Shri Eklingji Temple, Kailashpuri

Dedicated to Lord Shiva who is worshipped in the form of Eklingnathji, the Eklingji Temple is situated in the state of Rajasthan in Kailashpuri town of Udaipur, the city which is regarded as the ‘City of Lakes’ in India. The temple is situated around 22 km away from the main city on the way to Nathdwara. A Purana named Ekalinga Mahatmya dated back to the 15th Century says that this shrine was firstly built by the then King of Udaipur, Bappa Rawal in the year 728 A.D. Since then, it has been modified and repaired multiple times in the 14th and 15th Centuries by several other Kings, who dedicated themselves as ‘the personal servant of the Eklingji.’ According to Hindu Ithihas, the presiding deity of this shrine, which is a four-faced black marble statue, is believed to be the ruling deity of Mewar Riyasat i.e.., Princely State with the Maharana being as the Dewan of the State.

This temple complex houses 108 small shrines within its wall, neighbouring a 72 room Jain Temple which has a four-faced statue of Adinath, the first Tirthankara of Jain Dharma. All these 108 shrines are made up of marbles and sandstones including the presiding deity made up of black marble housing in the main shrine, which is a two-story building. The four-faced statue of Eklingnathji shows Lord Vishnu (srushti sanrakshak) facing North, Lord Brahma (srushti racheta) facing West, Lord Shiva (paap vinashak) facing South and, Surya facing East. This statue of great historical importance stands around 50 feet tall.

The statue of Eklingnathji is an acme of ‘the Yantra that stands for ultimate reality.’ The place is surrounded by beautiful natural resources which lighten up its ecological importance along with the religious one. Karz Kund and Tulsi Kund situated on the north side of this shrine brings glory to the deities when the water from it is used for the services to the Lord. One of the major attractions of this destination is the Shivlingam, which is adorned by a snake made out of silver. Eklingji Patotsav is a major festival celebrated here which involves covering the main deity with a special attire and a guard of honour by the royal band of City Palace. Mahashivratri brings joy and enthusiasm to the environment which creates a magical aura of a town where Lord Shiva resides.

Originally tweeted by Savi Travels (@SaviTravels) on July 17, 2019.