Chamunda Mataji temple is located near Rajkot in Gujarat, India. Chotila is a Hindu temple town and the capital of Chotila Taluka in Surendranagar district.
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About Chamunda Mataji Temple Chotila
Chotila, the taluka headquarters of Gujarat’s Surendranagar district, is a tiny town with 20,000 residents. The Mataji temple is situated atop Chopila Mountain. Chotila Hill is approximately 1250 feet high. Throughout the year, thousands of devotees go from all across India to visit the Chamunda Ma Temple in Chotila. Devotees come here to meet Chamunda Mata since she is considered their Kuldevi in many Gujarati groups. Navratri is the perfect time to visit this region since every Ma Devi Shakti temple in India commemorates these nine days with significant fervor.
Aside from Navratri, many devotees visit here on Sundays and during vacations. Thousands of devotees came here during the Kartik month, and they were fortunate to see Ma Devi Chamunda. The Chamunda Mata Temple Trust manages a number of businesses, including festivals, guest accommodations, and bhojanalaya. In addition, a devotee can do many rites as desired, such as Navchandi Yagya, Chaul Kriya, and other Yagya. There are various private hotels, guest homes, Dharm Shalas, restaurants, and bhojanalayas in Chotila to assist devotees.
Chotila Chamunda Mataji Temple Total Steps
On top of the 1173-foot-tall Chamund or Chotila hill stands the temple of Chamunda. To reach the temple, one must ascend 620 stairs. The Ambani brothers, Anil and Mukesh, made your ascent a bit simpler by adding carpets and shade coverings to the stairs. Reaching the summit of Chamunda Shakti Peeth will allow you to enjoy a breathtaking view of the surroundings.
Chamunda Mataji Temple Chotila History
In the past, Chotila was called Chotgadh. It was once owned by the Sodha Parmars, but the Khachar Kathis took it from Jagsio Parmar and used it as one of their main seats. The Chotila home is where the majority of Khachar Kathis can trace their ancestry. In 1566 AD, Chotila was taken over by the Kathis. During the British era, it served as the headquarters of an Agency Thana. Devi Mahakali was attacked by the demons Chand and Mund, and during the ensuing battle, the Devi severed their heads and offered them to Maa Ambika, who informed Mahakali that they would be revered as Chamunda Devi.
Chotila Temple’s idol manifests itself. Once, Mata appeared in his bhakt’s dream. He gave him instructions to excavate a specific location and reveal her idol. When he did, he discovered Chamunda Maa’s idol. The temple was constructed there as well. The temple is still located in the same location today, but it has undergone numerous renovations for the pilgrims’ convenience, including an expanded hall and carpeted steps.
This is how the Chamunda twin idols come to an end. Chamunda Maa’s bhakt was Kario Bhil. He has promised Chamunda Maa that if he begets with a child he will build another idol of Chamunda Maa at Chotila Temple. He forgets his wish after having a child and becomes preoccupied with his daily routine. Additionally, Maa gave him the shawl that, when he sat on it, would lift him into the air. This man was tasked with preserving the money and jewels that the British had taken and then allocating them to the underprivileged. However, he was once discovered doing this and given a jail sentence. While he was sleeping he got the dream of Maa and Maa reminded him of his promise. Kario Bhil realized his mistake and promised to build another idol of Maa. But, Chamunda Maa was dayalu and self-manifested another idol of herself. This is why there are two idols of Chamunda Maa.
Chotila Chamunda Mataji Temple Timings
Darshan Timings of Chotila Chamunda Temple
The temple is open for devotees from 05:00 am to 07:30 pm.
Aarti Timings of Chamunda Mata Temple Chotila
Morning Aarti Timing
6:00 AM – Monday to Saturday
5:30 AM – Sunday
4:00 AM – During Purnima
Evening Aarti Timing
6:00 PM – During Purnima
Prasad Details at Chotila Chamunda Temple
Free Prasad is offered by the temple.
The Prasad is available from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Accommodation at The Chotila Chamunda Mataji Temple
Here is the list of Hotels in Chotila
How to Reach at Chotila Chamunda Mataji Temple:
By Rail
Rajkot is just 47 Km from the Chotila temple. So, to reach Chotila by rail route you need to get down at Rajkot Railway Station. Then, travel to Chotila by cab or any public transport.
By Road
Traveling to Chotila by bus is the most convenient way to reach the temple. GSRTC Buses are easily available from major cities of Gujarat. The Chotila bus stand is just 700 meters from the temple.
By Air
Rajkot Airport is the nearest airport to Chotila temple. Chotila is located 50 Km from the temple. Get down to the airport and hire a cab to reach the temple.