Naulakha Temple Ghumli / Naulakha Temple

 Naulakha Temple

The most ancient sun temple of the Gujarat, Navlakha temple is located at Ghumli which is now in ruins. The Navlakha temple was built at a total cost of Rupees Nine Lacs hence the temple was named Navlakha. Many ruins from the Solanki period can be found on the site of Ghumli. Adjacent to the main temple stands a shrine devoted to Lord Ganesha, also known as Ghumali Ganesha Temple which was built in the 10th century AD. The deity is worshiped daily by locals.

Navlakha Temple was constructed by Jethwa rulers during the 12th century. The temple design has a great influence of a combination of Solanki style architecture and Maru-Gurjara style of architecture. An entwining tusk of three elephants is considered to be a trade mark of the temple. The temple has a finely carved large base. It stands to face towards the East. The temple had a beautiful entrance arch which is now collapsed. The sanctum sanctorum, covered circumambulation path, huge hall and three Shringar Chokis are mesmerizing. The mandapa is supported by eight-sided pillars. The small niche houses various images. An image of two elephants fighting with their trunks can be seen on the back wall of the temple. The temple also houses an image of Lord Brahma and Savitri, Lord Shiva-Parvati, and Lord Lakshmi Narayan. The carvings on the outer walls represent figures from the Shaiva mythology and friezes.

Near to the Navlakha temple, there is a step well which is called "Vikai Vaav" and ‘Jetha Vaav’. ‘Vikai Vaav’ is the largest step well in entire Kathiawar region. Vikai or Vikia Vaav was constructed by Jethwa ruler Vikiaji. Hence, the Vaav was named after him. It is considered among one of the oldest and the biggest step wells. The well has many flights of steps leading up to it. The entrance pavilions can be seen standing intact at three places.

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How To Reach Ghumli :

 By Air: The nearest airport from Ghumli is located in Porbandar at a distance of about 45 km. Once you have reached the airport, you can take a direct cab or use public transport to reach Ghumli. 

By Rail: Porbandar is well connected to all other cities and towns by rail. To reach Ghumli, you need to take a direct train to Porbandar railway station and then from there, you need to hire a cab or catch a bus. 

By Road: The region of Ghumli has a good road connectivity, and therefore you can easily approach it by road.