The Shamlaji Temple - A Thousand-Year Old Legacy

The Shamlaji temple in the northeast Gujarat is visited by a large number of Hindu devotees. It is located in the hilly regions of the Meshwo river, which flows across the Sabarkantha district of Gujarat. The temple site is located about 170 kms from Ahmedabad and 42 kms from the HImmatnagar town by road. It could also be visited by train from Ahmedabad in four hours. The place is also famous for the anual Shamlaji Fair, which takes place over a two-week period in each November. 

A Fascinating Mix Of The Sanatan Hindu Faith, History And The Composite Indian Culture

As per the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the foundation of the Shamlaji temple was laid down in the 11th century AD, and gradually constructed over the same by the subsequent rulers. According to the popular lore, the temple came into existence when the tribals from the surrounding places began worshiping an idol, which was placed in a makeshift temple at the site where the present structure stands now. It got upgraded by those in power into a permanent one later.

The archaeological aspect has much significance, keeping in mind the destruction and the desecration of the Hindu temples that has been documented throughout the medival era. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, also called 'Kalio Bavji' by the local tribes, such as the Bheels and Garasias.

Most of these tribes - along with the rest of the Hindu society - happen to participate in the annual Shamlaji fair, as well. The festival provides a platform to the local trade and craftsmen, apart from the religious activities it may offer to the pilgrims.

Transportation And Accommodation

A four-wheel drive to Shamlaji may take upto four hours from Ahmedabad, while passing through the HImmatnagar town enroute. A pucturesque site of Hanuman temple, [name required], also falls along this route. The Udaipur bound 'Mewar Fast Pass', which departs from Ahmedabad at 7 am and reaches the Shamlaji Road by 11:30 am, should be the choice of those who may not be wishing to travel by the road.

Some of the best places to be staying at around the Shamlaji Temple are : (1) Balaram Palace in the Chitrasani Village, Banaskantha district. (2) Bhavani Retreat in the Hatharva Village, Sabarkantha distrcict. (3) Darbargadh Poshina in the Sabarkantha district. (4) Bhavani Villa in the Banaskantha district. These hotels are affiliated with the Gujarat Tourism.