Eklingji Temple

1 Temple Overview

The Eklingji Temple near Udaipur, Rajasthan, dedicated to Lord Eklingji (a form of Shiva), is the traditional royal family deity of the Mewar dynasty, with Mewar rulers historically considering themselves mere regents (Diwans) ruling on the deity's behalf.

Significance: Traditional royal deity of the Mewar (Udaipur) royal dynasty

2 Why Is It Famous?

The temple is famous for its unique historical-political significance — Mewar kings traditionally did not consider themselves sovereign rulers but rather "Diwans" (prime ministers/regents) governing the kingdom on behalf of Eklingji, the true sovereign deity, a distinctive constitutional-religious arrangement maintained symbolically for centuries.

3 Story and Legends

Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Eklingji, with the temple's foundation traditionally connected to sage Harit Rashi, who is said to have guided the historical establishment of Mewar's ruling dynasty under divine sanction, embedding religious legitimacy directly into the kingdom's governance structure from its earliest history.

4 History

Renovations: The temple has been continuously maintained and renovated by the long line of Mewar maharajas across more than a millennium, reflecting the dynasty's deep ongoing reverence for this royal deity.

6 Architecture

The temple features traditional Rajasthani temple architecture with a black stone four-faced Shiva lingam in the inner sanctum, set within a walled complex reflecting centuries of royal architectural patronage.

7 Main Deity Information

Lord Shiva is worshipped as Eklingji, depicted through a distinctive four-faced black stone lingam representing different aspects of the deity, unique to this temple's iconography.

8 Festivals and Celebrations

Maha Shivaratri is the principal celebration, with the Mewar royal family traditionally participating in temple ceremonies reflecting the dynasty's historical devotional relationship with the deity.

9 Best Time to Visit

October to March for comfortable Rajasthan weather.

The Udaipur region has hot summers (April-June) and pleasant winters (October-February).

10 Darshan and Temple Timings

Aarti Schedule: Morning Aarti: 4:30 AM, with the deity ceremonially bathed in five nectars (Panchamrit) | Evening Aarti: sunset

11 Pujas and Rituals

Traditional Shaivite worship continues following centuries-old royal patronage customs, with members of the former Mewar royal family historically maintaining close ceremonial ties to temple worship.

12 How to Reach

13 Accommodation

Extensive hotel options available in nearby Udaipur city, including several heritage properties.

14 Food and Prasadam

Rajasthani vegetarian cuisine widely available nearby; temple prasad includes traditional offerings.

15 Entry Fees and Costs

Free entry.

16 Rules and Dress Code

Modest traditional attire recommended.

17 Nearby Attractions

Nagda (ancient ruins), Udaipur City Palace, Lake Pichola, Nathdwara (Shrinathji Temple).

18 Interesting Facts

The Mewar dynasty's tradition of ruling as "Diwans" of Eklingji rather than independent sovereigns represents one of the most distinctive religious-political arrangements in Indian royal history, symbolically maintained even into modern times by descendants of the former royal family.

19 Visitor Tips

Combine with a visit to nearby Udaipur city and its famous lakes and palaces given the temple's proximity. Learn about the unique Mewar-Eklingji historical relationship for deeper appreciation of the temple's significance beyond typical religious tourism.

20 Frequently Asked Questions

21 Quick Summary

22 Ratings