Gandhinagar, July 21: The Gujarat government is working on a ₹359 crore master plan to enhance infrastructure and facilities for pilgrims at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Champaner-Pavagadh.
The first two phases of this project have already been completed, with plans for additional work aimed at improving accessibility and amenities for tourists.
According to officials, the redevelopment program includes the Mahakali Temple at Pavagadh, one of Gujarat’s most prominent pilgrimage sites, along with the surrounding Champaner Archaeological Park, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
“This project is being executed under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and the guidance of Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghvi. The goal is to preserve heritage while enhancing infrastructure for tourists,” officials stated.
The government reported that the estimated cost of this four-phase master plan is ₹359 crore. The Gujarat Pilgrimage Development Board has completed ₹121 crore worth of work in the first two phases, focusing on expanding the temple complex and improving facilities for devotees.
The Mahakali Temple complex has been expanded from 545 square meters to approximately 2,980 square meters across three levels.
Officials have also installed electrical systems, a public address system, and CCTV surveillance along the path leading to the temple.
To enhance the convenience for pilgrims, a 3.01-kilometer-long pathway has been constructed, featuring 2,374 steps connecting Machi Chowk to the temple.
The state government stated, “Inspired by Prime Minister Modi’s vision of ‘development and heritage,’ the state government is undertaking extensive development work at the world-famous Pavagadh pilgrimage site. A mega master plan of ₹359 crore has been initiated for the overall development of Pavagadh.”
The remaining third and fourth phases will involve an investment of ₹238 crore, aimed at further developing infrastructure around the heritage site.
Under Phase 3A, a multi-level parking facility at Machi Chowk has been completed at a cost of ₹13.68 crore. Phase 3B, with a budget of ₹135.19 crore, includes the construction and improvement of internal and external roads, pedestrian pathways, electrical systems, landscaping, parking for over 600 two-wheelers and four-wheelers, and bus infrastructure in Champaner.
The government also plans to redevelop the Wada Talab area, which will feature beautiful gardens, ghats, a water jetty, footbridges, a theme park, children’s play areas, activity zones, a birdwatching tower, craft stalls, and parking for approximately 500 cars.
The state government emphasized that this project is being implemented under the vision of enhancing facilities at Gujarat’s key pilgrimage sites while preserving heritage.
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