Welcome back to Safar Gujarat, where we uncover hidden treasures across our vibrant state. Today’s feature is a perfect blend of spiritual depth, mythological richness, and monsoon magic — the enchanting Mayadevi Temple and its nearby waterfall, located amidst the dense forests of Dang.
📍 Location Overview
- Destination Name: Mayadevi Temple & Waterfall
- Village: Kakarada, near Bhenskhatri
- Taluka: Waghai
- District: Dang, Gujarat
- Coordinates: Approx. 20.9°N, 73.5°E
🌿 Why Visit Mayadevi Temple?
- 🧘♀️ Sacred Cave Shrine amidst thick forest
- 🌊 Scenic waterfall & check dam on the Purna River
- 📸 Instagrammable views and nature photography
- 🧭 Trekking paths with river panoramas
- 🌧️ Monsoon special (June to November)
🧭 How to Reach Mayadevi Temple
From Surat:
Route – Surat → Vyara → Bhenskhatri Road → Ambapani → Kakarada village → Mayadevi Temple
Distance – Approx. 140 km | Travel time: ~3.5 hours
Enjoy the lush jungle drive, river bends, and stop at Ambapani Viewpoint for surreal shots of the Purna River cutting through thick forest valleys.
🧱 Temple Entry & Facilities
- Entry Point: Mayadevi Gate (by R&B Dept, Waghai Division)
- Parking & Registration: Mandatory vehicle entry registration
- Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Amenities:
- 🍽️ Canteen for snacks & tea
- 🚻 Basic washroom facilities
- 🛕 Nearby shrines of Mahadev & Hanuman
🧗♀️ The Trek & Trail
- Starting Point: Bhenskhatri (~3 km away)
- Trail Type: Forest path with a sloping descent
- Caution: Slippery during monsoon — proper footwear recommended
- Highlights:
- Steep slope with panoramic views
- River-edge views from stone cliffs
- Great for drone or wide-angle photography
🕊️ The Legend of Mayadevi
The temple is shrouded in mythology and spiritual lore:
Mayadevi is believed to have emerged as a form of Goddess Durga. When Lord Shiva’s consort Sati was destroyed in the yajna, she reincarnated as Mayadevi and meditated in the forests to reunite with Shiva. Pursued by the demon Tarakasur, Mayadevi is said to have hidden in the cliffs of the Purna River in present-day Dang. Unable to find her, Tarakasur was told by Narad Muni that this was no ordinary woman but an illusion (maya) sent by God. Thus, the name “Mayadevi” came into being.
Inside the sacred cave, a rare Trimurti (three-formed) idol of Goddess Mayadevi, resembling Durga, is found. The area is revered by locals and surrounded by high hills and natural springs.
✨ Inside the Cave:
- Main Idol: A rare Trimurti form of Mayadevi
- Temple Design: Natural cave shrine surrounded by springs and towering cliffs
💦 Waterfall & Natural Engineering
Behind the temple, water flows from a check dam forming the Mayadevi Waterfall, cascading into a deep forest gorge. During monsoon, the scene turns magical!
🌊 Unique Feature:
A natural canal channels water in a perfectly carved groove, making it seem like the stream flows directly from the sky — a rare sight of natural hydro-sculpting.
📍 Don’t miss the small saffron shrine near the gorge edge — said to be the exact refuge point of the goddess.
📷 Top Photography Spots
- Ambapani Viewpoint (before reaching Kakarada)
- Check dam & canal stream
- Trek slope overlooking river valley
- Cliff-edge cave shrine
🗓️ Best Time to Visit
Monsoon & Post-Monsoon: June to November
- ✅ River in full flow
- ✅ Lush greenery
- ✅ Mist-covered hills
- ❌ Avoid close approach to waterfall during peak flow (safety restrictions apply)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Mayadevi Temple safe during the monsoon season?
Yes, it’s generally safe with marked paths and railings, but caution is advised on the steep trek and near the waterfall. Entry to the falls may be restricted during heavy flow.
2. What are the nearby attractions?
Mahadev Temple
Hanuman Temple
Ambapani Viewpoint
Gira Waterfall (~30 km)
Mahal Eco Campsite (~40 km)
3. Can families and senior citizens visit?
Yes, but senior citizens should be cautious during the descent. The canteen and flat areas are accessible, but the trek to the cave requires moderate effort.
4. Is there any entry fee?
Yes, a nominal vehicle entry and parking fee is charged at the forest gate by the Mayadevi Temple Trust.
5. Can I visit during summer or winter?
You can, but the real beauty is during monsoon when the waterfall and forest are in full bloom. Summer is hot and less scenic.
🔗 Related Posts
- Shivghat Waterfall – A Jungle Escape in Dang
- Mahal Eco Campsite – Nature Stay Near Waghai
- Medha Waterfall – Hidden Wonder Near Songadh
🙏 Final Words
The Mayadevi Temple & Waterfall is not just a travel destination — it’s a spiritual and natural retreat into the heart of Gujarat’s untouched wilderness. The blend of folklore, forest, and flowing water creates an experience that stays with you long after you’ve returned.
So this monsoon, ditch the crowded spots and head towards the hidden magic of Mayadevi.
🧳 Pack your bags. Charge your camera. Respect the forest. And let nature bless your soul.
