Gujarat has a divine garland of religious and spiritual places, and one of them is the sacred and much revered, Mahakali Temple Pavagadh. Gujarat is the land whose soil has been sanctified by the feet of Shri Krishna at Dwarka, Bhalka Tirth, and Dakor. It is also the home of the first Jyotirlinga temple, at Somnath, and another Jyotirlinga at Nageshwar. Gujarat is also a state with prominent centres of Shakti worship at Ambaji, Girnar near Junagadh, and Pavagadh.

Mahakali Temple Pavagadh – Pavagadh Shakti Peeth

The Mahakali temple Pavagadh is believed to be a Shakti Peeth where the primordial energy or Shakti of the Mother Goddess resides. Join us as we travel to the peak of Pavagadh Hill on a blissful spiritual journey to the Shree Mahakali Mataji Temple Pavagadh.

The Pavagadh temple is another example of the resilience of the Hindu religion and culture, it has withstood the vagaries of nature and the onslaughts of time and hostile invaders, and today its flag flutters proudly at the top of its Shikhara.

About Mahakali Temple Pavagadh – Quick Facts

• Kalika Mata Temple on Pavagadh Hill is believed to be one of the 51 Shakti Peeths
• Flag hoisting at Pavagadh temple has resumed after a gap of five centuries
• Navratri is one of the famous festivals celebrated at Mahakali Temple Pavagadh
• Pavagadh’s height is about 800 metres above sea level
• The Pavagadh Ropeway makes it easier for pilgrims to reach the Pavagadh Shakti Peeth location, the Pavagadh Ropeway Ticket is reasonably priced and you can buy a return ticket
• If you prefer walking all the way to the top of Pavagadh Mandir then the Pavagadh Mandir Steps number 1800
• Even if you travel by the Pavagadh ropeway, you would still need to climb around 300 odd Pavagadh Steps to reach Pavagarh Shakti Peeth
• Pavagadh’s Kalika Mata Mandir is part of the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• The deities worshipped in the sanctum of the Pavagadh mandir are Mahakali, Kalika Mata, and Bahuchara Mata
• Kalika Mata Temple Pavagadh Timings are from 6:00 AM to 7:30 PM
• You can visit Shree Mahakali Mataji temple throughout the year, but the best time is during the winter months as Pavagadh weather would be cool, summers would be very hot and the climb could be tiring

Shree Mahakali Mataji Temple – Pavagadh Temple History & Legends

Not much is known about the historical origins of the Mahakali temple Pavagadh. It is dated to a period, sometime in the 10th or 11th centuries, and the temple has been rebuilt a number of times. However, according to legend, the deity was established at the top of the Pavagadh Hill by the revered Sage Vishwamitra, who is credited with writing the famous Gayatri Mantra.

The temple was within a fortress of a Hindu kingdom, and the last Hindu King was Patai Jaisinh who was ousted by the invasion of Mahmud Begada. It is believed that a kingdom was established at the foot of the Pavagadh hill by Vanraj Chavda, and it was named Champaner, and later on, the region was ruled by the Patai Raval dynasty.

Pavagadh which is now part of the Panchmahal district in Gujarat was a hallowed pilgrim centre from ancient times. People from far and wide took the arduous road up the rocky hill for a glimpse of the Goddess.

According to one legend, during the festival of Navratri which is celebrated in a grand manner, men and women were dancing with great fervour, when the Goddess Mahakali, herself joined in disguised as a normal woman.

It so happened that King Patai Jaisinh, who was also in the crowd, spotted her. He was instantly smitten by the extraordinary beauty that she radiated. He approached her and held her hand. The Goddess was angered by the King’s advances and she cursed him saying that misfortune would befall him, before vanishing.

The prophecy of the Goddess came true as Patai Jaisinh’s kingdom was attacked soon by Mahmud Begada, and it fell to the invading army. Mahmud Begada established his hegemony over the region, and the Shikhar and part of the Mahakali Temple were destroyed by the invaders. Over time, the Dargah of a Muslim saint was built above the Mahakali temple, and the flag that had furled atop the temple flew no more.

The Mahakali temple at Pavagadh is believed to be a Shakti Peeth, where the toe of Sati is believed to have fallen.

Renovation Of Kalika Mata Temple Pavagadh

500 years after the invasion of Champaner by Mahmud Begada, and the desecration of the Mahakali temple of Pavagadh, the temple has been renovated and a new Shikhar built. The new temple complex is built over three levels and is spread over a massive area of about 30,000 square feet. Many facilities for the ease and convenience of the pilgrims are being added. A state-of-the-art ropeway is already there and a lift to the top is being built.

Flag Hoisting At Mahakali Temple Pavagadh

Flag hoisting at the Kali Mata Mandir in Pavagadh Gujarat is inextricably linked with its history. The traditional flag hoisting of the temple has resumed after a gap of five centuries. As part of the renovation and remodelling project of the temple, the Dargah that stood on top of the temple has been shifted nearby with the consent of its caretakers, and a new Shikhara and Kalasha have been built.

The traditional ceremony of flag hoisting from the spire of the temple has resumed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, hoisted the flag on the summit of Pavagadh Hill from the Shikhara of the remodelled Mahakali Mata temple and the tradition was restarted after a gap of over 5 centuries.

We were lucky and blessed to be in time to see a flag hoisting or Dhwajarohan ceremony taking place at the Mahakali temple Pavagadh. The flag hoisting ceremony takes place five times a day. Anyone can offer a flag, which is available in different sizes.

The flags range from a length of 11 feet which is available against a donation or Dakshina of Rs 3100 to 51 feet for a donation of Rs 11000. You would need to book this Seva in advance and when your turn comes you are intimated of the date and time when you can participate in the flag-hoisting ritual.

Visiting Pavagadh Shakti Peeth – Kalika Mata Temple Pavagadh

We were looking forward to visiting the Kalika Mata Temple in Pavagadh, Gujarat as part of our Panchmahal itinerary. A wide two-lane road led from the welcome arch near Champaner to the base of Pavagadh Hill. This is the village of Machi, and vehicles can come only to this point. The ruins of the palace of the Patai Raval kings are located near this point.

We alighted from our vehicle at this point as this is where the parking is also located. If you do not have your own vehicle, there are jeeps that ferry you from the welcome gate to Machi for a nominal charge, the distance is about 5 kilometres and not more.

Machi is the point from where you ascend to the top of Pavagadh hill. You can choose to walk all the way, in which case you would need to negotiate 1800 steps, taking a path that is named, ‘Reva Path,”. A board on an arch that leads to the pathway says that the walk to the top would take only 45 minutes, however, that seems to be an optimistic view, as the climb is quite steep.

Mahakali Temple Pavagadh Ropeway – A Smooth

Ride 

The Pavagadh ropeway is named, “Udan Khatola,” and is installed and managed by Usha Breco, the pioneer in ropeways. We had earlier experienced their ropeway at Jatayu Earth Centre in Kerala and found the service impeccable. So it was with a lot of expectation that we hopped into one of the bright-coloured cars that would take us nearer to Pavagadh Ka Mandir.

The ride to the Pavagadh ropeway was, to say the least, smooth. As the gondola swung up the hill, the green and the town of Champaner stretched out languorously below.

Swinging high above the ground is always a thrilling experience, but the ride on the cable car was over, no sooner had it begun. The ride lasts just about 5 to 7 minutes. We had, reached our destination and filed out to resume our journey to the Mahakali temple.

The Walk To Shree Mahakali Mataji Temple

After alighting from the Udan Khatola (Cable Car) at the terminus, we climbed a few stairs and emerged onto the pathway that led further up the hill to the temple. The walking path from the bottom of the hill merged with this path at this point.

We walked along a broad concrete path that was shady as it was covered. Shops selling a range of items lined both sides of the walkway.

Colourful, “Chunaris,” to be offered to the Goddess, an array of sweets again to be offered as Prasad, coconuts, flower garlands, and a host of other items vied with each other to grab the attention of the passersby.

Men, women, and children from all sections of society, joined in what was a human stream flowing towards the divine presence of Mahakali Mataji. Sheer faith kept them moving, a man with one leg, moved along at a hectic pace with the aid of a crutch, his face awash with a strange bliss. A group moved forward, energetically raising cries of, “Jai Mataji,” waving colourful flags.

A couple of Jain nuns moved along with their characteristic briskness.

Oblivious to all these, a herd of donkeys lugged heavy loads that were the supplies that were needed at the top. The donkeys were still the lifeline to the summit.

We passed an ancient Jain temple on our left and stopped to take a few pictures. Pavagadh apart from being an important pilgrimage centre for Hindus is also an important destination for Jains. Pavagadh Jain temples are something to look out for during your trip.

We soon reached a water body, mid-way up the hill. It is a lake known as Dudhia Talao. This lake is considered sacred, and many religious rituals are performed here, including a sacred dip.

A little further from where the Dudhia Talao is located another Jain Temple, the Parshawnath Jain Mandir, with beautiful carvings and architectural design, that is reminiscent of the beauty of Jain temples like the Ranakpur Jain temple and Parshawnath Jain temple of Rajasthan.

We soon reached a gate which is called, “Shakti Dwar,” This is a controlled entry point into the Mahakali Shakti Peeth. We were pleased to note that plastic is not allowed beyond this point, and guards do a random check for it at this point. There are no shops beyond this point, and the climb gets steeper from here, though the steps are quite wide and comfortable.

By the side of this gate is a specially marked place where devotees can offer coconuts. The pilgrims break the coconut that they have brought, into two halves, leaving one half here and taking the other half home as Prasad.

An iron railing near the gate is hidden with shimmering and vibrant chunaris that have been tied here by people who have asked for a wish to be fulfilled by the Goddess.

The climb to the top is a little steep and maybe a bit difficult for senior citizens and those who are not physically fit. The planned lift, when it comes, will be a boon for such people, as it will eliminate even the climb of about 300 steps.

We climbed on along with a sea of people, all eager to catch a glimpse of their beloved Mahakali Ma. The view from near the top was spectacular.

On one side we could see the Dudhia Talao, while on the other side, we could see another water body shimmering in the sun, and what looked like an ancient military outpost on the edge of the cliff.

The climb culminated when we reached a massive sandstone gate embellished with images of Shiva in different forms.

But what was the defining image that arrested our gaze was that of Shiva holding his Trishul in his left hand, with a sorrowful expression. On his shoulder is the limp and lifeless body of Sati. This image wordlessly conveys the information that you are about to enter the hallowed premises of Shakti Peeth.

We soon reached the temple which was fronted by a large open courtyard and an ornate arch. Young boys and girls, aged men and women, all surged forth in an ecstatic burst, realizing that they were within touching distance of their goal.

A woman with an infant knelt down in front of the steps, placing the baby on the temple steps, praying to the divine mother for her benevolence.

Once inside, we along with the crowd around us were pulled like magnets towards the sanctum, where the deities stood resplendent, enveloped in a mystical aura. These were the deities who had inspired millions to make the arduous journey to Pavagadh, since time immemorial. People were overcome with ecstatic euphoria which burst forth spontaneously in cries of, “Jai Mata Ji.”

After spending some blissful moments in the divine presence of the universal Mother, it was time to head back towards the Cable car station. We had gone to the Shri Mahakali Mata temple, Pavagadh, empty-handed, but we returned with divine blessings and a feeling of peace and harmony with the universe.

The New Mahakali Mandir Pavagadh And The Sanctum Sanctorum

The temple complex at Pavagadh has undergone a metamorphosis. The Hazrat Sadanshah Pir Dargah which was earlier located on top of the Garba Griha has been shifted and is now an independent structure with its own design within the same complex. The temple has been rebuilt without disturbing the idols of the deities that are embedded in the wall. The Shikhara and a golden Kalasha now stand at the place where the Dargah was earlier located.

The temple has been rebuilt with red sandstone from Rajasthan and is designed by an architect named Ashish Sompura. His family has also helped in the renovation of the famed Somnath temple and the design of the Akshardham Mandir. The family is also entrusted with the design of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir.

The architectural design of the Shree Mahakali Mataji Temple is a contemporary Nagara style, with a front porch, main hall, and the Garba Griha beneath the towering Shikhara. Ornamental ceilings, colourful floors, and latticework lend a soothing ambience to the temple, which is filled with natural light and air.

Inside the sanctum sanctorum or Garbagriha of the temple are three deities. In the centre, resplendent in red is the main deity, Shree Mahakali Mataji. This deity is in the form of Mukhwato or just the head. Shee Mahakali Ma is flanked on her left by an image of Kalika Mata, while on her right is the Yantra representation of Bahuchara Mata.

What Is A Shakti Peeth?

The legend of Sati forms the core of two important sects of Hinduism, namely, Shaktism and Shaivism. According to the Puranas, Sati married Shiva against the wishes of her father, Daksha. Sati kills herself by jumping into a sacrificial fire after her father humiliates Shiva. An angry and distraught Shiva is believed to have roamed the heavens carrying the lifeless body of Sati. Her body parts fell at 51 different places, and these eventually became centres of Shakti worship and came to be known as Shakti Peethas.

There is however no consensus on some of the Shakti Peeths. 18 of the Shakti Peeths are regarded as the more important ones, and these have been mentioned by Adi Shankaracharya in his Ashta Dasa Shakti Peetha Stotram.

Images Of Mahakali Temple Pavagadh

Here is a collection of images of Pavagadh from our visit that are sure to give you a sense of the place of this sacred pilgrim centre.

These are a few photos of the shops on the way to the Shree Mahakali Mataji Temple, Pavagadh.

The Pavagadh Mandir Photo and Pavagadh Mataji photos are sure to touch the core of your heart and pull you soon to the presence of the divine mother at the Pavagadh Shakti Peeth.

Other Places To Visit In Pavagadh

Though most people head to Pavagadh for the darshan of Mahakali at the Shakti Peeth, and then head back to their respective homes, for the discerning traveller, there is much more to explore in Pavagadh itself. Here is a list of places to visit in Pavagadh apart from the main temple of Mahakali.

• Navalakka Jain Temples
• Chandraprabha Jain Temple
• Parshvanatha Jain Temple
• Ruins of Patai Raval Palace
• Dudhiya Talav
• Teliya Talav
• Saat Kaman
• Fortress Walls

List Of Places To Visit Near Pavagadh

There are many places of historical and mythological significance that are near Pavagadh, and these include the other monuments of the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park. Here is a list of places near Pavagadh and within the Panchmahal district that you can visit.

• Jama Masjid
• Kevada Masjid
• Nagina Masjid
• Shaher Ki Masjid
• Helical Well
• Vada Talao
• Kabutar Khana
• City Gates

How To Get To Kalika Mata Temple Pavagadh

The Kalika Mata temple is located on the top of Pavagadh Hill at a height of over 800 metres above sea level. Pavagadh is located near the historic town of Champaner in the Panchmahal district of Gujarat, India.

• Vadodara to Pavagadh distance is about 54 kilometres
• Ahmedabad to Pavagadh distance is about 151 kilometres
• Surat to Pavagadh distance is about 206 kilometres
• Mumbai to Pavagadh distance is about 466 kilometres

Reaching Pavagadh By Air

The nearest airport to Pavagadh is the Vadodara Airport at a distance of about 54 kilometres. There are flights to and from Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Chennai. However for more flight options, one can fly to Ahmedabad and then travel by road to Pavagadh.

Reaching Pavagadh By Train

The Panchmahal District is well connected by rail. The major railway station is Godhra, with trains to and from places like Delhi, Amritsar, and Mumbai. For more options, one can travel to Vadodara or Ahmedabad by train and travel to Pavagadh or any other place in the Panchmahal District by road.

Reaching Panchmahal District By Road

Gujarat has a well-connected road network that joins its various districts. One can travel across the state by buses run by G.S.R.T.C (Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation). You can take public transport from Ahmedabad or Vadodara, hire a cab, or drive down to Pavagadh, or any other place in the Panchmahal District.

If you are planning a visit to Pavagadh or Champaner or any other place in Panchmahal, you can book your flight tickets right here through Cleartrip or Makemytrip or CheapAir or Priceline and fly to Ahmedabad or Vadodara. If you are thinking of a road trip, do check out the rental car options.

Where To Stay When Visiting Mahakali Temple Pavagadh | Pavagadh Hotels

If you are visiting the Panchmahal District, the best place to stay is in or around Champaner, as from here you can cover the best places to visit in Panchmahal District. These include the Shree Mahakali Mata Mandir and other places in Pavagadh, the best attractions of Champaner and Jambughoda, as well as historical places near Godhra and the top tourist attraction near Kalol Panchmahal.

There are many resorts and hotels to choose from for your stay in Champaner or Jambughoda. These include the Bhanu The Fern Forest Resort & Spa and the Jambughoda Palace which is a heritage hotel.
To book any of these hotels or any other hotel in the Panchmahal District or anywhere else you can book the best hotels in Panchmahal District, India right here –  TripAdvisor or Cleartrip or  makemytrip or  goibibo or  Booking.com or  HotelsCombined or  Agoda and save a lot by getting the best deals on booking your stay.

Click to book the Jambughoda Palace hotel or best hotels in Panchmahal Dist.

Mahakali Temple Pavagadh ( पावागढ़ शक्तिपीठ ) – FAQ

What are the timings of flag hoisting at Pavagadh temple?

Flag hoisting is done 5 times a day at the Mahakali Mandir in Pavagadh.

Which Shakti Peeth is in Pavagadh?

The Mahakalika Mata temple located in Pavagadh is believed to be a Shakti Peeth. It is believed that the toe of Sati fell here.

What is the story behind Pavagadh?

Pavagadh is a Shakti Peeth and it is believed that Mahakali Ma lives here.

Which temple is famous for Mahakali?

The Shree Mahakali Mataji temple atop the Pavagadh hill is a famous abode of Mahakali.

Which part of Sati fell in Pavagadh?

It is believed that the toe of Sati fell at Pavagadh, and hence it is a Shakti Peeth.

How many Shakti Peeth are there in Gujarat?

Apart from Pavagadh, Ambaji is also believed to be a Shakti Peeth in Gujarat.

Can we go to Pavagadh at night?

The Pavagadh Kalimata temple is open only during the day and can be visited by walking or by ropeway during this time.

How many steps are there to reach the Pavagadh Mahakali temple?

Pavagadh Temple Steps number 1800 if you are walking all the way. If you take the ropeway, you need to climb only around 300 steps.

How far is the temple from Pavagadh Ropeway?

After you get off the ropeway, you still need to cover about 300 steps to reach the main temple.

How long does it take to climb Pavagadh?

It takes about 45 minutes to an hour to climb Pavagadh depending on your fitness and the halts that you make on the way.

How far is Pavagadh Ropeway from the temple? How many steps to Pavagadh Temple after the ropeway?

After the ropeway, you still need to climb about 300 steps to reach the Mahakali temple.

What is the rate of the Pavagadh ropeway ticket?

The tickets for the Pavagadh ropeway are very reasonably priced.

What is the time duration in the ropeway to go to Pavagadh Temple?

It takes about 5 to 7 minutes to reach the Mahakali temple in Pavagadh by ropeway.

What are the timings of the ropeway in Pavagadh?

The timings of the Pavagadh Ropeway are from 6.00 AM to 6.00 PM, and the last cable car to return from Pavagadh to Machi is 7.30 PM.

What are the Pavagadh Temple Timings?

The Mahakali temple timings are from 6:00 AM to 7:30 PM.

Can we book online, ropeway to Pavagadh?

Yes, you can book a ropeway ride in Pavagadh to reach the Shree Mahakali Mandir online. Tickets can be booked in advance at the Usha Breco official website. https://udankhatola.com/destination/kali-devi

Our visit to Panchmahal District in Gujarat was part of a familiarization trip organized by India Tourism Mumbai – Ministry of Tourism, Government of India and Panchmahal District Administration. The views and opinions expressed in this blog post are our own. #ExplorePanchmahal #IncredibleIndia #DekhoApnaDesh #Gujarat #travel #panchmahaltour #exploringpanchmahal #Pavagadh #PavagadhTemple 

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