Our Latest Blog

1. Introduction to Shamlaji Temple

Shamalaji Temple is located in the Aravalli district of Gujarat and is situated on the banks of the Meshvo river. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and he is worshipped here in the form of "Shamalaji" or "Sakal Shamal". Shamlaji Temple is also known as "Gadhadhar" and "Vishnumandir". This temple is a very sacred place for the Vaishnava sect. Especially during the Kartak Poonam fair, lakhs of devotees come here for darshan.

2. Historical Background

The historical importance of Shamlaji Temple is very old, and it is believed that this temple is about 1000 years old. According to folklore, Lord Vishwakarma built this temple in a single night. Several ancient inscriptions have been found on the stones of the temple which show that regular worship has been taking place here since the sixth century. The glorious Maitrak and Solanki dynasties as well as the local Bhil community have also contributed significantly to the development of this temple.

3. Splendor of Sculpture

The Shamlaji Temple is built in the Maru-Gurjar (Solanki) style, which is famous for the ancient temple architecture of Gujarat. In the main sanctum of the temple, a black stone idol of Lord Vishnu is installed, in which he is holding a conch, a chakra, a mace and a lotus. The spire of the temple is carved with great care, in which there are beautiful idols of gods and goddesses, Gaja, Yaksha etc. The carvings of scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata and Krishna Leela are visible on the pillars and walls of the mandapa.

4. Religious Importance

The Shamlaji Temple worships the Shamla form of Lord Vishnu, who is considered the protector of forest dwellers and tribal tribes. The banks of the Meshvo river make this place even more sacred. Tribes like Bhils and Garasias come here with devotion every year to visit. Rozgar Aarti, recitation of Vishnu Sahasranama, and special worship is done on special days like Ekadashi, Kartak Poonam, Diwali etc.

5. Shamlaji Mela

The Shamlaji Mela, held on the day of Kartak Poonam, is the biggest tribal fair in Gujarat. Lakhs of devotees come to this fair from Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. Bhajan-kirtan, religious discourses, folk dances, and cultural programs are held in the fair. Devotees besides enjoying the fair also buy local handicrafts, ornaments, and religious items.

6. Festivals

Various festivals are celebrated in Shamlaji Temple such as:

• Kartak Poonam – Main festival and fair.
• Janmashtami – Celebration of the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna.
• Diwali and Annakut – Special Vishnu Puja and food offerings.
• Rath Yatra – Chariot procession of Lord Shamlaji.

7. Pilgrims and Devotees

Shamalaji Temple is a centre of faith and devotion for devotees from all over the country. Saints, villagers, and many tribals visit here on foot. During Kartak Poonam, night vigils, river fairs, and various religious activities are observed. Devotees believe that Lord Shamlaji fulfills their wishes and protects them during their journey.

8. Cultural and Tribal Connections

The Shamlaji Temple is a confluence of Hinduism and tribal culture. Folklore, mythological rituals and devotional songs about Lord Shamlaji are slowly passed down from generation to generation among the Bhil and Garasia communities. At the fair, the Bhils express their faith through their folk music, rasa-garba, puppet shows and rituals.

9. Nearby attractions

• The Meshwa River – A holy river, where pilgrims bathe.
• Devni Mori – A nearby Buddhist archaeological site.
• Harishchandrani Chori – Remains of an ancient temple.
• Shamlaji Museum – An exhibition of idols, stones and ancient coins.

10. Facilities and Access

The Shamlaji Temple can be easily reached from National Highway No. 8. The nearest cities are Himmatnagar (29 km) and Ahmedabad (130 km). Dharamshala, devotee's residence and private hotels are available near the temple. Tribal/local food stalls, prasad food and souvenir shops are also open during the fair.

11. Management and Administration

The Shamlaji Temple Trust is responsible for the management of the temple. The fair is organized with the support of the government. The donations given by the devotees are used for the maintenance of the temple and for service works. Security arrangements, cleanliness and health arrangements are also organized properly during the fair.

12. Social and Charitable Activities

Many activities like medical camps, food distribution, education assistance for poor and tribal students are run by the temple trust during the fair. Along with this, environment-friendly activities like animal service, tree plantation and river cleaning are also run.

13. Folklore and Beliefs

It is believed that Lord Vishnu came here to protect the sages. According to folklore, Lord Vishwakarma built this temple at night and the idol of Shri Vishnu emerged spontaneously from the river. It is believed that the devotion performed here removes sorrow and brings health and success.

14. Modern Contribution and Importance

Today, Shamlaji Temple has become a major center of religious tourism in Gujarat. The ancient sculptures and gopuras of the temple are being preserved. Environmental activities as well as digital aarti, online information and donation system are available through the temple trust and local organizations, which keep the tradition alive with modernity.