Eklingji Temple Udaipur

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.

History of Eklingji Temple Udaipur
The history of Eklingji Temple is recorded in the Ekalinga Mahatmya, a historical text written in the 15th century. According to the text, the original temple was built in 734 A.D. by ruler Bappa Rawal. The temple has been a victim of loot and plunders during the rule of Delhi Sultanate. The original temple and its idols were physically damaged. In the late years, the temple was renovated and modified by many kings to preserve the glory and faith of people in Shri Eklingji. The temple originally belonged to Pashupata sect, then Nath sect and post 16th century it is managed and controlled by Ramanandis.

Architecture of Eklingji Temple
The two-storied Eklingji Temple in Udaipur flaunts pyramid shaped roof and an elegant tower. There is a huge complex with large pillared halls. Once you enter the premises, you can see a beautiful silver idol of Nandi. You can also spot other Nandi images in the temple. They are made of two materials i.e. black stone and brass. The main idol in the temple is of Eklingji or Lord Shiva. The image has four faces carved in black marble. The four faces represent the four different forms of the Deity. The face in the east is a representation of Surya and in west it depicts Lord Brahma. The south facing figure stands for Rudra and north facing one is a symbol of Lord Vishnu.

A combination of all the four forms of the idol symbolizes ultimate truth or 'Yantra'. Tourists from various parts of the world come to this temple to take in the peaceful views of the Shivlinga which is adorned with a silver snake. Shivlinga is the phallic shape of the Lord Shiva. Height of the image is around 50 feet. Around this symbol, you can see the images of Goddess Parvati, Lord Kartikay and Lord Ganesha. Idols of Goddess Yamuna and Goddess Saraswati are also housed in the temple complex. In addition, on a visit to Eklingji temple in Udaipur, you will come across huge silver doors and two tanks. The tanks are named as Tulsi Kund and Karz Kund.