Gujarat is a melting pot of different cultures and communities. This has lent incredible diversity with influences that can be seen in the delectable variety of cuisine, stunning textiles, and the many architectural gems that dot the state. There is the incredible Rani-ki-Vav stepwell in Patan, shaped like an upside-down temple to emphasise the sacredness of water. And the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, the only complete and unchanged Islamic pre-Mughal city, a living cultural heritage. Another marvel of urban traditional architecture in Gujarat—now threatened by development—are Ahmedabad's pols, ancient self-contained neighbourhoods. In a similar thread, you will find a plethora of remarkable pieces of architecture in Junagadh.
Hidden Gem: Did You Know About Junagadh's Mahabat Maqbara?
The beautiful yellow-walled monument is a strange and wonderful blend of Indo-Saracenic, Islamic, and European styles
Walking about Junagadh you will come across various quirky structures with a strange and surreal mix of architectural styles. For instance, the dome of a tomb that looks like a UFO. You can call Junagadh a platform for the ultimate post-modernist pastiche in many ways. The most extraordinary structure in Junagadh has to be the Mahabat Maqbara.
A Wonderful Mix Of Styles
Built by Bahadur Khan III for his father Mahabat Khan II in 1892, the breathtaking yellow-walled monument is a weird and wonderful mix of Indo-Saracenic, Islamic, and European styles. Imagine a pastiche of French windows, Gothic columns, intricate carvings, and silver inner doors. Then there are the jaw-dropping minarets on the sides with spiral steps going up to the top of the tower.
The Gujarat Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1965 designates it as a State Protected Monument.
This is said to be the final resting place of Wazir Bahaduddinbhai Hasainbhai, one of the principal nobles of Nawab Mahabat Khan II of Junagadh.
The ornate Bahauddin Maqbara (constructed in 1878-92) lies next to it, with its graceful corkscrew towers straight out of a fairy tale. Request that someone from the nearby Jumma Masjid unlock its doors.
About Junagadh
Junagadh is a walled city with the central Dhal Road running through it. Located at the foothills of Girnar Hills, it is the seventh largest city in Gujarat. The name translates as "Old Fort."
It became a part of the Mauryan Empire in 3 BC under Emperor Ashoka. It became a British Protectorate in 1807 and came under the East India Company in 1818. However, the Saurashtra region was never under the direct administration of British India for the remainder of the British colonial rule of India. In 1947, the British divided the country into over 100 princely realms, including Junagadh.
The Information
Getting There: The nearest airport is Rajkot, 100km from the city. The city is well connected with cities in Gujarat and to the rest of the country via several trains.
Timings: 10am to 6:30pm. Entry is free and open to all.
Best Time To Visit: Between November and February, when the weather is cool and pleasant.
How to reach: The Mahabat Maqbara is just 1 km from the Junagadh railway station.