Ambaji Temple

Ambaji is an important temple town with millions of devotees visiting the Ambaji temple every year. It is one of the 51 Shaktipeeths. The full moon of Bhadrapad is one of the four most important festival days of the year, when farmers and agriculturists come to Ambaji.

The Ambaji shrine is the principal shrine of the goddess in Gujarat and its origins are still unknown. The original seat of Ambaji mata is on gabbar hilltop in the town. The Temple of Ambaji is recognized as one of the original Shakti Pithas (religious texts) where, according to the ancient Scriptures, the heart of the goddess Ambaji fell to earth when her body was dismembered. A triangular Vishwa Yantra, inscribed with figures and the syllable 'Shree' in the centre, represents the deity. There is no idol, which in fact testifies the temple's antiquity. Idol worship became popular much later.

During Bhadarvi Poonam (in September), a big Religious Fair is organized at Ambaji by Shri. Arasuri Ambaji Mata Devasthan Trust, with the help of the whole District Administration. More than 17 to 20 lakhs of pedesterian pilgrims and tourists attend this Bhadarvi Fair of Ambaji every year.

There are many religious programs held at Ambaji: New Year Day: Annakoot of Mataji by Trust Ashwin Navaratri: Poshsud Punam: Birthday of Mata Ambaji Garba in Chachar Chowk for all nine days and a Havan Yagna by Royal Family of Danta State, as well as a yagna by SAAMDT on Aatham. Chaitra Navratri: Jai Ambe Ma Akhand Dhoon Moreover Janmasthami, Dashera and Rathyatra are also celebrated in Ambaji. Shravan Vad Teras to Amas: Yagna Havan and Annakoot And Adivasi Mela is also an unique traditional Fair of the aboriginal people, living in vicinity of Ambaji Bhadarvi Poonam: Big Religious Fair for 4 days