Dattatreya Temple on Girnar

Dattatreya Temple is a revered Hindu shrine located on the highest peak of Girnar Hill near Junagadh in Gujarat. Dedicated to Lord Dattatreya, considered the combined incarnation of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, the temple sits at about 3,300 feet elevation and is reached by climbing approximately 10,000 stone steps. It is part of the sacred Girnar pilgrimage circuit and offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and Junagadh city.

Visitors can expect a strenuous pilgrimage trek of approximately 10,000 stone steps to the highest peak of Girnar Hill. The temple is a small, simple shrine housing the footprints (charan paduka) of Lord Dattatreya. The setting is exposed and rocky at the summit with panoramic views of Junagadh, surrounding hills and forests. The route passes other shrines including Ambaji and Gorakhnath peaks, with tea stalls, water points and rest shelters along the steps. The Girnar ropeway covers the ascent to Ambaji Temple, after which the remaining climb to Dattatreya is on foot.

The shrine is traditionally believed to mark the place where Lord Dattatreya, regarded as the combined incarnation of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, performed penance on Girnar Hill. Girnar has been a major pilgrimage centre for centuries for both Hindu and Jain traditions, with ancient temples and footprints worshipped at the summit. The present small shrine is maintained as a continuation of this long-standing ascetic and pilgrimage tradition.

The temple is highly revered by devotees of Lord Dattatreya and is considered the most sacred peak of Girnar. The charan paduka of Dattatreya are worshipped as his divine presence. The site is an important stop during Girnar Parikrama and attracts pilgrims throughout the year, especially on Datta Jayanti and during winter pilgrimage season.