Junagadh District of
Gujarat spreads over an area of 10,607 sq km. Literally the name Junagadh means ancient fort. The rule of the
Mauryans, Kshatrapas, Guptas, Vilabhis, Chudasamas, Gujarat Sultans and Babi Nawabs has left individual imprints in Junagadh. Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim and Jain religions have influenced the culture and left behind beautiful edifices which are proof of architectural splendour.
The main city is
Junagadh, which is located at the foot of the Girnar hills, sacred to the Jain community. Rising to a height of more than 6,000 m, the five peaks are blessed by 16 carved and sculptured marble shrines. It is home to many legends and myths.
Major tourist attractions are the two fortifications, one encircling the town of Junagadh and the other surrounding Uparkot in the west. Uparkot fortress was of strategic importance during the Maurya and Gupta reigns and has survived at least 16 sieges. The fort has an elaborately adorned entrance which leads to archeological ruins within the fortification. Buddhist caves,
rock edicts of Emperor
Ashoka, ancient forts, Jami mosque, and step wells are some of the attractions.
