Gandhinagar: Nestled in the Aravalli mountain range, the Ambaji Mata Temple is a revered spiritual centre that draws lakhs of devotees year-round, especially on every full moon and during the Bhadarvi Poonam fair. Now, with the vision of “Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi,” Ambaji Yatradham is set to undergo major development. The state government has prepared a 50-year master plan for the Shri Ambaji Mata Temple complex in Danta taluka of Banaskantha district. With an estimated cost of ₹1,632 crore, the project will be implemented in two phases.

The Chief Minister is closely monitoring its execution, and Minister of State for Home Shri Harsh Sanghavi recently chaired a key meeting to review progress, an official statement said.

The master plan focuses on the overall development of the Ambaji pilgrimage site. It prioritises sustainability, seamless technological connectivity between the Jyot and Visha Yantra, and thematic development at key locations like Chachar Chowk and Gabbar. The Gujarat Pavitra Yatradham Vikas Board, under the state government’s Tourism Department, is implementing the master plan. At its core are two revered pilgrimage sites: Gabbar Parvat, believed to be where the heart of Goddess Sati fell, and the Ambaji Mata Temple, home to the sacred Visha Yantra. A spiritual corridor will be created to offer devotees a more immersive and meaningful pilgrimage experience.

In the first phase, development works worth approximately ₹950 crore will begin soon. A major highlight is the creation of the Shakti Corridor, connecting the Ambaji Temple, Gabbar Parvat, and Mansarovar through an integrated pathway. A grand Shakti Chowk will be linked to Gabbar Darshan Chowk via Shaktipath. Other key developments include the expansion of the temple area with themes from the mythology of Goddess Sati, a pedestrian underpass to the temple, an arrival area at Ambaji Chowk, improved roadways with footpaths, multi-level parking, Yatri Bhavan, Divya Darshan Plaza, Sati Ghat development, and a new Gabbar Arrival Plaza featuring a light and sound show.

The second phase will focus on further development of the Gabbar Temple and its surroundings, the Ambaji Temple and Mansarovar area, and the Sati Sarovar, with a projected investment of ₹682 crore.

As part of plans to improve pilgrim facilities and ensure a safe, smooth experience, Chachar Chowk will be expanded threefold. The area will feature galleries, murals, and exhibition spaces inspired by mythological stories linked to Gabbar Parvat, deepening devotees’ emotional connection.

Festival zones such as event plazas and garba grounds will be developed in the Sati Sarovar and Sati Ghat areas. Plans for Gabbar Parvat include coordinated development of the temple complex, parikrama path, ropeway, and better crowd management. Rooted in faith and guided by a long-term vision, the redevelopment of Ambaji aims to enrich the spiritual experience for every pilgrim. DeshGujarat