Kali Mata Temple located at the summit of Pavagadh Hill in the Panchmahal district of Gujarat is a famous Hindu pilgrimage centre in India. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, the temple is one of the Shakti Peetha shrines in Hinduism. It is believed that the toe of the Goddess Sati have fallen here. Kalikamata Temple complex, located 2500 ft above sea level, is part of the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Temple Architecture
The central figure of worship is Goddess Kali or Kalika Mata, she is accompanied by Maha Kali on the right and Bahucharamata on the left. This chief shrine lies on the ground floor, which is made of marble presented by the Minister of Limbdhi from Kathiawar.
The architectural brilliance of Kalika Mata Temple is exuded through its conventional as well as certain unconventional patterns and constructions which are a treat for sore eyes. The simplicity reflected by its every facet is further pronounced by the well-structured fortifications and an open yard that adorns the anterior part of the temple. The yard is kept accessible for pilgrims visiting at all hours. The two altars present in front of the shrine, is the sacrificial spot where ritualistic sacrifices are done to the Goddess during festive occasions. A stellar row of lights adorning the temple structure are used for adding the much needed appeal during festive hours. It must also be mentioned that the temple is a seat of the Kali yantra and forms one of the chief attractions. The spire of the temple has a dome structure which is influenced from Muslim architecture.
Festivals
Popular with devotees from all over the world, the temple is one of the biggest and the greatest centers for pilgrimage in Gujarat. A Chodhri tradition, pilgrimage to this pious spot every year is considered a very spiritually enlightening feat. The worship of the goddess is carried out by beating bell-metal symbols. On the month of Chaitra Sud 8, the temple premises see the commencement of a fair which invites people from all over the state. Hindus of all classes congregate to conduct meetings in the full moon month of Chaitra.
How to reach
Located at about 140 km from Ahmedabad, this temple beckons tourists along a long flight of stairs. The access route of the temple is not very complicated and one can easily reach there with the help of the pathway that traverses through a forest and runs till 5 kilometres. However, travelling with the elderly and children would not be a problem because of the alternate ropeway route.
Temple Architecture
The central figure of worship is Goddess Kali or Kalika Mata, she is accompanied by Maha Kali on the right and Bahucharamata on the left. This chief shrine lies on the ground floor, which is made of marble presented by the Minister of Limbdhi from Kathiawar.
The architectural brilliance of Kalika Mata Temple is exuded through its conventional as well as certain unconventional patterns and constructions which are a treat for sore eyes. The simplicity reflected by its every facet is further pronounced by the well-structured fortifications and an open yard that adorns the anterior part of the temple. The yard is kept accessible for pilgrims visiting at all hours. The two altars present in front of the shrine, is the sacrificial spot where ritualistic sacrifices are done to the Goddess during festive occasions. A stellar row of lights adorning the temple structure are used for adding the much needed appeal during festive hours. It must also be mentioned that the temple is a seat of the Kali yantra and forms one of the chief attractions. The spire of the temple has a dome structure which is influenced from Muslim architecture.
Festivals
Popular with devotees from all over the world, the temple is one of the biggest and the greatest centers for pilgrimage in Gujarat. A Chodhri tradition, pilgrimage to this pious spot every year is considered a very spiritually enlightening feat. The worship of the goddess is carried out by beating bell-metal symbols. On the month of Chaitra Sud 8, the temple premises see the commencement of a fair which invites people from all over the state. Hindus of all classes congregate to conduct meetings in the full moon month of Chaitra.
How to reach
Located at about 140 km from Ahmedabad, this temple beckons tourists along a long flight of stairs. The access route of the temple is not very complicated and one can easily reach there with the help of the pathway that traverses through a forest and runs till 5 kilometres. However, travelling with the elderly and children would not be a problem because of the alternate ropeway route.
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