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Mahabat Makbara and Bahauddin Makbara in Junagadh in Gujarat

September 27, 2017, 8:18 pm
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Mahabat Makbara and Bahauddin Makbara are located very near to the Sardar Patel Darwaza. It can be easily accesssed.
Bahauddin Makbara in Junagadh



Information on Bahauddin Makbara in Junagadh


First glimpse of these structures. They are truely beautiful. I have seen many tombs in the past , but these are nothing like them.
The tombs look like palaces. So beautiful that I couldn't stop myself from clicking their photos. Click the photo from any angle and it is beautiful.


Mahabat Makbara



Information on Mahabat Makbara

It the tombs are so beautiful, what will the palaces be like. I am speechless. Check out these photos.
A couple of bollywood movies are shot here.
Both the tombs were built in the 18th century.
A little bit of history about the tombs.

Inside Mahabat Makbara

Another view of Bahauddin Makbara

Artwork on Mahabat Makbara

Another photo of Mahabat Makbara



That's Me at Bahauddin Makbara in Junagadh
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Tombs of the Babi Kings in Junagadh in Gujarat

October 4, 2017, 5:15 am
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After visiting the Mahabat Makbara and Bahauddin Makbara we headed over to see the Tombs of the Babi Kings located a couple of meters away.
Tombs of the Babi Kings in Junagadh


Tombs of the Babi Kings in Junagadh

To be frank, we didn't know that this place even existed as it was not mentioned even on the websites pertaining to Junagadh. Interesting find na. I am so happy.
More information on Tombs of the Babi Kings in Junagadh
We quickly asked locals as to how to enter the tomb premises. In a couple of minutes we were in the tomb premises.
Tombs of the Babi Kings in Junagadh
Not one tomb, but many are there. I guess, the King and his family members are all buried her. Some of the Tombs structure have beautiful art work on them. Something similar to the ones I saw at Mahabat and Bahauddin Makbara. Sadly as this is a grave complex, there are no signboards as to whom these tombs belong to. Maybe that is why the reason they are not listed on google maps.
Tombs of the Babi Kings in Junagadh
There are homes behind the tomb premises. "How would someone like to stay in the tomb premises?" I said to myself. Possibility is they are the caretakers. I saw a kid playing in the tomb premises, she advised me not to take snaps of the Tombs. To which I agreed as I was done with my photography shoots.
Tombs of the Babi Kings in Junagadh
Tombs of the Babi Kings in Junagadh
As the time was now 6 PM on my watch and the sun was about to set. We decided to call it a day.
Tombs of the Babi Kings in Junagadh
We had Uparkot fort lined up for the next day. 
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Uparkot fort in Junagadh in Gujarat

October 4, 2017, 5:13 am
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Uparkot fort is located very near to the city of Junagadh. From atop the fort one gets a very good view of the city.

Entrance to Uparkot fort in  Junagadh in Gujarat

We had visited the Tombs of the Babi Kings yesterday. 

We boarded rickshaw at a cost of Rs.50 to reach the fort premises.
The rickshaw traveled through the narrow lanes occupied by houses on either sides of the road to reach the fort premises.

Fort map of Uparkot fort in  Junagadh in Gujarat
They is no entry fee to see the fort and the fort is open all days of the week from morning to evening.

For all those to love to explore fort via a map, attached is a map of the fort.

Another photo of Entrance to Uparkot fort in  Junagadh in Gujarat
Uparkot fort is a hill fort. But then you will see houses of locals around the fort premises. The fortification is in good shape. There are cannons placed on the fort walls. Meaning many rulers did rule over this fort in its glory days.

Door to enter Entrance to Uparkot fort in  Junagadh in Gujarat
We passed through a couple of temples , not sure if they are old or new construction as they looked pretty new.

Temple within Uparkot fort in  Junagadh in Gujarat
We saw this small signboard placed near a small cannon near one of the temples. It read as Lashkari Vav. It was a stepwell. But were not able to spot the stepwell. Not sure if one of the temples was built around it.

Lashkari Vav in Uparkot fort in  Junagadh in Gujarat
One can walk on the wall of the fort. It gives a good view of the fort from the outside but not inside due to thick dried grass growing on the inside. We decided to drop the plan and exploring the fort from the inside.

Fortification of Uparkot fort in  Junagadh in Gujarat

Structure in Uparkot fort in  Junagadh in Gujarat
The Kadanal gun or cannon. It is placed on one  The fort walls. The cannon is facing the city. The artwork on the cannon is beautiful. To read more on the cannon read this photo for details.

Information on Kadanal Gun in Uparkot fort in  Junagadh in Gujarat

Kadanal Gun in Uparkot fort in  Junagadh in Gujarat
I have seen beautifully crafted cannons at Diu and Daman (Union Territory). Solapur, Daulatabad and Naldurg fort in Maharashtra. The biggest cannon I have seen so far was at Murud Janjira near Alibag.

Cannon in Uparkot fort in  Junagadh in Gujarat
We then headed over to see the Neelam and Manek Guns or cannons. These two cannons were beautifully crafted. Again these cannons are placed facing the city.


Information on Neelam and Manek Gun in Uparkot fort in  Junagadh in Gujarat


Neelam and Manek Guns in Uparkot fort in  Junagadh in Gujarat
Have seen beautifully crafted guns at Ausa fort, Kandhar fort and Udgir fort in Maharashtra.

Fortification of  Uparkot fort in  Junagadh in Gujarat
Next we visited Jama Masjid in Uparkot fort premises.
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Jama Masjid in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat

October 5, 2017, 9:15 pm
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After visiting the Neelam and Manek Guns which are pointed towards Jungadh city, we decided to visit the Jama Masjid located closeby.
Jama Masjid in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat

Inside Jama Masjid in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat

The Jama Masjid was  a old structure made of stone. Certain parts of it are painted white from within, the Pillars within it were in symmetry. It reminded me of the Qutub Minar complex around Delhi. It had a opening in the centre and one could access the top of with via a inbuilt staircase. The Masjid also had a small Jarokha (small balcony) in one of its walls. We sat there and felt refreshed with the cool breeze. No wonder everyone wanted to sit here. LOL.
Inside Jama Masjid in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat

Jama Masjid in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
From the top, one gets a good view of the city of Junagadh, the Girnar Hill range, the temple situated atop the hill. Not sure about the purpose of the rooftop. Maybe it was in use then.
Jama Masjid in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat

Jama Masjid in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
The minarets around the Masjid a very different from the ones I have seen so far.  Around the mosque are placed a Chhatri. Not sure as to whom it belongs as there were no signboards around. There were also unknown tombs around the Jama Masjid.
Girnar Hill from Jama Masjid in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat

Jama Masjid in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
Jama Masjid in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
There is provision for food and water here.


We then headed over to see the Buddhist Caves. 
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Buddhist Caves in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat

October 8, 2017, 5:46 am
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The Buddhist Caves are located in the Uparkot Fort premises.
Buddhist Caves in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
 Unlike the fort there is a entrance fee to see the Caves. "What is so special about these caves, that there is fee to see it?" is the question, I had in my mind. The ticket would provide me with some answers. We bought tickets at a cost of Rs.15 each for Indian citizen. The price is different for foreigners. There is also a QR code which is scanned by the person at the door when entering the cave premises.
Information on Buddhist Caves in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
To know more about these caves, please read this photo.
Buddhist Caves in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat are underground
I have been to Buddhist Caves in Maharashtra, but these were nothing like them. These caves are underground, now this is interesting. Three storey's underground, made it even more interesting. How did they manage to built these caves and why were they built underground? there was no one there who could answer this question. Certain portions of the caves have been worked upon to maintain the caves. No wonder there is a charge to see the caves.
Buddhist Caves in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
The caves were beautifully carved from within, entry is allowed to all the caves below. The resting places are also carved out of stone. Some of the pillars were symmetrical and that the common Buddhist Caves logo atop them.
Buddhist Caves in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
There are huge openings atop so that sufficient light can be provided to all the three levels below. 
Buddhist Caves in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
Buddhist Caves in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
Refer to this signboard for a little more info on the Buddhist Caves.
More Information on Buddhist Caves in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
There is no food or water available here.
Fathima and Me at Buddhist Caves in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat

As we had already explore Jama Masjid, we then walked to the Adi Kadi Vav, a couple of meters away.
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Adi Kadi Vav in Uparkot fort in Junagadh in Gujarat

October 9, 2017, 8:38 pm
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Adi Kadi Vav is a stepwell located near to the BuddhistCaves in Uparkot fort premises. The Vav, is located at one end of the fort. It is near the fort wall. There is a seat there which offers a fantastic view of the surrounding hill ranges and houses below.
Adi Kadi Vav in Uparkot fort in Junagadh in Gujarat

Information on Adi Kadi Vav in Uparkot fort in Junagadh in Gujarat


 The well was deep, with little water in it. But then standing there and looking down  gave us goose bumps. We were so scared that we might fall in the water. The wall near the Vav is not very high, so please be careful.
That's Fathima and me in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
Fortification of Junagadh fort in Gujarat
There are a series of steps that lead to the base of the Vav. Don't forget to look at the walls once you reach the bottom of the Vav. The pattern on the walls with the pigeons resting on it, the sunlight falling on the walls, make it appear even more beautiful. I couldn't stop myself from clicking photos of the walls.

Patterns on the walls, when getting down to the base of Adi Kadi Vav in Uparkot fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
Adi Kadi Vav in Uparkot fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
As the Vav, is not in use, there is litter filled in it. I wouldn't mind paying a entrance fee to see it, at least the money could have been used in the upkeep of the Vav.
Adi Kadi Vav in Uparkot fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
Trash in Adi Kadi Vav in Uparkot fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
There is provision for food and water here.


We then headed to see the Navghan Kuvo located a couple of meters away. 
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Navghan Kuvo in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat

October 11, 2017, 8:29 pm
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The Navghan Kuvo is located a couple of meters away from the Adi Kadi Vav in the Uparkot fort premises.
Navghan Kuvo in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat

Information on Navghan Kuvo in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat

Refer to this photo to know about the history of this fort.

This Kuvo aka well was very differently designed compared to Adi Kadi Vav. It was equally deep as Adi Kadi Vav. But the access way was much different. A spiral staircase lead to the bottom of the square shaped well. The staircase had rooms on either side of it, with openings or should I say windows  near the well. The windows were carved out of the rock. These windows provided both fresh air and also light to the rooms within. As it was dark and it smelled of bats, we refrained from going to the bottom of the well.
Entrance to Navghan Kuvo in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
We also saw openings of equal size in the walls, it was meant for the pigeons. There were pigeons who were occupying some of them. This is the first time I have seen this. In its golden days, pigeons were used as a means of communication. Messages would be written on cloth and tied the feet of the pigeons and sent. Pigeons were like courier service in those days.
Pigeon Homes at Navghan Kuvo in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
Navghan Kuvo in Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
As most of the attractions were done, we decided to head back to the main entrance. We also saw the water management facility on the fort. It is said that the city receives its water supply from here.
Water Management Facility at Uparkot Fort in Junagadh 
Access to certain Jarokha (balcony window in the fort premises) is restricted either due to no proper way to reach it or due to thick shrubs growing on the fort premises.
Jarokha in the Junagadh fort walls
After we exited the fort, we saw a board that read Baba Pyare Caves.
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Baba Pyare Caves near Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat

October 13, 2017, 8:09 pm
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Baba Pyare Caves are located a couple of meters away from the Uparkot Fort. We decided to ask the locals and walk it out as they were close by.
Baba Pyare Caves near Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat 



Baba Pyare Caves near Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat 

The Caves are tagged on google maps, plus one can ask the locals for directions too, these caves are not deserted and locals have built their homes around them.
Baba Pyare Caves near Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
There used to be a small hillock where. the caves are carved out of the hillock. Most of the caves are identical. they had a verandah  leading to the cave within.

Looks like the local graffiti artists had been here, they have their names all over the caves.  What a shame.
Baba Pyare Caves near Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
The caves are not in very good condition. Due to the rains, the walls seem to have been eroded away. One thing worth mentioning is that there is a good drainage water management system around the cave premises.
Baba Pyare Caves near Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
Refer to this photo for more information on the caves.
Information on Baba Pyare Caves near Uparkot Fort in Junagadh in Gujarat
The good thing is that these caves have not been encroached upon by the locals.
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Sakkarbaug Zoological Park, Junagadh in Gujarat

October 15, 2017, 8:59 pm
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Sakkarbaug Zoological Park, Junagadh aka Sakkarbaug Zoo aka Junagadh Zoo is located around 8 KM away from the city of Junagadh. It was established in 1863 by the Babi Nawabs. It is located very close to the Gir forest.
Sakkarbaug Zoological Park

It is tagged on google maps,  after visiting Baba Pyare Caves near Uparkot Fort, we boarded a rickshaw to visit it. it cost us Rs.60. We paid Rs.40 for two to visit the zoo.

Now I have been to the Byculla Zoo in Mumbai, but this was nothing like it. I was amazed to see the different varieties of birds, animals and reptiles it housed. For a moment I decided to stop clicking photos and enjoying the zoo like a kid.  Fathima and me hung around each and every cage to get a good view of the birds. Have to admit, but the bird section was the nosiest. Each of the birds were chirping, I guess they were trying to communicate with themselves. That language was alien to us. Hehehe.
Birds in Cages at Sakkarbaug Zoological Park
We then headed to see the snakes, the snakes were kept in glass encloses and not cages else they would have been all over the place. The snake skin was so beautiful. That's all I have to say.

Next were the crocodile, there were so many of them, It looked like they were playing the game "statue" where in one acts like a statue. They were hardly moving.  Sadly there were no dare devils around us, else we could have seen the crocs in action. Just Kidding.

Next we paid a visit to the Deer and its extended family. We saw the Antelope, Chinkara, Blackbuck and the Blue Bull. They were quite happy in their enclosure. The way we looked at them, they too looked similarly at us. Like we were trying to make some kind of contact. But we just couldn't. Had Dr. Dolittle been there he would have surely communicated with the animals. Hehehe. 

I was amazed when I saw the lions and tigers, I have never seen them so close. they were huge and resting. I guess they had their lunch and were trying to get some sleep, and there were we and some more people who wanted them to pose for us in our photos. They didn't bother looking at us either. There is a stuffed toy tiger kept outside the cage, it was as huge as the ones within, it was kept so that people could pose with them and then narrate tales of how they managed to take a selfie with the tiger.
Tiger in Sakkarbaug Zoological Park
Eating and drinking within the zoo premises is not allowed. Feeding the animals is strictly prohibited. There are restrooms within the premises to freshen up.

Outside the Zoo premises, there are plenty of options for food and drinks (no hard drinks) We had a finger licking pav bhaji at a cost of Rs.60 bang opposite the Zoo entrance.
Pav Bhaji, we had outside the Sakkarbaug Zoological Park
We had visited Uparkot Fort and the Sakkarbaug Zoological Park, Junagadh and we were tired, so we decided to head back to the hotel. We decided to visit the Narsinh Mehta Lake in the evening. 
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Narsinh Mehta Lake in Junagadh in Gujarat

October 17, 2017, 8:41 pm
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Narsinh Mehta Lake was located very close to the city of Junagadh and it was around 25 minutes (walking distance) from where we were lodging.
Narsinh Mehta Lake in Junagadh in Gujarat

Directions to Narsinh Mehta Lake are tagged on google maps. We decided to sit near the lake enclosure and enjoy the view of the lake. As night started to seep in, the population of people increased and so did the hawkers around the lake premises. It was now a busy place.

We enjoyed the birds flying across the lake premises, we also saw the water ripple on the wind. Thanks to the continuous wind, it was quite pleasant. Felt relaxed after a busy day exploring Uparkot fort and Junagadh Zoo.

This is truly a good place to unwind after a hard day's work.

The time was 8 on my watch. It was dinner time, we didn't patronize the hawkers around the lake as we had a bigger mission to accomplish. we planned to eat a Veg. Thali (unlimited) at Patel Dining hall, around 10 minutes (walking) away.
Veg. Thali (unlimited) at Patel Dining hall in Junagadh in Gujarat
Everything except the sweet dish was unlimited. The cost of each thali was just Rs.100. Cost of additional sweet was extra. We ate and drank (Buttermilk) till we were full. Have to admit, though the food was veg it was finger licking good. See the photo of the veg thali we ate. Somehow  we managed to reach the hotel. I am sure we had over eaten. We decided to call it a night.
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Junagadh Museum in Junagadh in Gujarat

October 19, 2017, 8:51 pm
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Junagadh Museum, is located in Junagadh. The Darbar Hall Museum, is now closed to public and all the artifacts have been shifted here.
Junagadh Museum in Junagadh in Gujarat

The Junagadh Museum is walking distance from the city and not tagged on google maps. But you can ask the locals and they will direct you to it.

There is a entrance fee to see the museum and photography by mobile is strictly prohibited. 

There are cameras placed all over the place, to top it the guards keep giving surprise visits to check if you are photographing or not.
The museum offers a beautiful collection of the swords, guns, daggers used by the kings. It also houses the household items used by them.


Instructions at Junagadh Museum in Junagadh in Gujarat
The collection of chandeliers and artistic furniture is also amazing.
As photography is not allowed, you will have to go see the place for yourself.


The photos of all the kings and queens are mounted on the walls of the palace. 

As we had already visited the Narsinh Mehta Lake yesterday, we decided to go visit the Narsinh Mehta Choro. 
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Narsinh Mehta Choro in Junagadh in Gujarat

October 21, 2017, 9:04 pm
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Narsinh Mehta Choro is the place where poet Narsinh Mehta used to hold is performances in the 15th century. As we had visited the Narsinh Mehta lake, we decided to visit this place too. 

Narsinh Mehta Choro in Junagadh in Gujarat

Directions to the same are tagged on google maps.

Nothing much remains now of this place, except for a temple of Gopinath.

There are videos and documentaries being played in its premises, to provide ore information on Narsinh Mehta.
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Kapra Kodia Caves in Junagadh in Gujarat

October 23, 2017, 8:21 pm
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The Kapra Kodia Caves in Junagadh are located very close to the Uparkot Fort. Directions to the same are also tagged on google maps.
Kapra Kodia Caves in Junagadh in Gujarat


We accidently bumped into them as we were travelling to Edits of Ashoka.

We decided to pay it a visit.

Refer to this photo for more information on these caves

Information on Kapra Kodia Caves in Junagadh in Gujarat

Information on Kapra Kodia Caves in Junagadh in Gujarat
There is not one but many caves here.

Please note that there is no provision for food and water here and that this place is isolated.

Kapra Kodia Caves in Junagadh in Gujarat
As we entered the caves premises, we bumped into a group of boys, they had come there to do photography project, as most of them carried DSLR cameras with tripod and lighting. So I knew that we had company.

These are rock cut caves, as in a rocky hill was cut to make these caves.

Kapra Kodia Caves in Junagadh in Gujarat

They were not designed like the BuddhistCaves though.

They were also underground as in a series of narrow steps takes one downstairs to the caves.

Kapra Kodia Caves in Junagadh in Gujarat
The caves are free from graffiti.

Again the way the caves are structured, photography becomes a bit difficult as one finds it difficult to get the angles right.

We then headed over to see Edits of Ashoka.
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Edicts of Ashoka/ Ashoka Shila Lekh / Ashoka Rock Edict in Junagadh in Gujarat

October 25, 2017, 8:33 pm
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After exploring the Kapra Kodia Caves we then headed over to see the Edicts of Ashoka. These are located on the way to Girnar Hills.
Direction to the same are tagged on Google maps.

Edicts of Ashoka/ Ashoka Shila Lekh / Ashoka Rock Edict are placed in this structure in Junagadh in Gujarat

Unfortunately, the building in which the edicts are housed was closed down for renovation purposes. So we were denied entry.
"So close but so far" I said to myself.

For information purposes, one can view the Ashokan Rock Edicts from 8 AM to 6 PM all days, but there is a entry fee. I guess the entry fee will change post the renovation is done. If you have visited this place post the renovation do let me know your experience.

Rohan. Remember Rohan, he had accompanied me on my trips in Delhi. he had informed me that it is a huge stone on which there are inscriptions. These inscriptions were made by Ashoka the Emperor of the Mauryan Empire.
Information on Edicts of Ashoka/ Ashoka Shila Lekh / Ashoka Rock Edict in Junagadh in Gujarat
The Ashoka Rock Edicts were made around 250 BC and around 14 edicts are located here. History states that the carvings are in Brahmi script in Pali language.

There are many such edicts placed in different parts of India. 
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Science Museum in Junagadh in Gujarat

October 27, 2017, 8:04 pm
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After visiting the Ashoka Edicts we headed over to see the Science Museum in Junagadh. Directions to the same are tagged on google maps.

Science Museum in Junagadh in Gujarat

Please note, there are no buses plying to this place, so one has to travel by shared rickshaw or chartered rickshaw to reach this place.
There is provision for drinking water and toilets here, but no food.
Initially when we reached this place, we thought that we would explore the museum in 30 minutes, but we ended up spending 2 hours here. Want to know how, read on.

We were informed that the Planetarium was closed at the moment and that there are timings to visit the same.

We took the ticket for the science museum at a cost of Rs.20 each and started our tour.

The museum hosts around 50+ exhibits based sound, electricity, light, magnets and electronics. Fathima and I had a great time at each of these exhibits. I guess it brought out the child in each one of us like it did at the  Sakkarbaug Zoological Park, Junagadh. the exhibits are so fascinating that we refused to budge from them, we took our turns at each of them to help understand the different aspects of science that were involved here. Luckily there was hardly anyone there on that afternoon and we had the museum to ourselves.

Thus the 30 minutes we planned to spend turned out to be 2 hours, but we had a great time here.

For more information on the museum please refer to http://gardencafejnd.com/science-museum/

I haven't taken any photos here, because I want you to go to this place and experience it for yourself.

We then headed over to see the Willingdon Dam.
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Willingdon Dam in Junagadh in Gujarat

October 29, 2017, 8:29 pm
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After visiting the Science Museum we headed over to the Willingdon Dam in Junagadh. Directions to the same are available on Google maps.
Willingdon Dam in Junagadh in Gujarat

Information on Willingdon Dam in Junagadh in Gujarat

This dam was built on the river Kalwa, at the foot of the hill. The purpose of the dam was to provide drinking water to the people of Junagadh. As it was built when Lord Willingdon was the Governor of India, it was named after him.
Willingdon Dam in Junagadh in Gujarat
We climbed up the stairs to reach the dam premises. the water levels in the dam was low.  The dam is so strategically built, that it has hills on three sides with a valley in between, so when it rains the water gets accumulated in the water body. We were informed that after heavy rains, the water level rises and the excess water overflows.

That's us at Willingdon Dam in Junagadh in Gujarat

Though it was hot afternoon, we  were not feeling the heat due to the continuous wind blowing. 

Willingdon Dam in Junagadh in Gujarat
Apart from us there were a lot of people who had come to see the dam premises. Not to mention the couples who wanted to get cosy in the hills in a distance.
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Majevadi Gate in Junagadh in Gujarat

October 31, 2017, 8:54 pm
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Majevadi Gate is also located in Junagadh in Gujarat.
Majevadi Gate in Junagadh in Gujarat

Directions to the same are tagged on google maps.

This is another monument which we located when travelling to Najubibi Makbara and Mazarat of Barashahid.
Bastion and wall near Majevadi Gate in Junagadh in Gujarat
Not much is known about the history of the monument. We asked a couple of locals around, all they told us that it is a gate to enter the city premises.

Majevadi Gate was under renovation when we entered via it. It had beige colored fort wall which is around a storey tall, not sure if the same has been reconstructed, it also had a bastion near it.

The Majevadi Gate, had a wooden door with nails on them, I guess it was used to hold back the elephants when they forcefully tried to enter the city premises. The structure had Majevadi Gate written atop it. It also had a jarokha (balcony) atop the Main Door. Not sure what it was used for?
Jarokha in Majevadi Gate in Junagadh in Gujarat
I am just hoping that after the renovation, they don't change the color to beige like they did  for the walls and bastion attached to this gate.

We were not able to find a way up to reach the Jarokha.
Entry via Majevadi Gate in Junagadh in Gujarat
The way the Gate was designed was truly amazing.

All private bus operators plying to different cities in India, depart from here, The bus we were supposed to board for Mumbai, was to depart from here.
Nails in the doors of Majevadi Gate in Junagadh in Gujarat

Then then headed over to see Najubibi Makbara. 
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Najubibi's Makbara and Bara Saiyad (Barashahid) in Junagadh in Gujarat

November 2, 2017, 9:00 pm
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Najubibi Makbara and Bara Saiyad are also located in Junagadh. 
Najubibi's  Makbara in Junagadh in Gujarat

 Not much information about this place is available on google maps. 

We got to know about this structure when we visited the Science Museum, it had a map of historical monuments in Junagadh.
Information on Najubibi's  Makbara and Bara Saiyad (Barashahid) in Junagadh in Gujarat
I am not sure if these places are tagged on google maps. let me check. No it is not. But don't worry. I got the phone no. of Dr. M.A. Shaikh 9429488096. He is the caretaker of the Makbara of Najubibi. He lives near the monument premises. He will give you a lot of information on this site.  
         
Read this signboard for a little information on both these structures.
What should I say, I kept asking myself, If this is a tomb? The artwork on the Najubibi's was just impressive. Again it makes me ponder, if the Tomb is so beautiful, what would have the palace looked like.
Monument in the premises of Najubibi's  Makbara and Bara Saiyad (Barashahid) in Junagadh in Gujarat
It was a square shaped structure, with five beautifully carved arches on either side. On the top, it had a dome in the middle with four small domes surrounding it. 
Bara Saiyad (Barashahid) in Junagadh in Gujarat
This Makbara was as beautiful as the Mahabat and Bahauddin Makbara near Sardar Patel Darwaza in Junagadh.
Unknown tombs outside the premises of Bara Saiyad (Barashahid) in Junagadh in Gujarat
We then visited, Barasaiyed aka Barashahid located in the same premises. The tombs of the twelve nobles are placed in the structure painted in white. Outside are many other unnamed tombs.
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Return journey to Mumbai from Jungadh in Gujarat

November 5, 2017, 7:41 am
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We had booked tickets from Junagadh to Mumbai by a AC sleeper bus belonging to Mahasagar Travels Limited. This was the third time I was travelling in a sleeper bus. AC first time.

One of the thali we had at Junagadh

All private buses belonging to Mahasagar Travels Limited plying to other cities depart from the Majevadi Bus Depot located very close to the Majevadi Gate.

The Depot, houses a waiting room, restrooms and cargo outlet. Our departed around 2PM and we reached Mumbai around 6 AM the next morning.

Due to the AC the bus gets a bit too cold, so one has to take the blanket and sit/sleep in the bus, again, there is less food  and water intake but plenty of output as one has to frequently go to pee. Luckily the bus makes a couple of halts for the same.

Finally another journey to the land of the Nawabs of Junagadh comes to an end. Rich in architecture, Fort, Tombs, Vav's , Caves in Junagadh, Science Museum, Dam, Zoo and Gates to the city and to top it Vegetarian Thali and buttermilk. What a wonderful experience. 
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Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra

November 6, 2017, 6:36 pm
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Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad are located in Pedgaon village in the Shrigonda Taluka of the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra.

Entrance to Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
Chand Bibi Tomb, Ahmednagar Fort, Damadi Masjid, Faria Bhag Palace and Cavalry Tank Museum are some of the historic structures I have visited in Ahmednagar before.
Breakfast at Joshi Vadewale in Pune
It was just the two of us (Manohar and Me) I prepared the itinerary and Manohar took care of the driving.  We planned to cover Karmala Fort, Paranda Fort, Dharashiv caves,  Ausa Fort, Kharosa Caves, Udgir Fort, Kandhar Fort, Dharmapuri Fort and Dharur Fort on this roadtrip.

Breakfast at Joshi Vadewale in Pune
As decided we met at Ghatkopar Railway station on the eastern side around 5:30 AM. The directions to Bahadurgad Fort are tagged on google maps. Bahadurgad was around 250 KM away, we were sure that we would reach the fort by afternoon taking breaks into consideration.

Sculptures in the premises of Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
We had breakfast in the form of Vada's at Joshi Vadewale in Pune.
By the time we reached Bahadurgad Fort it was around 12 PM. There is a village near the entrance of the fort premises. NOTE - There is no hotel here for refreshments. The villagers informed us that we can take the car and travel within the fort premises.

Temple at the entrance of Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
There is a Darwaza (Door) to enter the fort premises. It has a orange colored flag atop it swaying in the wind. The fort walls are not in good condition and have collapsed in certain places.

History states that Bahadur Khan was the administrator of the fort. Not sure if he built the fort. When Shivaji Maharaj got the news that around 200 Arabs had come there, he wanted to plunder their wealth. he made arrangements and was successful in plundering the Arabs of their wealth.

The man who provided us with information on Temple at the entrance of Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
Diya Stand at the temple in Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
Once we entered the fort premises, we saw this temple. Shri Bhairavnath Mandir. By the look of it, it was an old temple, painted in vibrant colors. We also met a local sitting in the temple premises. Sadly we were not able to understand the information he was providing us with. He was definitely not speaking hindi or marathi. I am sure he might he speaking shuddh marathi, which is difficult to understand.


Carved stones in the premises of Temple at the entrance of Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
Around the temple premises is placed a diya stand. The stand made of rocks was painted white. Near the diya stand are placed small sculptures of Gods. Not sure as to who are those Gods.

The temple premises and the huge tree near the temple are the only source of shade on the entire fort premises.

There is a muddy path via which one has to travel to reach the different monuments within the fort premises.

On way, you will seen sculptures carved in the stone scattered across the ground along with stones used in the construction of structures in the fort premises.

Rameshwar Mandir in Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
Information on Rameshwar Mandir at Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
We parked the car near Rameshwar Mandir. A little information on the temple in Marathi.  Rameshwar Mandir, was built entirely of stone. The temple premises had sculptures of Gods within them. Also the entrance to the temple has sculptures around it.


Mallikarjun Mandir in Temple at the entrance of Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
Information on Mallikarjun Mandir at Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
We then moved to see the Malikarjun Mandir located a couple of feet away. A little information on the temple in Marathi.  Again this temple was built of stone. It had carved pillars at the entrance. Sculptures of Gods within them.

Daru Kothir in Temple at Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
We then moved to see the Daru Kothir, Not sure what it meant. there was an old structure here, completely in ruins with wild grass growing all around it. the structure had a small Moorish Dome atop it. Possibly a store room.


Unknown structure at Temple at Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
We saw this Bastion in the middle of the fort premises.

View of River Bhima from Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
Finally we reached the main attraction of the fort, Lakshmi Narayan Temple and Baleshwar Temple, these beautifully crafted temples at the banks of River Bhima.. Remember River Bhima, we had traveled on it to reach the Palasdeo Temple, located in the water.

Lakshmi Narayan Temple in Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
Sculpture on the walls of Lakshmi Narayan Temple in Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
Sculpture on the walls of Lakshmi Narayan Temple in Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
The artwork though similar on both the Lakshmi Narayan Temple and Baleshwar Temple left me speechless. It reminded me of the Shiv mandir in Ambernath.

Baleshwar Temple in Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra 
Baleshwar Temple in Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra

We then visited the Pataleshwar Temple, the temple is still in use, it had a Shivling, statue of Nandi and sculptures places near it.
We then walked to the bastions of the fort. The bastion was at the banks of the River Bhima and offered fantastic view of the river. Due to wild vegetation growing within the fort premises we couldn't see much inside the fort.

Bastion and fort walls of Temple at the entrance of Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
That's us at Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
We visited the final structure in the fort premises. It had its own Darwaza and walls around it. Though certain portions of the walls have collapsed, but the Darwaza is intact. It has two orange colored flags swaying in the wind atop it.
Structure in Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
Broken fortification of Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra near River Bhima
We also saw this lamp, stone sculpture and information signboard. Note sure what it it.
Monument at Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
Within the monument premises of Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
We then headed over to see the ruins at the banks of the River Bhima. Graffiti artists had been here before me.
River Bhima from Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
That's me at Bahadurgad Fort aka Fort of Pedgaon aka Dharmaveergad in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra
Though we initially thought there was nothing much to see in the fort premises, the artwork of the temples was just amazing. 
We then headed over to see the next fort, Karmala Fort.
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