Fort Entrance
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Uparkot Fort Junagadh

4.3
·10k reviews·Junagadh, India

An imposing ancient fort with centuries of history, featuring Buddhist caves, step-wells, and commanding city views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
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Fort Entrance

Uparkot Fort Junagadh

Best Time

Mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An imposing ancient fort with centuries of history, featuring Buddhist caves, step-wells, and commanding city views.

4.3
(10k reviews)

"Awe-inspiring architecture and rich history make this ancient fort a must-visit for understanding Gujarat's past."

Vertical photo
TIP

⏳ Allow 3+ Hours

Don't rush! You need ample time to explore the fort's many sections .

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Buddhist Caves

Ancient Buddhist Caves

Within Uparkot Fort

Explore serene, centuries-old rock-cut Buddhist caves, a testament to early monastic life.

Towering Ramparts & Views

Towering Ramparts & Views

Top of Uparkot Fort

Walk along imposing ancient walls offering breathtaking panoramic views of Junagadh city and surrounding hills.

Intricate Step-wells

Intricate Step-wells

Within Uparkot Fort

Marvel at the ingenious design of ancient step-wells, showcasing remarkable water management and architecture.

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Planning Your Visit

Allocate Ample Time

Uparkot Fort is vast and packed with history. Plan for at least 3-4 hours to truly explore its ramparts, Buddhist caves, and step-wells without rushing. Many visitors only see half, missing key historical insights.Reddit

Manage Expectations on Facilities

While renovations have occurred, some areas may show wear. Parking can be challenging for cars. Consider bringing your own snacks as canteen food has received poor reviews.Reddit

Best Times

When
Mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons (cooler months)
Why
Enjoy pleasant exploration
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

JUNA GARH FORT'S WELL #usa #uktiktok #historicalplace #historic #historical #travelling #adventure #discovery #info #traveller #tourist #explorer #exploring #fort
@papubhai4592
11.1K likes • 296.6K views

⏳ Allow 3+ Hours

Don't rush! You need ample time to explore the fort's many sections.Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain.

UPARKOT FORT GUJRAT #usa #uktiktok #historicalplace #historic #historical #travelling #adventure #discovery #info #traveller #tourism #explore #exploring #fort #explorer #traveller #tourist
@papubhai4592
8K likes • 445K views
Uparkot Fort ❤️ #Uparkot #UparkotFort #iloveuparkot #ExploreUparkot #Junagadh #JunagadhTourism #bhavnath #Gujarattourism #Gujarat #exploregujarat #incredibleindia #marinajaregujarat #saurashtra #indiantourism #tourism #junagadhnews #girnar #junagadhdarshan #gujaratdarshan #heritage #heritagesitesofindia #indianhistory #heritageplaces #trendingsong❤️ #trendingreels❤️
uparkotfort
6.6K likes • 156.7K views

💧 Carry Water & Snacks

Canteen food is not recommended; pack your own refreshments.Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The panoramic city views from the ramparts are stunning.

Few facts about Uparkot Fort👇🏽 We were fortunate to visit Uparkot fort while visiting Girnar ⛰️ This fort is claimed to be from the era Dwapar Yug 🏰 This specific place is called Lashkari Vav which was used for security purpose The shape exactly looks like Z Isn’t it interesting for history lovers? Follow @samstravelplan ✅ . . . . #uparkot #uparkotfort #junagadh #history #heritage #girnar #i...
samstravelplan
80 likes • 6.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

⏳ Allow 3+ Hours

Don't rush! You need ample time to explore the fort's many sections.Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain.

💧 Carry Water & Snacks

Canteen food is not recommended; pack your own refreshments.Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The panoramic city views from the ramparts are stunning.

🧐 Read Information Boards

They provide crucial historical context for what you're seeing.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(10k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Uparkot Fort is lauded for its immense historical significance, impressive ancient structures like Buddhist caves and step-wells, and stunning panoramic views. However, visitors note that facilities and maintenance could be improved, and parking can be inconvenient. The entry fee is also a point of consideration for some.

"Uparkot Fort is truly a gem of Junagadh! The fort is full of history, with ancient walls, beautiful stepwells like Adi Kadi Vav and Navghan Kuvo, and old Buddhist caves that show the rich culture of the past. The view from the top is breathtaking and gives a great look over the whole city.

The place is peaceful and perfect for anyone who loves history, architecture, and photography. It’s a great spot to explore with family or friends.

Only suggestion — the management could improve cleanliness and provide more information boards about the monuments. But overall, it’s a must-visit attraction in Junagadh!
If you want to go there to see the fort , start at 7 in the morning If you go there, take a car because there is a lot of walking here. The facilities there are good, there is a water machine everywhere, there is a toilet and bathroom, and if you have difficulty walking, you can go there safely."

Raj Solanki

"Very beautifully renovated.
The famous place of Junagadh.
A historically important place in the history of Junagadh.
Newly renovated fort is now equipped with modern amenities like e scooter, e cart, etc.
Renovated with Audio guide, many information boards, etc.
Location is perfect for any visitor who can easily view panoramic view of Girnar and mountain range."

Aditya C Desai

"This historical site is a must-visit. The explanations at each point are informative. Allocate 2-3 hours to explore the entire fort. Note that outside food is not allowed, but there's an on-site restaurant, albeit with slightly higher rates. Visitors can opt for a cycle ride or EV car to navigate the points within the fort. Additionally, the Buddhist cave requires a separate ticket, which can only be purchased online. Overall, a good experience."

Manish Jadhav

What People Like

Rich history and architecture
Breathtaking views
Ancient Buddhist caves

What People Dislike

Lack of maintenance
Poor canteen food
Parking inconvenience

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Uparkot Fort is located within Junagadh city. You can reach Junagadh by train or bus from major cities in Gujarat. From Junagadh city center, auto-rickshaws and local taxis are readily available to take you to the fort entrance. The journey within the city is usually short and convenient.Reddit

Parking can be a challenge, especially for four-wheelers, near the fort entrance. It's advisable to check for designated parking areas upon arrival or consider using local transport options to reach the fort.

Auto-rickshaws are a popular and convenient way to navigate Junagadh and reach Uparkot Fort. Negotiate the fare beforehand or opt for metered rickshaws if available.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is an entry fee for Uparkot Fort. While some visitors find it a bit high for a government-run monument, it contributes to the upkeep of this historical site.Reddit

Uparkot Fort is generally open during daylight hours. It's recommended to check the exact timings before your visit, as they can vary. Aim to arrive early to make the most of your time.Reddit

Information on online ticket booking for Uparkot Fort is not widely available. It's best to purchase tickets upon arrival at the fort's ticket counter.

Due to its ancient nature and terrain, accessibility for individuals with mobility issues might be challenging in certain areas of the fort. Some parts may have uneven surfaces and stairs.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The fort boasts several key attractions including ancient Buddhist caves, impressive step-wells, the 15th-century Jami Masjid, and the imposing ramparts offering panoramic views.Reddit

To fully appreciate Uparkot Fort, it's recommended to allocate at least 3 to 4 hours. Many visitors miss significant parts by spending less time.Reddit

Official guides may be available at the fort. Alternatively, reading the information boards and doing some prior research can enhance your understanding of the historical significance.Reddit

Visiting in the morning is ideal to avoid the midday heat and larger crowds. The cooler temperatures make exploring the fort more comfortable.Reddit

Yes, Uparkot Fort is a great place for families. Children can enjoy exploring the vast grounds, learning about history, and the impressive structures offer a sense of adventure.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The canteen facilities within Uparkot Fort have received very poor reviews, with visitors strongly advising against eating there. It's best to bring your own snacks and water or plan to eat outside the fort.Reddit

Junagadh city offers various dining options ranging from local eateries serving Gujarati cuisine to more contemporary restaurants. Explore the city center for better food choices.

📸 📸 Photography

The panoramic views from the ramparts, the intricate details of the Buddhist caves, and the architectural marvel of the step-wells are prime photography spots. The ancient gateways and walls also offer great shots.

Photography is generally allowed inside Uparkot Fort. However, it's always a good practice to be respectful of the historical site and other visitors.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Uparkot Fort offers an engaging experience for families. The vastness of the fort, the ancient walls, and the intriguing Buddhist caves can spark children's imaginations and make history come alive.Reddit Encourage them to imagine life within the fort centuries ago. The panoramic views from the ramparts are also a fun element for kids to enjoy. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as on-site food options are not recommended.Reddit Comfortable walking shoes are essential for little explorers.

🏛️ History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts

For those passionate about history, Uparkot Fort is a treasure trove. The layers of history, from ancient Buddhist sites to medieval mosques, offer a deep dive into Gujarat's past. Pay close attention to the information boards Reddit and consider hiring a local guide if available to gain deeper insights into the fort's strategic importance and the lives of those who inhabited it. The architectural details of the caves and step-wells are particularly noteworthy for their historical and engineering significance.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

Uparkot Fort, with origins tracing back to c. 319 BC, is a monumental testament to centuries of architectural evolution and strategic importance. Its imposing ramparts, built to withstand sieges, speak volumes about the military engineering of ancient India. The fort has witnessed the rule of various dynasties, each leaving its mark on its structure and legacy. Visitors are often filled with awe at the sheer intelligence and effort that went into constructing such magnificent architecture without modern materials.Reddit

Within its formidable walls lie hidden gems like the Buddhist caves, dating back to the 2nd century AD. These rock-cut structures served as monastic dwellings and prayer halls, offering a serene glimpse into early Buddhist practices in the region. The intricate carvings and peaceful ambiance of these caves are a highlight for many visitors.Reddit The fort also features impressive step-wells, marvels of ancient water management systems, and the 15th-century Jami Masjid, showcasing later architectural styles. Exploring these diverse elements provides a comprehensive understanding of the fort's rich and layered history.

Exploring the Fort's Architecture

The architecture of Uparkot Fort is a fascinating blend of defensive strength and intricate artistry. The towering ramparts are a primary feature, designed for strategic defense with watchtowers and bastions. Walking along these walls offers not only a sense of history but also breathtaking panoramic views of Junagadh city and the surrounding landscape.Reddit

Beyond the fortifications, the Buddhist caves are a prime example of rock-cut architecture. Carved directly into the hillside, these caves feature simple yet elegant designs, reflecting a period of significant Buddhist influence. Equally impressive are the step-wells, which are not just functional water sources but also architectural wonders. Their multi-storied, geometrically precise designs are a testament to the advanced engineering skills of the era. The presence of the Jami Masjid within the fort complex adds another layer, showcasing Islamic architectural elements from the medieval period, further enriching the fort's diverse architectural narrative.

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