Eklingji Temple, Udaipur
Eklingji Temple, Udaipur – The Divine Abode of Lord Shiva
📍 Address:
Eklingji Temple, Kailashpuri, NH-8, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313202, India
Temple Specifications:
- Presiding Deity: Lord Shiva (worshipped as Eklingji)
- Architecture Style: Māru-Gurjara (Solanki style)
- Main Idol: 4-faced black marble Shiva lingam representing Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh, and Surya
- Number of Shrines: Over 100 within the complex
- Built In: 8th Century CE by Bappa Rawal, founder of Mewar dynasty
- Material Used: Sandstone and marble
- Rituals: Performed daily by the Maharanas of Mewar, continuing the ancient legacy
- Best Time to Visit: Maha Shivaratri, Mondays, Shravan Month
Story of Eklingji Temple:
The Eklingji Temple holds immense spiritual and cultural importance in Rajasthan. It is believed that Bappa Rawal, the legendary ruler of Mewar, built the temple in 734 AD after receiving divine guidance from Lord Shiva himself. Since then, Eklingji has been considered the ruling deity of the Mewar dynasty. The temple’s four-faced lingam represents the omnipresence and omnipotence of Shiva in all directions and aspects of creation.
The temple has undergone several restorations and remains a symbol of Rajput devotion and architectural brilliance. It is not only a spiritual destination but also a cultural emblem for the region.
Nearby Temples and Attractions:
- Nathdwara Temple (22 km)
Famous for Shrinathji, a form of Lord Krishna, this temple attracts thousands of devotees every day. A pilgrimage to Eklingji is often coupled with a visit to Nathdwara. - Sas Bahu Temples (1 km)
These 10th-century temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu are known for intricate carvings and historical significance. Despite the misleading name (Sas-Bahu), it refers to “Sahastrabahu” – the thousand-armed form of Vishnu. - Adbhutji Shanthinath Jain Temple (within 2 km)
A serene Jain temple known for its peaceful atmosphere and ancient Jain sculptures. - Charbhuja Temple (45 km)
Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this temple is known for its miraculous idol of Charbhuja Nath and is part of the Char Dham of Mewar.
