Akalkot Swami is to be the incarnation of Shree Narsimha Saraswati Maharaj. Story goes that once a woodcutter struck an anthill accidently and was amazed to see blood seep out. The woodcutter removed the ants and saw a sage (Akkalkoth Swami) meditating. He is believed to be in a meditative state for nearly 300 years and took this as an indication that it was his time to start his spiritual mission. Over time Swami was known to travel the length and breadth of the country and preached about seeing god in everything seen and unseen in the universe. He preached about the practical application of knowledge and also promoted meditation that was secular and open to people of all religions.

Regarding the formation of the temple, another story says that Shree Vasudev Raoji (alias Bhau) Kaduskar was told that there are two main idols of the Swami at the Tarkeshwar Mahadev temple. He went to get both the idols to the city. However, one of the idols was cracked and it is said that he heard a voice from the un-cracked idol dictating its holiness. Bhau convinced Shrimant Maharaja Gaekwad (Baroda) to donate the idol to this particular temple and in 1960, the idol was placed here. Today, the temple has become an important part of Akkalkot Swami and devotees come here especially on Thursday to seek the blessings of the guru.

• It is customary to remove your footwear before you enter the temple.
• Do wear modest clothes for your visit at the temple.

• The best day to visit the temple is on Thursdays when devotes lock to the temple.

• By Bus: Gandhi Nagar Gruh
• By taking an Auto-rickshaw
• By Taxi/ Cab

Love this? Explore the entire list of places to visit in Vadodara before you plan your trip.

Fancy a good night's sleep after a tiring day? Check out where to stay in Vadodara and book an accommodation of your choice.