A hillside cable car like Ambaji ropeway overlooks a mountain town, with scattered buildings, winding roads and blue mountain ranges

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Gabbar Hill, Ambaji: The Original Seat of the Shakti Peeth

Gabbar Hill, Ambaji, rises above the Arasur Hills, revered as the original seat of Goddess Amba. Believed to be one of the 51 Shakti Peeths of the subcontinent, as recognised by the Shri Arasuri Ambaji Mata Devasthan Trust, this sacred hill holds deep spiritual significance for devotees who come here to seek the goddess's blessings.

The pilgrimage to the summit involves climbing 999 steps or taking the 636 m long cable car ride, which has operated since 1998. Explore both routes, their costs, and the sacred shrine that awaits at the top.

A steep green cliff like that of Gabbar Hill, Ambaji, overlooks a vast forested valley, with distant hills fading into the hazy morning sky

Why Gabbar Hill, Ambaji, Holds a Special Place in Ambaji

According to the temple trust, Gabbar Hill is where the heart of Goddess Sati is believed to reside. For devotees, Gabbar, Ambaji, is more than a hilltop shrine. It is a sacred seat of Shakti, where an eternal flame draws pilgrims seeking the goddess’s blessings.

The hill is also home to Mataji ka Jhula (the Mother’s swing) and the Kal Bhairav Temple, both revered places of worship. With over 3 million devotees visiting each year, the hill sees a steady stream of pilgrims, particularly during festivals. The climb to this sacred summit offers 2 options: the traditional 999 steps or the cable car.

The 999 Steps and the Ambaji Ropeway

The 999 steps leading up Gabbar Hill form an enduring part of the pilgrimage to Goddess Amba’s sacred abode. For devotees, each step brings them closer to the hilltop shrine, making the ascent an act of faith and devotion. The Ambaji ropeway, introduced in 1998, offers an alternative for those who prefer a shorter journey to the summit.

Operated by Usha Breco Limited, this 636 m long ropeway carries 4 passengers per cabin, so larger groups may need to travel separately. By bypassing the steps, it offers an easier way to reach the shrine, particularly for older pilgrims and families travelling with children.

A cable car travels above a sprawling mountain valley, like that on the way to Gabbar Temple, Ambaji, offering panoramic views of forested slopes and distant hills.

Gabbar Ropeway Timings and Fare

The Ambaji ropeway offers a convenient way to reach the sacred summit of Gabbar Hill. Here are the timings and ticket prices published by the operator:

Timing: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Adult Fare: INR 125, inclusive of GST
Child Fare: INR 70, inclusive of GST

A combined Gujarat ropeways ticket is also available, covering Ambaji, Girnar, and Pavagadh.

How to Reach Gabbar from Ambaji

Gabbar Hill is around 4 km from the main Ambaji Temple by road, taking about 15 minutes by car. Auto-rickshaws, shared tempos, and taxis are readily available for the journey through town.

The road leads to the foot of the hill, where you can continue your pilgrimage by climbing the 999 steps or taking the ropeway to the summit.

A hilltop structure emerges through drifting mist above dense green forests, with clouds gathering over the surrounding landscape.

A rocky hilltop viewpoint like that at Gabbar, Ambaji, offers sweeping views of a misty valley, distant mountain ridges and lush green vegetation.

At the Summit: A Sacred Flame and Panoramic Views

At the summit of Gabbar Hill, the eternal flame burns in the presence of Goddess Amba, drawing devotees to this sacred seat of Shakti. Nearby, Mataji ka Jhula and the Kal Bhairav Temple offer further places to pause for prayer. The hilltop also opens to sweeping views of the Aravalli Range and Ambaji town below.

The Gabbar Temple, Ambaji, is distinct from the main Ambaji Temple in town, with the 2 places of worship separated by around 4 km. Each holds a special place in the spiritual landscape of Ambaji, inviting devotees to seek the blessings of the goddess.

An early morning visit brings a quieter beginning to the pilgrimage, with time for prayer before the crowds gather. To explore more sacred sites and local attractions, read our guide to things to do in Ambaji.

Best Time to Visit and What to Carry

September to June is a favourable time for the pilgrimage to Gabbar, Ambaji, with more pleasant weather for the ascent. Carry drinking water, as the steps offer little shade once the sun rises, and bring a hat and sun protection for the climb.

Comfortable footwear with good grip makes the 999-step ascent easier. During festivals, particularly Bhadarvi Poonam, the full-moon pilgrimage, the hill draws large numbers of devotees. Plan your visit alongside the Ambaji Temple darshan timings to coordinate your prayers at both sacred sites.

White temple structure standing atop a green hill beneath a clear blue sky, viewed from a distance in daylight.

Stay at Vinti Resort near Gabbar and the Temple

For a comfortable stay during your pilgrimage, Vinti Resort is a 4-star, fully vegetarian property around 7 km from Gabbar Hill, Ambaji, and 4 km from the main Ambaji Temple. After offering prayers at both sacred sites, return to a restful setting with comfortable accommodation and freshly prepared vegetarian meals.

Vinti Resort building with a swimming pool and trees in the foreground

Choose between our 230 sq. ft. Deluxe Room, with mountain, forest, and greenery views, and our 430 sq. ft. One Bed Room Villa, set beside the pool with pool and mountain views. Both categories accommodate up to 3 guests, with an extra bed provided on the floor for the third guest.

Our all-vegetarian Eatlicious restaurant serves buffet and à la carte meals, with Jain and fasting food available on request. For a lighter break between visits, our Coffee Shop offers a relaxed spot for coffee and conversation.

Our facilities, including a swimming pool, clubhouse, indoor and outdoor games, and on-site parking, enhance your stay. At Vinti Resort, your pilgrimage to Ambaji comes with a welcoming place to rest, share a meal, and reflect on the day's prayers.

Gabbar Hill, Ambaji, holds a special place in Gujarat's spiritual landscape, drawing devotees to the sacred seat of Goddess Amba. Whether you climb the 999 steps or take the ropeway, the pilgrimage brings you to the eternal flame at the summit, with sweeping views of the Aravalli Range adding to the experience.

Plan your visit for the early morning, carry water, and allow time for prayer at the hilltop shrine. A stay at Vinti Resort near the Ambaji Temple, offers a comfortable place to return to after a day of devotion.

FAQs

How far is Gabbar Hill from the Ambaji Temple?

Gabbar Hill is approximately 4 km by road from the main Ambaji Temple, taking around 15 minutes by car. Auto-rickshaws, shared tempos, and taxis are readily available for the journey.

How many steps lead up to Gabbar, and is there a ropeway?

Gabbar Hill has 999 steps leading to the summit. Pilgrims who prefer an alternative to climbing can take the 636 m long Ambaji ropeway, operational since 1998, for an easier journey to the hilltop shrine.

What are the Gabbar ropeway timings and fare?

The Gabbar ropeway operates from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The adult fare is INR 125, and the child fare is INR 70, both inclusive of GST. A combined ticket covering Ambaji, Girnar, and Pavagadh is also available.

What is the significance of Gabbar Hill?

Gabbar Hill in Ambaji is revered as the original seat of Goddess Amba and one of the 51 Shakti Peeths. According to temple tradition, Goddess Sati's heart resides here, and an eternal flame draws devotees seeking the goddess's blessings.

Is the Gabbar Temple the same as the main shrine in Ambaji?

No, the Gabbar Temple, Ambaji, is distinct from the main Ambaji Temple in town. The 2 sacred sites are approximately 4 km apart by road, and both hold spiritual significance for devotees visiting Ambaji.

When is the best time to climb Gabbar?

September to June is a favourable time to climb Gabbar Hill, with more pleasant weather for the ascent. Early morning visits offer a quieter start, while pilgrims visiting during Bhadarvi Poonam should prepare for larger crowds.

Where can I stay near Gabbar Hill and the Ambaji Temple?

Vinti Resort is a 4-star, fully vegetarian property located approximately 7 km from Gabbar Hill and 4 km from the main Ambaji Temple. It offers Deluxe Rooms, One Bed Room Villas, vegetarian dining, a swimming pool, a clubhouse, and indoor and outdoor games.