Girnar Maha Shivratri, also known as the Bhavnath Mahashivrati Mela, is attended by thousands of devotees each year. Popularly known as the ‘Mini Kumbh’ of Gujarat, it will be organized from 11th to 15th February, 2026. The five-day fair is one of the most anticipated events in the state and is held at the foothills of Mount Girnar, about 8 km from Junagadh City. Here’s a detailed guide about this celebration!
Girnar Maha Shivratri: Schedule, Darshan, And More Information
The Girnar Maha Shivratri is organized at the foothills of the sacred Girnar mountain. It is also known as Bhavnath Fair and Junagadh Bhavnath Mela and is organized each year around Maha Shivratri. The celebration lasts for five days and is attended by thousands of people from all over Gujarat and India. It is attended by a number of saints, mahants, sadhus, and devotees who come to seek blessings at the Girnar Mahadev Temple.
In 2026, the Bhavnath Mela will be organized from 11th to 15th February at the foothills of the Girnar mountain at the Bhavnath Mahadev Temple.
Legends Associated With The Bhavnath Mahadev Temple
According to mythological legends, Lord Brahma requested Shiva to reside in the material world and help resolve the joys and sorrows of human beings. Shiva chose the Girnar mountain. Soon, Parvati, his consort, followed him to the mountain. On the day she reached her, Shiva manifested here in the form of Bhavnath.
Another legend explains why this region is called ‘Vastraput Kshetra’. The legend says that when Lord Shiva and Parvati were traveling in their divine chariot, her ornaments fell at this spot. Since then, the place came to be known as the ‘Vastraput Kshetra’.
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Processions And Events That Are A Part Of The Junagadh Bhavnath Mela
The Bhavnath Mahashivratri Mela takes place for five days, occurring from 11th to 15th February, 2026.
The Nagar Yatra will be organized for the first time in 2026. It will involve a grand, ceremonial ‘Nagar Yatra’ or a city procession held on 11th February. The city procession will be held to welcome the arrival of revered saints and monks in the city.
A major highlight of the fair is the Ravedi. This is a procession of Naga Sadhus on the final night, i.e. 15th February. The procession for the 2026 Ravedi will follow a 2 km route instead of the earlier 1.5 km route. Naga Sadhus also take a dip in the Mrigi Kund at the Bhavnath Mahadev Temple while concluding the festivities on the day of Mahashivratri.
Facilities And Services At The Junagadh Bhavnath Mela 2026
The fair is held at the Bhavnath Mahadev Temple at the foothills of Mount Girnar, about 8 km away from Junagadh City. The fair is attended by thousands of devotees from all over India so security and facilities are maintained in an orderly manner. Over 300 social organizations distribute free meals and provide basic accommodation to pilgrims.
Additionally, authorities ensure that security of the pilgrims is maintained during the event. For 2026, security will be enhanced with over 2,900 police personnel and 1,000 local volunteers offering help. For the convenience of attendees who could not attend the celebration in-person, the ‘Shahi Snan’ and other major rituals will be live-streamed as well.
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How To Reach Bhavnath Mahadev Temple In Junagadh?
- Keshod Airport is the nearest airport to the Bhavnath Mahadev Temple in Junagadh. It is a domestic airport well-connected to major destinations in India. Located about 43 km away, you can find direct cabs from the airport to reach the temple.
- The Junagadh Junction is the closest railway station to the temple, located about 6 to 7 km away. It enjoys good connectivity to major railway stations in Gujarat as well as the rest of India. From the railway station, you can easily get rickshaws, cabs, and buses to reach the temple.
- There are multiple buses run by Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation that connect Junagadh to neighboring towns and cities like Sasan, Rajkot, Ahmedabad, Veraval, and Jamnagar.
Summing Up
Each Maha Shivratri, the Bhavnath Mahadev Temple in Junagadh witnesses a sea of devotees who’re here to attend the Maha Shivratri celebrations. There are multiple processions and ancient traditions held during the five-day festival. In this guide, we’ve given you a glimpse of the festival, the legends associated with the iconic temple, and the different ways to reach the temple.
