shaka rulers established their kingdom in Junagadh, contributing to the region's cultural and architectural heritage.
The Kshatrapa rulers governed Junagadh, building several monuments and establishing the city as an important administrative center.
During the Gupta period, Junagadh flourished as a center of art, literature, and religion. Many temples and monuments were constructed during this golden age.
The famous Chinese traveler Hu-en-Tsang visited Junagadh, documenting the city's importance as a center of learning and culture.
The Chudasama rulers made Junagadh their capital and built the famous Uparkot Fort. This period saw significant architectural development and cultural growth.
Various Muslim rulers including Mohammed Begada, Khalil Khan, Muzaffar, Sikandar, Bahadursha and Ibadatkhan ruled Junagadh, adding Islamic architectural elements.
Junagadh came under Mughal rule, experiencing further development in architecture, culture, and administration under the Mughal Empire.
The Nawabs of Junagadh (Yousufzai Pathan) ruled the city and built many palaces, mosques, and gardens, creating a unique blend of Islamic and local architecture.
After the famous Aarzi Hukumat movement led by Shamaldas Gandhi, Junagadh became part of independent India, marking the end of princely rule.
Discover how Junagadh evolved through different names across centuries
Early names reflecting the city's mountainous and prosperous nature
Names honoring rulers and reflecting the city's ancient heritage
Names reflecting the city's fortification and Islamic influence
Explore the magnificent historical monuments that stand as testaments to Junagadh's glorious past
8th Century CE
Built by the Chudasama rulers, this ancient fort stands as one of India's oldest and most strategically important fortifications. The fort complex encompasses Buddhist caves dating back to the 2nd century BCE, magnificent step wells, and ancient temples that showcase the evolution of architectural styles over centuries.
19th Century CE
A stunning example of Indo-Islamic architecture, this magnificent mausoleum represents the pinnacle of 19th-century craftsmanship. Built for the Nawab of Junagadh, it features intricate stone carvings, silver-plated doors, and a unique blend of Gothic and Islamic architectural elements that make it one of Gujarat's most photographed monuments.
Ancient to Medieval
Perched on the sacred Mount Girnar, this complex of ancient temples represents one of India's most important pilgrimage sites. The temples showcase exquisite Jain and Hindu architecture spanning over 2000 years, with the famous Neminath Temple being one of the most revered Jain temples in the world.
Two grand festivals that attract over a million visitors annually
A five-day grand festival concluding on the full-moon day of Kartik month. This sacred circumambulation of Mount Girnar is one of the most important religious events in Gujarat.
Celebrated on the no-moon day of Magha month, this festival honors Lord Shiva and attracts devotees from across India and beyond.
These festivals have transformed Junagadh into a major pilgrimage and cultural destination
Over one million devotees and tourists visit during the two major festivals alone
Parikrama and Maha Shivratri are the two grand festivals that define Junagadh's cultural calendar
Naked sages from across India participate, making it a unique spiritual gathering
Devotees and tourists from around the world come to witness these sacred celebrations
These festivals have national and international importance beyond local celebrations
Significant contribution to local economy through tourism, hospitality, and religious services
Meet the great rulers who shaped Junagadh's destiny through the centuries
The great Mauryan emperor who inscribed the famous Ashoka Rock Edicts in Junagadh, promoting peace and non-violence.
The Chudasama dynasty ruled Junagadh for nearly 600 years, making it their capital and building the magnificent Uparkot Fort. This was one of the longest-ruling dynasties in the region's history.
Various Muslim rulers including Mohammed Begada, Khalil Khan, Muzaffar, Sikandar, Bahadursha and Ibadatkhan ruled Junagadh, adding Islamic architectural elements to the city's heritage.
The Nawabs of Junagadh (Yousufzai Pathan) ruled the city for nearly 200 years, building beautiful palaces, mosques, and the famous Mahabat Maqbara.
Though not a ruler, this famous saint-poet from Junagadh contributed immensely to Gujarati literature and spirituality.
How Junagadh became part of India in 1947
Nawab Mohammad Mahabat Khanji III of Junagadh chose to accede to Pakistan, ignoring Mountbatten's views that only states sharing a common border with Pakistan could choose to accede to it. The Nawab argued that Junagadh adjoined Pakistan by sea.
With 80% of the population being Hindu, the people of Junagadh revolted against the Nawab's decision. Led by Shamaldas Gandhi, they formed the "Aarzi Hukumat" (Temporary Government) and attacked the palace and fort, hoisting the Indian flag.
The Nawab and his family fled to Pakistan following clashes with Indian troops. Before leaving, he emptied the state treasury of its cash and securities.
Junagadh's court, facing collapse, invited the Government of India to take over the State's administration. Sir Shah Nawaz Bhutto (father of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and grandfather of Benazir Bhutto) wrote to the Regional Commissioner inviting India to intervene.
A plebiscite was conducted which went almost unanimously in favor of accession to India. Junagadh became part of the Indian state of Saurashtra until November 1, 1956, when Saurashtra became part of Bombay state.
Junagadh's contribution to world heritage and cultural significance
UNESCO World Heritage Site
These ancient rock edicts by Emperor Ashoka are among the oldest surviving examples of written communication in India, promoting peace and moral values.
Archaeological Survey of India
This ancient fort complex is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India and represents centuries of architectural evolution.