View source for Girnar

{{Short description|Mountain in Gujarat}}
{{pp-move}}
{{Use Indian English|date=May 2014}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2014}}
{{Infobox mountain
 | name              = Girnar Mount
 | photo             = Girnar 1.jpg
 | photo_alt         = Girnar
 | photo_caption     = Mount Girnar
 | map               = India#India Gujarat
 | map_alt           =
 | map_caption       =
 | location          = [[Junagadh]], [[Gujarat]]
 | elevation_m       = 1145<ref>https://www.peakbagger.com/peak.aspx?pid=53262</ref>
 | prominence_m       = 1130
 | listing           = [[List of Indian states and territories by highest point]], Ribu
 | coordinates       = {{coord|21|29|41|N|70|30|20|E|type:mountain_scale:100000|format=dms|display=inline,title}}
 | other_name        = ગિરનાર પર્વત<br /> Revatak Parvata
 | type              = Igneous
}}

'''Girnar''' is an ancient hill in [[Junagadh]], [[Gujarat]], India. It is one of the  holiest pilgrimages of [[Jains]], a ''Mahatirth'', where the 22nd [[Tirthankara|Tirthaṅkar]], Lord [[Neminath]] attained omniscience, and later nirvana at its highest peak (''Neminath Shikhar''), along with other five hundred and thirty three [[kevala jnana|enlightened]] sages. This is well described in ancient texts such as [[Kalpa Sūtra]] written by acharya [[Bhadrabāhu]] and [[Uttaradhyayana|Shri Uttaradhyayana Sutra]] by [[Sudharmaswami|Arya Sudharmaswami]].<ref name="Ginas">{{Cite web |title=Jaina Sutras, Part I (SBE22): Lives of the Ginas: Life of Arishtanemi |url=https://sacred-texts.com/jai/sbe22/sbe2287.htm |access-date=2024-09-22 |website=sacred-texts.com}}</ref><ref name=":0" /> It is administered by the Junagadh Municipal Corporation.

==Geology==
Mount Girnar is a major [[Intrusive rock|igneous plutonic]] complex which intruded into the [[basalt]]s towards the close of the [[Deccan Trap]] period. The rock types identified in this complex are [[gabbros]] (tholeiitic and alkalic), [[diorite]]s, [[lamprophyre]]s, [[Syenite|alkali-syenites]] and [[rhyolite]]s. The parent gabbroic magma is shown to have given rise in sequence to diorites, lamprophyres and alkali-syenites. The [[rhyolite]], though previously considered as a product of differentiation, is now believed to be an independent [[magma]] without any genetic link with the gabbro and its variants.<ref name="Sukheswala 1982">{{cite journal|author=R. N. Sukheswala|title=Igneous Complex of Mount Girnar, Saurashtra, Gujarat - A Reappraisal|url=http://www.geosocindia.org/index.php/jgsi/article/view/64919|date=January 1982|journal=Journal of the Geological Society of India|language=en|volume=23|issue=1|pages=13–18 |doi=10.17491/jgsi/1982/230102|url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref name="Bose 1973">{{cite journal|author=Mihir K. Bose|title=Petrology and geochemistry of the igneous complex of Mount Girnar, Gujarat, India|date=January 1973|journal=Contributions to Mineralogy and Petrology|volume=39|issue=3|pages=247–266|doi=10.1007/BF00383107|issn=0010-7999|bibcode=1973CoMP...39..247B|s2cid=129626191}}</ref>

==History==
[[File:Junagadh Girnar Hill map.jpg|thumb|Map of Girnar Mountain Range|left]]

Girnar was an important mountain that has been a sacred place for Jains since centuries.

In the 7th century, the Chinese traveler Hsuan-tsang mentioned Girnar as a place of "supernatural monks". On the southern side of the mountain, there are Jain temples that were built in the 13th century.<ref>{{Cite book |last=White |first=David Gordon |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=pQuqAAAAQBAJ |title=The Alchemical Body: Siddha Traditions in Medieval India |date=2012-07-10 |publisher=University of Chicago Press |isbn=978-0-226-14934-9 |pages=117–18 |language=en}}</ref>
=== Ashoka edicts ===
Fourteen of [[Ashoka]]'s [[Major Rock Edicts]], dating to circa 250 BCE, are inscribed on a large boulder that is housed in a small building located outside the town of [[Junagadh]] on [[Saurashtra (region)|Saurashtra]] peninsula in the state of [[Gujarat]], [[India]]. It is located on Girnar Taleti road, at about {{convert|2|km|mi|abbr=on}} far from Uperkot Fort easterly, some 2&nbsp;km before Girnar Taleti. An uneven rock, with a circumference of seven meters and a height of ten meters, bears inscriptions etched with an iron pen in [[Brahmi script]] in a language similar to [[Pali]] and date back to 250 BCE, thus marking the beginning of written history of Junagadh.<ref name="keay">{{cite book |first=John |last=Keay |author-link=John Keay |year=2000 |title=India, a History |publisher=Harper Collins Publishers |location=New York, United States |isbn=978-0-00-638784-8 |pages=129–131 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=3aeQqmcXBhoC}}</ref>

On the same rock there are inscriptions in [[Sanskrit]] added around 150 CE by Mahakshatrap [[Rudradaman I]], the [[Saka]] (Scythian) ruler of [[Malwa]], a member of the [[Western Satraps|Western Satraps dynasty]] (see [[Junagadh rock inscription of Rudradaman]]).<ref name="keay"/> The edict also narrates the story of Sudarshan Lake which was built or renovated by Rudradaman I, and the heavy rain and storm due to which it had broken.<ref name="Edicts">{{Cite web|title=Structure Covering Ashoka's Edicts Collapses in Gujarat|url=https://www.outlookindia.com/newswire/story/structure-covering-ashokas-edicts-collapses-in-gujarat/850569|access-date=2020-07-23|website=Outlook India}}</ref>

Another inscription dates from about 450 CE and refers to [[Skandagupta]], one of the last [[Gupta Empire|Gupta emperors]].<ref name="Edicts" />

The protective building around the edicts was built in 1900 by Nawab Rasool Khan of [[Junagadh State]] at a cost of Rs 8,662. It was repaired and restored in 1939 and 1941 by the rulers of Junagadh. The wall of the structure had collapsed in 2014.<ref name="collapse2014">{{cite web  | title=Roof over Ashoka rock edicts in Junagadh crashes | website=The Times of India | date=19 July 2014 | url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/rajkot/Roof-over-Ashoka-rock-edicts-in-Junagadh-crashes/articleshow/38667857.cms | access-date=21 March 2016}}</ref>

A much smaller replica of these Girnar edicts has been positioned outside the entrance of the [[National Museum, New Delhi|National Museum]] in [[Delhi]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=Heritage building caves in but Ashoka's edicts as steady as rock|url=https://www.dailypioneer.com/2014/page1/heritage-building-caves-in-but-ashokas-edicts-as-steady-as-rock.html|access-date=2020-07-23|website=The Pioneer|language=en}}</ref>

Similarly, inside the [[Parliament Museum]] at New Delhi, an exhibit replicates the act of artists sculpting inscriptions of Girnar edict on a rock.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Parliament Museum, New Delhi, India - Official website - Rock Edicts|url=http://parliamentmuseum.org/dh_ashokan.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071228043440/http://www.parliamentmuseum.org/dh_ashokan.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=28 December 2007|access-date=2020-07-23|website=parliamentmuseum.org}}</ref>

<gallery mode="packed" heights="134">
Ashoka Rock Edict at Junagadh.jpg|Ashoka's Rock Edict
Ashok Shilalekh.jpg|Housing for Ashoka's edicts.
GRE1-2.jpg|[[Estampage]] of a part of the inscriptions.
Amtiyako Yona Raja in Major Rock Edicts No2 in Girnar.jpg|"''Aṃtiyako [[Yona]] [[Raja|Rājā]]''" (𑀅𑀁𑀢𑀺𑀬𑀓𑁄𑀬𑁄𑀦𑀭𑀸𑀚𑀸, "The Greek king [[Antiochus II Theos|Antiochos]]"), mentioned in [[Major Rock Edict]] No.2, at Girnar.<ref>{{cite book |title=Inscriptions of Asoka. New Edition by E. Hultzsch |date=1925 |page=3 |url=https://archive.org/stream/InscriptionsOfAsoka.NewEditionByE.Hultzsch/HultzschCorpusAsokaSearchable#page/n135/mode/2up |language=sa}}</ref>
</gallery>

A little further from Ashoka's inscription, on the right side of the road, there is a large stone standing which looks like exact replica of Ashoka's inscription.

=== Jain sources ===
[[File:Jain Carving Girnar.png|thumb|A carving of Jain monk, and inscription from 1188 CE at Girnar]]
Jain texts record Girnar mountain as an ancient pilgrimage site from where crores (''koda-kodi'') of monks have attained liberation. [[Neminath]], the 22nd [[Tirthankara]] attained [[Moksha (Jainism)|Moksha]] from this hill. [[Śvetāmbara]] tradition also considers Girnar to be an eternally Jain pilgrimage. 3rd century BCE text [[Kalpa Sūtra]] by Acharya [[Bhadrabāhu]]suri mentions Girnar hill to be the place of initiation, [[Kevala jnana]], and [[Moksha]] of the 22nd Tirthankara, Neminatha.<ref>{{Cite web |last=admin |date=2020-05-18 |title=The religious importance of Girnar for Jains |url=https://www.thethumpingnomad.com/the-religious-importance-of-girnar-for-jains/ |access-date=2024-10-16 |website=The Thumping Nomad |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name="Ginas">{{Cite web |title=Jaina Sutras, Part I (SBE22): Lives of the Ginas: Life of Arishtanemi |url=https://sacred-texts.com/jai/sbe22/sbe2287.htm |access-date=2024-09-22 |website=sacred-texts.com}}</ref><ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite book |last=Glasenapp |first=Helmuth von |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=WzEzXDk0v6sC&q=Girnar |title=Jainism: An Indian Religion of Salvation |date=1999 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass Publ. |isbn=978-81-208-1376-2 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Singh |first=Jai Prakash |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ZxIaAAAAMAAJ&q=%22girnar%22+%22jainism%22 |title=Aspects of Early Jainism, as Known from the Epigraphs |date=1972 |publisher=Banaras Hindu University |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Barodia |first=U. D. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ScFKAAAAMAAJ&dq=%22girnar%22+%22jainism%22&pg=PA24 |title=History and Literature of Jainism |date=1909 |publisher=Jain Graduates' Association |language=en}}</ref>

Sixth century BCE Jain text [[Uttaradhyayana|Uttaradhyayana Sutra]] which is believed to be the direct words of [[Mahavira]], mentions that [[Neminatha]] ascended Mount Raivataka to become an ascetic in the 22nd chapter.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=Jaina Sutras, Part II (SBE45): Uttarâdhyayana: Twenty-Second Lecture. Rathanêmi |url=https://sacred-texts.com/jai/sbe45/sbe4524.htm |access-date=2024-10-16 |website=sacred-texts.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Tobias |first=Michael |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ybQB6yyw-tgC&q=Girnar |title=Life Force: The World of Jainism |date=1991 |publisher=Jain Publishing Company |isbn=978-0-87573-080-6 |language=en}}</ref> Acharya Dharasena, who was a resident of Girnar, practiced penance and meditation in Candragumpha cave of the mountain.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://jainqq.org/explore/022803/285 | title=Search, Seek, and Discover Jain Literature }}</ref> He gave the spiritual knowledge to Pushpadanta and Bhutabali, who wrote the [[Shatkhandagama]] in between 86 CE and 156 CE.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://jainqq.org/explore/007719/143 | title=Search, Seek, and Discover Jain Literature }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://jainqq.org/explore/022803/112 | title=Search, Seek, and Discover Jain Literature }}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|-
| [[File:Neminath temple Girnar.jpg|thumb|250px|Neminath Temple on Girnar's highest peak (Neminath Shikhar), in 1964, before its illegal conversion to Dattatreya Temple.]]
| [[File:Fifth Tonk Neminath Mandir.jpg|thumb|250px|A Jain pilgrim reads scriptures in the Neminath temple, sitting before the foot idol of Neminatha with a full ancient idol carved in [[Lotus position|padmasana]] posture behind it, prior to the temple's illegal conversion into the Dattatreya Hindu temple.]]
|}

=== Jaina Inscriptions ===
Of the several Jaina inscriptions found at Girnar, most are at the [[Girnar Jain temples]].
# An inscription is present on a slab over the West entrance of the [[Vastupala|Vastupāla]]-Tejaḥpāla [[Jain]]a temple. As per the dates in the inscription, it was written in 1230 CE. It extols [[Neminatha|Neminātha]], Vastupāla, [[Acharya Haribhadrasuri|Ācārya Haribhadrasūri]], Ācārya Vijayasenasūri, and some other [[Śvetāmbara]] Jaina monks.<ref>{{Cite book |last=The Government Central Press |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.53162/page/n385/mode/1up |title=Revised Lists Of Antiquarian Remains In The Bombay Presidency |date=1897 |page=328}}</ref>{{sfn|Burgess|1876|p=171}}
# On the West door of [[Vastupala|Vastupāla]]'s temple, another inscription, similar to the one on the slab over the gate, exists. According to the inscription, the Vastupāla-Tejaḥpāla temple was consecrated by [[Śvetāmbara]] [[Jain]]a monks Ācārya Vijayasenasūri and Ācārya Ānandasūri. It was also written in 1230 CE.<ref>{{Cite book |last=The Government Central Press |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.53162/page/n388/mode/1up |title=Revised Lists Of Antiquarian Remains In The Bombay Presidency |date=1897 |page=331}}</ref>{{sfn|Burgess|1876|p=171}}
# On the North door of the [[Vastupala|Vastupāla]]-Tejaḥpāla temple, an inscription, similar to the one on the West door of the temple, exists. It begins with extolling the qualities of [[Neminatha|Neminātha]].<ref>{{Cite book |last=The Government Central Press |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.53162/page/n392/mode/1up |title=Revised Lists Of Antiquarian Remains In The Bombay Presidency |date=1897 |page=335}}</ref> It goes on to praise [[Śvetāmbara]] Jaina monks and Vastupāla. [[Someshvara (13th-century poet)|Ṭhākura Someśvaradeva]], the author of this inscription, extols Vastupāla in a series of [[Sanskrit]] ślokas.<ref>{{Cite book |last=The Government Central Press |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.53162/page/n393/mode/1up |title=Revised Lists Of Antiquarian Remains In The Bombay Presidency |date=1897 |page=336}}</ref>
# An inscription on the East door of the Vastupāla-Tejaḥpāla temple begins by extolling the qualities of [[Neminatha|Neminātha]]. Similar to the inscriptions on the other walls and doors of the temple, it also praises [[Śvetāmbara]] [[Jain]]a monks and Vastupāla. It also states a series of [[Sanskrit]] ślokas written by Ācārya Narendrasūri Maladhārī about Vastupāla.<ref>{{Cite book |last=The Government Central Press |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.53162/page/n397/mode/1up |title=Revised Lists Of Antiquarian Remains In The Bombay Presidency |date=1897 |page=340}}</ref>
# An inscription was also found on another East door of the Vastupāla-Tejaḥpāla temple. It is said that the inscription was on a state that was deteriorating from effects of climate. Therefore, some characters were obscure and obliterated. It mentions several popular Jaina images installed by Vastupāla. It also mentions a Jaina image of [[Saraswati]] installed by him in [[Kashmir|Kaśmīra]].<ref>{{Cite book |last=The Government Central Press |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.53162/page/n399/mode/1up |title=Revised Lists Of Antiquarian Remains In The Bombay Presidency |date=1897 |page=342}}</ref> Several [[Sanskrit]] ślokas praising both Vastupāla and Tejaḥpāla are found in this inscription. Additionally, it also mentions the ancestors of Vastupāla and Tejaḥpāla. The name of the author of these verses is mentioned to be Ācārya Saracandrasūri Maladhārī. The name of the copyist is mentioned to be Jaitrasiṃha and the name of the engraver is mentioned to be Kumārasiṃha.<ref>{{Cite book |last=The Government Central Press |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.53162/page/n400/mode/1up |title=Revised Lists Of Antiquarian Remains In The Bombay Presidency |date=1897 |page=343}}</ref>{{sfn|Burgess|1876|p=171}}
# The South gate of the temple built by Vastupāla and Tejaḥpāla features an inscription, also written on the same day as the inscriptions on the other walls of the temple. It starts with praises of all the [[Tirthankara|Tirthankaras]]. Later, it mentions the family of Vastupāla and Tejaḥpāla and their works of philanthropy and religious activities and construction of various Jaina temples. It also mentions Ācārya Vijayasenasūri and Ācārya Ānandasūri as the monks who consecrated the temple.<ref>{{Cite book |last=The Government Central Press |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.53162/page/n402/mode/1up |title=Revised Lists Of Antiquarian Remains In The Bombay Presidency |date=1897 |page=345}}</ref> A series of [[Sanskrit]] ślokas praising Vastupāla and Tejaḥpāla were written by Ācārya Udayaprabhasūri of the Nāgendra [[Gaccha]]. The name of the copyist is mentioned to be Jaitrasiṃha and the name of the engraver is mentioned to be Kumārasiṃha.<ref>{{Cite book |last=The Government Central Press |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.53162/page/n403/mode/1up |title=Revised Lists Of Antiquarian Remains In The Bombay Presidency |date=1897 |page=346}}</ref>
# An incomplete inscription on a wall near the first entrance to the [[Neminath Jain Temple, Girnar|Neminātha Jaina Temple]] exists. While the first few lines are broken away, it begins by extolling [[Neminatha|Neminātha]], the principal deity of the shrine. Then, it praises demi-goddess [[Ambika (Jainism)|Ambika]] and describes her appearance and iconography as per Jaina traditions. It further describes [[Yadava|Yādava]] kings who maintained this temple. It lists several prominent kings of the region who belonged to the same family.<ref>{{Cite book |last=The Government Central Press |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.53162/page/n406/mode/1up |title=Revised Lists Of Antiquarian Remains In The Bombay Presidency |date=1897 |page=349}}</ref>{{sfn|Burgess|1876|p=171}}
# A partially obliterated inscription was found on a wall of a temple facing South on the way that leads to Haṭhīpagalā. It describes the family of Kumārasiṃha and other ministers in the court of the king of the region. It further mentions a pilgrimage to [[Palitana temples|Pālītāṇā temples]]. The name of the author of this inscription is mentioned to be Ācārya Jayasiṃhasūri. Ṭhākura Haripāla is mentioned to be the engraver of the inscription.<ref>{{Cite book |last=The Government Central Press |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.53162/page/n409/mode/1up |title=Revised Lists Of Antiquarian Remains In The Bombay Presidency |date=1897 |page=352}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Bhattacharya |first=Ranjana |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=JMUHEQAAQBAJ&q=Jaina%20inscriptions%20Girnar |title=Charters of the Chaulukyas and Vaghelas of Gujarat(c.950–1300 CE) |date=2024-05-14 |publisher=Prowess Publishing |isbn=978-1-5457-5751-2 |language=en}}</ref>
# The North entrance to the [[Neminath Jain Temple, Girnar|Neminātha Jaina Temple]] has two pillars, both with different inscriptions. The one on the East side contains an inscription that dates to 1288 CE and mentions the use of 3,050 flowers for the daily worship of [[Neminatha|Neminātha]], the principal deity of the shrine, by Punasiṃha, a [[Porwal|Porwāla]] Jaina and his wife Gunasiri. It further mentions the pilgrimage of Girnar by Vilhaṇata, a [[Shrimal Jain|Śrīmālī]] Jaina, in 1277 CE.<ref name=":1">{{Cite book |last=The Government Central Press |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.53162/page/n410/mode/1up |title=Revised Lists Of Antiquarian Remains In The Bombay Presidency |date=1897 |page=353}}</ref>
# The inscription on the adjoining pillar at the North entrance to [[Neminath Jain Temple, Girnar|Neminātha Jaina Temple]] mentions the 1275 CE and is instructional in nature. It mentions the donation of 200 gold coins by merchant Haripāla. It further mentions the instruction to use 2,000 flowers obtained from a dedicated garden for the daily worship of [[Neminatha|Neminātha]]. The flowers may not be used for any other purpose than worship. This instruction was given out by Ācārya Jinaprabodhasūri.<ref name=":1" />
# On the wall of a small shrine towards West of the South entrance to [[Neminath Jain Temple, Girnar|Neminātha Jaina Temple]] exists a short inscription that begins by paying obeisance to [[Neminatha|Neminātha]] and proceeds to appreciate king Mahīpāla and several other people who enabled the construction of a temple of Neminātha.<ref name=":2">{{Cite book |last=The Government Central Press |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.53162/page/n411/mode/1up |title=Revised Lists Of Antiquarian Remains In The Bombay Presidency |date=1897 |page=354}}</ref><ref name=":9">{{Cite book |last=Bhattacharya |first=Dr Ranjana |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Dd5BEAAAQBAJ&q=Neminatha |title=Grants and Gods in Gujarat |date=2021-09-08 |publisher=Prowess Publishing |isbn=978-1-5457-5431-3 |language=en}}</ref>
# On a broken pillar at the same place, and inscription mentioning a family paying obeisance at the feet of [[Neminatha|Neminātha]] in 1428 CE.<ref name=":2" />
# On a wall to the East of the South entrance to the [[Neminath Jain Temple, Girnar|Neminātha Jaina Temple]], an inscription mentioning a pilgrimage to Girnar performed by some wealthy merchants following [[Kharatara Gaccha]] in 1488 CE, exists.<ref name=":3">{{Cite book |last=The Government Central Press |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.53162/page/n412/mode/1up |title=Revised Lists Of Antiquarian Remains In The Bombay Presidency |date=1897 |page=355}}</ref>
# On the Eastern wall near the North entrance to the [[Neminath Jain Temple, Girnar|Neminātha Jaina Temple]], exists an inscription that praises Ācārya Dhaneśvarasūri and his pupils as well as mentions that they performed several religious activities atop the mountain including consecration of idols and temples. It also praises Ācārya Candrasūri for answering questions asked to him by a minister.<ref name=":3" />{{sfn|Burgess|1876|p=168}}
# On the North entrance of the temple, an inscription stating the date of construction of the passage in front of the shrines as 1159 CE, exists.<ref name=":7">{{Cite book |last=Dhaky |first=M. A. |title=મહાતીર્થ ઉજ્જયન્તગિરિ (ગિરનાર તીર્થ) [Mahatirtha UjjayantGiri (Girnar Tirtha)] |publisher=[[Anandji Kalyanji Trust]] |year=1997 |editor-last=Shah |editor-first=Jitendra B. |location=Ahmedabad |page=20 |language=Gujarati}}</ref>
# As per the inscription on the wall of a small shrine of [[Rishabhanatha]], it was built by Jagamāl Gordhan, a [[Porwal|Porwāla]] Jaina, in 1792 CE and the idol was consecrated by Ācārya Jinendrasūri.{{sfn|Burgess|1876|p=166}}
# An inscription on the Western wall near the North entrance to the [[Neminath Jain Temple, Girnar|Neminātha Jaina Temple]] mentions the installation of several Jaina images with a permission from Saṅghavī Ṭhākura Śālivāhana. It also mentions the erection of an idol of [[Ambika (Jainism)|Ambika]], the attendant deity to [[Neminatha|Neminātha]].<ref name=":4">{{Cite book |last=The Government Central Press |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.53162/page/n413/mode/1up |title=Revised Lists Of Antiquarian Remains In The Bombay Presidency |date=1897 |page=356}}</ref>{{sfn|Burgess|1876|p=167}}
# Another inscription to the North of the previous inscription mentions the installation of the feet of [[Neminatha|Neminātha]] by Jayasiṃhadeva Vijaya. The name of the mason is mentioned to be Vikrama Māruti.<ref name=":4" />
# An inscription under the image of [[Pārśvanātha]] in the temple built by Vastupāla and Tejaḥpāla states that it was installed in 1247 CE and mentions the names of the monks who consecrated it and the lay followers who inspired the installation of the idol.<ref name=":9" /><ref>{{Cite book |last=The Government Central Press |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.53162/page/n415/mode/1up |title=Revised Lists Of Antiquarian Remains In The Bombay Presidency |date=1897 |page=358}}</ref>
# A short inscription was also found in a sacred place known as ''Hāthipagalā'' ({{Translation|Elephant's foot}}). The inscription states that the old road to the top of the mountain was repaired by Mānsiṃhaji Meghāji, a [[Shrimal Jain|Śrīmālī]] Jaina by, in the year 1626 CE.<ref name=":8">{{Cite book |last=The Government Central Press |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.53162/page/n417/mode/1up |title=Revised Lists Of Antiquarian Remains In The Bombay Presidency |date=1897 |page=360}}</ref>
# A sculpture of the 24 [[Tirthankara|Tirthankaras]] in a dilapidated temple contains an inscription which states the names of some members of the Pallivāla community and that the sculpture was installed in the year 1292 CE.{{sfn|Burgess|1876|p=168}}<ref name=":8" />
# An inscription written in 1232 CE on the East wall of the path from Rājula's cave to Gaumukha states that Vastupāla built four temples, one each dedicated to himself at [[Palitana temples]], his wife Lalitādevi at [[Girnar Jain temples]], and his wife Sokhukādevi at Aṣṭāpada. The fourth temple he built was of the Kapardīyakśa at Girnar. The inscription further states that he built all these temples with his own money.<ref name=":9" /><ref>{{Cite book |last=The Government Central Press |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.53162/page/n418/mode/1up |title=Revised Lists Of Antiquarian Remains In The Bombay Presidency |date=1897 |page=361}}</ref>{{sfn|Burgess|1876|p=173}}
# An inscription that states that Thathīrapāla dedicated an idol of [[Rishabhanatha|Ṛṣabhanātha]] to Līlādevi in 1313 CE.<ref>{{Cite book |last=The Government Central Press |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.53162/page/n419/mode/1up |title=Revised Lists Of Antiquarian Remains In The Bombay Presidency |date=1897 |page=362}}</ref>
# Another inscription found states that Tejalā, the wife of Padama, a famous member of the Pallivāla community, caused an idol of [[Munisuvrata]] among a group of several idols to be installed in 1299 CE, dedicating it to her grandfather.<ref>{{Cite book |last=The Government Central Press |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.53162/page/n420/mode/1up |title=Revised Lists Of Antiquarian Remains In The Bombay Presidency |date=1897 |page=363}}</ref>

== Girnar Ropeway ==
[[File:Girnar-Ropeway.jpg|thumb|Girnar Ropeway]]
{{Main|Girnar ropeway}}
Girnar ropeway is Asia's longest ropeway. First proposed in 1983, the construction started only in September 2018 due to government approval delays and litigation. The construction and operation is managed by Usha Breco Limited. The project was inaugurated on 24 October 2020 by now Prime Minister Narendra Modi.<ref>{{Cite web|title=PM Narendra Modi inaugurates Girnar ropeway in Gujarat|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/pm-narendra-modi-inaugurates-girnar-ropeway-in-gujarat/article32936928.ece|access-date=2021-04-25|website=@businessline|date=24 October 2020 |language=en}}</ref>  The ropeway is {{convert|2,320|m|ft|abbr=off}} long and takes passengers {{convert|850|m|ft|abbr=off}} above the hill to the [[Ambika Temple, Girnar|Ambika Jain temple]] (Ambaji) within 10 minutes.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/006728/270 |title=Search, Seek, and Discover Jain Literature}}</ref>

==Jain Temples==
{{Main|Girnar Jain temples}}
[[Girnar Jain temples]] are a group of [[Śvetāmbara]] Jain temples and one [[Digambara]] temple atop Mount Girnar. [[Neminatha]], the 22nd [[Tirthankara]] had renounced the world and become an ascetic, and then attained [[Kevala jnana|omniscience]] and [[Moksha|liberation]], all atop this mountain. Therefore, the hill is sacred to both the sects of [[Jainism]].<ref name="Life of Aris" /><ref name="Lecture 22">{{Cite web |title=Jaina Sutras, Part II (SBE45): Uttarâdhyayana: Twenty-Second Lecture. Rathanêmi |url=https://sacred-texts.com/jai/sbe45/sbe4524.htm |access-date=2024-12-15 |website=sacred-texts.com}}</ref>

It is home to sixteen exquisitely sculpted temples. The first peak, or ''Tunk'', consists of the black granite temple dedicated to Lord Neminath, constructed in 1128 AD. The temple features intricate carvings on its pillars and is adorned with unique colored mosaics. The second Tunk houses the demi-goddess Ambika temple, while the third and fourth Tunks are significant for containing the foot-idols of Muni Śāmba Kumar and Pradyumna Kumar, who visited here. The fifth Tunk, requiring a climb of 10,000 steps from the base, enshrines the foot-idol of Bhagwan Neminath. Additionally, other sacred sites include the cave of Rajul, the Rathanemi temple (dedicated to Neminath's younger brother), and Sahasavan.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/000021/258 |title=Search, Seek, and Discover Jain Literature}}</ref>

Girnar holds great significance in [[History of Jainism|Jain history]] and legends. As per [[Jain literature|Jain scriptures]], it is believed that Girnar has been in existence since eternity and that the 22nd [[Tirthankara]] [[Neminatha]] visited and performed his penance on this mountain in the present [[Avasarpiṇī|Avsarpini]]. Canonical [[Śvetāmbara]] scriptures such as ''[[Kalpa Sūtra]]'',<ref name="Life of Aris">{{Cite web |title=Jaina Sutras, Part I (SBE22): Lives of the Ginas: Life of Arishtanemi |url=https://sacred-texts.com/jai/sbe22/sbe2287.htm |access-date=2024-12-15 |website=sacred-texts.com}}</ref> ''Āvassaya-sutta'', ''Nāyā-dhamma-kahāo'', ''[[Uttaradhyayana|Uttarajjhayaṇa-sutta]]''<ref name="Lecture 22" /> and non-canonical ancient works of literature such as [[Prabhavakacarita|Prabhavak Charitra]]<ref name="Prabhachandrasuri">{{Cite web |last=Prabhachandrasuri |first=Acharya |title=Prabhaavaka Charitra |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/002516/28}}</ref> by [[Prabhācandra|Acharya Prabhachandrasuri]], ''Neminah Chariu'', and ''Samyaktva Saptatika'' by [[Haribhadra (Jain philosopher)|Acharya Haribhadrasuri]], ''Trīṣaṣṭiśalākāpuruṣacharitra''<ref>{{Cite web |last=www.wisdomlib.org |date=2018-03-09 |title=Part 4: Founding of Nemi's congregation |url=https://www.wisdomlib.org/jainism/book/trishashti-shalaka-purusha-caritra/d/doc215823.html |access-date=2024-12-15 |website=www.wisdomlib.org |language=en}}</ref> by [[Hemachandra|Acharya Hemachandrasuri]], ''Vastupala-Mahakavya'' by Acharya Udayprabhasuri, ''Kumarpalabhupal-Charitra''<ref name="Jaisinhasuri">{{Cite web |last=Jaisinhasuri |first=Acharya |title=Kumarapalabhupala-charitra |url=https://jainqq.org/booktext/Kumarpalbhupal_Charitra_Romanized/008616}}</ref> by Acharya Jaisinhsuri, ''Jain Meghdoot'' by [[Merutunga|Acharya Merutungasuri]], ''Raivatgirirasu'' by Acharya Vijaysensuri are some prominent scriptures emphasizing the importance of Girnar in [[Jainism]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hemvallabhsuri |first=Acharya |title=Girnar Granthoni Godma |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/005399/7}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Hemvallabhsuri |first=Acharya |title=Girnar Granthoni Godma |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/033518/2}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Hemvallabhsuri |first=Acharya |title=Girnar Granthoni Godma |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/033519/2}}</ref>

''Karnavihāra Prāsāda,'' one of the main temples atop the hill, is dedicated to [[Neminatha]]. Its main idol is made of [[black granite]] and the temple itself features [[Māru-Gurjara architecture|Maru-Gurjara architecture]]. ''[[Vividha Tirtha Kalpa]]'' by Acharya Jinprabhasuri mentions that the original idol was made of clay and that the temple was made of wood. ''Ratnasār'' came to Girnar with a [[Sangha (Jainism)|sangha]] and performed ritualistic bathing of the clay idol due to which it dissolved in the holy water. Due to this, ''Ratnasār'' got upset and fasted for 21 days, after which, demigoddess [[Ambika (Jainism)|Ambika]], pleased by his devotion, gave him an idol of [[Neminatha]]. Therefore the current idol of Neminatha was installed by a [[Śrāvaka (Jainism)|Śrāvaka]] named ''Ratnasār'', from [[Kashmir]], in the 10th century CE. He is said to have had obtained this idol from demigoddess Ambika.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jinaprabhasuri |first=Acharya |title=Vividha Tirtha Kalpa |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/004512/54}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Desai |first=Mohanlal |title=Girnar Tirthoddhar Raas |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/034827/10}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Hemvallabhsuri |first=Acharya |title=Girnar Granthoni Godma Volume 2 |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/033518/35}}</ref> It was later renovated by ''Sajjana'', a minister of [[Jayasimha Siddharaja|Jaysimha Siddharaja]] in the 12th century CE. ''Sajjana'' utilized three years' worth of tax revenue collected from the people of [[Saurashtra (region)|Saurashtra]]. When Jaysimha Siddharaja got to know about the incident, he decided to investigate it. However, until then, ''Sajjana'' had already raised funds from the [[Śrāvaka (Jainism)|Śrāvakas]] and presented them to Siddharaja. Sajjana told Siddharaja that the temple was named ''Karnavihāra Prāsāda'' after Siddharaja's father Karnadev. Pleased with the gesture, Siddharaja approved the revenue funds spent on the renovation of the temple.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Desai |first=Mohanlal |title=Girnar Tirthoddhar Raas |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/034827/11}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Pedhi |first=Anandji Kalyanji |title=Mahatirth Ujjayantgiri Girnar |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/005601/21}}</ref>

Apart from ''Karnavihāra Prāsāda'', there are other temples dedicated to other [[Tirthankara]]s built across centuries such as: ''Adbad Adinath Temple'', ''Panchmeru Temple'', ''Merak Vasahi Temple'',<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pedhi |first=Anandji Kalyanji |title=Mahatirth Ujjayantgiri Girnar |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/005601/32}}</ref> ''Sangram Soni's Temple'', ''Kumarpala's Temple'', ''Vastupala''{{Em dash}}''Tejpala Temple'',<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pedhi |first=Anandji Kalyanji |title=Mahatirth Ujjayantgiri Girnar |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/005601/27}}</ref> ''Mansingh Bhojraj Temple'',<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pedhi |first=Anandji Kalyanji |title=Mahatirth Ujjayantgiri Girnar |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/005601/40}}</ref> ''Samprati Maharaja Temple'', ''Amizara Parshwanath Temple'', ''Rajimati's Cave'', and ''Sahasavan Temple''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Desai |first=Mohanlal |title=Girnar Junagadh Guide |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/033076/8}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Pedhi |first=Anandji Kalyanji |title=Mahatirth Ujjayantgiri Girnar |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/005601/45}}</ref>

''Shatrunjay Mahatmya'', a text written by Acharya Dhaneshwarsuri, a monk of the [[Śvetāmbara]] sect of [[Jainism]] mentions that ''Sahasavan's'' original name was ''Sahasra-van'' ({{Translation|a forest with thousands of mango trees}}).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dhaneshwarasuri |first=Acharya |title=Shatrunjaya Mahatmya |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/022723/307}}</ref> It is the place where [[Neminatha]] renounced the world and became an ascetic along with 1000 other kings on the 6th day of bright half of [[Shravana (month)|Shravan month]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Vachanmala |first=Jain Sasti |title=Girnar Tirthno Itihaas |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/007110/144}}</ref> After 54 days of becoming an ascetic, [[Neminatha]] came back to ''Sahasavan,'' where he attained [[Kevala jnana|omniscience]] on the 15th day of dark half of [[Bhadra (Hindu calendar)|Bhadrapad month]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pedhi |first=Anandji Kalyanji |title=Mahatirth Ujjayantgiri Girnar |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/005601/50}}</ref> To commemorate the auspiciousness of both the events, [[Jainism|Jains]] installed footprints of Neminatha at both these places.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Parshottamdas |first=Daulatchand |title=Girnar Mahatmya |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/034196/62}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Desai |first=Mohanlal Meghji |title=Girnar Junagadh Guide |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/033076/14}}</ref>

[[Neminatha]] spent many years in spreading wisdom after attaining omniscience and then he attained [[Moksha]] on the fifth peak of Mount Girnar on the 8th day of bright half of [[Ashadha|Ashadha month]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dhaneshwarasuri |first=Acharya |title=Shatrunjaya Mahatmya |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/022723/336}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Vachanmala |first=Jain Sasti |title=Girnar Tirthno Itihas |url=https://jainqq.org/explore/007110/191}}</ref> Footprints of Neminatha were placed at the spot where he attained ''moksha'' to commemorate the occasion. The temple that now houses an idol of [[Dattatreya]], in renowned archaeologist [[James Burgess (archaeologist)|James Burgess]]'s archaeological survey, is said to have had [[Neminatha|Lord Neminath]]'s sacred footprints and that it was administered by a ''naked ascetic'' ([[Digambara monk]]), implying that it was originally a Jain temple.{{sfn|Burgess|1876|p=175}} However, currently, the place of Neminatha's nirvana is disputed between [[Jains]] and followers of [[Dattatreya]] who believe that it is also the place of Dattatreya's penance. An idol of Dattatreya was placed and a new shrine was built surrounding the footprints of Neminatha. Some cases between Jains and Hindus, seeking a reconstruction of canopies above the footprints of Neminatha and a removal of the idol of Dattatreya that was illegally established in 2004 and other illegal constructions are pending in the [[Gujarat High Court]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Patel |first=Justice Jayant |title=Bandilalji Digamber Jain Karkhana vs State Of Gujarat on 17 February, 2005 |url=https://indiankanoon.org/doc/76914582/}}</ref>

<gallery mode="packed" heights="134">
File:Jain temples on Girnar mountain aerial view.jpg|Jain Temple on Girnar mountain
File:Girnar Jain temple - Neminath temple.jpg|Arisht [[Neminath]] temple
File:Amizara Parshwanatha.jpg|Ancient Idol of Amizara [[Parshvanatha|Parshwanath]] in a Cave Temple at Girnar Hill
File:Girnar Jain temple - Kumarapala temple.jpg|[[Girnar Jain temples#Kumarapala's Temple|Kumarapala temple]]
File:Vastupala Vihara Jain temple on Girnar hill.jpg|[[Vastupala]] Vihara
File:Girnar Jain Temples - Samprati Raja temple front view.jpg|[[Samprati]] Raja temple
File:Chaumukhiji temple, Girnar.jpg|Chaumukhji Temple
File:Girnar Jain temple - Dharamchand Hemchand temple (1).jpg|Dharamchand Hemchand temple
</gallery>

==Ambika Temple==
{{See also|Ambika (goddess)|Ambika (Jainism)}}
{{main|Ambika Temple, Girnar}}
[[File:Ambika Mata temple on Mount Girnar.jpg|thumb|Ambika Temple in 1876|left]]
This temple is dedicated to Jain deity ''Ambika yakshi'' (Ambaji), an attendant of Lord Neminath. The early temple was built before 784 CE (probably in middle of the 8th century) because [[Digambar]] Jain Acharya Jinasen's ''Harivamsapurana'' ([[Shaka era|Saka Samvat]] 705, 783 CE) mentions the temple.<ref>{{Cite web |last=www.wisdomlib.org |date=2018-03-09 |title=Part 4: Founding of Nemi's congregation |url=https://www.wisdomlib.org/jainism/book/trishashti-shalaka-purusha-caritra/d/doc215823.html |access-date=2024-12-08 |website=www.wisdomlib.org |language=en}}</ref> An inscription dated Vikram Samvat 1249 (1192 CE) mentions [[Vaghela dynasty|Vaghela]] minister [[Vastupala]]'s pilgrimage to Ambika temple on Raivataka (Girnar) hill. Narendraprabhsuri mentions that Vastupala had installed idols of himself and his brother Tejapala in the temple. Jinharshasuri mentions that Vastupala and his brother Tejapala visited as well as built the large ''[[mandapa]]'' of the temple and ''parikara'' of Ambika.<ref name="Rathanêmi">{{Cite web |title=Jaina Sutras, Part II (SBE45): Uttarâdhyayana: Twenty-Second Lecture. Rathanêmi |url=https://sacred-texts.com/jai/sbe45/sbe4524.htm |access-date=2024-12-08 |website=sacred-texts.com}}</ref><ref name="Ujjayatgiri" /> A [[Prashasti|''praśast''i]] eulogy given at the end in a golden lettered copy of ''[[Kalpa Sūtra|Kalpasutra]]'' dated Vikram Samvat 1524 (1468 CE) mentions that a Jain Shreshthi (merchant) named Samal Sah restored and renovated the Ambika temple on Girnar.<ref name="Rathanêmi" /><ref>{{Cite book |last=Sompura |first=Kantilal F. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=dXTqAAAAMAAJ&q=ambika+temple+girnar |title=The Structural Temples of Gujarat, Upto 1600 A.D. |date=1968 |publisher=Gujarat University |isbn=978-0-86186-245-0 |pages=215 |language=en}}</ref><ref name="Ujjayatgiri">{{Cite book |last=Dhaky |first=M. A. |title=મહાતીર્થ ઉજ્જયતગિરિ (ગિરનાર તીર્થ) |publisher=[[Anandji Kalyanji Trust|Sheth Anandji Kalyanji]] |year=1997 |isbn= |editor-last=Shah |editor-first=Jitendra B. |series= |location=Ahmedabad |pages=5, 42–43 |trans-title=Mahatirtha UjjayantGiri (Girnar Tirtha) |author-link=Madhusudan Dhaky}}</ref> As mentioned in Jain pilgrimage travelogues, the temple had [[Ambika (Jainism)|Ambika]] as a Jain [[Yakshini|''yakshika'']] deity. The Girnar [[Tirth Pat|''patta'']] from Samvat 1507 in [[Ranakpur Jain temple]] also depicts Ambika in the similar manner. The temple is built according to the Jain tradition and the ''mandapa'' ceiling match with the [[Girnar Jain temples]].<ref name="Ujjayatgiri" />

The present temple is built around the 15th century. The temple was historically a Jain temple.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Tiwari |first=Maruti Nandan Prasad |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=l0Tt04JDN0kC&dq=ambika+temple+girnar&pg=PA145 |title=Ambikā: In Jaina Art and Literature |date=1989 |publisher=Bharatiya Jnanpith |language=en}}</ref> So the temple construction, renovation and reconstruction history extends from the mid-8th century to the 15th century.<ref name="Rathanêmi" />

As per archaeologist [[James Burgess (archaeologist)|James Burgess]]'s works on Gujarat's history, Ambika temple was not a Hindu shrine and that Jains had built it and Hindus had occupied it later.{{sfn|Burgess|1876|p=175}}

==Hindu Temples==

Atop Girnar's highest peak, known as ''Neminath Shikhar'', reached by a 10,000-step climb, is a temple currently occupied illegally by devotees of Dattatreya.<ref>https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/akhilesh-yadav-exposes-attempts-to-take-over-sacred-jain-sites/articleshow/115820472.cms</ref><ref>{{cite book | first= Gourav| last= Kulkarni | year=2021 | title= Girnar Dattatreya Shikhar Where Science Merges with the Supreme Divinity! | publisher= Notion Press | location= Chennai, India| isbn= 978-1-68-563895-5 | pages = 5–56 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=b_XfzgEACAAJ&q=dattatreya }}</ref> This temple, in renowned archaeologist [[James Burgess (archaeologist)|James Burgess]]'s Western-India's Archeological survey, is said to have had [[Neminatha|Lord Neminath]]'s sacred foot-idols and that it was administered by a ''naked ascetic'', implying that it was originally a Jain temple.{{sfn|Burgess|1876|p=175}} The Jain community has contested the ownership and worship rights of this temple in the [[Gujarat High Court]], and the matter remains under judicial consideration.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/jains-seek-right-to-worship-at-girnars-5th-peak-move-gujarat-hc/articleshow/107788048.cms | title=Jains seek right to worship at Girnar's 5th peak, move Gujarat HC | newspaper=The Times of India | date=18 February 2024 }}</ref> On the trek from [[Ambika (Jainism)|Ambika]] temple to the disputed site, there's a Gorakhnath temple located on the intermediate peak.<ref>{{cite book | first= Jayantakr̥ṣṇa | last= Dave | year=1991 | title= Immortal India Vol. 2 | publisher= Bharatiya Viyda Bhavan | location= India| pages = 115–121 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=yA5uAAAAMAAJ&q=gorakhnath }}</ref>

Further up there's a lower peak which is not easily accessible where a shrine of goddess [[Mahakali]] is located which is also known as Mahakali Khappar by locals.<ref>{{cite book | first= Ramananda | last= Chatterjee | year=1943 | title= The Modern Review Vol 73-74 | publisher= Modern Review Office. | location= Calcutta, India| pages = 40 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=c8gSOvAjlugC&q=mahakali }}</ref>
On the second trail to descent the mountain, there are two temples called Bharat-van and Sita-van which are located in the forests named after [[Sita]] and [[Bharata (Ramayana)|Bharata]].<ref>{{cite book | first= Ramananda | last= Chatterjee | year=1943 | title= The Modern Review Vol 73-74 | publisher= Modern Review Office. | location= Calcutta, India| pages = 40 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=c8gSOvAjlugC&q=sita-van }}</ref>
<gallery mode="packed" heights="134">
File:Gorakshanath temple of Girnar..JPG|Gorakhnath Temple of Girnar
File:Dattatreya Temple of Girnar.JPG|[[Dattatreya]] (Neminath) Temple of Girnar
</gallery>

==Girnar's Initial trek==
The base of the mountain, known as Girnar Taleti, is about 4&nbsp;km east of the center of Junagadh. There are temples and other sacred places all along this stretch.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Mt. Girnar, Pilgrimage Centre, Junagadh, Tourism Hubs, Gujarat, India|url=https://www.gujarattourism.com/destination/details/10/250|access-date=2020-07-23|website=gujarattourism.com|archive-date=23 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200723151432/https://www.gujarattourism.com/destination/details/10/250|url-status=dead}}</ref>

The traveller, in order to reach Girnar Taleti from Junagadh city, will pass through the Wagheshwari or Vagheshwari Gate (Girnar Darwaza), which is close to the [[Uparkot]] fort area, Easterly.

At about 200 metres from the gate, to the right of the road, is the Temple of Wagheshwari (Upale Vagheshwari maa), which is joined to the road by a causeway about 150 yards long. An ancient Verai Mata mandir and a modern Gayatri Shakti Peeth mandir are nearby.

About a furlong beyond this is a stone bridge, and just beyond it on the right are the [[Ashoka's Major Rock Edicts]].<ref name="IA1911">{{cite web | title=A handbook for travellers in India, Burma, and Ceylon|first=John|last=Murray |pages=155–157| website=Internet Archive | date=1911 | url=https://archive.org/details/handbooktravelle00john | access-date=28 January 2016}}</ref> The edicts are inscribed high up on a large, domed mass of black [[granite]] measuring roughly 20 feet x 30 feet. The inscription is in [[Brahmi script]].<ref name="keay"/>

On leaving Ashoka's edicts, the route crosses the handsome bridge over the Sona-rekha, which here forms a fine sheet of water over golden sand, then passes a number of temples, at first on the left bank of the river and then on the right, to the largest of the temples. This is dedicated to Damodar, a name of [[Krishna]], from Dam, a rope, because by tradition his mother in vain attempted to confine him with a rope when a child. The reservoir, [[Damodar Kund]], at this place is accounted very sacred.<ref name="IA1911"/>

Next is an old shrine of [[Bhavnath]], a form of [[Shiva]], close to Girnar Taleti; Mrigi kund and Sudharshan lake are nearby.

Most persons who are not active climbers will probably proceed up the mountain in a swing ''doli'' from Taleti. A long ridge runs up from the west, and culminates in a rugged scarped rock, on the top of which are the temples. Close to the old shrine is a well called the Chadani vav.<ref name="IA1911"/>

The paved way begins just beyond this and continues for two-thirds of the ascent. The first resthouse, Chadia Parab, is reached, 480 feet, above the plain; and the second halting-place at Dholi-deri, 1000 feet above the plain. From here the ascent becomes more difficult, winding under the face of the precipice to the third resthouse, 1400 feet up. The path turns to the right along the edge of a precipice, which is very narrow, so that the ''doli'' almost grazes the scarp, which rises perpendicularly 200 feet above the traveller. On the right is seen the lofty mountain of Datar, covered with low jungle. At about 1500 feet there is a stone dharmsala, and from this there is a fine view of the rock called the Bhairav-Thampa, "the terrific leap," because devotees used to cast themselves from its top, falling 1000 feet or more.<ref name="IA1911"/>

At 2370 feet above Junagadh, the gate of the enclosure known as the Deva Kota, or Ra Khengar's Palace, is reached.<ref name="IA1911"/>

==Festivals==
Jain festivals like [[Mahavir Jayanti]], [[Paryushana]], and birth and nirvana kalyanaks of [[Neminath|Lord Neminath]] are celebrated by [[Jains]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Girnar {{!}} District Junagadh, Government of Gujarat {{!}} India |url=https://junagadh.nic.in/tourist-place/girnar/ |access-date=2024-10-16 |language=en-US}}</ref>

The main event for Hindus is the [[Maha Shivaratri]] fair held every year on the 14th day of the [[Hindu calendar]] month of [[Magha (month)|Magha]]. At least 1&nbsp;million pilgrims visit the fair to participate in [[Puja (Hinduism)|pooja]] and [[parikrama]] of Girnar hill. The procession begins at Bhavnath Mahadev Temple at [[Bhavnath]]. It then proceeds onwards to various [[akhara]]s of various sects of [[sadhus]], which are in Girnar hill from ancient times. The procession of sadhus and pilgrims ends again at Bhavnath temple after visiting Madhi, Malavela and Bor Devi temple. The fair begins with hoisting of fifty-two ''Gaja'' long flags at Bhavnath Mahadev temple. This fair is the backbone of the economy of Junagadh, as more than ten lakh pilgrims who visit the fair generate a revenue of 250&nbsp;million in only five days.<ref>{{cite news|title=બાવન ગજની ધ્વજાનાં આરોહણ સાથે આજથી મહાશિવરાત્રિ મેળો Shivaratri fair begins today with hoisting of 52 gaja dwaja |url=https://www.sandesh.com/article.aspx?newsid=35230 |access-date=22 August 2012 |newspaper=Sandesh |date=16 February 2012 }}{{dead link|date=January 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=ગિરનાર ઃ લીલી પરિક્રમા ઃ પરકમ્મા Girnar - Lili Parikrama|url=http://www.gujaratsamachar.com/beta/content/view/47788/36/|access-date=22 August 2012|newspaper=Gujarat Samachar|date=4 August 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20121010044322/http://www.gujaratsamachar.com/beta/content/view/47788/36/|archive-date=10 October 2012|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=જૂનાગઢની આર્થિક કરોડરજજુ શિવરાત્રિનો મેળો : પાંચ દિવસમાં રૂ.રપ કરોડનો લાભ Junagadh's economic backbone - Girnar Shivaratri fair - generates income of 25 crores in five days|url=http://www.sandesh.com/article.aspx?newsid=35807|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071223013409/http://www.sandesh.com/article.aspx?newsid=35807|archive-date=2007-12-23|access-date=22 August 2012|newspaper=Sandesh|date=18 February 2012}}</ref>

== Tanks ==
Outside to the north of the Kumarapala's temple, there is the Bhima Kunda, a tank measuring 70 feet by 50 feet. Below it and on the verge of the cliff is a smaller tank of water and near it a small canopy supported by three roughly hewn pillars and a piece of rock containing a short octagonal stone called ''Hathi pagla'' or ''Gajapada,'' the elephant foot, a stratum on the top of which is of light granite and the rest of dark the lower part is immersed in water most of the year.{{sfn|Burgess|1876|p=169}}

As per historical records, Sajjana, the minister of [[Chaulukya]] king [[Jayasimha Siddharaja|Siddharaja Jayasimha]], built the Neminatha temple using the state treasury. When he collected the funds to return as a compensation, the king declined to accept it so the funds were used to build the temple.{{sfn|Dhaky|2010|p=134}}

Sahasraphana (thousand hooded) [[Parshwanatha]], the image which was consecrated in 1803 CE (VS 1459) by Vijayajinendra Suri, is currently the central deity in the temple. The temple originally housed the golden image of Mahavira and brass images of Shantinatha and Parshwanatha on its sides.{{sfn|Dhaky|2010|pp=134-135}}

The east facing temple has 52 small shrines surrounding the central temple. It has an open portico with ceilings with fine carvings. In the ''bhamti'' or cloisters surrounding the court, there are also some remarkable designs in carved ceilings. The roof of the ''rangamandapa'' has fine carvings. The shrine proper must have been removed and replaced with new one at the end of the sixteenth century or the start of the seventeenth century. It is known that Karmachandra Bachchhavat, minister of the king of [[Bikaner]], had sent a funds to renovate temple in Shatrunjaya and Girnar under Jinachandrasuri IV of [[Kharatara Gaccha]] during the reign of [[Akbar]]. There is a shrine housing replica of [[Ashtapada]] hill in the south, shrine with Shatrunjayavatar in west, behind the main temple, and Samet Shikhar (or Nandishwar Dwipa) in north.{{sfn|Burgess|1876|p=168}}{{sfn|Dhaky|2010|p=135-137}}

==See also==
{{Wikiquote}}
* [[Girnar Jain temples]]
* [[Palitana Temples]]
* [[Shikharji]]
* [[Radha Damodar Temple, Junagadh]]
* [[Sacred mountains#India|Sacred mountains of India]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

===Works cited===
* {{cite book |last=Burgess |first=James |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=V15BAQAAIAAJ |title=Report on the Antiquities of Kâṭhiâwâḍ and Kachh, Being the Result of the Second Season's Operations of the Archaeological Survey of Western India, 1874-75 |publisher=India Museum |year=1876 |location=London |author-link=James Burgess (archaeologist)}} {{PD-notice}}
* {{Cite book |last=Dhaky |first=M. A. |author-link=Madhusudan Dhaky |editor-last=Shah |editor-first=Jitendra B. |title=સાહિત્ય, શિલ્પ અને સ્થાપત્યમાં ગિરનાર |publisher=Lalbhai Dalpatbhai Institute of Indology |year=2010 |isbn=978-81-85857-30-5 |series=L. D. Series: 148 (Sambodhi-Puratatva-Visheshank-2) |location=Ahmedabad |trans-title=Girnar in Literature, Sculptures and Architecture |language=gu}}

{{Gujarat}}

[[Category:Hindu pilgrimage sites in India]]
[[Category:Hindu temples in Gujarat]]
[[Category:Tourism in Gujarat]]
[[Category:Hills of Gujarat]]
[[Category:Highest points of Indian states and union territories]]
[[Category:Jain pilgrimage sites]]
[[Category:Tourist attractions in Junagadh district]]
[[Category:Mountains in Hinduism]]
[[Category:Mountains in Jainism]]
[[Category:Junagadh]]