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Junagadh is popular for its group of three caves. But, being a city that’s filled with historical sites, there is a lot to explore there. Among them, the Uparkot Fort stands out to be one of the most popular tourist attractions. The origins of the fort dating back 2300 years have stood tall against the rise and fall of the empires. So, if you are interested in knowing more about the history from a relic of the past, visiting this fort is a must. Be it the architectural genius or the charming detailing, there is a lot to unfold here.
About Uparkot Fort
Photo: Gopikapadia / Wikimedia Commons
Among the many caves and forts in Junagadh, Uparkot Fort, Gujarat, is one of the most significant historical landmarks to visit in the city. It is one of the oldest forts in India constructed around 319 BCE by Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Maurya Empire. Initially, the Uparkot Fort was constructed as a shield and military stronghold against the enemies. Over the decades following its construction, the fort helped in defending the region from various invasions. There are ancient temples, stepwells, palaces, and mosques inside the fort, which you can distinguish quite well. Several dynasties including the Mauryas, Chudasamas, and Mughals, have had power over the fort.
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Location
Photo: Hariom Raval / Wikimedia Commons
Situated in the city of Junagadh in the western Indian state of Gujarat, this fort is truly a delight to unfold. The city is located on the foothills of Girnar Hill, which houses numerous temples dedicated to Hindu and Jain followers. The exact Uparkot Fort address is in Mullawada in Junagadh. The fort itself is on the east side of Junagadh.
How To Reach
Photo: Jonathan Borba / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Located in Junagadh, the fort is well-connected to the nearby cities in Gujarat, making it easily accessible to tourists.
By Air: The nearest airport is Rajkot Airport, which is well-connected to cities like Ahmedabad, Porbandar and Rajkot. You can hire a taxi or take a public bus from outside the airport until Junagadh to then explore the fort.
By Road: Junagadh is accessible via National Highway 8D, which links it to Rajkot, Ahmedabad, and Porbandar. Private taxis, state-run buses, and intercity buses are available for the journey. So, if you are wondering how to reach Uparkot Fort, you can board a bus or hire a taxi from a nearby region to get there.
By Train: Junagadh Railway Station is your nearest railhead from Junagarh Fort, located 2 km away. You can either choose to walk to the fort or you can take an auto-rickshaw from outside the station.
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Things To Do At Uparkot Fort
Spread across a large and expansive area, the fort houses a lot of unique structures worth visiting and exploring.
1. Explore The Fortifications
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
To start your exploration of the fort, the first thing you have to explore are the fortifications. The fort’s walls, built with solid stone, are over 20 metres high in some places and provide a glimpse into the military architecture of ancient India. You can walk along these walls and even learn about the strategic importance of the fort and the battles it had witnessed in the past. Having a guide with you is one of the best ways to explore the fort.
2. Visit The Jama Masjid
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Inside the fort, you will also find Jama Masjid, which is a 15th-century mosque located inside the fort. Despite it being 2000+ years old, the mosque stands as a masterpiece of stunning Indo-Islamic architecture. The beauty of the soaring minarets and the sandstone appearance feature intricate carvings on them, which makes for a great backdrop for taking pictures.
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3. Explore Navghan Kuvo
Photo: Snehrashmi / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most important aspects of the Uparkot Fort is the presence of Navghan Kuvo, which is the stepwell located within the complex. Besides the unique architecture of this stepwell, you also get a glimpse into the process of water conservation that people back in the day followed. Despite limited resources, the architecture of the stepwell and its engineering showcase the ancient water conservation techniques.
4. Explore The Buddhist Caves
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Along the hillside region of the fort lies the Buddhist caves, some of which date back to the 2nd and 3rd century BC. It is said that these caves served as the resting place for the Buddhist monks who wanted a peaceful location to unwind and meditate. There are individual chambers inside these caves, which depict that to be a possibility.
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Places To Visit Around Uparkot Fort
Once you finish exploring the fort, spend the remainder of the day checking out a few of the nearby sightseeing spots.
1. Girnar Hills
Photo: Jashu Ram / Wikimedia Commons
Located a few kilometres from the fort, Girnar Hills is one of the must-visit spots nearby. It is a popular pilgrimage site for both Jains and Hindus. The hills are home to several ancient temples, including the famous Neminath Temple and the Dattatreya Temple. Climbing the 10,000 steps to the summit of Girnar is a spiritual journey that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape as well.
Distance From The Fort: 5 km
Timings: 24*7
2. Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden
Photo: VasuVR / Wikimedia Commons
For a fun and laid-back experience, head to Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden. Also known as Junagadh Zoo, it is home to Asiatic lions, whose breeding and conservation are prioritised in the zoo. It is also one of the oldest zoos in the country, dating back to 1863. Besides lions, the zoo is home to leopards and tigers and a wide range of bird species too.
Distance From The Fort: 6.5 km
Timings: 9 AM – 12:15 PM and 3 PM – 6 PM
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3. Mahabat Maqbara
Photo: Sneha N Shetty / Wikimedia Commons
Mahabat Maqbara is a stunning mausoleum located in the heart of Junagadh. It was built in the 19th century and features a blend of Islamic, Gothic, and European styles, which explains why it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the area. The minarets and the dome design add to the architectural significance of this mausoleum. Exploring this place enables you to learn about the history of the Nawabs of Junagadh.
Distance From The Fort: 6.5 km
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Where To Stay
Photo: Curtis Adams / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Located in Junagadh, the fort is a popular tourist attraction in the area. So, finding budget-friendly hotels and luxurious properties won’t be a hassle. If you are on a budget, consider booking your stay at Hotel Platinum Junagadh, Raivat Inn or The White Orchid. If you want luxury and five-star properties, you can book your stay in The Fern Leo Resort & Club, Junagadh, Gujarat, Bellevue Sarovar Premiere, Junagadh or Hotel Greenland.
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Where To Eat
Photo: Angel Dim / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Being a popular tourist attraction, there are numerous restaurants and local eateries around the fort that you can explore for lunch or dinner. Some of the popular spots you can check out are Geeta Lodge, Sabrin Restaurant and Garden Café.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
When you are planning a trip to the fort, the best time to visit is during the winter months, between October and March. The weather is quite pleasant during those months, making it comfortable for you to explore the entirety of the fort on foot. During the summer months, between April and June, the temperature can soar to 40°C and above, making the experience uncomfortable.
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Tips For Travellers
Photo: Snehrashmi / Wikimedia Commons
For a comfortable time exploring the fort and the area around, you can keep a few pointers into consideration.
- Carry sufficient water and wear comfortable shoes since you will be walking a lot.
- Hire a local guide to help you get an in-depth understanding of the history and individual components inside the fort.
- Avoid visiting during peak summer months since the heat can become unbearable.
- To beat the crowds, plan your visit during the early morning.
- Carry cash with you since the local shops mostly won’t accept cards and digital payments.
Uparkot Fort is one of the most significant historical destinations in Junagadh, offering a glimpse into the rich history, culture and traditions. If you want to immerse yourself in the fascinating history, consider travelling with a guide that will take you around the hidden gems inside the fort and tell the backstory too. You can plan your next vacation with TripXL for a well-rounded and hassle-free travel experience.
Cover Photo: Hariom Raval / Wikimedia Commons
