The Girnar Parikrama is considered one of the highest pilgrimage routes, encircling Mount Girnar, one of the highest peaks in Gujarat, India. Practised primarily by Jain and Hindu devotees, this sacred circuit is believed to provide spiritual purification and blessings to all pilgrims. The Parikrama is an architectural amalgamation of several temples along with natural attractions that provide evidence of the area's rich religious and cultural inheritance.
The total distance of the parikrama is approximately 35 kilometres. Along the way, you will find various temples dedicated to different Hindu deities, including the famous Jain temples on the hilltop. Some prominent temples on the route are the Ambaji Temple, Hatkeshwar Mahadev Temple, and the Neminath Jain temples. It presents yet another occasion to introspect and commune with the Almighty.
Girnar Parikrama 2024 Highlights
| Highlights | Details |
| Name | Girnar Parikrama 2024 |
| Dates | 11th - 16th November 2024 |
| Venue |
Dudheshwar Temple, Bhavnath Taleti, Junagadh, Gujarat |
The Girnar Parikrama 2024 Key Features
- Mount Girnar: The Parikrama revolves around Mount Girnar. It is a high hill at 1,117 metres (3,665 feet). It is considered sacred by Jains and Hindus alike.
- Numerous Temples: The Parikrama route has numerous temples in honour of various deities, including Jain Tirthankaras and Hindu gods. Some of the major temples here include Nageshwar Temple, Ambaji Temple, and Dattatreya Temple.
- Natural Beauty: The Parikrama offers beautiful sights of the surrounding area, such as lush greenery, valleys, and waterfalls. All these scenic features mix with spiritual adventure.
- Trek Difficulty: The Parikrama route calls upon steep climbs and uneven ground. Not an easy trek, the journey requires the individual to be fit, both mentally and physically.
Girnar Parikrama 2024 Date and Venue
The Girnar Parikrama starts from the Dudheshwar temple at Girnar Taleti in Junagadh and the total distance is 36 km. Bordevi is 8 km away from Bhavnath Taleti. It is the last spot for Girnar Parikrama.
How To Reach Girnar Parikrama 2024
| Mode of Transport | Nearest Stop | Distance to Venue |
| Airport | Keshod Airport | 45.0kms |
| Railway Station | Junagadh Railway Station | 7.0kms |
Girnar is well-connected by road, and you can reach it by bus or taxi from nearby cities like Junagadh, Porbandar, or Somnath. If you're driving, the best route is to take National Highway 47 from Rajkot to Junagadh and then follow the signs to Girnar.
Once you reach Junagadh, you can either take a taxi or walk to the base of Girnar Hill, where you can start the Parikrama.
- By Taxi or Auto-rickshaw:
- This is the most convenient and direct way to reach Girnar.
- You can easily find taxis or auto-rickshaws at the Junagadh railway station or bus stand.
- The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes.
- By Bus:
- There are regular buses from Junagadh to Girnar.
- You can find bus services at the Junagadh bus stand.
- The journey time might be slightly longer than a taxi or auto-rickshaw, but it's a more budget-friendly option.
- On Foot:
- For a more adventurous experience, you can walk to Girnar.
- The walk is approximately 8 kilometres and can take around 2-3 hours.
- However, it's important to note that the walk can be steep and challenging, so it's recommended only for those who are physically fit.
Nearby Cities
| Nearby Cities | Distance |
| Junagadh | 7 km |
| Porbandar | 110 km |
| Somnath | 110 km |
| Rajkot | 130 km |
| Jamnagar | 160 km |
Girnar Parikrama 2024 Along the Route
The Girnar Parikrama route is 36 kilometres long and circles the Girnar mountain. The different stops include:
- Bhavnath to Zina Bava Ni Madhi – 12 km
- Zina Bava Ni Madhi to Malvela – 8 km
- Malvela to Bordevi – 8 km
- Bordevi to Bhavnath – 8 km
Bhavnath to Zina Bava Ni Madhi: This trek is about 12 km. You can experience the biggest dam of Junagadh, Hasnapur Dam where you can also spend a night.
Zina Bava Ni Madhi to Malvela: To reach the next stop Malvela you have to trek for another 8 km. You can visit the Malvela temple here. You can also take the route through Sarkhadiya Hanuman where by you can experience the best Hanuman temple of Jungadh, Sarkhadiya Hanuman Temple.
Malvela to Bordevi: To reach Bordevi you have to climb down Nalpani Ghodi and trek for another 8 km. Ghodi is a mountain pass which requires great care and safety while climbing up and down the pass.
Bordevi to Bhavnath: Being the last spot of the Parikrama is to reach Bordevi. And finally you trek back to Bhavnath Taleti to end your Parikrama.
The Parikrama route passes through several temples and other religious sites:
- Bhavnath Temple
- Neminath Temple
- Amba Mata Temple
- Guru Dattatreya Temple
- Bharat Ji’s Gufa
Girnar Parikrama 2024 Points to Remember
The Girnar Parikrama trek is a bit difficult and it is important to be prepared. Here are some essential items to pack for your Girnar Parikrama:
Clothing:
- Comfortable walking shoes or trekking boots with good ankle support
- Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton or synthetic fabrics)
- Warm clothing for evenings and early mornings
- Raincoat or poncho
- Hat and sunglasses
- Comfortable socks
Essentials:
- Backpack or sling bag
- Water bottles
- Snacks
- First-aid kit (including band-aids, painkillers, and any necessary medications)
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Reusable water bottle
Optional Items:
- Trekking poles
- Camera
- Map of the Girnar Parikrama route
- Guidebook or information about the temples and attractions along the way
- Prayer items (if applicable)
Remember to pack light and only carry the essentials to make your journey comfortable and enjoyable.
Girnar Parikrama 2024 Tickets
The tickets for the Girnar Parikrama 2024 are free for all. There are typically no tickets or permits required for the Girnar Parikrama. It's an open event, and anyone can participate.
Girnar Parikrama 2024 Places to Visit Nearby
Girnar Parikrama is a popular pilgrimage destination in Gujarat, India. Here are 6 places you can visit nearby:
- Junagadh: This historic city is just a short distance from Girnar. Explore its ancient forts, temples, and museums.
- Porbandar: The birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, Porbandar offers a glimpse into the life of one of India's most influential leaders.
- Somnath: This famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is another must-visit destination near Girnar.
- Sasan Gir National Park: This wildlife sanctuary is home to Asiatic lions and other fascinating wildlife.
- Diu: This island territory offers beautiful beaches, Portuguese architecture, and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Bhavnagar: This coastal city is known for its palaces, museums, and vibrant culture.
Girnar Parikrama 2024 FAQs
Question: When will the Girnar Parikrama 2024 take place?
Answer: The Girnar Parikrama 2024 will take place from 11th-16th November 2024.
Question: How long does Girnar Parikrama take?
Answer: The duration of the Parikrama can vary depending on your pace and the number of temples you visit. On average, it can take anywhere from 4 to 8 hours to complete the circuit.
Question: Are there any accommodation options near Girnar?
Answer: Yes, there are various accommodation options available in Junagadh, the city near Mount Girnar. You can find hotels, guesthouses, and ashrams to suit your budget and preferences.
Question: Can I hire a guide for Girnar Parikrama?
Answer: Yes, you can hire a local guide to accompany you on the Parikrama. A guide can provide valuable information about the temples, history, and local customs.