Kabirvad, Surat - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

At a distance of 18 Km from Bharuch, and 84 Km from Surat, Kabirvad is an island situated near Bharuch, Gujarat. It is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites near Surat.

Kabirvad is a small island created by the River Narmada. This tiny island is renowned for its enormous banyan tree, which has expanded over the years to cover nearly 3 kilometers. It consists of a single banyan tree that has developed into more than 3000 trunks, with the original tree estimated to be over 600 years old and now indistinguishable from its offspring. The island is named after the illustrious Saint Kabir, who resided here for many years.

The island of Kabirvad is enveloped in a wealth of myths and legends. One of the most prominent tales recounts that during his stay in Kabirvad, Saint Kabir cast his Datun (a twig used for cleaning teeth) onto the ground, from which a banyan tree emerged, eventually multiplying into over 3000 trees. The island's name is derived from two key elements of this legend: Saint Kabir and 'Vad,' which translates to banyan tree in Gujarati. Another story suggests that Saint Kabir meditated beneath a banyan tree, which never aged and subsequently propagated into a thousand more trees.

Additionally, the island features an imposing Kabir Temple, where visitors and worshippers gather to pray. This temple, dedicated to the esteemed poet and philosopher Saint Kabir, is a circular edifice supported by pillars on all sides. Consequently, people visit Kabirvad not only for its historical significance but also to relish the tranquility and sanctity provided by this vast banyan tree.

Accessing the island is possible only via a 10-minute boat ride from Kabirmadhi in the Shukaltirth area to Kabirvad. Kabirmadhi can be reached by private vehicle or by taking a taxi from Bharuch, the nearest bus station.

Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM

Entry: Free, Rs.100 per person for Boat