Visit Shri Arasuri Ambaji Mata Temple
The Ambaji Temple, one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, is the centrepiece of the town. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Amba and is unique in that there is no idol inside the sanctum. Devotees worship the Shri Viso Yantra, a sacred geometric symbol representing the divine feminine energy. Photography and gadgets are strictly prohibited inside the sanctum. Aarti starts from 7:00 AM, and the darshan begins from 7:30 AM. Schedules may vary on major festival days.
Travel Tips: Modest clothing required. Covered shoulders and legs are expected. Remove footwear before entering the temple premises.
Best Time: October to March. Navratri is the most festive period, but it gets crowded.
Attend Evening Aarti at Ambaji Temple
The evening aarti at 7:00 PM is one of the most atmospheric experiences in Ambaji. The combination of devotional chanting, bells, and incense in an ancient temple setting creates a deeply moving atmosphere. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to find a good position. The temple transforms into a celebratory hotspot during Navratri and Bhadarvi Poornima. During Navratri, the aarti is followed by garba and traditional bhavai theatre performances by the Nayak and Bhojok communities in the town.
Climb Gabbar Hill
According to tradition, Gabbar Hill is the original seat of Goddess Amba. Visitors can climb 999 steps or take the ropeway to reach the hilltop shrine. The Shri Arasuri Ambaji Mata Devasthan Trust has created a Parikrama route around the hill featuring miniature replicas of all 51 Shakti Peethas, enabling pilgrims to receive the symbolic blessings of every sacred site in a single circuit.
Distance from Ambaji Temple: ~3 km
Ascent Options: 999 steps (~30 to 45 minutes) or ropeway
Best Time: Early morning before 9:00 AM for cooler temperatures and smaller crowds
Shopping and Local Experiences
The market lanes around the Ambaji Temple offer a range of locally significant items:
Mohanthal: A traditional Gujarati sweet made from gram flour, ghee, and sugar, deeply associated with Ambaji's prasad culture
Bangles and Jewellery: An array of traditional Gujarati metal and glass jewellery is on display across the entire market.
Temple Handicrafts: Decorative items, small idols, religious textiles, and puja items in most market lanes
Kumbhariya Jain Tirth
Among the best places to visit near Ambaji, the Kumbhariya Jain Temples are the closest and most accessible. Dating from the 11th to the 13th centuries ( 1050 - 1250 AD), the complex comprises 5 beautifully preserved Jain temples, the surviving remnants of what researchers believe was once a thriving cluster of 360 temples. Flourishing as an important Jain pilgrimage centre during the Chaulukya period, Kumbhariya is renowned for its intricate marble carvings, with the Shri Neminatha Temple recognised as an Archaeological Survey of India-protected monument. It makes a rewarding 45-minute stop for architecture, history, and spiritual heritage enthusiasts.
Distance from Ambaji Town Centre: ~3 km
Timing: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Mount Abu
Among the most popular places to visit near Ambaji, Mount Abu is Rajasthan's only hill station, set at an average elevation of 1,219 m in the Aravalli Range. Renowned for its cool climate, lush forests, and scenic beauty, it is home to the world-famous Dilwara Jain Temples, Nakki Lake, and Guru Shikhar, the highest peak in the Aravallis. The drive from Ambaji takes approximately 1.5 hours through the picturesque Aravalli hills. Once the summer retreat of British officials, Mount Abu continues to be one of western India's most visited hill destinations.
Distance from Ambaji Town Centre: ~53 km
Key Attractions: Dilwara Temples, Nakki Lake, Guru Shikhar, Sunset Point
Best Time: November to March
Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary: Approximately 60 km from Ambaji
Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary is one of Gujarat's most important wildlife reserves, established in 1978 to protect the unique Aravalli ecosystem. Spanning 180.66 sq. km., the sanctuary encompasses Jessore Hill, the second-highest peak in Gujarat, and serves as a vital ecological buffer between the Thar Desert and the region's dry deciduous forests. It is renowned for its population of sloth bears and is also home to leopards, striped hyenas, Indian civets, wild boars, porcupines, reptiles, and a rich variety of birdlife, making it an excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
Distance from Ambaji Town Centre: ~62 km
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Best Time: October to March for wildlife sightings
Tips: Wear sturdy footwear and carry water and mosquito repellent.
Choose from our 2 accommodation options. Our Deluxe Room spans 230 sq. ft., accommodates up to 3 guests, and offers views of the mountains, forest, and surrounding greenery. If you prefer more space, book the Villa, a 450 sq. ft. poolside stay for up to 3 guests with mountain views.
When it's time for a meal, visit Eatlicious, our all-vegetarian restaurant, serving buffet and à la carte options in a forest-facing setting. Stop by our Coffee Shop for refreshments, casual meetings, or a private dining experience.
Take a swim, spend time at our clubhouse, or enjoy the indoor and outdoor activities available at our resort. Book directly through the website to receive complimentary breakfast, free WiFi, access to the clubhouse and recreational activities, plus flexible early check-in or late check-out, subject to availability.
