Meherji Rana Library & Fire Temple – Navsari, Gujarat

Nestled in the historic city of Navsari in Gujarat, the Meherji Rana Library & Fire Temple stands as a spiritual and cultural beacon for the Parsi Zoroastrian community. This revered site is not just a place of worship but a custodian of centuries-old religious manuscripts and traditions. It is named after the esteemed Dastur Meherji Rana, a spiritual leader who left an indelible mark in Zoroastrian history and Indian religious harmony during the Mughal era. The temple and its adjoining library attract scholars, spiritual seekers, and those wishing to explore the legacy of one of the world’s oldest living religions.

Temple About:

The Meherji Rana Library & Fire Temple in Navsari, Gujarat, is a significant religious and historical place for the Parsi Zoroastrian community. It commemorates the legacy of Meherji Rana, a revered Zoroastrian priest who played a key role during the reign of Emperor Akbar in the 16th century.

Temple Description:

This complex includes a fire temple, where the sacred Atash Behram (Fire of Victory) is maintained, and a library preserving ancient scriptures and Parsi literature. The architecture blends Persian and local Gujarati styles. Only Zoroastrians are allowed into the fire temple's sanctum, but the library is accessible for religious scholars and visitors by permission.

Temple Speciality:

One of the oldest continuously burning sacred fires of the Zoroastrian faith.

Houses rare manuscripts, scriptures, and historical records.

Associated with Dastur Meherji Rana, who represented Zoroastrians at Emperor Akbar’s court.

Temple Address:

Meherji Rana Library & Fire Temple, Tarota Bazaar, Navsari, Gujarat – 396445, India

Temple Location (Longitude and Latitude):

20.9504° N, 72.9248° E

Temple Timings:

Morning: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Evening: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Note: Entry to the fire temple is restricted to Zoroastrians.

Temple Sevas:

Boi ceremony (ritual tending of the fire)

Navjote (initiation ceremonies)

Jashan prayers during Parsi New Year and festivals

Only Zoroastrian priests perform rituals; non-Parsis may observe from outside.

Traveling Facilities:

Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and rental cars are available within Navsari.

Well-connected via state buses and private transport from nearby towns and cities.

Food Facilities:

Local restaurants serve authentic Parsi and Gujarati cuisine.

Vegetarian and family dining options widely available nearby.

Stay Facilities:

Budget and mid-range hotels in Navsari.

Dharamshalas available for Parsi visitors.

Surat (30 km away) offers premium hotel options.

Nearby Railway Station:

Navsari Railway Station (NVS) – approx. 2 km from the temple.

Nearby Airport:

Surat International Airport (STV) – approx. 30 km away.

Nearby Bus Station:

Navsari Central Bus Depot – approx. 2 km from the temple.

Bus Routes to Temple:

GSRTC buses from Surat, Valsad, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai to Navsari.

Local buses and autos available to Tarota Bazaar from the bus station.

Train Routes to Temple:

Direct trains from Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Vadodara, and Surat halt at Navsari Railway Station.

Key trains: Gujarat Express, Flying Ranee, Shatabdi (to Surat).

Airways to Temple:

Fly to Surat Airport, then travel to Navsari by cab or bus (~1 hour).

Surat has flights from Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, etc.

Nearby Cities:

Surat – 30 km

Valsad – 50 km

Mumbai – 230 km

Vadodara – 170 km

Nearby Visiting Temples and Places:

Udvada Atash Behram – 90 km (holiest fire temple of Parsis)

Dandi Beach – historic site of Gandhi’s Salt March

Navsari Old Town & Clock Tower – showcases Parsi heritage

Jamshed Baug – community center with traditional design

Preferable Visiting Season:

October to February – best time with cool, pleasant weather.

Avoid peak summer and monsoon for comfortable travel.

Shopping – Famous For:

Parsi embroidery, silver jewelry, and handwoven textiles

Local farsan (savory snacks) and sweets

Religious books and souvenirs related to Zoroastrian culture

The Meherji Rana Library & Fire Temple is more than a heritage structure it is a living testament to the spiritual depth and resilience of the Zoroastrian community in India. With its serene ambiance, centuries-old fire, and scholarly richness, this sacred place in Navsari offers not just religious significance but also cultural enrichment. Whether you seek spiritual peace, historical knowledge, or cultural exploration, a visit to this temple is both meaningful and memorable.