Ambaji Mata Temple (also known as Arasuri Amba Temple) is a prominent Hindu temple in the town of Ambaji in Banaskantha district, Gujarat, India.[1] Revered as one of the 51 Shakta pithas, the temple is traditionally believed to enshrine the heart of the goddess Sati.[2] It is a major pilgrimage destination, particularly during Navratri and the annual Bhadarvi Purnima Fair.[3][4]
Ambaji is regarded as one of the principal Shakti pilgrimage sites. According to tradition, the heart or right arm of Sati fell at this spot following her immolation and Shiva's dance of destruction.[7] The site is associated with Shaktism and tantric worship. Nearby Gabbar Hill—considered the original seat of the goddess—houses shrines and a light-and-sound show illustrating local legends.[8] Unlike many Hindu shrines, Ambaji does not contain an idol; the goddess is represented by the Shree Visa Yantra, a sacred geometric diagram that is veiled and not visible to devotees. Photography inside the sanctum is prohibited.[9][10]
Architecture and worship
The complex features white marble construction, a gold-plated spire, and silver-plated doors. Daily offerings and multiple āratī ceremonies are performed, and an eternal flame (Akhand Jyot) is maintained in the Chachar Chowk courtyard.[11][12][13]
Festivals and pilgrimage
The Bhadarvi Purnima Fair (September) attracts large numbers of devotees, many of whom travel on foot to Ambaji. During the fair the town is illuminated, resembling Diwali. The temple also hosts extensive garba dances and Bhavai folk theatre during Navratri.[14][15][16]
Governance and recent developments
In the 2020s, state-led works were announced to develop Ambaji as a "model temple town," including a proposed "Shakti Corridor" linking the main temple with Gabbar Hill and Mansarovar.[1][17] In 2025 a data centre was introduced to support registrations for the Bhadarvi Poonam fair, donations, prasad distribution and parking systems.[18][19] Preparations for the fair have included coordinated cleanliness, safety and traffic measures, alongside an online parking system intended to streamline pilgrim arrivals.[20]
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