Khodiyar Temple is named after Khodiyar Mata, who is the principal deity of this temple. Constructed in the year 1911, this temple is visited by thousands of tourists every year. Located on the banks of Lake Khodiyar, this temple attracts tourists from different surrounding regions. Very often the pilgrims walk long distances, just to visit the temple and pay their offerings to this principal deity.

This temple is located in Mithadharva village which is near to the Mehsana city, around 22 kms from Gujarat. The Khodiyar Temple is located in west area of this village while has Chaveli on its other side of the village. It is said that lapsi is the main offering which is offered as the auspicious food in this temple.

Significance of the Temple

The Khodiyar Temple is dedicated to deity Khodiyar Mata. The story of Khodiyar Mata dates back to 700 AD which starts from the rural community, known as Roshilala. This place was a division of Vallabhipur district which is close to Bhavnagar located in Saurashtra city, Gujarat.

It is said that Khodiyar Mata saved the life of her brother who suffered from a toxic disease which could put his life in danger. Since she successfully saved the life of her brother, she came to be known as Khodiyar Mata. This incident made crocodile as her vehicle. Mata Khodiyar sitting on a crocodile symbolizes her supremacy on earth as well as under earth which signifies water. To pay tribute to Mata Khodiyar, this temple was constructed in 1911.

Architecture of Temple

Mata Khodiyar Temple is exquisitely constructed that houses an idol of its principal deity, Mata Khodiyar. The architecture of this temple is in the form of old classic style while the infrastructure of this temple is 500 feet long and is 300 feet in height. Presently the temple is being considered for renovation, which means that this temple will be made entirely of Arashpahan stone. There are steps which lead to the main temple. The architecture of this temple is spell binding while the pillars of the temple have intrinsic carvings on them.

Time to Visit

Bhavnagar has a moderate temperature all through the year. The summer season is featured with hot and humid climate while the winters are chilly and cold. The monsoon season is featured with heavy rainfall, which soaks the city Bhavnagar in water. Hence forth if an individual wishes to visit this temple, then he must visit the temple during the months of October, November, December, and January.

Nearby Places

Victoria Park

The Victoria Park spans on an entire area of 500 acres, while is a forest which is conserved by the Government of India within the premises of Bhavnagar city. The forest is rich in fauna and flora and has assorted kinds of raptors, waders together with perching birds which make it must for the bird watchers to come and witness the nature and exceptional birds.

Nilambag Palace

Earlier known as Nilambag Palace, this historical place is now converted as a heritage place. This place highlights the blend of Indian classic and western architectural style. Constructed in 1859, this palace is a personal abode of Maharaj Takhat Singh ji. It is said that Mr. Sims, a German architecture is to be accredited for the impeccable architectural design. This palace is visited by thousands of tourists every year.

Gopnath

Known as headquarter of Bhavnagar region, Gopnath is situated at the coastal region of Gulf of Khambhat. This place acts as a gateway for the tourists that visit this city during the months of summer season. Besides, the tourists that are interested in marine life can also visit this location for witnessing an assortment of marine life that is found here.

Gaurishankar Lake

Locally acknowledged as Bor Talav, this lake is a popular tourist attraction which is encircled by an exquisite garden, called Pil Garden. This is one of the main picnic spot where the tourists can also visit a planetarium that lies near the lake site. This lake was built with an intention to supply water to the entire city.

How to Reach the Temple

• Through Air – There are different domestic flights which operate on regular basis, connecting Bhavnagar to Ahmadabad and Mumbai.
• Through Road – There are private luxury and state transport buses which easily connect this temple to different cities of Gujarat. Located 791 kms away from Mumbai while 200 kms from Ahmadabad, one can board deluxe or state transport bus and reach this temple.
• Through Railways – Located on Western railway line, the temple is approximately 777 kms away from Ahmadabad and Mumbai.