Dakor Temples: Discover the Spiritual Heritage and Culture of the Region

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Temple, a grand example of Dakor temples' architecture

Dakor, a small town in Gujarat, is known for its deep spiritual roots and ancient temples. Every year, thousands of devotees flock to this holy town to seek blessings and find peace in its sacred sites. Among these, the Dakor temples, Gujarat, hold a special place, each with its own history, architecture, and divine presence. This guide will take you through the top 10 temples in and around Dakor that you must visit to experience the culture and divinity of this sacred land.

10 Best Dakor Temples

Explore the spiritual town of Dakor with these ten must-visit temples, each offering a combination of history, devotion, and craftsmanship.

1. Ranchhodraiji Temple

Stunning view of Ranchhodraiji Temple, a key attraction among Dakor temples, Gujarat

Photo: Ashesh Shah / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Ranchhodraiji Temple is the most iconic Dakor temple. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is worshiped here as Ranchhodraiji. The temple’s history dates back to the 18th century, when Lord Krishna’s idol was brought from Dwarka to Dakor by a devoted follower. The temple’s central sanctum houses the idol of Ranchhodraiji, which is decorated with beautiful garments and jewelry. The temple flourishes during the festival of Janmashtami, when thousands of devotees gather to celebrate Lord Krishna’s birth.

Timings: 6:45 AM – 7:30 PM
Best Time To Visit: August to February

2. Danknath Mahadev Temple

Dank Nath Mahadev Temple, a significant site among Dakor temples, showcasing intricate design.

Photo: Swapniliscreative / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

This ancient Dakor temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Danknath Mahadev Temple holds great value for the locals and pilgrims alike, who come here to offer their prayers to the ‘Mahadev’ or the great god. Devotees believe that worshiping at this temple can bring them peace and help them overcome obstacles in life. The temple is crowded during the festival of Mahashivratri, when devotees fast and offer night-long prayers.

Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Best Time To Visit: November to March

3. Gomti Ghat

Gomti Ghat along the Gomti River, a sacred site in Dakor, known for its spiritual significance

Photo: Aditya Mahar / Wikimedia Commons

The Gomti Ghat is another sacred site in Dakor that is frequently visited by pilgrims. The Ghat is an important part of the Dakor temple circuit and is often used for performing rituals and religious ceremonies. Pilgrims believe that taking a dip in the holy waters of the Gomti River can cleanse them of their sins and bring them closer to the divine. The Ghat has a peaceful setting, with the sound of flowing water and the sight of devotees performing their rituals.

Timings: Open throughout the day
Best Time To Visit: August to February

4. Laxmi Mata Mandir

Laxmi Mata Mandir, a beautiful temple among the Dakor temples, with intricate design details

Photo: Snehrashmi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Laxmi Mata Mandir, dedicated to Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, is another prominent Dakor temple. It is known for its simplicity and the devotion of the local community who come here to offer their prayers. The idol of Goddess Laxmi is decorated with flowers and ornaments, and devotees believe that worshiping here can bring them prosperity and happiness. The temple is especially lively during the festival of Diwali, when devotees light diyas and offer sweets to the goddess, seeking her blessings for a prosperous year ahead.

Timings: 7 AM – 8 PM
Best Time To Visit: October to February

5. Shree Santram Temple

Shree Santram Temple in Dakor, showcasing its ornate architecture and serene surroundings

Photo: Sanjay442290 / Wikimedia Commons

Located in the nearby town of Umreth, the Shree Santram Temple is dedicated to Santram Maharaj, a revered saint who is believed to have performed many miracles. The temple is an important pilgrimage site for devotees who come here to seek the blessings of Santram Maharaj. This Dakor temple complex is well-maintained and has a meditation hall where devotees can sit in silence and meditate. The temple is known for its charitable activities, including providing free meals and medical services to the needy.

Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Best Time To Visit: November to February

6. Bhathiji Maharaj Mandir

Bhathiji Maharaj Mandir, an ornate temple in Dakor, showcasing intricate design and devotion

Photo: Gazal world / Wikimedia Commons

Situated in the village of Fagvel, near Dakor, the Bhathiji Maharaj Mandir is dedicated to Bhathiji Maharaj, a local folk deity worshiped for his bravery and protection of cattle. The temple is an important site for the local farming community, who come here to seek the blessings of Bhathiji Maharaj for the well-being of their livestock. This Dakor temple has a cheerful atmosphere, especially during the annual fair, when devotees from all over the region gather to celebrate and offer their prayers.

Timings: 7 AM – 8 PM
Best Time To Visit: November to February

7. Mahadev Temple

Majestic Mahadev Temple among Dakor temples, showcasing intricate carvings and design

Photo: World8115 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Mahadev Temple in Dakor is another temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This Dakor temple is smaller than the Danknath Mahadev Temple but is equally revered by the locals. The temple is surrounded by greenery, making it a perfect place for meditation and reflection. Devotees visit this temple to offer their prayers to Lord Shiva and seek his blessings. The temple is particularly popular during the month of Shravan, when devotees observe fasts and perform special rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Best Time To Visit: November to February

8. Galteshwar Mahadev Temple

The Galteshwar Mahadev Temple, a renowned Shiva temple among the Dakor temples

Photo: Aditya Mahar / Wikimedia Commons

Located near Dakor, the Galteshwar Mahadev Temple is a famous Shiva temple. The temple is situated on the banks of the Mahi River and is believed to have been built by the Pandavas during their exile. The temple’s architecture is different, with its towering shikhara (spire) and beautifully crafted stone walls. This Dakor temple is a popular spot for pilgrims as well as tourists, who come to admire its architecture and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The temple is crowded during the festival of Mahashivratri, when devotees come to offer special prayers.

Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Best Time To Visit: November to March

9. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga

Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, located among Dakor temples

Photo: Deveshc92 / Wikimedia Commons

Located in Gujarat, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which are considered the most sacred abodes of Lord Shiva. While the temple is not exactly in Dakor, it is close enough to be included in a pilgrimage itinerary for those visiting the region. The temple is known for its spiritual importance and the large statue of Lord Shiva that dominates the temple complex. Devotees from all over India visit this Dakor temple to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and experience the divine energy that is believed to reside in the Jyotirlinga.

Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM
Best Time To Visit: July to August, November to March

10. Shri Swaminarayan Mandir

Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Dakor, showcasing its stunning architecture and design

Photo: 09bec027 / Wikimedia Commons

Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, located in Kalupur, Ahmedabad, is a beautiful temple dedicated to Swaminarayan, the founder of the Swaminarayan Sampraday. This Dakor temple features exquisite architecture, with beautifully carved pillars, domes, and statues that depict various aspects of Hindu mythology. The temple is an important pilgrimage site for followers of the Swaminarayan tradition, who come here to offer their prayers and participate in the various religious activities conducted at the temple.

Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Best Time To Visit: November to April

Dakor and its neighboring areas offer a wide range of spiritual experiences through their numerous and culturally significant temples. Each of these Dakor temples holds a unique place in the hearts of devotees, providing not only a place of worship but also a connection to the culture and history of Gujarat. Whether you are a faithful pilgrim or a curious traveler, a visit to these temples will leave you with a deep sense of spiritual fulfillment. Ready for your spiritual journey? Let TripXL guide you through the sacred temples of Dakor. Contact us today to plan your trip!

Cover Photo: Koushalya Karthikeyan / Pexels

Frequently Asked Questions

Dakor is famous throughout Gujarat, India, for a deity of Lord Krishna named Ranchor Raya. Ranchor (rana- choda) means “one who flees from battle.”
Dakor in Kheda District of Gujarat is prominent for its grand temple of Shree Krishna, which has historical significance.
Most of the temples open and start pooja from 6:45 AM to 12:00 PM in the morning and from 4:00 PM to 07:30 PM in the evening.
Dakor temple photos vary by temple authorities. It is best to check at each location.
Major festivals celebrated at Dakor Temples include Janmashtami (the birthday of Lord Krishna), Holi, and Diwali. During these festivals, the temple hosts special prayers, rituals, and cultural programs, drawing large crowds of devotees.

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