Bahuchar Mata Temple

Bahuchar Mata Temple is a prominent Hindu temple located in Becharaji town in Mehsana district, Gujarat. Dedicated to Goddess Bahuchara Mata, an incarnation of Goddess Durga, it is considered one of the 51 Shakti Peethas and a major Shakti shrine in Gujarat. The temple complex features traditional Gujarati architecture with intricate carvings and is a significant pilgrimage centre attracting devotees throughout the year, especially during Navratri.

Visitors can expect a large, active temple complex with a main sanctum housing the idol of Bahuchara Mata adorned with jewelry and garments, surrounded by smaller shrines, pillared mandapas and courtyards. The setting is within the town of Becharaji with paved temple precincts, shops selling offerings, prasad and religious items outside the entrance. Visitors can observe daily aarti rituals, devotional singing, and traditional architecture with carved stonework. The temple is generally crowded during festivals and weekends.

The Bahuchar Mata Temple has ancient origins linked to the legend of Goddess Bahuchara. The present temple structure is believed to have been constructed in 1783 AD by Manajirao Gaekwad of Baroda after the goddess is said to have blessed him. The temple has been renovated and expanded over time and remains an important historical Shakti shrine in North Gujarat.

The temple is dedicated to Bahuchara Mata, revered as a form of Goddess Durga and considered one of the Shakti Peethas. It holds special significance for devotees across Gujarat and Rajasthan and is regarded as the patron goddess of the hijra community, who hold the goddess in high reverence. Major fairs are held during Chaitra Navratri and Ashwin Navratri attracting large numbers of pilgrims.