Explore Junagadh: The perfect weekend getaway from Ahmedabad that dates back to 319 B.C.

Nothing fascinates a traveler like the tales from centuries ago. Stories of emperors and saints, who once existed and left behind their ancient wisdom for us to learn from. Luckily, for Amdavadis, one such place is located, just hours away. Junagadh, a city dating back to 319 B.C., at a 6-hour drive from the city, is the perfect weekend getaway from Ahmedabad. Here's why:

From the Uperkot Fort that dates back to 2300 years to the Mohabbat Maqbara built sometime between 1851 and 1882, Junagadh is filled with monuments of immense historical significance. The Darbar Hall Museum in Junagadh with its collection of ages-old coins, weapons and antiques will definitley enthrall the history buff in you.

Furthermore, the place is also home to Ashoka's edicts (his commandments engraved on stone), which mark the transformation of one of India's greatest and most ruthless rulers into a man who spread the message of peace and harmony in his later years. Strolling ahead on a spiritual journey, you can also head to Buddhist caves in the city like the Khapra Kodia caves that date back to 4th century AD.

You can hop on a train from Ahmedabad to Junagadh that will take you to your destination in around 6 hours, costing between Rs 200-Rs 250. Alternatively, you can also make the trip to Junagadh from Ahmedabad via bus, reaching the historical city in 6 hours, which will cost you a little extra at Rs 300.

But for those who love to take in the scenic beauty that a road trip offers, a road trip from Ahmedabad to Junagadh via NH47 will also take no more than 6-7 hours. Howsoever you decide to reach Junagadh, there'll be a plenty of historical tales awaiting you, told by ageing monuments that serve as remnants of times past.

So, Amdavadis, spare a thought for the perfect getaway from Ahmedabad to Junagadh before you plan anything for this week. After all, isn't it an enticing prospect to get lost in the mazes of history every once in a while? Only to come out all the more wiser and with an acute realization of our own insignificance in the backdrop of centuries of civilization.