Rising to 1,116 metres, Girnar Hill is Gujarat’s highest mountain and one of India’s most important pilgrimage sites. It is revered by both Hindus and Jains for its rich spiritual heritage. Whether you climb the legendary stone steps or take Asia’s longest ropeway, the journey is unforgettable. Along the way, you’ll discover ancient temples, breathtaking views, and a peaceful atmosphere. For centuries, pilgrims have travelled here in search of faith and devotion. This guide covers Girnar’s history, major temples, ropeway and trekking details, visiting timings, and practical tips to help you plan your trip.
About Girnar Hill
Girnar Hill stretches across nearly 70 miles and consists of five main peaks. These are Gorakhnath (1,116 m), Ambaji, Guru Dattatreya, Kalka, and Oghad Ansuya. Among them, Gorakhnath is the highest peak. Located just 5 km from Junagadh city, Girnar is easy to reach. Together, the hill and the city form one of Gujarat’s most important spiritual destinations. The area is home to numerous ashrams and dharamshalas that welcome pilgrims throughout the year.
For Jains, Girnar is regarded as a Shashwat Tirth, meaning an eternal and sacred pilgrimage site. It is believed that Lord Neminath, the 22nd Tirthankar, attained nirvana here. Additionally, Jain tradition says future Tirthankaras will also achieve liberation on Girnar. For Hindus, the hill is closely associated with Guru Dattatreya and Goddess Amba. Moreover, the revered Bhavnath Mahadev Temple at the foothills attracts thousands of devotees every year.
The Legendary Steps
Reaching Girnar’s summit traditionally involves climbing 9,999 to 10,000 stone steps. However, the exact number varies slightly across different sources. Before the ropeway opened, most pilgrims spent 5 to 7 hours climbing each way. Along the route, you’ll pass ancient temples, scenic viewpoints, and rest shelters. As a result, the climb becomes both a spiritual pilgrimage and a rewarding physical challenge.
- Timings: Generally 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily
- Entry fee: Free, though donations are welcome at the various temples along the way
- What to carry: Comfortable shoes, water, snacks, a light jacket, and a raincoat if visiting outside peak dry season
Girnar Ropeway (Asia’s Longest)
For visitors who prefer an easier journey, the Girnar Ropeway, locally known as the “Udan Khatola,” is an excellent option. It travels from Bhavnath Taleti to near Ambaji Temple in just 7.5 to 9 minutes. The project was first proposed by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited in 1983. However, approvals and legal challenges delayed construction for many years. Finally, work began in September 2018, and the ropeway opened to the public in October 2020.
- Distance covered: Approximately 2.3 km (2,126.4 metres)
- Cabin capacity: 8 passengers per cabin
- Timings: Generally 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Ticket prices: Roughly ₹400 for a one-way ride, ₹700 for a two-way ride, and ₹350 for children aged 5–10 (children under 5 typically ride free) – prices can be revised, so check current rates before booking
- Booking: Available online through the official Girnar Ropeway website, with air-conditioned waiting rooms at the base station
- Important: If you miss the 5:00 PM last ride down, you’ll need to hike back to the base – plan your timing accordingly
Temples and Sacred Sites Along the Way
Bhavnath Mahadev Temple
Located right at the base of Girnar (Bhavnath Taleti), this significant Shiva temple is especially lively during the Mahashivratri festival and its associated Bhavnath Fair.
Jain Temple Complex (Neminath and Others)
A cluster of intricately carved Jain temples sits partway up the hill, including the Neminath Temple, marking the spot associated with the 22nd Tirthankar’s path to liberation a major highlight for Jain pilgrims and architecture lovers alike.
Ambaji Temple
Located near the ropeway’s upper station, this temple honours Goddess Amba and is one of the most visited stops for both ropeway users and step-climbers.
Gorakhnath and Dattatreya Peaks
Beyond Ambaji, further climbing (the ropeway doesn’t cover this final stretch) leads to the Gorakhnath Peak, Girnar’s highest point, and the Guru Dattatreya Shrine for those looking to complete the full summit trek.
Best Time to Visit
November to February is the ideal window, offering pleasant winter temperatures well suited to both the step climb and general sightseeing. This period also overlaps with the Girnar Parikrama, a major religious festival involving circumambulation of the hill, typically held in the Hindu month of Kartik (around November) worth timing your visit around if you want to witness it.
How to Reach Girnar Hill
By Road: Girnar is just 5 km from Junagadh city, easily reached by auto-rickshaw or taxi to the Bhavnath Taleti base.
By Train: Junagadh Railway Station is the nearest and best-connected, with regular trains from Ahmedabad.
By Air: Keshod Airport is the closest, about 40 km away; Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport is the nearest major international airport, roughly 330 km away (about a 6-hour drive).
Who Should Visit Girnar Hill
- Pilgrims (Hindu and Jain) – one of India’s most spiritually significant hill sites for both traditions
- Trekkers and fitness enthusiasts – the full step climb is a genuine physical challenge many take on as a personal milestone
- Families and less-active travellers – the ropeway makes the summit accessible without the multi-hour climb
- History and architecture lovers – the Jain temple complex alone is worth the visit for its craftsmanship
Where to Eat Near Girnar Hill
The Bhavnath Taleti area at the base has food stalls serving Kathiyawadi snacks like gathiya-jalebi and locho, ideal before or after your climb. For a fuller meal, most visitors head back into Junagadh town, just 5 km away. If you’re combining Girnar with a broader Gujarat food trail, check out our guides to famous foods in Ahmedabad and best street food in Ahmedabad.
Other Places to Visit Nearby
- Ashoka Rock Edicts – Explore the 2,200-year-old inscriptions of Emperor Ashoka, one of India’s most significant archaeological landmarks, located on the road to Girnar.
- Uparkot Fort – Discover Junagadh’s ancient hilltop fort, famous for its massive fortifications, Buddhist caves, historic stepwells, and panoramic views of the city.
- Adi Kadi Vav – Visit this extraordinary rock-cut stepwell carved directly into solid stone within Uparkot Fort. It is one of Gujarat’s most unique architectural and historical attractions.
- Junagadh city – Wander through the city’s vibrant old bazaars, admire the stunning Mahabat Maqbara, and visit the renowned Sakkarbaug Zoological Park, home to a variety of native wildlife.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The climb is commonly cited as around 9,999 to 10,000 stone steps, though exact figures vary slightly across sources. It typically takes 5 to 7 hours to complete on foot each way.
A two-way ropeway ticket costs roughly ₹700 per adult, with one-way tickets around ₹400. Children aged 5–10 pay approximately ₹350, and children under 5 usually ride free.
The ropeway generally operates from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. If you miss the last ride down at 5:00 PM, you’ll need to hike back to the base, so plan your visit with this cut-off in mind.
No, climbing the steps is free, though donations are welcome at the various temples along the route.
Girnar is considered a Shashwat Tirth, one of Jainism’s eternal holy sites, believed to be where Lord Neminath, the 22nd Tirthankar, achieved nirvana.
No, the ropeway takes you to near the Ambaji Temple. Reaching the highest peak, Gorakhnath, and the Dattatreya Shrine beyond it still requires additional climbing on foot.
Final Thoughts
Whether you take on the full step climb as a personal challenge or ride the ropeway for a faster, easier ascent, Girnar Hill offers one of Gujarat’s most rewarding pilgrimage and sightseeing experiences ancient temples, sweeping views, and centuries of spiritual history layered into a single mountain. Planning your Junagadh trip? Roach the road less traveled with us drop your questions in the comments and we’ll help you plan the rest of your itinerary!
