Nestled just 22 kilometers from the royal city of Udaipur lies a divine sanctuary where time seems to pause, and whispers of ancient devotion echo through intricately carved stone walls. This is Eklingji Temple – not just a sacred shrine, but the spiritual heartbeat of the Mewar dynasty and one of Rajasthan’s most revered pilgrimage sites.
A Temple That’s More Than Stone
Eklingji is not merely a place of worship; it’s a story etched in granite, water, and faith. As you approach the temple complex through narrow lanes flanked by age-old shops selling incense and offerings, an aura of mysticism slowly envelops you. The scent of sandalwood and the soft chiming of temple bells welcome you into a world centuries old.
Built in the 8th century by Bappa Rawal, the legendary founder of the Mewar dynasty, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Eklingji—the four-faced form of the Supreme God. For over a millennium, the rulers of Mewar have considered Eklingji not just their deity, but their real king. They ruled as mere representatives or “Dewans” of Eklingji, making this temple the true monarch’s throne of Mewar.
A Walk Through Divine Architecture
The temple complex is a marvel of Rajasthani temple architecture, consisting of 108 shrines made of marble and sandstone. As you step through the arched stone gateway, your eyes are immediately drawn to the main shrine, where a striking black marble idol of Lord Eklingji resides. With four faces representing Brahma, Vishnu, Rudra, and Surya, and adorned with silver ornaments, the idol embodies both creation and destruction – the complete cosmic cycle.
Surrounding the sanctum are smaller shrines dedicated to Ganesha, Kartikeya, Parvati, and other deities, each with its own unique aura and legend. The air is filled with chants of “Om Namah Shivaya”, often merging with the rhythmic splash of holy water flowing through the temple’s underground springs.
Legends Woven in Time
Legend has it that Bappa Rawal had a divine vision of Lord Shiva at this very spot, prompting him to build the temple and establish the city of Nagda, which once served as the capital of Mewar before Udaipur. The temple became not only a religious center but also a symbol of the king’s divine right to rule.
Even during invasions and times of war, the people of Mewar believed that Eklingji watched over them. The temple was attacked and rebuilt multiple times, each restoration a testament to the unshakable devotion of the Mewar people and their rulers.
Eklingji Today – Where the Past Meets the Present
Today, the temple remains an active place of worship and draws thousands of devotees and tourists every week. On Mondays, the temple sees a special surge of activity, as Shiva devotees believe it to be the most auspicious day for darshan.
During Maha Shivratri, the entire complex glows with the light of a thousand diyas, and the air trembles with spiritual energy. Devotees wait in long queues for a glimpse of the Lord, priests chant ancient mantras, and the sound of damrus and conch shells fills the night sky.
Despite the changing times, Eklingji stands tall—untouched by modernity, yet embraced by it. It remains a spiritual anchor in the fast-paced lives of many and a must-visit for travelers seeking more than just scenic beauty in Rajasthan.
How to Reach
- Distance from Udaipur: 22 km
- Best Time to Visit: October to March (pleasant weather)
- Temple Timings:
- Morning: 4:15 AM – 6:45 AM, 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM
- Evening: 5:15 PM – 7:45 PM
- Dress Code: Traditional and modest attire is recommended.
- Photography: Not allowed inside the main sanctum.
Final Words
Eklingji Temple is not just a destination—it’s an experience, a silent teacher of devotion, architecture, and timeless faith. For anyone visiting Udaipur, skipping Eklingji is like reading a book with the first chapter missing. It completes the spiritual and historical journey of Rajasthan’s royal heartland.
So, when you next walk the cobbled streets of Udaipur, listening to the echo of royal footsteps and the rustle of history, don’t forget to bow your head where the kings of Mewar once did—at the feet of Lord Eklingji, the eternal ruler of a timeless land.