Situated at the summit of this temple, the Kalika Mata Temple is a well acknowledged Muslim and Hindu goddess temple and a famous pilgrimage center that lies in Gujarat. Dating back to the 10th or 11th century, this temple has idols of three main goddesses namely – the Bahucharamata on the left, flanked by Kali Mata on the right and Kalika Mata in the central. The spire also has a shrine called Sadanandsha Pir, who was a Muslim pir or saint. He was held of great esteem and faith by the local people.

On chitra sud 8, there is a fair that is conducted at the temple. Thousands of devotees attend this fair. It is said that this temple is a perfect site for the Shakti Peethas. The complex of Kalika Mata Temple is a part of Archeological Park in Champaner – Pavagadh, which is also acknowledged as the UNESCO heritage site.

Significance of the Temple

The Kalika Mata Temple dates back to the 10th and 11th century and is considered to be one of the oldest temples in this area. As per R.K. Trivedi, the goddess Kalika Mata was actually worshipped by the local Koli and Bhil people, unless she was then invoked and installed on the Pavagadh Hill summit by Vishvamitra. It is said that Kalika Mata is also known and worshipped as Chandi or Durga.

Pavagadh’s Kalika Mata Temple is a famous temple amongst the pilgrims. Kalika Mata is also known and worshipped by the Adivas or tribal people. The temple also finds its mentions in Gangadas Pratap Vilas Natakam, a popular 15th century drama. People say that this temple is the residence of Kalika Mata and so they lit a row of lights or diyas on different occasions. The place is also acknowledged as the symbolic place where the toe of goddess Sati fell.

Architecture of Temple

The plain and small temple is well set amid the fortifications together with an open yard at its entrance while is open long hours so that it can meet the large rush of people. There are 2 altars before the temple where people offer sacrifices to Kalika Mata. The Kali yantra is also worshipped at the Kalika Mata Temple.

The temple complex is segmented into 2 parts – the ground floor where the Hindu people offer their prayers while the temple spire is a dome where the Muslim people offer their prayers. The main shrine of the temple which is on the ground floor has images of three divine goddesses – Bahuchara Mata, the Kali Mata, and the Kalika Mata. The restored marble floor of the temple dates back to 1859 which was presented by Limbi’s Prime Minister in Kathiawar.

Time to Visit

The ideal time preferred by people to visit this temple is the months of January, February, March, October, November, and December.

Nearby Places

Champaner Pavagadh Archaeological Park

This Archeological Park is a well known park owing to its presence of Jain and Hindu temples together with exceptional architecture which is a testimony to the Islamic and Hindu styles. The park has actually received the status of UNESCO world heritage site.

Pavagadh Hills

The Pavagadh Hills is one of the oldest rock formations in country India which is composed of yellow and reddish colored stone. This hill stands nearly 800 m above the sea level. This hill is famous for having different Hindu and Islamic pilgrim centers.

Sadanshah Pir Dargah

Just above the famous Kalika Mata Temple, there is a Sadanshah Pir Dargah, which is a famous pilgrim center of Hindu and Muslim people. As per the records, the real name of Sadanshah Pir was Shahdev Joshi. He was Brahmin who later turned as Muslim. He was one of the courtiers of Muhammad Shah and it was owing to this that he changed his faith to Muslim.

Kevada Masjid

The Kevada Masjid, is also a famous pilgrim center that blends the Islamic and Hindu architectural styles. This masjid has an open compound together with a cenotaph which is located before the mosque. The masjid has a square shaped base together with a dome, while has four domes in each corner.

How to Reach the Temple

Through Road

Champaner or Pavagadh Hills is 45 kms far from Vadodra. It is easily accessible by local, state, or private buses. Private vehicles can also be hired from Vadodra. Many people opt for private cabs or taxi to reach this temple.