During the excavation by the Department of Archaeology near the Gadkalika Temple, large bricks, pottery, and sculptures were found. It is estimated that this site is around 500 years old BC. Some historians associate Gadhkalika Temple with the Mahabharata era, although the idol dates back to the Satya Yuga. Emperor Harshavardhan is said to have renovated this ancient temple, and later the Gwalior Maharaja reconstructed it during the princely state period.

- It is believed that after the Kakada Aarti, the Mother appears in her child form, which leads to long queues of devotees for her darshan starting at 2:30 AM. - During Lord Ram's return journey after Ravana's demise, he halted near the Rudrasagar lake, where a battle occurred between Goddess Kalika and Hanuman during the night. During the battle, a part of the Goddess fell at this place, making it renowned as Gadhkalika.

Evidence of its restoration is also found during the Paramara rule. The Sindhia dynasty also contributed to the reconstruction of the temple. In the 9th century, Emperor Harsha Vikramaditya was also involved in the renovation. Due to its location at a place called "Gadh," the goddess is known as Gadhkalika. The temple premises have an ancient lamp pillar with 108 lamps, which are lit during Navratri.

Devotees offer halwa and kheer-puri as prasad to Goddess Kalika. Additionally, they also offer Puran Poli, dal, rice, and roti sabzi.