Location: Eklingji (Kailashpuri) near Udaipur
Timings: 4:15 AM to 7:45 PM
Highlights: 50 feet high image of Lord Shiva
Entry Fee: Free
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.
The impressive design of Eklingji Temple is of note. The double-storied temple structure awes with its pointed sort of roof and clearly sliced tower. The outer walls of the temple is stretched with steps that descend touching the serene waters. Within the complex, the temple is distinguished by a large columned hall or 'mandap' that's protected by hefty pointed roof. On getting into this hall, you may be welcome by a silver image of Nandi. Within the temple, there are idols of Nandi sliced in black stone and brass. Feel the divinity of temple as you breathe in the auspicious ambiance and an attractive fragrance.
The temple boasts of a putting four-faced idol of Eklingji (Lord Shiva) that's 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 as 'Yantra that stands for the last word reality. The Shivlinga (Phallic form of Lord Shiva) garlanded by a silver snakeis 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 depicts Lord Ganesa and Lord Kartikay guarding their father. The temple complicated has two holy tanks of water named Karz Kund and Tulsi Kund. 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 jewellery.
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 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.
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.
