Eklingji Temple Udaipur - Ancient Royal Temple of Mewar Dynasty.

 

Eklingji Temple is one of the most popular temples of Rajasthan and is sited at a distance of 22 km in the town of Eklingji (Kailashpuri) to the north of Udaipur. 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. Enrooted in the religious roots, the town comprises around 108 small and big temples. The temple belongs to the Maharanas and the pooja is performed in a royal manner. Hindu pilgrims come here from far places throughout the year to worship the Lord Eklingji. The descendant of Mewar Dynasty comes here on every Monday to offer their prayers to Lord Eklingji and to seek his special blessings. The temple is largely visited by the hundreds of devotees at the time of Shivaratri, the most significant festival of the temple.

 

Established in 734 A.D. by Bappa Rawal, Eklingji is purported to have been the ruling idol of Mewar rulers. The magnificent architecture of Eklingnath Temple is simply remarkable. The double-storied temple looks awesome with its pyramidal style of roof and distinctly carved tower. The outer walls of the temple are stretched with steps that descend touching the serene waters. Inside the complex, the main temple is a huge pillared hall or 'mandap' that is sheltered by hefty pyramidal roof. On entering this hall, you will be welcomed by a silver image of Nandi. In the temple, there are two other images of Nandi carved in black stone and brass respectively. You would find this temple full of mesmerizing fragrance.

 

 

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.

 

Being sited in the middle, Shivlinga is encircled by Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikay. Inside the temple complex, you would find statues of Goddess Saraswati and Goddess Yamuna. The main temple also boasts of heavy silver doors, which depicts Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikay guarding their father. To the north of Eklingji temple, there are two tanks namely Karz Kund and Tulsi Kund. Water of these tanks is consumed during the services of the Lord. The festival of Shivratri is observed here with full gusto and fervor. At this time, the image of Lord Shiva is adorned with jewelry.

 

 

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. 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.

 

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 winters.

 

Morning Darshan: 4:30 am to 7:00 am and 10:30 am to 1:30 pm.

Evening Darshan: 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm

 

Morning Aarti: 5:30 am, 8:15 am, 9:15 am & 11:30 am

Afternoon Aarti: 3:30 pm & 4:30 pm

Evening Aarti: 5:00 pm & 6:30 pm