Renowned for its rich history and iconic landscapes, Gujarat is truly a one-of-a-kind destination in India. From being the kingdom of lord Krishna to boasting of one of the most stunning white salt deserts of Rann of Kutch, every aspect of this western most state of India is awe-inspiring. The entire region is dotted with ancient and modern temples that hold a lot of value in the hearts of locals. Not only are these temples a mark of architectural brilliance but they are equally important spiritual centres that are frequented by devotees throughout the year. If you are travelling to Gujarat then here are the top 20 Most Famous Mata Temples in Gujarat.
List Of the 20 Most Popular Mata Temples in Gujarat
1. Narmada Mata Temple
Dedicated to the Hindu goddess Narmada Mata, a form of goddess Shakti, this temple is situated in the city of Bharuch. Considered to be one of the most important places of worship by the locals residing around the temple, the history of this temple dates back to centuries ago. One of the most eye-catching features of the temple is its intricate carvings, sculptures and designs depicting various instances of Hindu legends and mythologies. Devotees make it a point to visit the temple where they believe that Mata Narmada blesses her devotees with lots of wealth, health and happiness.
2. Kalika Mata Temple
Gracing the hills of Pavagadh in Panchmahal district, Kalika Mata Temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali, a form of Shakti. Built during the 10th century, this temple site has always been a major place of pilgrimage importance. What makes this temple more stunning is the expansive views of the sites below. As per Hindu texts, goddess Mahakali had assumed the shape of a beautiful woman and participated in the Navratri Garba celebrations. Her dance was noticed by Jaisinh who ended up ogling at her. As a result of this, Kalika Mata cursed him and soon his whole kingdom declined. Worshipping to the goddess will bring good fortune, strength and power to the devotees.
Suggested Tour
- Dwarka Somnath Tour
- Statue of Unity Package
- Gujarat Wildlife Tour
- Gujarat Temple Tour
- Gujarat Desert Beach Tour
- Saurashtra Darshan Tour
3. Rukmini Devi Temple
Rukmini Devi Temple is situated in the holy city and the erstwhile kingdom of Lord Krishna in Dwarka. As the name suggests the temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna’s wife, Rukmini who is also considered as a form of the Hindu goddess Lakshmi. The temple falls under the category of one of the most important Krishna pilgrimage places in the country. As per legends, Lord Krishna had carried away Mata Rukmini on her wedding day and married her at the very spot where the temple currently stands. Devotees and believers seeking mata’s blessings are rewarded with wealth, prosperity and happiness.
4. Meldi Maa Temple
Meldi Mata is a form of the Hindu goddess Durga and her temple is located in the city of Surat. It is widely believed that worshipping Meldi Mata will bless the devotees with whatever they wish for. Meldi Mata is also known for being a manifestation of Maa Parvati who protects her devotees from evil forces and misfortune. Many people have also said that they become free from diseases and gain knowledge, success and wealth. The temple is especially full during the Navratri season when devotees of Mata from all over the world head to the temple and it is quite a sight to behold.
Suggested Tour
- Dwarka Somnath Tour from Ahmedabad
- Dwarka Somnath Tour from Bangalore
- Dwarka Somnath Tour from Mumbai
- Dwarka Somnath Tour from Hyderabad
5. Gita Mandir
Built by the powerful Birlas in the 70s, Gita Mandir is located in very close proximity to the holy Sangam Area. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is an extremely pleasant sight to look at. Made entirely out of pure white marble every inch of the temple walls is covered with inscriptions of verses and Shlokas from the holy Hindu book of Gita, hence the name. The temple is one of the most important pilgrimage points for all Krishna devotees. Along with spirituality devotees will gaze out on the stunning Arabian Sea and the surrounding landscape in front of them.
6. Umiya Mata Mandir
Situated in the city of Unjha, as the name suggests, the temple is dedicated to Umiya Mata. Worshipped as a form of goddess Parvati, the temple is one of the major pilgrimage destinations in the region. Umiya Mata is the presiding deity of the Kadva Patidar community and is a collective manifestation of goddess Kali, Laxmi as well as Saraswati. Thai stunning temple is considered to be constructed by Lord Shiva himself and the deity here is kept on a very high regard as the giver of strength.
7. Varahi Mata Temple
Gracing the Mehsaba district of Gujarat, Varahi Mata Temple is an important Shakti Temple dedicated to a form of goddess Durga. Goddess Varahi is the female version of lord Vishnu’s Varaha Avatar. The temple remains flocked by thousands of devotees all year round who visit here to worship the goddess and pray for peace and prosperity. Depicted with the head of a boar, the temple attracts a huge crowd of devotees during the annual Navratri Festival celebrations. The goddess is associated with power and strength and is considered as the protector of all her devotees.
Suggested Tour
- Gujarat Tour Packages from Vishakhapatnam
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- Gujarat Tour Packages from Chennai
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8. Ambaji Temple
Ambaji Mata Temple is a major Shakti Peeth situated in Ambaji town of Banaskantha district in Gujarat. Dedicated to the goddess Ambe Manifestation of Maa Durga, the temple came into existence during the 14th century under the initiative of King Arun Sen of the Vallabha Dynasty. According to holy Hindu texts, the temple is built on the spot where goddess Sati’s heart had fallen. The temple is surrounded by lush green forests and scenic beauty that makes a visit here truly worth it.
9. Chamunda Temple
Located in the village of Chotila, Maa Chamunda Devi is an important place of Shakti worship in Gujarat. Chamunda Mata is the angry, frenzied and fierce form of Adi Shakti who is said to have destroyed the universe destroying demons Chanda and Munda. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. The temple is placed on top of a hill that offers stunning views of the surrounding and the valley below. Built during the reign of the Solanki Dynasty, the temple is a major pilgrimage destination in the state.
10. Kankai Temple
Situated in Bhavnagar district the temple is dedicated to Kankai Mata and is one of the oldest temples in the region. Considered as one of the most sacred shrines, the temple was built by king Bhavadev. This quaint temple is situated amidst the dense forests of Gir and makes for a fun visit amidst natural surroundings. Along with offering prayers, one can even spot various deer, peacocks etc. the perfect spot for a full day of family getaway.
11. Matangi Temple
Situated in Bharuch district, the stunning temple of Matangi is dedicated to goddess Matangi herself. The obvious architectural marvel that is captivating on first sight was built during the rule of Solanki Dynasty. Along with the pure spirituality the temple is also known for its serene environment, manicured and well-maintained gardens and peaceful surroundings. Its serenity attracts not just local devotees but also devotees from all over the world. The temple is also known for hosting mass marriage ceremonies during the marriage season.
12. Jogani Mata Temple
The highly revered temple of Jogani Mata is situated in the city of Ahmedabad. The presiding deity of the temple is the assistant of the fierce warrior goddess of Chamunda Mata. In order to pay homage to the goddess, a 2 day fair takes place at the village of Palodar in Mehsana. This fair is attended by devotees from across the state that showcases the culture and traditions of the locals.
13. Chaval Mata Mandir
The Chaval Mata Mandir in the Kutch district of Gujarat is another unique Mata Mandir of the region. This unique temple is dedicated to the benevolent Chaval Mata and devotees make it a point to flock to the temple during important events. As the name suggests the goddess is responsible for protecting people’s food. It is also widely believed among the locals that anyone who offers their prayer at the Chaval Mata Mandir, never goes hungry or feels shortage of food on their plate.
14. Shri Himja Mata Mandir
Dedicated to Shri Himja Mata, this iconic temple is located in the vicinity of Vadodara city. As the name suggests, the temple is dedicated to goddess Himja, after whom the temple is named. Himja is the daughter of the Himalayas who is none other than a version of Devi Parvati and is held at a very high accord. One of the most miraculous features about the temple is that the temple is surrounded by arid land; however, there is no dearth of water within the temple premises.
15. Shri Durga Mandir
Gujarat has no dearth of Durga Mandir or temples dedicated to goddesses. This special Durga Mata Temple is dedicated to the benevolent force that is goddess Parvati. The Mahishasura Mardini goddess is worshipped by frequent visitors who pour in each day to offer their prayers to the powerful mother goddess. The temple remains heavily flocked with visitors seeking the goddesses’ blessings and each festival here is celebrated with great pomp and show.
16. Vaishno Devi Temple
Vaishno Devi Temple in Katra, Jammu needs no introduction. It is one of the most important Shakti Peeth in India and manages to attract a crowd of devotees all year round. With the same name, the Vaishno Devi Temple of Gujarat is an exact replica of the original Vaishno Devi Temple of Jammu. The temple is located on the highway running between Sarkhej and Gandhinagar. Its resemblance to the original Vaishno Mata Temple is uncanny but unlike the Jammu Vaishno Devi Temple, this circuit and darshan can be completed in just a couple of hours.
17. Meenakshi Mandir
Not to be confused with the Meenakshi Temple of Madurai, this holy place of Shakti worship is located in the city of Ahmedabad. Dedicated to ma Meenakshi, the consort of Lord Shiva, the temple is extremely important among Shakti worshippers. One unique feature of the temple is that the goddess’s image is placed next to Lord Shiva’s. People from across the state make it a point to visit this temple, especially during the holy season of Navratri.
18. Bhadrakali Mandir
The history of Bhadrakali Temple in Ahmedabad dates back to centuries ago. Considered as the city goddess of Ahmedabad, this temple has suffered a lot of damage as a result of destructive activities by the invaders and terrorists. Right now, the temple is located in a strategic location from where the goddess keeps her eyes on the entire city due to which the goddess has garnered the reputation of being the protector goddess. People of the city make it a point to visit the temple and offer their prayer to Mata Bhadrakali at least once. It is also frequented by our honorable PM Narendra Modi during the New Year.
19. Rudramata Temple
If you are travelling to the white Rann of Kutch, you will be crossing the famous Rudramata Temple. Located at a distance of 14 kms outside of the main city in Bhuj district, this temple graces the bank of Khari River. Rudramata is the chief deity of Jadeja clan and one of the most important goddesses in the state. According to written records and legends, the temple is believed to date back to 400 years ago. One can spend some peaceful time here along with exploring some nearby attractions like the Bhuj Dam as well.
20. Hinglaj Mata Temple
Situated in the village of Hinglajpura, in the vicinity of Mehsana district, Hinglaj Mata Temple is not only important but it is also one of the most beautiful temples of Gujarat. This powerful Shakti Peeth is the place where Mata sati’s head had fallen. There are tons of ancient written records and mythologies that place this temple in its current place making it extremely old. The idol of the presiding deity is that of Hinglaj Mata, who is a manifestation of Mata Shakti and is visited by believers from all over the world. Being a shaktipeeth the temple is a major pilgrimage destination among Shakti believers.