Khodiyar Mandir Rajpara, situated on the Bhavnagar-Rajkot highway in the quaint village of Rajpara in Shihore taluka, Bhavnagar district, Gujarat, is one of the most revered temples dedicated to Maa Khodiyar. Devotees from all corners of India flock here throughout the year, especially during festivals like Navratri and on weekends, to seek the blessings of the divine goddess.
The temple lies just 18 kilometers from Bhavnagar, making it accessible for both travelers and local devotees. Historically, many devotees would undertake a pilgrimage on foot to this sacred shrine. The origin of this holy site is closely linked with Maharaja Wakhatsinhji Gohil, the ruler of Bhavnagar state during the 17th and 18th centuries.
The Divine Presence of Khodiyar Maa
Khodiyar Maa is considered a form of Adi Shakti Devi, symbolizing strength, protection, and guidance. Gujarat hosts numerous temples dedicated to Khodiyar Mata, yet five of them hold special significance for devotees:
- Matel, Morbi
- Khodaldham, Kagvad
- Galdhara, Dhari
- Rajpara Khodiyar Maa Temple, Bhavnagar
- Khodiyar Maa Temple, Aiyavej (near Palitana)
Among these, Khodiyar Mandir Rajpara stands out for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and spiritual significance.
Khodiyar Mandir Rajpara Timings
Devotees can visit the temple for darshan and aarti as per the following schedule:
| Days | Morning | Evening |
|---|---|---|
| Monday–Saturday | 5:30 AM | 7:00 PM |
| Sunday | 5:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
| On Purnima | 5:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
The temple is open from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, ensuring ample time for devotees to perform prayers, participate in rituals, and experience the spiritual atmosphere of the shrine.
Dharamshala Facilities at Khodiyar Mandir, Rajpara
Understanding the needs of pilgrims, the Khodiyar Mandir Trust has developed two dharamshalas for devotees:
- Krishnakumarsinhji Yatrik Bhawan 1
- Sir Virbhadrasinhji Yatrik Bhawan 2
These dharamshalas were recently upgraded to accommodate the increasing number of visitors. They include 14 special rooms, four large halls with 10 beds each, and six standard rooms with two beds each. The facilities are thoughtfully designed to provide comfort and convenience, located near the temple parking area.
For booking, devotees can contact the Khodiyar Mandir Trust or use platforms like khodiyarmandir.com, which offers affordable and convenient hotel and dharamshala booking options.
History of Khodiyar Mandir Rajpara
Khodiyar Mandir Rajpara is beautifully situated on the banks of Lake Tataliya, along the Bhavnagar–Rajkot highway. The temple is dedicated to Aai Shri Khodiyar Mata, whose divine presence inspires faith, strength, and devotion among people of all ages.
The temple was initially established by Maharaja Wakhatsinhji, a devoted follower of Khodiyar Mata. He built a small shrine in Rajpara that soon became a focal point of worship for many devotees. Later, Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji of Bhavnagar expanded the shrine into the magnificent temple seen today.
To accommodate the growing number of visitors, Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji developed a proper road, provided drinking water facilities, and even facilitated access via Khodiyar Mandir Railway Station on the Bhavnagar–Dhola line.
The temple is especially crowded on Sundays, Tuesdays, and full moon days (Purnima), when devotees walk to the temple to participate in the morning aarti.
The Legacy of Khodiyar Maa
Khodiyar Mata is worshipped as the Sahayak Devi (guiding goddess) of the Gohil Rajputs. Her story dates back to the 13th century, during the reign of Maharaja Ranji Gohil in a village called Vana. Even then, Khodiyar Mata was revered as a Lokdevi—the goddess of the people.
The Gohil rulers played a crucial role in spreading her worship, ensuring the temple became a spiritual center for devotees from all walks of life. In 1953, Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji founded the Shri Khodiyar Mandir Trust, which now oversees temple operations, manages facilities, and supports the needs of pilgrims.
The Birth Story of Khodiyar Maa
Khodiyar Maa’s divine story begins in Roishala village, near Bhavnagar, in Saurashtra. Mamadiya Gadhvi, a devoted villager, was removed from the royal court due to jealousy and misfortune in the Bhavnagar palace. Praying to Lord Shiva, Mamadiya Gadhvi performed a sacred ritual known as Kamal Puja.
Lord Shiva appeared and guided him to Nag Loka, the abode of serpent deities, where he received blessings. Mamadiya Gadhvi’s wife was blessed with seven daughters and one son, among whom Janbai became revered as Khodiyar Maa.
An iconic event from her childhood involved saving her brother Mehrak from a snake bite. Janbai traveled underwater to Nag Loka to fetch a healing “Ami,” returning home on a crocodile. Due to her limp caused by the journey, she was named Khodiyar, and from then on, her devotees began worshipping her as Khodiyar Maa.
Facilities at Khodiyar Mandir Rajpara
The temple offers a range of facilities for devotees to ensure a comfortable and spiritually fulfilling visit:
Annakshetra (Free Food Facility)
The temple provides free meals for visitors through a dedicated Annakshetra. Special prasad, such as sukhdi, lapsi, ladudi, or mohanthal, is offered every Tuesday.
Lapsi Ghar (Prasad Preparation Kitchen)
A separate Lapsi Ghar has been set up for preparing prasad. Devotees can cook meals using 40 gas stoves provided by the temple. A nominal gas charge is applied, and all utensils are free for use. A clean dining hall ensures comfort while enjoying meals.
Also read: Bhurakhiya Hanuman Temple: A Historic Spiritual Landmark in Gujarat
Free Medical Services
The temple trust runs a dispensary providing free medical care to approximately 50 devotees daily. The dispensary operates from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, ensuring basic health facilities are available for all pilgrims.
Vishram Gruh (Rest House)
Inside the temple complex, a Vishram Gruh offers four large halls—two for men and two for women—accommodating up to 50 people in each hall. This facility allows devotees to rest comfortably during their visit.
Also read: Ambaji Temple Darshan Timings: Complete Guide for Devotees
Conclusion
Khodiyar Mandir Rajpara is not just a temple but a beacon of faith, devotion, and cultural heritage in Gujarat. From its rich history, divine legends, and spiritual significance to modern facilities like dharamshalas, free food, and medical services, the temple continues to serve devotees with dedication.
Whether you are seeking blessings, exploring the cultural heritage, or simply looking for a serene spiritual experience, Khodiyar Mandir Rajpara offers a unique and enriching journey. Devotees visiting here leave with faith renewed, hearts uplifted, and a deeper connection to Maa Khodiyar’s divine grace.
