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If you are traveling through the spiritual landscape of Gujarat, the Rajpara Khodiyar Mandir in Bhavnagar is a destination that calls to the soul. Situated about 15 to 18 kilometers from Bhavnagar city, this temple is not just a stone structure; it is a center of deep faith for millions.
Nestled quietly against the scenic Tataniya Dharo (a massive freshwater lake) and surrounded by rolling hills, the temple offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and divine energy. It is the primary shrine for Maa Khodiyar, the warrior goddess worshipped as the Kuldevi (ancestral deity) of the Bhavnagar Royal Family and many other communities across the state.
Whether you are here to fulfill a vow (Manat) or simply to find peace away from the city noise, this guide covers everything you need to know for your visit.
How to Reach Rajpara
The temple is located near Rajpara, a popular village in Bhavnagar. If you’re traveling from major cities like Ahmedabad, Vadodara, or Surat, you can easily reach the temple by road. The distance from Bhavnagar Terminus to Khodiyar Mandir is approximately 15 km, making it a short drive for visitors.
The temple is very well connected.
- By Road: This is the easiest way. Rajpara is located on the Bhavnagar-Rajkot highway. You can take a private car, a taxi, or an auto-rickshaw from Bhavnagar.
- By Train: The nearest major railway station is Bhavnagar Terminus. From there, you can hire a rickshaw or taxi to the temple.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bhavnagar Airport, which has flights connecting to Mumbai.
Distance Chart:
- Bhavnagar City: ~15 km
- Ahmedabad: ~170 km
- Vadodara: ~210 km
- Palitana: ~40 km
Google Map Directions
Darshan Timings and Aarti Time
For those planning a visit to Khodiyar Mandir, it is essential to know the darshan timings. The temple is open to devotees daily, and the usual timings are:
- Darshan: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
The temple also holds special aarti sessions at specific times during the day. The Aarti Time at Khodiyar Mandir Bhavnagar is typically at 7:00 PM in the evening. However, it’s always a good idea to check in advance, especially during festivals or special occasions, when timings may vary.
| Days | Morning | Evening |
|---|---|---|
| Mon To Sat | 5:30 AM | 7:00 PM |
| Sunday | 5:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
| On Purnima | 5:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
The History: Why the Temple is Here
The story of why the temple stands exactly at this spot in Rajpara is one of the most famous legends in Saurashtra.
Centuries ago, the ruler of Bhavnagar, Maharaja Atmaramji (often associated with Wakhatsinhji in folklore), was a staunch devotee of Maa Khodiyar. He prayed to the Goddess to come and reside in his capital, Bhavnagar, to protect his people.
Maa Khodiyar appeared in his dream and agreed to follow him to the city. However, she set one strict condition: “Walk ahead and do not look back to check if I am following.”
The King began his journey, leading the way. He could hear the distinct tinkling sound of the Goddess’s anklets behind him, assuring him of her presence. However, when they reached the village of Rajpara, near the Tataniya Dharo lake, the sound of the anklets suddenly stopped. The soft sand of the riverbank had muffled the noise.
Overcome with anxiety and forgetting the condition, the King turned around to check. True to her word, the Goddess stopped right there and turned into a stone idol. The King, realizing his mistake, built a grand temple at that exact spot, which we now know as the Rajpara Khodiyar Mandir.
The Sacred Lake: Tataniya Dharo
You cannot talk about this temple without mentioning the beautiful lake behind it. The Tataniya Dharo is integral to the temple’s identity.
According to mythology, the Crocodile (Magar) is the divine vehicle of Maa Khodiyar. Because of this, the crocodiles living in this lake are considered sacred. Unlike in the wild where people fear them, here, devotees eagerly stand by the railings hoping to spot one. Seeing a crocodile in the Tataniya Dharo is considered a sign of extreme good luck and a direct blessing from the Mother Goddess.
Contact Information
If you’re looking for more information regarding the temple, its timings, or planning your visit, you can contact the temple authorities directly:
| Contact Number | +91 9574423399 |
| Email Address | [email protected] |
| Temple Address | Khodiyar Mataji Temple, Rajpara, Bhavnagar, Gujarat 364060 |
It is recommended to call ahead if you’re planning a group visit or need assistance with accommodation or special arrangements.
Accomodation: Guest House and Dharamshala
For devotees coming from far away, staying near the temple is a peaceful option. The temple trust provides excellent facilities for pilgrims.
Dharamshala and Guest House: The Shri Khodiyar Mandir Trust manages a Dharamshala and guest house directly opposite the temple.
- Rooms: They offer both AC and Non-AC rooms.
- Cost: The prices are very nominal (budget-friendly), as it is a service for devotees, not a commercial hotel.
- Booking: Rooms are usually allocated on a “first-come, first-served” basis. You will need a valid Government ID (like an Aadhaar Card) to book a room.
Prasad
When you visit Rajpara Khodiyar Mandir, you will see devotees offering specific items to the deity.
- Lapsi: This is the most traditional offering. It is a sweet dish made from broken wheat, jaggery, and ghee.
- Sukhdi: A sweet made from wheat flour and jaggery.
- Shrifal & Chunari: Standard offerings for the Goddess.
The “Maanata” (Vow): Many locals pledge a vow to walk on foot from Bhavnagar to Rajpara Khodiyar Mandir (about 15 km) if their wishes are granted. On Saturdays and Tuesdays, you will see hundreds of people walking along the roadside to fulfill this promise.
Rajpara Khodiyar Mandir Live Darshan
If you cannot visit the temple in person, you can still seek Maa Khodiyar’s blessings from the comfort of your home. The temple trust provides a Live Darshan service that lets you watch the daily prayers and Aarti in real-time on your phone or computer. Simply visit the official website at https://www.khodiyarmandirtrust.com/live-darshan or check their social media pages to connect with the spiritual atmosphere anytime, no matter where you are.
Nearby Places to Visit from Khodiyar Mandir
If you are making a day trip, you can combine your temple visit with these nearby attractions:
- Nishkalank Mahadev (Koliyak): A miraculous Shiva temple inside the sea. It is about 25 km away. Check the tide timings before going!
- Kuda Beach: A clean, quiet beach near Bhavnagar, perfect for a relaxing evening.
- Takhteshwar Temple: Located on a hill in Bhavnagar city, offering a panoramic view of the Gulf of Khambhat.
Donations
Devotees from across Gujarat and beyond offer donations to Maa Khodiyar as a token of devotion, gratitude, and for fulfillment of vows. Shree Rajpara Khodiyar Mandir Trust manages the donation process with full transparency and provides facilities for both in-person and online donations.
- Donation Counters at Temple: Located near the main hall and trust office.
- Digital Payments: Many temples, including Rajpara Khodiyar Mandir, accept donations via:
- UPI / QR Code
- Net Banking
- Trust’s bank account (ask at the temple office for official details)
FAQs
What is the history of Khodiyar Mandir Bhavnagar?
The temple is dedicated to Khodiyar Mata, a deity worshipped for blessings of prosperity and protection. It has a rich historical significance dating back centuries.
What are the timings of Khodiyar Mandir Bhavnagar?
The temple is open daily from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
How can I reach Khodiyar Mandir from Ahmedabad?
The distance from Ahmedabad to Rajpara Khodiyar Mandir is approximately 170 km, and it can be reached by car or bus.
Is there a guest house or dharamshala at Khodiyar Mandir?
Yes, Khodiyar Mandir offers a guest house and dharamshala facilities for pilgrims.
Can I watch the live darshan of Khodiyar Mandir?
Yes, the temple offers live darshan via its official website and social media channels.
Conclusion
Rajpara Khodiyar Mandir in Bhavnagar is a place of divine worship, rich history, and spiritual serenity. Whether you’re visiting for darshan, seeking blessings, or simply exploring the beautiful architecture, the temple offers a memorable experience for every traveler. With its convenient location, accessible guest house, and live darshan services, Khodiyar Mandir is a must-visit for anyone traveling through Gujarat.
Dhiraj Patel is a seasoned writer for Bhavnagar.city, passionately exploring the city’s culture, history, and lifestyle. With a deep understanding of Bhavnagar’s heritage, he crafts engaging, well-researched content that resonates with locals and visitors alike. Dhiraj’s expertise and firsthand experiences ensure his articles are both informative and trustworthy.