Eklingji Temple is a marvel structure carved in stone and one of the most famous temples of Rajasthan. Eklingji Temple is positioned in the small town of Eklingji, which is also known as Kailashpuri. In terms of national geography, Eklingji Mandir lies on National Highway No.8. The temple is easily accessible from all the cities and towns of Rajasthan. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Eklingji Temple was constructed by Bappa Rawal in 734 A.D. Ever since, Lord Eklingji became the presiding deity of the rulers of Mewar.
Later on, the temple was renovated and repaired by different Kings, to clean the remains of destruction caused by the attacks of Mohammedans. The outstanding structure of this temple boasts about the architectural science of those times. This double-storied temple is certainly an eye treat along with its pyramidal style of roof and beautifully carved tower. In the temple complex, the main shrine is comprised of a huge pillared hall (mandap). A colossal pyramidal roof makes the cover of this hall.
The entrance to this hall is adorned by a silver idol of Nandi. Inside the shrine, one can see two other images of Nandi, one is made out of black stone and the other is made out in brass. A mesmerizing aroma maintains the refreshing atmosphere of this temple. The shrine encompasses a remarkable four-faced idol of Eklingji (Lord Shiva). Carved out in black marble, the idol lengthens to the height of 50 feet. The four faces of the idol represent Lord Shiva in his four forms.
The east, west, north and south facing parts are recognized as Lord Surya, Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva respectively. The apex of this comprehensive idol is called as 'Yantra'. It depicts the ultimate reality of this life. A silver snake festoons the shivlingam (the phallic form of Lord Shiva) that gathers the major attention of the people. Here, the whole family of Lord Shiva can be sited including Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikay. There are idols of Goddess Saraswati and Goddess Yamuna as well.
The shrine also boasts of heavy silver doors that are imprinted with the images Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikay. In the northern part of the complex, there are two water tanks by the names of Karz Kund and Tulsi Kund. For the services of the Lord, the water of these tanks is used. Shivratri is the major festival that is celebrated here with full enthusiasm and zeal. Since centuries, the divine aura of Eklingji Temple is attracting pilgrims and tourists to its doorsteps.
About Eklingji Temple
The temple at Eklingji or Kailashpuri is one of the prime pilgrimage destinations in Rajasthan. Eklingji has been the deity of the royal Mewar family since the time of Bappa Rawal, founder of the Mewar dynasty. Ek means 'one' while ling means 'lingum or the life giving phallic symbol of Lord Shiva'. The patron deity of the Mewar clan is considered the actual ruler of the region while the kings are merely the Dewan (or the Prime Minister) of this God of Mewar.
The Eklingji Temple is located at a distance of around 22 km from Udaipur and is said to be initially built by Bappa Rawal on the side of 72 rooms Jain temple which housed a four faced statue of Adinath, first Jain Saint. The site is also important as it was the place where Bappa Rawal received religious discourse from his guru, Harit Rishi. The temple was first built in the year 728AD, however, subsequent changes and renovation work was done later as well. The temple that stands today is not the original structure but the one built on the site of ancient temple. Infact, as later as in the 15th and 16th century, Maharana Raimal too rebuilt and renovated this temple.
The temple is open for the devotees at a little odd hours - from 4.15-6.45 in the morning; next 10.30 am - 1.30 pm and lastly from 5.15-7.45 pm (timings need to be checked before a visit to conform any changes). Monday is considered immensely auspicious day for devotees as such the crowd on this day can be more than usual.
