The quiet village of Karila in Madhya Pradesh’s Guna district, Karila Mata Mandir stands as a timeless symbol of faith, mythology, and cultural tradition. Revered by devotees and steeped in Ramayana-era legends, the temple is especially significant as the mythological birthplace of Luv and Kush, the sons of Lord Rama and Sita. Every year, pilgrims gather in large numbers to seek blessings and participate in the vibrant Luv-Kush Mela that brings the site to life with spiritual fervor.
Temple About
Karila Mata Mandir is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Karila Mata (a form of Goddess Durga). It is closely associated with the legend of Luv and Kush, the sons of Lord Rama and Sita, who are believed to have been born here. The temple holds immense mythological and religious importance.
Temple Description
Situated atop a small hillock in a serene setting, the temple offers a scenic view of the surrounding landscape. It is built in traditional Hindu architectural style and attracts large crowds during special festivals, especially during the annual Luv-Kush Fair (Mela).
Temple Specialty
Associated with the birthplace of Luv and Kush
Annual Luv-Kush Mela after Holi attracts thousands
Rich in local legends and Ramayana connections
Temple Address
Karila Mata Mandir, Karila village, Near Aron, Guna District, Madhya Pradesh, India – 473101
Temple Location (Latitude, Longitude)
24.3844° N, 77.2407° E
Temple Timings
Open Daily: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Special Pujas during festivals
Temple Sevas
Daily Aarti
Navratri and Luv-Kush Mela special rituals
Offerings: Coconuts, red cloth, sweets
Traveling Facilities
Accessible by road from Guna and Aron
Regular buses, autos, taxis available
Food Facilities
Nearby local eateries, roadside dhabas
Occasional Annadaan during festivals
Stay Facilities
Lodges, hotels in Guna (35 km away)
Basic dharamshalas during festive occasions
Nearby Railway Station
Guna Railway Station (GUNA) – 35 km away
Nearby Airport
Raja Bhoj Airport, Bhopal (190 km)
Gwalior Airport (220 km)
Nearby Bus Station
Aron Bus Stand (12 km)
Guna Bus Stand
Bus Routes to Temple
From Guna to Aron, then local transport to Karila
Private vehicles via Guna–Aron road
Train Routes to Temple
Trains to Guna from Bhopal, Gwalior, Indore, Kota
Continue by road to Karila
Airways to Temple
Fly to Bhopal or Gwalior, then reach Guna and onward to temple
Nearby Cities to Temple
Guna, Bhopal, Gwalior, Shivpuri, Ashoknagar
Nearby Visiting Temples and Places
Bajrangarh Fort
Hanuman Tekri, Guna
Madhav National Park, Shivpuri
Chanderi Fort
Preferable Visiting Season
October to March
Especially during Holi – Luv-Kush Mela time
Shopping Famous For?
Local rural crafts, religious souvenirs, toys, fair snacks
Karila Mata Mandir is not just a temple it is a spiritual experience deeply tied to the epic Ramayana. Whether you are a devotee seeking divine blessings, a traveler interested in cultural heritage, or a family looking to explore sacred India, Karila offers a soulful and historic journey. Visiting during the Luv-Kush Mela is especially rewarding, making it a must-see gem in the heart of Madhya Pradesh.
