Eklingji is a Hindu temple complex in Udaipur District of Rajasthan in western India. Eklingji is believed to be the ruling deity of Mewar Princely State and the Maharana rules as his Dewan. Eklingji Temple is one of the most famous temples of Rajasthan. An important part of Udaipur tours, the temple is located in the town of Eklingji (Kailashpuri). Dedicated to Lord Shiva of the Hindu religion, the temple is a revered site. Built-in 734 A.D. by Bappa Rawal, Eklingji has been the ruling deity of Mewar rulers since then. The temple has been ravaged by the attacks of Mohammedans. In later years the temple has been repaired and restored by various Kings to avoid the remnants being obliterated.
History of Eklingji Temple Udaipur
According to the 15th-century text Ekalinga Mahatmya, the original temple at Eklingji was constructed by the 8th-century ruler Bappa Rawal. The original temple and Vigraha (idol) were destroyed during invasions by the Delhi Sultanate rulers. The earliest extant idol was installed by Hamir Singh (14th century), who also carried out extensive renovations to the main temple. Rana Kumbha (15th century) rebuilt the temple, in addition to constructing a Vishnu temple. His 1460 inscription describes him as “the personal servant of Ekling”. In the late 15th century, Ghiyath Shah of Malwa Sultanate attacked Mewar and devastated Eklingji. Kumbha’s son Rana Raimal (r. 1473–1509) defeated and captured him, and obtained a ransom for his release. With this ransom, Raimal patronized the last major rebuilding of the temple complex and installed the present murti at the main temple.
Originally, the temple likely belonged to the Pashupata sect and was subsequently in the custody of the Nath sect. In the 16th century, it came under the control of the Ramanandis. The temple was built in 734 A.D. by Bappa Rawal. Eklingji has been the ruling deity of Mewar rulers. In the later years, it was further restructured and tailored by various Kings, for cleaning the remnants of annihilation made by the attacks of Muslims. The history of Eklingji Temple is recorded in the Ekalinga Mahatmya, a historical text written in the 15th century. According to the text, the original temple was built in 734 A.D. by ruler Bappa Rawal. The temple has been a victim of loot and plunders during the rule of Delhi Sultanate. The original temple and its idols were physically damaged.
In the late years, the temple was renovated and modified by many kings to preserve the glory and faith of people in Shri Eklingji. The temple originally belonged to the Pashupata sect, then the Nath sect and after post 16th century it is managed and controlled by Ramanandis. In the 14th century, post-invasion, the first idol was placed by Hamir Singh in the main temple. In the 15th century, Rana Kumbha renovated the temple by adding the Vishnu temple. In the 1460 inscription, Rana Kumbha is described as the accomplice of Lord Eklingji. Later in the 15th century, the temple was again attacked by the Malwa Sultanate’s Ghiyath Shah. He was defeated by the Rana Raimal, the son of Rana Kumbha. Rana Raimal captured Shah and procured ransom for his release. He used the money to reinstate the glory of the temple. This was the final rebuilding of the temple, and an idol of Eklingji was installed in the main temple complex.
Overview of Eklingji Temple Udaipur
Eklingji Temple is one of the most popular temples of Rajasthan and is sited at a distance of 22 km to the north of Udaipur. Eklingji Temple is dedicated to the Lord Shiva of the Hindu religion and its brilliant architecture drives several tourists here every year. This double-storied temple looks magnificent with its pyramidal style of roof and uniquely carved tower. The outer walls of the temple are stretched with steps that lower touching the serene waters.
Established in 734 A.D. by Bappa Rawal, Eklingji is purported to have been the ruling idol of Mewar rulers. On entering this hall, you would see a beautiful silver image of Nandi and inside the temple, there are two other images of Nandi carved in black stone and brass respectively. This temple is filled with an enthralling fragrance and is known for a striking four-faced idol of Eklingji (Lord Shiva) that is made out of black marble. Its height ranges around 50 feet and its four faces depict four forms of Lord Shiva. The Shivlinga garlanded by a silver snake is a major tourist attraction.
The impressive design of the Eklingji Temple is of note. The double-storied temple structure awes with its pointed sort of roof and sliced tower. The outer walls of the temple are stretched with steps that descend touching the serene waters. Within the complex, the temple is distinguished by a large columned hall or ‘mandap’ that is protected by the hefty pointed roof. On getting into this hall, you may be welcomed by a silver image of Nandi. Within the temple, there are idols of Nandi sliced in black stone and brass. Feel the divinity of the temple as you breathe in the auspicious ambiance and an attractive fragrance.
Religious Aspects of Eklingji Temple Udaipur
The Glorious narrative of Shri Eklingji tells us that Shri Eklingaji has been in existence since Sat yuga. In that age Indra, the King of Goddess Nandini worshiped Eklingaji. In the Treta age, the Kamdhenu came running to Shri Eklingji as she was afraid of Vishwamitra. She Prayed to Eklingji and the armies of Vishwamitra were defeated to the delight of Guru Vashistha. In the Dwapar age when Janamejaya performed the sacrifice of snakes, the Takshaka serpent was mortally afraid and he came to the shoulder
Unique Features of Eklingji Temple Udaipur
This Place is the spiritual capital of Mewar. Perhaps in world history, this is a rare example that the ultimate power of rule was vested with the powerful God Shiva. The Maharanas of Udaipur have ruled as a representative of Shri Eklingji. Presently the royal family has established a private trust known as Eklingji trust Shivaratri is the main festival on which thousands of devotees come here for Darshan. During the year every Monday, this temple is crowded with devotees of Lord Shiva. The main festivals other than Shirvaratri are Pradosh, Makar Sankranti, etc. During the months of Vaishakh & Shravan, special monographs are performed here. The chief trustee of this trust is Shri Arvind Singh Mewar, the ex-Maharana of Udaipur. In his supervision, dozens of officers and workers of the trust are engaged in the management of the temple and its properties.
The temple boasts of a putting four-faced idol of Eklingji (Lord Shiva) that are created out of black marble. Its height ranges around fifty feet and its four faces depict four forms of the Lord. The east-facing half is recognized as Surya, the west-facing half is Lord Brahma, the north-facing half is Lord Vishnu and also the south-facing half is Hindu deity i.e. Lord Shiva himself. The celestial point of the multifarious idol is thought of as ‘Yantra that stands for the last word reality. The Shivlinga (Phallic form of Lord Shiva) garlanded by a silver snake is a marvelous sight.
Being sited within the middle, Shivlinga is encircled by Devi Annapurna, Lord Ganesa, and Lord Kartikay. There are also statues of goddess Lakshmi and Saraswati. Eklingji Temple additionally boasts of significant silver doors that depict Lord Ganesa and Lord Kartikay guarding their father. The temple complicated has two holy tanks of water named Karz Kund and Tulsi Kund. The water of those tanks is consumed throughout the services of the Lord. The competition of Shivratri is ascertained here with full enjoyment and fervor. At this point, the image of Lord Shiva is adorned with jewelry.
About Eklingji Temple Udaipur
Eklingji Temple is one of the most famous temples of Rajasthan. Located in the town of Eklingji (Kailashpuri), the place got its popular name from the temple. Eklingji Temple is positioned at a distance of 22 km in the north of Udaipur, on the national highway no. 8. Eklingnath Temple is dedicated to the Lord Shiva of the Hindu religion. Initially, the temple was built in 734 A.D. by Bappa Rawal. Since that time, Eklingji has been the ruling deity of Mewar rulers. In the later years, it was repaired and modified by various Kings, to clean the remnants of obliteration made by the attacks of Mohammedans.
The temple boasts of a striking four-faced idol of Eklingji (Lord Shiva) that is made out of black marble. Its height ranges around 50 feet and its four faces depict four forms of Lord Shiva. The east-facing part is recognized as Surya, the west-facing part is Lord Brahma, the north-facing part is Lord Vishnu and the south-facing part is Rudra i.e. Lord Shiva himself. The zenith of the multifaceted idol is known as ‘Yantra that stands for the ultimate reality. The Shivlinga (Phallic form of Lord Shiva) garlanded by a silver snake, acquires the major attraction of people.
Enrooted within the religious roots, the city of Eklingji contains around 108 tiny and massive temples. The other temples not to miss are dedicated to Ambika Mata, Kalki, and Lord Ganesa. An extra temple by the name of Nathon Hindu deity Mandir that dates back to the tenth century catches the attraction. Lakulish temple could be a fine temple that was inbuilt in 971. Sas- Bahu temple is another temple that’s all raised in marble of the eleventh century. The religion Temple of Adbhudji is created in black marble that dates back to the fifteenth century.
Ek means ‘one’ while ling means ‘lingam or the life-giving a phallic symbol of Lord Shiva’. The Eklingji Temple, one of the popular pilgrimages of Rajasthan is located at a distance of 22 km away from Udaipur. It was initially built by the then King of Udaipur Bappa Rawal, on the side of 72 rooms Jain temple which housed a four-faced statue of Adinath, the first Jain saint. It stands with the great historic significance dedicated to Lord Eklingji, the benefactor deity of the Mewar clan.
Main Attraction at Eklingji Temple Udaipur
Udaipur Eklingji Temple is largely visited during the Hindu festival called Shivratri. On this occasion, the Lord Shiva image is beautifully bejeweled. Enrooted in the religious roots, the town comprises around 108 small and big temples. Near to Eklingji Temple, you can also trace various temples that are dedicated to Ambika Mata, Kalki, and Lord Ganesha. One more temple by the name of Nathon Ka Mandir that dates back to the 10th century catches the attraction. Lakulish temple is a fine temple that was built in 971. It is the exclusive temple of the Lakulish sect in India. Sas- Bahu temple is another temple that is all raised in marble of the 11th century. The Jain Temple of Adbhudji is made in black marble which dates back to the 15th century.
Amongst other temples of Kailashpuri (better known as Eklingji), temples of Pataleshwar Mahadeo, Arvada Mata, Rathasan Devi, and Vindhyavasini Devi are worth mentioning. The wonderful architecture of these temples makes the onlooker ponder over the artistry of those times. The city of Eklingji or Kailashpuri is located amidst a beautiful valley on the lands of Rajasthan that houses some of the marvelous temples of India. While planning your trip to Udaipur, don’t forget to include Eklingji in your itinerary, otherwise, you would be at a miss.
Eklingji Temple was built in the 8th century. It is a prime spot for musing about the Lord Shri Ekling Ji. The temple is located in the Kailashpuri district of Udaipur. This Hindu temple is built by the Maharanas of Mewar as these warriors were devoted to God Shri Ekling Ji, for their success. The city of Eklingji or Kailashpuri is found amidst the picturesque City of lakes of Rajasthan that homes a number of the marvelous temples of India. Whenever planning your trip to Udaipur, remember to incorporate Eklingji in your itinerary. It is surely worth visiting.
Eklingji Temple Kailashpuri Udaipur
Eklingji, northeast of Udaipur, is a complex of 108 temples and shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Eklingji Temple is one of the most well-known temples in Rajasthan. Situated in the city of Eklingji, the place earned its name from this famous temple. The city of Kailashpuri or Eklingji is situated amid a stunning valley on the lands of Rajasthan that is known to house some of the finest temples of India. Located 22km away from Udaipur, Eklingji Temple is one of the popular temples in Rajasthan. In this temple, the Hindu Lord Shiva is worshipped. According to historical records, Eklingji or Shiva temple was set up by Acharya Viswaroopa. Later on, it became a prominent place of worship for Mewar rulers. It was attacked several times by the invaders. But, succeeding rulers of Mewar restored it every time.
Ek means ‘one’ while ling means ‘lingam or the life-giving a phallic symbol of Lord Shiva’. The Eklingji Temple, one of the popular pilgrimages of Rajasthan is located at a distance of 22 km away from Udaipur. It was initially built by the then King of Udaipur Bappa Rawal, on the side of 72 rooms Jain temple which housed a four-faced statue of Adinath, the first Jain saint. It stands with the great historic significance dedicated to Lord Eklingji, the benefactor deity of the Mewar clan. This temple is situated at the bank of the Indersagar Lake has near about 108 shrines and comes within its walls. The main shrine is a double storied building and designed with a carved tower and pyramidal styled roof. Inside the complex, the main structured has a pyramid style structure and further supported by a hefty pyramidal roof. On entering the temple a silver image of Nandi will welcome you to the deity of Lord Shiva. There are two other images of Nandi that are located in the temple in black stone and brass respectively. In the middle of the temple, a striking four-faced idol of Eklingji, made of black marble is located whose height is near about 50 feet and its four faces depict four forms of Lord Shiva. The east-facing part recognized as Surya, the west-facing part is Lord Brahma, the north-facing part is Lord Vishnu and the south-facing part is Rudra. And it is further garlanded by the silver snake, acquires major attraction of the people.
The Architecture of Eklingji Temple Udaipur
The two-storied Eklingji Temple in Udaipur flaunts a pyramid-shaped roof and an elegant tower. There is a huge complex with large pillared halls. Once you enter the premises, you can see a beautiful silver idol of Nandi. You can also spot other Nandi images in the temple. They are made of two materials i.e. black stone and brass. The main idol in the temple is of Eklingji or Lord Shiva. The image has four faces carved in black marble. The four faces represent the four different forms of Deity. The face in the east is a representation of Surya and in the west, it depicts Lord Brahma. The south-facing figure stands for Rudra and north-facing one is a symbol of Lord Vishnu. Eklingji Temple has a marvelous architecture. The temple is double storied with colossal pyramidal style roof and remarkably carved tower which adds to its beauty.
Exterior – The exterior walls of temples are stretched with stairs which directly descends in the water.
Entrance – On entering the temple, you will greet a silver image of Nandi (bull). According to mythology, Nandi is considered to be the gate-guardian deity of Mountain Kailasa. There are two other carvings of Nandi in brass and black stone in the temple.
Interior – The four-faced idol of Lord Shiva or Eklingji is placed in the main temple. The statue is placed in a towering pillared hall called a mandap.
Four-faced Statue – The idol is about 50 feet in height and is made out of black stone. The four-faced figure depicts four different forms of Lord Shiva. The eastern side recognizes Surya (the sun), the western side recognizes Lord Brahma (the ultimate creator), the northern side recognizes Lord Vishu(the supreme being), and the southern side is Rudra (the mightiest of the mighty). The Eklinga statue is encircled with the figures of Goddess Parvati (Wife of Shiva), Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikay (sons of Shiva).
A combination of all the four forms of the idol symbolizes ultimate truth or ‘Yantra’. Tourists from various parts of the world come to this temple to take in the peaceful views of the Shivlinga which is adorned with a silver snake. Shivlinga is the phallic shape of Lord Shiva. The height of the image is around 50 feet. Around this symbol, you can see the images of Goddess Parvati, Lord Kartikay and Lord Ganesha. Idols of Goddess Yamuna and Goddess Saraswati are also housed in the temple complex. Also, on a visit to the Eklingji temple in Udaipur, you will come across huge silver doors and two tanks. The tanks are named as Tulsi Kund and Karz Kund.
How to Reach Eklingji Temple Udaipur
Udaipur Eklingji Temple is largely visited during the Hindu festival called Shivratri. On this occasion, the Lord Shiva image is beautifully bejeweled. It is one of the finest temples in Udaipur. You need to travel around 22 km from Udaipur to reach National Highway No.8, where the temple is located. You can hire a bus or cab to arrive here. Eklingji Temple is located about 22 km away from the Udaipur city and adjacent to National Highway 8. This city is well connected by road and railways. Tourists can also book private cabs or taxi or even can take the help of private or public buses to reach here and feel the spirit. The Eklingji temple is located at a distance of 22 km from Udaipur. It is easily accessible from airways, railways, and roadways. Public transit is readily available from the main city center. You can hire a cab and reach the temple within 35 to 45 minutes.
By Airways – Dabok airport is located 21 Km away from the main city center. There are five major cities, namely- Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Aurangabad, which are connected to Udaipur. If you are short of time then taking flight is a suitable option. Udaipur Airport is also known as Maharana Pratap Airport is situated near Dabok at a distance of 22 km from the Udaipur. Several domestic airlines connect the city to all the major cities of India including Jaipur, Mumbai, Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. Cabs are available at the airport to get to hotels and resorts.
By Railways – Udaipur is connected to many places via rail network. The railway is located just 3 km away from the City center. You can find a direct train from Delhi, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Chittaur, Ajmer, and Ahmedabad to the City of Lakes, Udaipur. The train journeys can be really fun when you are traveling with your family or friends, so don’t forget to ask them to tag along. Udaipur Railway Station is quite close to the city of Udaipur. Rajasthan Railways connects Udaipur station with all the other cities of Rajasthan. Train services are running to and from Udaipur connecting Jaipur, Mumbai, and Delhi. The luxurious but costly Palace on Wheels is another way to travel to Udaipur.
By Roadways – Udaipur is connected to National Highway 8. NH 8 is a major Delhi- Mumbai link road. You can take advantage of public transport like cabs, taxis, and buses. The four states(i.e., Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh) transport corporations run their buses to and from Udaipur offering affordable, safe and comfortable journey. We recommend taking public transport like a bus as you get to meet different people and spend more time witnessing the astonishing views. Udaipur is well connected by road to all main cities of India. Udaipur Bus Stand has regular bus services, which connect Udaipur with cities such as Delhi, Jaipur, Chittorgarh, Indore, Kota, Ajmer, Ahmedabad and Mt. Abu. Rajasthan Roadways offers the facility of Deluxe Buses and AC coaches too. You can also hire taxis and cars to reach Udaipur by road.
Entry Fees and Timings of Eklingji Temple Udaipur
Eklingji temple has no entry fees; you are always welcome to Lord Shiva’s abode. All you need is to ensure that the temple is open. The temple door opens for darshan in three shifts –
Early morning – 4:30 AM to 7 AM
Late morning and early noon – 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM
Evening – 5 PM to 7:30 PM
Things to Do in and Around Eklingji Temple Udaipur
Apart from the main shrine and temple, there are several temples, namely Pataleshwar Mahadeo, Vindhyavasini Devi, Rathasan Devi, and Arvada Mata. After you have witnessed the beauty of the entire temple, feel free to roam the nearby regions of the Kailashpuri dynasty. The wonderful architecture of these temples makes the onlooker ponder over the artistry of those times. The temples host special events during Navaratri. The events in Chaitra and Ashwin month of Hindu calendar fetch devotees from all around the world. People seek blessings of God and relieve themselves from all the stress. It is believed that by taking the blessing of Ekilingji, people bring themselves one step closer to spiritual breakthroughs from all the worldly struggles and pains.
Opening/Closing Timings and Days of Eklingji Temple Udaipur
4.30 am to 7.00 am and 10.30 am to 1.30 pm
5.00 pm to 7.30 pm
Best Time to Visit Eklingji Temple Udaipur
The splendid city best experienced between three main seasons namely mid-March-June, July-September, and October-March. Udaipur is not at all preferable place for a visit in summer as only the scorching heat and the effect of tropical climate will accompany you. Instead of that, in winter the temperature touches a minimum of 11.6 degrees Celsius and a maximum 28.3 degrees Celsius, make the climate clear and shooting for the best traveling experience. There is no best time to seek God’s blessing but keeping the weather in mind, you can take a quick trip in the spring season (February- March).
The temple is located at a distance of 22 kilometers towards the north of Udaipur, Eklingji is conveniently reached by bus and car. Om Travel Online provides Udaipur to Shri Eklingji Temple Taxi Services. It devoted to Lord Shiva of the religion of Hinduism. Eklingji Temple was constructed by Bappa Rawal Eklingji is a religious complex that consists of over 108 temples that are carved out of marble and sandstone. This temple, constructed in 734 AD, is surrounded by high walls on all sides. One of the eminent deities of the Maharanas of Mewar, who is revered as Mahadeva Chaumukhi, has a pillared hall. There is a magnificently sculpted huge Nandi (the divine brazen bull who is the loyal colt of Lord Shiva) before the gate of the temple.
Udaipur is a beautiful city, the city of lakes which is filled with travelers around the year. People are loving coming to this city. If you are also planning to come to this city and wondering about the best time to visit Udaipur then here are the details. Months from between March to June in summer and from between October to March in winter are considered the best months for tourism.
Eklingji is better known for a Hindu temple complex in Udaipur District of Rajasthan in western India. Eklingji is believed to be the ruling deity of Mewar Princely State and the Ruler Maharana rules as his Dewan. According to the 15th-century text Ekalinga Mahatmya, the original temple at Eklingji was constructed by the 8th-century ruler Bappa Rawal.[1] The original temple and murti (idol) were destroyed during invasions by the Delhi Sultanate rulers. The earliest extant murti was installed by Hamir Singh (14th century), who also carried out extensive renovations to the main temple. Rana Kumbha (15th century) rebuilt the temple, in addition to constructing a Vishnu temple. His 1460 inscription describes him as “the personal servant of Eklinga. Some of the beautiful place near Eklingji temple that makes it the best tourist place are:
Saas Bahu Temple
The Saas-Bahu Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is made of two structures, one by a mother-in-law and another, by a daughter-in-law. Both the structures have an altar, a mandapa (columned prayer hall) with projections and a porch. Comparatively smaller than the temple of Sas, the ‘Bahu’ temple has an octagonal ceiling, which is adorned with eight intricately carved female figures. In its front, the ‘Sas’ temple has a Torana (archway). It is widely believed that the image of Lord Vishnu was swung from the Torana along with hymns in the praise of the lord on ceremonial occasions. Facing towards the east direction, both the temples are constructed on a common platform.
Sun Temple
The sun temple at Ranakpur dates back to the 13th century CE. After its destruction, it was rebuilt in the 15th century. This temple built in the classic Nagara style exhibits a profusion of intricate sculptural work. It is built of white limestone and is very intricately ornamented. This temple faces east, and it has a sanctum crowned with a shikhara, and an octagonal mandapa preceding the sanctum. The octagonal mandapa has six verandas. The projections on the exterior of the sanctum are sculpted with images of the Sun God seated on (a chariot of) rearing horses. Also in Ranakpur is the grand temple complex dedicated to the Jain Tirthankara Adinatha – the Chaumukh temple with 29 halls with 1444 pillars no two of which are alike.
Udaipur to Shri Eklingji Temple is just 20 km and can be easily covered within 30 min by booking a taxi from Udaipur to Shri Eklingji Temple with Om travel. With experience and professional driver, Om travel makes your Udaipur to Eklingji Temple journey an unforgettable journey. So book your cab fast and enjoy your journey with us. At a distance of 24 km from Udaipur, Eklingji Temple is an ancient Hindu temple situated at Eklingji or Kailashpuri town in the Udaipur district of Rajasthan. It is one of the most famous pilgrimage places to visit in Rajasthan and among the top places to visit in Udaipur.
More Information About Eklingji Temple Udaipur
Eklingji Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the tutelary deity of the former Mewar rulers. Ek means ‘one’ while ling means ‘lignum or the life-giving phallic symbol of Lord Shiva’. The patron deity of the Mewar clan is considered the actual ruler of the region while the kings are merely the Dewan (or the Prime Minister) of this God of Mewar. Initially, the temple was built in 734 AD by Bappa Rawal, the founder of the Mewar dynasty. In the later years, it was repaired and modified by various Kings, to clean the remnants of obliteration made by the attacks of Mohammedans.
The temple complex is located on the banks of Indersagar Lake. The beautifully sculpted temple complex includes 108 temples within its high walls, made out of marble and sandstone. The main Shrine is a double storied building, looks magnificent with its pyramidal style of roof and beautifully carved tower. The temple sanctum sanctorum houses a four-faced black stone statue of Lord Shiva with Brahma facing west, Vishnu facing north, Shiva facing south and Surya facing east.
Outside the temple are the statues of Nandi, Shiva’s bull and Bappa Rawal. Bappa Rawal is shown facing Nandi with his hands clasped. There is another statue of Nandi in silver in the hall of the temple. Goddess Parvati, Ganesha, Ganga, Kartikeya, Yamuna, and Saraswati are the other shrines located in the temple complex. Smaller temples dedicated to Amba Mata and Kalka Mata can also be found in the temple complex. One can also visit Sas-Bahu Temple and Adbhuthji temple, which is about 2.5 km from Eklingji. The temple is the center of attraction during the festival of Shivratri. Devotees in large numbers throng the temple to offer their prayers to the Lord of the universe on Mondays and festival days.
Places to Visit Near Eklingji Temple Udaipur
You can find many other holy places located around the Ekilingji temple. Each temple has its significance in the life of one or other devotees. The temples like Rathasan Devi, Pataleshwar Mahadeo, Vindhyavasini Devi, and Arpad Mata set a new definition of beautiful architecture and serene environment. Out of many, there are two very famous temples on the premises of the Eklingji temple. The Sas Bahu Temple is one of the rarest temples built in the 10th century. This temple is dedicated to the legendary mother-in-law and daughter-in-law. The temple has some erotic images carved intricately on its wall.
Abuja Jain temple is another temple dating back to the 17th century. The temple has an idol of Shanti Nath Bhagwan. The figurine is made up of black marble. Other than visiting temples, you can also hire a tourist guide and roam around to understand the history of the Kailashpuri dynasty and take a look at the astonishing views around.
Eklingji Temple is a marvel structure carved in stone and one of the most famous temples of Rajasthan. Eklingji Temple is positioned in the small town of Eklingji, which is also known as Kailashpuri. In terms of national geography, Eklingji Mandir lies on National Highway No.8. The temple is easily accessible from all the cities and towns of Rajasthan. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Eklingji Temple was constructed by Bappa Rawal in 734 A.D. Ever since, Lord Eklingji became the presiding deity of the rulers of Mewar. Eklingji temple of Udaipur also contains the statues of Yamuna and Saraswati. The temple has silver doors depicting Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya. Located nearby Eklingji Shiva temple, are the temples of Amba Mata, Ganeshji and Kalika. Also shown in the brackets are nymphs in erotic dance postures and a life-size image of Bapparawal.
Later on, the temple was renovated and repaired by different Kings, to clean the remains of destruction caused by the attacks of Mohammedans. The outstanding structure of this temple boasts about the architectural science of those times. This double-storied temple is certainly an eye treat along with its pyramidal style of roof and beautifully carved tower. In the temple complex, the main shrine is comprised of a huge pillared hall (mandap). A colossal pyramidal roof makes the cover of this hall. The entrance to this hall is adorned by a silver idol of Nandi. Inside the shrine, one can see two other images of Nandi, one is made out of black stone and the other is made out in brass. A mesmerizing aroma maintains the refreshing atmosphere of this temple. The shrine encompasses a remarkable four-faced idol of Eklingji (Lord Shiva). Carved out in black marble, the idol lengthens to the height of 50 feet. The four faces of the idol represent Lord Shiva in his four forms.
The east, west, north, and south-facing parts are recognized as Lord Surya, Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva respectively. The apex of this comprehensive idol is called as ‘Yantra’. It depicts the ultimate reality of this life. A silver snake festoons the shiva lingam (the phallic form of Lord Shiva) that gathers the major attention of the people. Here, the whole family of Lord Shiva can be sited including Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Kartikay. There are idols of Goddess Saraswati and Goddess Yamuna as well. The shrine also boasts of heavy silver doors that are imprinted with the images Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikay. In the northern part of the complex, there are two water tanks by the names of Karz Kund and Tulsi Kund. For the services of the Lord, the water of these tanks is used. Shivratri is the major festival that is celebrated here with full enthusiasm and zeal. For centuries, the divine aura of Eklingji Temple is attracting pilgrims and tourists to its doorsteps.
The Eklingji temple, Rajasthan is devoted to Lord Shiva, the tutelary deity of the former Mewar rulers. Temple has situated approximately 24 km to the north of Udaipur. Eklingji Shiva temple is a huge complex consisting of 108 temples. Enclosing the temple are high walls with bathing terraces leading down to the water. Filling the temple with fragrance all the time are the lighted incense materials. Eklingji temple houses a 50 feet high multi-faced black stone statue of Lord Shiva. There are four faces of the statue, depicting Lord Shiva in his four forms. In the east is Surya (sun), in the west is Brahma, in the north is Vishnu and in the south is Rudra. In the center of these images is the Shivlinga, encircled by a silver snake. The temple houses the whole family of Lord Shiva, including Parvatiji (wife of Shiva) and Ganeshji (son of Shiva).
Best Time To Visit Eklingji Temple Udaipur
Months from September to March are the best time to visit this place. If you want to see Udaipur in its most glorious form, you should plan your trip during the winter. In the summer season, the temperature rises very high and the summer season is not the best time to visit Udaipur. Monsoon brings relief after the hot summers. However, Udaipur receives scanty rainfall. Winter season is, hence the best time to visit Udaipur.
Shopping At Eklingji Temple Udaipur
Udaipur has a huge number of small shops, big showrooms and roadside stalls that would present you with a wide range of things to choose from. Udaipur offers an attractive variety of handicrafts. They range from toys, bewitching puppets, wall hangings, pen stands, cloth lanterns, handmade papers, painted wooden boxes to Greeting cards. Regarding clothes, you can buy traditional clothes colored in batik and handprints. Dyed saris and textiles are also a major part of clothing. You can shop for precious stones, Kundan and silver jewelry here too. If you are roaming around the streets of City Palace, you will find beautiful miniature paintings. Hathi Pol, Bada Bazaar, Chetak Circle, Bada Bazaar and Palace Road are some of the best shopping centers of Udaipur. While shopping in these markets, don’t forget to bargain with the shopkeepers to get the value of your money. Rajasthani and Sadhna are two government emporiums that have all the beautiful Rajasthani products under one roof.
Local Experiences At Eklingji Temple Udaipur
The people of Udaipur are quite friendly. They seem a little rugged, but these people are very good at heart. Untouched by the influence of modern times, these desert people are simple and cheerful. Mewari is the main language of Udaipur, yet Rajasthani, Hindi, and English are also spoken in the city. The lively and vivid dances add spark and life to the romantic city of Udaipur. Bhavai, Ghoomar, Kachhi Ghodi, Kalbeliya, and Terahtaali are the unusual dances of Rajasthan. The localities of Udaipur find enjoyment in the melodious music of Morchang, Naad, Tanpura, Sarangi and many other instruments that used to be famous in the courts of Mewar rulers.
Nightlife At Eklingji Temple Udaipur
The city of Udaipur has quite a nightlife. There are good bars and pubs all over Udaipur. Apollo Beer Bar, Rangat Bar (Green View Hotel), Shilpi Restaurant, etc. are some of the bars in the place.
Food At Eklingji Temple Udaipur
Udaipur cuisine consists of vegetarian dishes. Food is made from lots of vegetables and lentils. It is seasoned with a diverse range of spices that are unique to the lands of Rajasthan. You can relish your taste buds with different types of curries ranging from Lentil to yogurt. Dried mango by the name of ‘Ocra’ and beans of ‘sangria’ is accompanied by many meals. Deep-fried pieces of bread and extensive use of chili makes the cuisine of Udaipur, a mouth-watering one.
Restaurants Near Eklingji Temple Udaipur
Anupama Restaurant, Berry’s Restaurant, Gangaur Restaurant, Hariyali Restaurant, etc. are some famous Rajasthani restaurants around the place. Vatika Restaurant, Chicken Centre, Abhinandan Hotel, Durga Nursery Road, Lake Palace Hotel, Lake View Roof Top Restaurant, are some of the multi-cuisine restaurants in the place. There are several fast-food restaurants and coffee shops around the place too.
Sample Itinerary For Eklingji Temple
The temple is best visited on a trip to Udaipur. Reach Udaipur and check into a hotel. Take a bus or taxi to the Eklingji temple. Enjoy the beauty of the temple and after visiting the temple, leave for lunch at a nearby good restaurant. You must try the famous cuisine of Udaipur here. In the evening, hire a taxi to go see some of the beautiful lakes of Udaipur. Come back to your hotel for the night and the next day, visit the forts and Havelis in Udaipur.
