About Navlakha Temple, Ghumli
The Navlakha Temple stands at Ghumli, a ruined medieval town at the foot of the Barda hills near Bhanvad in Devbhumi Dwarka district, Gujarat. Ghumli was once the capital of the Jethwa rulers, and this temple is the most striking monument left from that period. It is generally described as a temple of Surya, the Sun god, and is protected by the state of Gujarat. Its broad platform is often said to be the largest temple base in Gujarat, and the site draws history lovers and photographers.
The temple is usually dated to the 11th or 12th century. Popular tradition says it cost nine lakh coins to build, which gave it the name Navlakha. Ghumli itself declined after it was attacked and abandoned in later centuries, and the temple fell into ruin, losing its great entrance arch and much of its tower. Conservation work has been carried out in recent years to stabilise the structure. Even in its broken state, the temple gives a clear idea of how splendid the Jethwa capital must once have been, and it remains a source of pride for the people of the Barda region.
Built in the Maru-Gurjara or Solanki style, the temple faces east and stands on a high, richly moulded plinth. It has a sanctum surrounded by a covered walkway, a large assembly hall with octagonal pillars, and porches with balcony-like windows on three sides. Niches on the outer walls hold images, including Brahma with Savitri, Shiva with Parvati and Lakshmi-Narayana. A well-known panel at the back shows two elephants locked in combat with their trunks. A small shrine of Ganesha stands outside the main temple.
Navlakha Temple, Ghumli timings
Usually accessible from about sunrise to sunset. Times may vary; check locally before visiting.
Timings change on festivals, eclipses and special days. Please confirm locally before you travel.
How to reach Navlakha Temple, Ghumli
By air
Porbandar airport is about 45 km away; Jamnagar airport is about 90 km away.
By train
Bhanvad railway station is about 7 km away; Porbandar is about 45 km away.
By road
Ghumli is a short drive from Bhanvad town on the road towards Porbandar. Taxis and autorickshaws can be hired at Bhanvad.
Festivals at Navlakha Temple, Ghumli
- Makar SankrantiJan
- Navaratri (at nearby Ashapura Mata shrine)Sep/Oct
- World Heritage WeekNov
Visitor tips
- Dress code
- No formal dress code; modest clothing is advisable.
- Entry
- Generally free; it is a state-protected monument. Check locally for any change.
- Carry water and sun protection; there is little shade around the ruins.
- Look for the elephant panel on the rear wall and the sculpted wall niches.
- Do not climb on the plinth or fallen stones.
- Combine the visit with the Vikia Vav stepwell and the other Ghumli ruins.
Places to visit near Navlakha Temple, Ghumli
- Vikia Vav, GhumliLarge old stepwell among the Ghumli ruins, about 1 km away
- Barda Hills Wildlife SanctuaryForested hills with trails and hill shrines, about 5 km away
- Gop TempleOne of Gujarat's oldest stone temples, about 25 km away
- PorbandarCoastal town with Kirti Mandir and Sudama Mandir, about 45 km away
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called the Navlakha Temple?
Tradition says it cost nine lakh coins to build, so it was named Navlakha, meaning 'nine lakh'.
Which deity is the Navlakha Temple at Ghumli dedicated to?
It is generally described as a temple of Surya, the Sun god, built by the Jethwa rulers.
How old is the Navlakha Temple?
It is usually dated to the 11th or 12th century; sources differ on the exact date.
How to reach Ghumli?
Ghumli is about 7 km from Bhanvad and about 45 km from Porbandar by road.
What are the Navlakha Temple, Ghumli timings?
Usually accessible from about sunrise to sunset. Times may vary; check locally before visiting.
Is there a dress code at Navlakha Temple, Ghumli?
No formal dress code; modest clothing is advisable.
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