Route overview
There are two main routes: through Ahmedabad and north via Himmatnagar, or across north Saurashtra via Maliya and Radhanpur to Palanpur. The driver will choose based on traffic and your pickup point.
Most families stay a night in Ambaji, take darshan, go up Gabbar hill by ropeway, and often continue to Mount Abu, about 45 km away. A round trip or 2–3 day booking is the comfortable way to do it.
Distance & travel time
- Approx. distance
- 360–400 km (door to door varies with your pickup and drop points)
- Approx. drive time
- 7–8 hours, plus time for breaks and sightseeing
- Usual route
- via Ahmedabad and Himmatnagar, or via Maliya, Radhanpur and Palanpur
- Trip types
- One way, round trip, or multi-day with the same car and driver
- Tolls, parking, permits
- Shown clearly in your quote
Distances and timings are approximate and for planning only. Traffic, roadworks, weather and stops can change them.
Suggested stops on the way
- Rajkot StartEarly-morning pickup recommended.
- Ahmedabad or Maliya ≈ 100–215 kmDepending on the route chosen.
- Himmatnagar or Palanpur ≈ 300–330 kmLast big town before the hills.
- Ambaji ≈ 360–400 kmDrop near the temple or your dharamshala / hotel.
Things to see in Ambaji
- Arasuri Ambaji TempleThe goddess is worshipped through the sacred Vishwa Yantra rather than an idol.
- Gabbar HillBelieved to be the original seat of the goddess; a ropeway goes up.
- Kumbhariya Jain TemplesCarved marble temples a short drive from Ambaji.
- Mount AbuRajasthan's hill station, about 45 km away.
For more ideas, timings and nearby places, see our Ambaji travel guide.
Travel tips for this route
- The Bhadarvi Poonam fair brings huge crowds and padyatris on the roads. Traffic is regulated; book early and expect diversions.
- If your group is walking (padyatra), we can arrange a support vehicle for luggage and elders. Ask us.
- Navratri is another very busy period at Ambaji.