Ambika Mata Temple is located in a village called Jagat in the Udaipur district of the state Rajasthan, in India, Ambika Mata Temple is dedicated to Ambika Devi. Ambika Devi is another form of Goddess Durga, and the shrine present in this temple is said to be some source of energy or Shakti which is the pure energy of the goddess.
This temple was built in the year 961 AD and has been maintained by several organizations over the years. It is now being protected and preserved by the Archaeology and Museum department of the state Rajasthan. Ambika Mata or Ambika Devi is considered as the presiding deity of the village.
The scriptures on the walls and the stones present in the temple showcases a variety of tales of Ambika Devi or Goddess Durga. And the idol of Goddess Durga shows the fierceness which represents the power of the goddess. This temple is also connected to Jain religion, therefore devotees from different religions visit this temple. Tourists from across the states and globe definitely add Ambika Mata Temple to the list of places to visit when they are visiting Udaipur.
Apart from the idol of Goddess Durga or Ambika Devi, idols of Goddess Lakshmi and other devis are also present in the temple. The temple was built according to the Maru Gurjara architecture style, therefore, it is slightly different from other temples built in that of the 10th century. It is a one of kind temple which you should visit once in a lifetime Religious Places in Rajasthan.
History of the Ambika Mata Temple, Jagat
Widely known for its intricately detailed carvings, the Ambika Mata Temple traces its origins long back in history to about 961 AD. It is estimated that that it is highly possible that the Ambika Mata Temple was constructed during the rule of either Rawal Allat or Rawal Narwahan, by Samvapura, who was a son of Valluba. With its images of Goddess Durga and many other female divine figures, it is said that the temple dates back to the 10th century. At this temple, the primary deity worshipped is Goddess Ambika who is believed to be the goddess of power.
Owing to its location in the Jagat Village, near Udaipur, this small shrine built in a rock crevice is also often referred by the name of Jagat temple by the local people. Apart from its glorious history, the temple boasts of an outstanding architectural structure which is pretty rare to see somewhere else. Though not huge in size, but in terms of art and architecture, Ambika Mata temple is undeniably a piece of art that catches the attention of people from all over the country.
Jagat Temple Architecture
Ambika Mata Temple was only an elevated altar at the time of the Pratihara period a long time ago. Only a principal image of the Goddess is placed here. It comprises a columned prayer hall called Mandapa which has projections on two sides and a small loggia in obverse. This prayer hall has windows with magnificently carved panels and its ceiling rises shapes in the pyramid shape. Prayer hall also attracts as it has carved panels of Lord Ganesha. Temple also has outstanding architecture depicting various sculptures which include Gods and Goddesses, dancers and singers of the divine court.
Jagat temple has an artistic facade which depicts mythological stories in the set in alcoves. These alcoves beautifully depict scenes including Goddess Ambika Mata Temple. These sculptures are under the protection of numerous miniature leaves. Visiting this temple makes you feel a closeness to those almighty.
Best Time to Visit
There is no such specific time to visit the temple. One can visit the temple at any time of the year and seek blessing from the goddess. Apart from that, during morning and evening time, one can go for aarti and puja to this temple.