Eklingji Temple, dedicated to Bhagwan Shiv, is located in the historical city of Udaipur, Rajasthan. Eklingji Temple stands as an expression of architectural brilliance and unwavering devotion, attracting pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike.
History and Architecture of Eklingji Temple
The idol of Shri Ekling Ji deity is of Bhagwan Shiv. Shiv Lingam has five faces and is made of black stone. The inscription on the southern wall of the temple shows that the idol was established and consecrated by Bappa Rawal and then Maharana Raimal Ji around the 15th century (1473–1509).
The faces are of Lord Brahma (West), Lord Surya (East), Lord Vishnu (North) and Lord Rudra (South) and the raised apex is of Shivalinga, the incarnation of Sadashiva along with his consort Amba.
At the entrance of the two-storey temple, it has a beautifully sculptured Nandi. It also has a silver snake coiled at the bottom. Here the incarnations of Lord Ganesha and Kartikeya are protecting their father at the silver door. Besides this, there are also statues of Goddess Yamuna and Saraswati. Two ponds named Karz Kund and Tulsi Kund are situated in the northern direction.
The history of Eklingji temple is recorded in the 15th century historical text Eklinga Mahatmya. According to this revered manuscript, the origin of the temple dates back to 734 AD, when the visionary ruler Bappa Rawal laid its foundation stone. However, with the passage of time challenges came and during the rule of the Delhi Sultanate, the temple became a victim of looting. There are still traces of physical damage on the original structure and its sacred statues.
Eklingji temple darshan timings
Eklingji temple is open throughout the week and darshan timings are from 4 am to 7:30 pm. Aarti timings are as follows Morning Aarti – 5:30 AM, 8:15 AM, 9:15 AM and 11:30 AM, Afternoon Aarti – 3:30 PM and 4:30 PM, Evening Aarti - performed at 5:00 pm and 6:30 pm.
Major festivals in Eklingji temple
Shivratri, Eklingji Patotsav is the main festival in Eklingji temple. Apart from this, special rituals for Navratri, Pradosh, Makar Sankranti, Vaishakh and Shravan are also held here. Every Monday and every Shani Pradosh day, the temple is opened for darshan 15 minutes early and closed 15 to 20 minutes late.
How to reach Eklingji Temple?
Eklingji Temple is located at a distance of 22 km from Udaipur. It is easily accessible by air, railway and road. Public transport is easily available from the main city centre. You can hire a cab and reach the temple in 35 to 45 minutes. Udaipur Railway Station is located just 3 km away from the city centre.
Popular Name: Shri Ekling Ji, Eklingji Mahadev