Nestled in the quiet coastal town of Udvada, Gujarat, the Iranshah Atash Behram is the spiritual heart of the global Zoroastrian community. Revered as one of the oldest and most sacred fire temples in the world, it houses the eternal flame that has been burning since the 8th century AD. This pilgrimage site draws Zoroastrians from across the globe and offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and serene beauty on the Arabian Sea coast.
Temple About
Iranshah Atash Behram is one of the most sacred fire temples of the Zoroastrian religion in India and the world. It houses the “Iranshah” – the sacred fire believed to have been burning continuously since 721 AD, originally consecrated in Sanjan and later moved to Udvada.
Temple Description
The temple is a serene and sacred white structure built in traditional Parsi architectural style. The inner sanctum (only accessible to Parsi Zoroastrians) houses the Atash Behram (the highest grade of fire in Zoroastrianism). The temple complex is well-maintained, offering a peaceful atmosphere for devotion and reflection.
Temple Speciality
Houses the most revered Atash Behram (Holy Fire) in the Zoroastrian faith.
Fire is said to have been burning uninterrupted for over 1,300 years.
Only Zoroastrians are allowed inside the sanctum sanctorum.
It is considered the spiritual center of Parsi Zoroastrians worldwide.
Temple Address
Iranshah Atash Behram, Station Road, Udvada, Valsad District, Gujarat - 396180, India
Temple Location (Latitude, Longitude)
20.8636° N, 72.8646° E
Temple Timings
Open Daily: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
(Only Parsi Zoroastrians can enter inner sanctum for prayers)
Temple Sevas
Daily prayers conducted by priests (Mobeds)
Special rituals during Jamshedi Navroz, Khordad Sal, and Muktad Days
Spiritual pilgrimage for Parsi families
Traveling Facilities
Well-connected by road and rail
Local autos and taxis available from nearby towns
Limited but reliable inter-city bus and rail services
Food Facilities
Traditional Parsi food is available at local guest houses and dharamshalas
Popular dishes include Dhansak, Patra ni Machhi, and Lagan nu Custard
Stay Facilities
Parsi Dharamshalas available (only for Zoroastrians)
Budget hotels and guesthouses available in Udvada and nearby Vapi
Nearby Railway Station
Udvada Railway Station (1.5 km from temple)
Vapi Railway Station (10–12 km)
Nearby Airport
Surat Airport (110 km)
Mumbai Airport (approx. 180 km)
Nearby Bus Station
Udvada Bus Stand
Vapi Bus Depot (major hub)
Bus Routes to Temple
Buses from Valsad, Vapi, Surat, Mumbai halt at Udvada or nearby towns
Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) buses available
Train Routes to Temple
Major trains on Mumbai–Ahmedabad route halt at Udvada or Vapi
From Mumbai: Gujarat Express, Flying Ranee, etc.
From Surat: Passenger and express trains available to Udvada
Air Ways to Temple
From Mumbai or Surat Airport:
Take taxi or train to Udvada
Private cab from Surat (~2.5 hours), Mumbai (~4.5 hours)
Nearby Cities to Temple
Vapi (12 km)
Valsad (20 km)
Surat (110 km)
Mumbai (180 km)
Nearby Visiting Temples and Other Places
Zoroastrian Heritage Museum (under development)
Udvada Beach – calm and serene
Daman – union territory with historic forts and churches (35 km)
Sanjan Stambh – marks arrival of Parsis in India (20 km)
Preferable Visiting Season
October to March – pleasant weather
Avoid heavy monsoon (June–August)
Shopping Famous For
Parsi sweets and snacks like Bhakras, Salli, and Kumas
Handicrafts, copper utensils, and local herbal products
The Iranshah Atash Behram is not just a religious monument but a testament to the resilience and continuity of the Zoroastrian faith in India. A visit to this sacred temple in Udvada offers a glimpse into the ancient traditions, culture, and deep spiritual significance that Parsis hold dear. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or a pilgrim, this timeless sanctuary is a soulful experience steeped in divinity and peace.
Nestled in the quiet coastal town of Udvada, Gujarat, the Iranshah Atash Behram is the spiritual heart of the global Zoroastrian community. Revered as one of the oldest and most sacred fire temples in the world, it houses the eternal flame that has been burning since the 8th century AD. This pilgrimage site draws Zoroastrians from across the globe and offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and serene beauty on the Arabian Sea coast.
