This city is located in Pune district of Maharashtra known as Junnar,From Mumbai to Junnar shall be a pleasant trip of about 166 km and from pune it will be around 80 to 90 KM. The town is renowned for its remarkable cave complexes, notably the Junnar Caves, which encompass over 200 rock-cut caves dating back to the 2nd century BCE.
These caves, adorned with intricate sculptures and carvings, served as monasteries and dwellings for Buddhist monks and ascetics. It has a vibrant history of 3000 years beginning from the times of the very first King, Satvahan Raja.Junnar has all it requires: ranging from ancient ghats like Naneghat to explore the rich history of the region by delving into the fascinating forts and water reservoirs that have stood the test of time
How To Reach
By road: By road You can always get a taxi, rent a car along with your friends and family or get on a bike and go for a road trip to Junnar from Mumbai. It takes around 4 hours. You also get regular buses from pune bus stop to junnar at a interval of an hour.
By rail: The nearest railway station you get here is Pune railway station. Pune junction is one also considered as one of the biggest junctions which is even connected to Nagpur & Mumbai via regular trains and is in closest proximity to the city of Junnar.
By air: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is most easily accessible to connect to town. It also covers all the major towns and cities inside and outside the state of Maharashtra and taxi and cab service from the airport make the route to Junnar even simpler.
Places to Visit in Junnar:
Forts
Each fort narrates a tale of valour, resilience, and cultural heritage, inviting visitors to unravel the mysteries of Maharashtra’s captivating history.Here are some notable forts in and around Junnar
1. Shivneri Fort
Arguably the most famous fort in Junnar, this fort holds immense historical significance as the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the legendary Maratha warrior king. Perched atop a hilltop, this majestic fort offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
2. Chavand Fort
Also known as Prasannagad Fort,The fort is situated about 30 km from the modern-day town of Naryangoan. It stands at an elevation of 1,036 meters (3,399 feet) above sea level. The climb to the fort takes approximately 30 minutes and rewards visitors with an iconic place called Saptamatruka tank, ancient caves, and several water tanks.
3. Hadsar Fort
Hadsar Fort, also known as Parvatgad,Located 13 km northwest of Junnar, the village of Hadsar serves as the base for reaching the fort. There are two paths to reach the summit of the fort. The easier way is from the southern side, which passes through the main gate. The other path is from the northern side of the fort and involves a 20-feet high rock climb with rock-cut holds and thrust to rely upon.
4. Nimgiri-Hanumantgad Fort
This fort, located in Junnar taluka of Pune district, is one of the seven important forts, along with Hadsar, Chavand, Jivdhan, Narayangad, and Sindola forts. These forts collectively protected the trade route during the mediaeval period from Junnar to Kalyan.
Naneghat Trek
The trek to Naneghat offers hikers the chance to explore ancient inscriptions, rock-cut caves, and stunning views of the Sahyadri mountain ranges.Naneghat is also known for its arched pass, carved out of a single huge rock. The pass dates back to the 1st century BCE and served as a major trade route connecting the ports of Kalyan and Nala Sopara to the Junnar plateau.
Reverse waterfall
During the rainy season, Naneghat is one of the beautiful and excellent places for trekkers. Here you get to see the beauty of nature and science at one place, a delicate touch of history unquestionably creates the ideal atmosphere for weekenders and those looking for short vacations here. Due to the different activities or you can say nature’s magic people refer to this place as a reverse waterfall.
Delicious Cuisine
No visit to Junnar is complete without savouring its delectable cuisine. The town is famous for its traditional Maharashtrian dishes, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and authentic flavours. From spicy misal pav to the sweet delicacy of puran poli, Junnar’s culinary offerings are sure to tantalise your taste buds.
Caves
Begin your journey by exploring the ancient cave complexes scattered across Junnar. There are more than 220 individual rock-cut caves located in four hills around Junnar, including the Lenyadri complex, which represents a series of about 30 mostly Buddhist caves, and Cave 7, a famous Hindu temple dedicated to the god Ganesha.Other notable cave complexes in the Junnar region include the Tulja Caves,located on the Tuljabai hill, about 4 kilometres west of Junnar bus stand near Sawantwadi.The Manmodi Caves, are a complex of rock-cut caves located about 3 kilometres to the south of Junnar city.
Ozar/ Lenyadri Ganpati
Lenyadri ganpati is also situated at junnar district of pune,lenyadri ganpati is also considered as one of the Ashtavinayak temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha.The idol of the Lord Ganesha in this temple is believed to be swayambhu (self-manifested), carved into the rock.The temple attracts huge no of people over here every year since it considered as one of a pilgrimage place for all ganesh devotes
The most important thing that truly sets Junnar apart is the warmth and hospitality of its people. Their friendly nature and eagerness to share their stories and traditions make every visitor feel right at home. Whether you’re exploring the caves or trekking through the hills, you’ll find the locals always ready to guide you and share their insights, the love towards for the youngsters from the old people are something else that you won’t get to see anywhere else they treat you as their own family itself
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, history enthusiast, nature lover, or culinary connoisseur, Junnar has something to offer for everyone. This Place is a hidden paradise that offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and culture.
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