Ambaji, a famous pilgrimage place located on the border of the Gujarat States and Rajasthan near Abu Road, in the Danta Taluka of Banaskantha District. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. Ambaji Mata Temple is a major Shakti Peeth of India. In fact, at Ambaji Temple there is no statue or image of the goddess, but the priest has decorated it in such a way that it looks like the idol of the goddess from afar. The original deity is Yantra, which is being worshipped. For more detailed information, you can check out our blog on Gabbar Hill Ambaji Temple timing and more.
History of Ambaji Temple, Gabbar
Devotees of many origins believe Ambaji to be an important place of worship. Locals narrate many stories about its mythological importance. The Ambaji Temple is also connected with Gabbar Hill. Devotees visit both places during their pilgrimage. It is proposed that Gabbar Hill is where Sati's heart dropped. As a result, both residents and tourists revered the hill. The king of Danta had great faith in the goddess. Every day, he climbed Gabbar Hill to pray. He found the journey quite challenging due to the difficult terrain. So, the king thought of finding an easier way. One day he prayed to the goddess to shift her seat to Danta city. This would help devotees reach her easily. The goddess agreed with one condition. She told the king to walk from Gabbar Hill towards Danta. She would follow him, but he must not look back. If he looked back, she would stop and stay there forever. The king began walking towards Danta. He heard the sound of the goddess’s anklets behind him. After some time, the sound stopped. The king started doubting if she was still following him. He looked back to check. At that moment, the goddess stopped and settled there. That sacred spot became today’s Ambaji Temple. Because of this legend, devotees visit both Ambaji Temple and Gabbar Hill. A holy flame still burns on Gabbar Hill even today.
Significance of Ambaji Temple Ambaji
Devout Hindus who follow the Shaktism sect see Maa Amba as a sacred shrine because of her brilliance. Given that Devi Sati's heart fell here, this is a potent Shakti Peeth. The achievement of the Shakti Peeth Status is associated with an intriguing narrative in Daksha Yaga Mythology. Each Shakti Peeth was created when a certain bodily part of the Goddess Sati Devi fell into it. According to bards, Lord Shiva danced with Sati Devi's corpse in agonising rage and grief, causing her body to break apart into fifty-one pieces. Batuk Bhairav is connected to this temple, and the Shakti Peeth has a strong tantric link.
Things to know before visiting Ambaji Temple
- Dress properly, as it is a holy place.
- Cover yourself well to take blessings.
- Always respect the temple traditions and customs.
- Carry some cash for flowers or prasad.
- Be ready for strict security checks at the entrance.
- Bags and electronic gadgets are not allowed inside.
- Use the lockers to keep your belongings safe.
- Do not trust locals who offer quick darshan for money.
- Book your accomodation near Ambaji Temple in advance before coming.
- The Ambaji Temple stays crowded all year round.
How to Reach Ambaji Temple
The temple can be easily reached by taking the different modes of transport. Some frequent and quick ways are given below.
By Rail
Abu Road Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Shri Arasuri Ambaji Mata Temple, Ambaji. It is located 20 km away. You can reach the mandir by autorickshaw or taxi.
By Air
Ambaji is closest to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, about 179 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or board a bus to reach Ambaji. Both private cabs and public transport options are available for travellers. The journey offers a convenient route with scenic views along the way.
By Road
The road connectivity of all of Gujarat is excellent. You can reach Shri Ambaji Mata Temple from any part of Gujarat. The nearest bus stand is Ambaji Bus Stand and the temple is 14.4 km away from the bus stand. Direct autos are available from the bus stand to Shri Ambaji Mata Temple, Ambaji.
Best Time to Visit Ambaji Mandir
The best time to visit Ambaji Temple is from September to March, when the weather is nice. Many devotees come during Navratri, a big festival held in September or October. Early mornings and evenings are the best for a peaceful darshan. It is better to avoid visiting in the hot summer months from April to June.