Ambika Mata Temple - Information, History & Temple timings

Ambika Temple or Virat Shakti Peetha Temple is located at Bharatpur in Rajasthan, India, which is also known as ‘Eastern gateway of Rajasthan.’ The idol of Devi Sati is worshipped as “Ambika” at this temple and is one of the Shakti Peethas among 51 others across the country. It is believed that the left toes of Goddess Sati fell here when Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshan Chakra to incise Goddess Sati’s lifeless body. The lord Shiva is revered in the form of “Amriteshwar.” 

Legends

It is believed that it is the holy place where Devi Sati’s left toes fell down, according to the Daksha Yagna mythology and Sati self-immolation. 

Timings of the temple

5.30 AM to 8.00 PM

Special Occasion

The major festivals celebrated are Navaratri, Diwali, and Makar Sankranti. During these times, there is a different aura around the temple, and many devotees seek the blessing of goddess Ambika. Sharad Purnima, Ram Navami, and Somvati Amavasya are also important occasions for the worshippers. The Navaratri (nine days festival), which is celebrated twice in a year, one in April (Chaitra month) and another in September-October (Ashvin month), is one of the auspicious times and devotees do fasting for the entire time. Apart from these, Maha Shivratri is also celebrated with full enthusiasm and Lord Shiva (Amriteshwar). The idol is being offered abhishekam with milk and Bail (bilva Patra) leaf. Special Poojas and Yagna are also being conducted during Navratri and Maha Shivratri. 

Also Read: Significance of Mahashivratri

Places to visit near Ambika Temple

Bharatpur, the eastern gateway to Rajasthan, is a small town but offers many interesting sightseeing spots, which will definitely surprise its visitors. Some of the them are: -

• Lohagarh Fort
• Bharatpur National Park
• Bharatpur Palace and Museum
• Ganga Mandir
• Banke Bihari Temple
• Dholpur Palace
• Laxman Temple

Also Read: Jagannath Rath Yatra

How to reach Ambika temple

Road

There is a good network of roads connected to Bharatpur. One can hire a taxi, cabs, or board private or public buses, or even drive their own vehicles to reach the temple. The city is around 220 km away from the national capital, Delhi. 

Rail

The city of Bharatpur has its own railhead, Bharatpur Railway Station, which has good connectivity of rails with all the major cities of the country. 

Air

Jaipur International Airport is the nearest airport to the city at a distance of approx. 190 km. Public transport is easily available from this spot.