Gujarat’s First Funicular System Ride Will Start in Chotila: Surendranagar district’s sacred pilgrimage site, Chotila, is all set to welcome Gujarat’s first funicular system ride. Once operational, this innovative transport system will make it easier for devotees to reach the famous Chamunda Mata Temple, located atop the Chotila hill. Currently, pilgrims must climb 635 steep steps to seek blessings, but soon they will be able to reach the shrine in just five minutes through this modern ride.
A Historic Project for Devotees
According to Chotila Mahant Mansukhgiri Gosai, about 30 to 35 percent of the project work has already been completed, and it is expected to be fully ready by the upcoming Chaitra Navratri festival. The ride will be a blessing especially for elderly, disabled, and physically weak devotees who struggle to climb the hill.
Once operational, devotees will be able to take a round trip for just ₹30 plus GST, ensuring both affordability and convenience. The temple trust has confirmed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be invited to inaugurate the project.
How the Funicular System Works
The funicular system will cover a distance of only 20 feet alongside the traditional stairway. The project will run with 12 coaches in total — six moving uphill and six downhill at the same time. Each coach will have seating capacity for six passengers, ensuring smooth and continuous service for the large number of visitors.
The ride is not only designed for people. Heavy materials, temple goods, and puja items that are currently carried manually by trust workers will also be transported using these coaches. This will reduce the burden on temple staff and make daily arrangements much easier.
Lakhs of Devotees Visit Chotila Every Year
Chotila hill attracts an average of 7,000 to 10,000 devotees daily. The numbers rise dramatically during Navratri, when nearly 2.5 lakh pilgrims visit during the nine-day festival. The Diwali to New Year period also draws around five lakh devotees, while the Bhai Bij festival sees an unprecedented rush of visitors.
On every full moon (Purnima) day, Chotila witnesses an overwhelming crowd of devotees, with the biggest gatherings during Kartik Purnima and Chaitra Purnima. Groups of pilgrims often arrive on foot, pulling Mataji’s decorated chariots. The highways leading to Chotila — from Bagodara, Viramgam, and other parts of North Gujarat — are filled with long processions of devotees during these times.
Spirit of Service Along the Pilgrimage Routes
During Purnima, the national and state highways near Chotila transform into spiritual routes. Service organizations and local villagers set up temporary stalls every few kilometers to provide tea, water, juice, snacks, and even full meals to the walking groups. Farmers also open up their fields to offer shelter and resting places for these devotees. This tradition of hospitality adds a unique charm to the pilgrimage experience.
Chotila: The Abode of Chamunda Mata
The Chamunda Mata Temple in Chotila is one of Gujarat’s most famous pilgrimage destinations. Situated on the Ahmedabad–Rajkot highway, the temple is believed to be a powerful center of faith, where thousands of devotees visit daily to seek blessings. Navratri, in particular, sees massive footfall, not just from Gujarat but also from across India.
Maa Chamunda is worshipped as one of the 64 Yoginis, a fierce and protective form of the Divine Mother. Devotees believe that the goddess removes pain, fear, and suffering, making Chotila a spiritually significant place for millions of followers.
A Glimpse into the Ancient Legend
The history of Chotila is deeply rooted in mythology. According to legend, thousands of years ago, two powerful demons named Chand and Mund terrorized the earth. Distressed sages and saints prayed to the goddess for help. Responding to their prayers, a divine energy emerged from a sacred fire ritual, taking the form of Adyashakti (the primordial power).
The goddess assumed two fierce forms and destroyed Chand and Mund. Since then, she has been worshipped as Chandi and Chamunda, residing at Chotila hill in a twin manifestation. Even today, the idol of Chamunda Mata at Chotila is worshipped as a powerful protector of devotees.
Transforming Pilgrimage with Modern Facilities
The launch of Gujarat’s first funicular system ride at Chotila is more than just a transport project — it represents the blend of faith and modern infrastructure. With this facility, the temple trust aims to ensure that even the elderly and differently-abled can reach the temple without physical strain.
The project is expected to boost pilgrimage tourism in Surendranagar district, drawing even larger numbers of devotees from across the country. It will also reduce congestion on the stairways, making the pilgrimage experience safer and more comfortable.
Also read: Rajkot Barauni Special Weekly Train to Run During Diwali and Chhath Festival Season
A Milestone for Gujarat
As the state’s first funicular system, Chotila’s project sets a milestone for religious tourism in Gujarat. Once operational, it will not only serve millions of devotees but also stand as a model for similar projects at other important pilgrimage centers.
With faith, tradition, and technology coming together, Chotila is ready to enter a new era — where every devotee, regardless of age or health, will have equal opportunity to seek blessings of Maa Chamunda.
