Hatkeshwar Temple – Gujarat

Hatkeshwar Temple, located in the historic town of Vadnagar in Gujarat's Mehsana district, is a revered Shiva temple known for its spiritual importance and intricate craftsmanship. Dedicated to Lord Hatkeshwar, the family deity of the Nagar Brahmin community, the temple is not only a place of deep religious devotion but also a testament to India’s rich architectural heritage. This guide provides comprehensive information for devotees and travelers planning a visit to this ancient and culturally significant shrine.

About & Description:

Hatkeshwar Temple, built in the 17th century, is dedicated to Lord Shiva, known here as Hatkeshwar Mahadev. It holds great significance for the Nagar Brahmin community. The temple is admired for its beautiful architecture with intricate carvings of deities, celestial beings, floral motifs, and scenes from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Speciality:

Houses a swayambhu (self-manifested) Shiva Linga.

Features striking Indo-Saracenic domes and a tall shikhara (spire).

Also includes a Swaminarayan temple, Jain temples, and ancient ruins nearby.

Location & Coordinates

Address: Hatkeshwar Temple, Vadnagar, Mehsana District, Gujarat, India

Coordinates (Latitude, Longitude): 23.776730° N, 72.616402° E

Temple Timings & Sevas

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily

Aarti Timings:

Morning: 6:00 AM

Midday: 12:00 PM

Evening: 7:00 PM

Dress Code: Traditional attire is recommended

Photography: Not allowed inside

Prasad: Offered to devotees

Travel & Accessibility

Traveling Facilities:
Vadnagar is accessible by road, rail, and air.

By Road:
Accessible via NH 48 and SH 41. Local autos available. ~111 km from Ahmedabad.

By Train:
Vadnagar has its own railway station (VDG). Siddhpur (42 km away) is also nearby on major routes.

By Air:
Nearest airport: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad (79.3 km)

Food & Stay Facilities

Food Facilities:
Local eateries serve vegetarian meals. The temple Dharamshala does not provide food.

Stay Facilities:

Hatkeshwar Temple Dharamshala (AC/Non-AC rooms)

Hotel Sangam Guest House

Hotel Riza

Hotel Toran

Nearby Transport Hubs

Nearby Railway Station: Vadnagar Railway Station (VDG)

Nearby Airport: Ahmedabad International Airport (AMD)

Nearby Bus Station: Vadnagar Bus Stand

Routes to the Temple

Bus Routes: Buses connect Vadnagar to Mehsana, Ahmedabad, and Patan.

Train Routes: Regular trains from Ahmedabad, Mehsana, and other major cities.

Air Ways: Fly to Ahmedabad, then travel to Vadnagar by taxi/train.

Nearby Cities & Attractions

Nearby Cities:
Mehsana, Patan, Ahmedabad, Siddhpur

Nearby Visiting Temples & Places:

Kirti Toran (ornamental arch)

Sharmishtha Lake

Buddhist Monastery Ruins

Bahuchar Mata Temple (Becharaji)

Taranga Hills (Jain & Buddhist heritage)

Best Time to Visit

Preferable Visiting Season:
November to February (winter months) for pleasant weather and easy travel.

Shopping – What’s Famous

Vadnagar offers traditional handicrafts, local textiles, and regional souvenirs reflecting the cultural heritage of Gujarat. Visiting Hatkeshwar Temple offers a unique blend of spiritual serenity, historical richness, and architectural marvel. Whether you're a pilgrim seeking blessings, a traveler drawn to ancient heritage, or a culture enthusiast exploring Gujarat's hidden gems, this temple promises a fulfilling experience. Surrounded by notable landmarks like the Kirti Toran, Sharmishtha Lake, and the Taranga Hills, the temple also serves as a gateway to Vadnagar’s vibrant past and peaceful present. Plan your journey in the winter months for the most pleasant visit, and don't forget to explore the local markets for authentic Gujarati crafts and souvenirs.