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| Ashoka's Rock Edicts |
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History
Built by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka, Ashoka's Rock Edicts are situated at the foothills of Mount Girnar in Junagadh, Gujarat. The edicts were issued by Ashoka in 250 BC and were later re-discovered by James Todd. These edicts are basically a boulder made up of large granite stones with inscriptions written on it in ancient languages like Brahmi and Pali. The inscriptions delineate the philosophy of Ashoka that includes – resistance to greed and animal sacrifice, respect for all religions, moralising the principles of purity in thought and developing an attitude kindness to everyone.
The major rock edict written by Ashoka can be seen from the top of Girnar Hill on a large black coloured granite slab. The difficult task of climbing the hill is a deterrent and only a few people make the effort to climb up to have a closer view of this major rock edict. These edicts are very popular as they show the deep feeling of repentance felt by Ashoka because of the destruction caused by him during wars. These edicts also show how Ashoka gave up war and violence and became a staunch believer of Buddhism.
These rock edicts are the first evidence of propagating Buddhism. Being a part of the exquisite heritage of India these magnificent edicts carry valuable messages of leading a simple, pure, self-controlled, satisfied and peaceful life, and attracts a number of history buffs and tourists to visit it each year.
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Best time to visit
Ideally, the best time to visit the Ashoka’s Edicts is from October to April. One can also visit the place in January - February to enjoy the celebrations of the well-known Bhavnath Fair.
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Trivia
It takes two hours to climb up the hill in order to have a close view of the major rock edict, therefore it is better to start the journey during dawn so as to escape the scorching sun.
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Timing
The site of the edicts is open every day from 8:00am till 6:00pm.
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Travel Tools
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