Photo by Axn photography on Unsplash
Location
Junagadh, Gujarat
Duration
5 days
Frequency
Annual
Language
Gujarati, Hindi
Upcoming confirmed & estimated dates
No upcoming dates listed yet.
The Bhavnath Mahadev Fair is a 5-day religious and cultural event held annually at the foothills of Mount Girnar in Junagadh, Gujarat, culminating on the auspicious night of Maha Shivratri. This ancient fair centers around the Bhavnath Mahadev Temple, where devotees believe Lord Shiva himself visits during the festivities. What makes Gujarat's version distinctive is the midnight procession of Naga Sadhus (naked ascetics) riding elephants to the temple, accompanied by traditional music and the blowing of conch shells. Many pilgrims also undertake a 7 km circumambulation of the sacred Girnar hills. The fair attracts a diverse crowd of pilgrims, spiritual seekers, cultural enthusiasts, and photographers drawn to its unique blend of ascetic rituals and local folk performances like Bhavai theatre. Free meals are provided by organizers, and stalls offer local handicrafts and sweets.
What to experience at this festival
Travel Tips
Accommodation in Junagadh, particularly near Bhavnath Taleti, sees significant price hikes and high demand during the fair. It is strongly recommended to book your hotels or guesthouses at least 3-4 months in advance.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting the Bhavnath Mahadev Temple and other religious sites within the fairgrounds, to respect local customs and traditions.
While UPI is increasingly common, it's advisable to carry sufficient cash as many smaller stalls and local eateries within the fair may prefer or only accept cash payments.
Junagadh is well-connected by railway and ST buses from major cities in Gujarat. The nearest airport is Rajkot (approx. 110 km away). From Junagadh city, auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available to reach Girnar Taleti.
In 2026, the Bhavnath Fair is scheduled from February 11-15, with Maha Shivratri on February 13. The dates vary annually based on the lunar calendar, but it consistently falls in February or March. Always check the exact dates for your travel year.
Restrictions
The fair attracts a large number of devotees and can be very crowded, especially on the night of Maha Shivratri. First-time visitors are advised to attend in groups rather than alone for safety and better navigation.
