Overview

Aai Shree Khodiyar Mataji Temple (also called Khodiyar Mata Mandir) is one of Adajan’s most cherished shrines, devoted to Maa Khodiyar — the protective guardian‑goddess revered across Saurashtra and South Gujarat. Set on Subhash Chandra Bose Marg at Khodiyar Chowk, the marble‑fronted temple welcomes devotees from 07 AM – 09 PM all week and enjoys a healthy 4.7/5 visitor rating for its serene ambiance and recent renovations.

Deity & Legend

• Khodiyar Mata is believed to be an incarnation of Shakti who first appeared in 7ᵗʰ‑century Bhavnagar district.
• Local lore says she emerged riding a crocodile, having saved her brother from snake‑bite; villagers shouted “Khodti aave chhe!” (“she limps back”), giving the goddess her name.
• The deity is celebrated for swift protection of devotees, fertility blessings and safeguarding seafarers, which explains her popularity in coastal Surat.

History of the Adajan Shrine

While Bhavnagar’s Rajpara temple is the oldest Khodiyar seat, the Adajan mandir was established by Kathiyawadi migrants who settled in Surat’s diamond hub in the late 20ᵗʰ century. Community patrons recently funded a full marble cladding, new garbhagriha grills and LED lighting, giving the complex its present gleam. (Local trustee plaques on site record upgrades in 2021 and 2023.)

Architecture & Layout

• Facade: white‑and‑pink Jodhpur stone with carved torana arch and twin shikhara crowns.
• Sanctum: gilt‑crowned murti of Maa Khodiyar (4 ft) flanked by idols of Ganesh and Hanuman.
• Sabha‑mandap: ventilated hall for bhajan/katha; marble jali windows keep it cool in Surat’s humid climate.
• Facilities: shoe stand, drinking‑water kiosk, prasad counter, gender‑segregated washrooms and a small parking bay that fits ~20 two‑wheelers.

Darshan Timings & Daily Rituals

TimeRitualNotes07:00 AM

Mangala Aarti first darshan; temple doors open12:00 PM

Rajbhog main bhog offering (generally khichdi, sweets)07:15 PM

Sandhya Aarti lamps lit, conches blown09:00 PM

Shayan Aarti & closure temple closes till next morning(Temple is open continuously; no weekly off day.)

Major Festivals

FestivalHindu monthWhat happens at Adajan temple

Khodiyar Jayanti Magh Shukla AshtamiFlag hoisting, day‑long bhajan, free mahaprasad

Dhaja Mahotsav Posh Vad 6New 12‑yard saffron flag installed; community feast

Navratri Ashwin9‑night garba in the forecourt

Diwali & New Year KartikLakshmi‑Khodiyar joint pujan, addition of 20 000 diyas

How to Reach

• Address: 5QQR+27P, Opp. Croma Electronics, Khodiyar Chowk, Adajan Gam, Surat 395009.
• Distance: ~6‑7 km (15 min by cab/auto) from Surat Railway Station.
• City buses: Routes 204 & 214 stop at Khodiyar Chowk.
• From Airport: 11 km via VIP Road → Adajan Patia flyover (~25 min).

Nearby Attractions (within 8 km)

PlaceWhy visitDistanceAmbika Niketan TempleFamous riverside Shakti shrine3 kmSardar Patel MuseumTextile & coin galleries5 kmGopi Talav LakefrontEvening laser‑fountain show6.5 kmDumas BeachBlack‑sand coastal walk, street snacks8 km

Visitor Tips

1. Footwear & Dress: Leave shoes in the free stand; shoulders & knees covered preferred.
2. Peak crowds on Khodiyar Jayanti and Navratri evenings – arrive before 6 PM for comfortable darshan.
3. Photography is allowed in the courtyard but not inside the sanctum.
4. Prasad coupons (₹20) for sukdi/sukhadi sell out by noon on weekends.
5. Combine your visit with sunset snacks at Pal RTO food street, a 10‑minute rickshaw ride away.

Feel the divine energy, enjoy the quiet courtyard breezes from the Tapi, and take home sukhdi as a sweet reminder of Maa Khodiyar’s blessings.