Eklingji Temple (Lakulisha Shiva)
Eklingji Temple is the tutelary shrine of the Mewar Royal House, located in Kailashpuri village, 22 km north of Udaipur on the Udaipur–Nathdwara highway. The presiding deity is Lord Eklingji — a four-faced (Chaturmukha) black marble Shiva Lingam installed on a silver platform. Founded in 734 CE by Bappa Rawal, founder of the Mewar dynasty, every subsequent Mewar Maharana considered himself a regent (Diwan) of Eklingji — ruling Mewar as a servant of this deity.
About Eklingji Temple (Lakulisha Shiva)
Eklingji Temple is the tutelary shrine of the Mewar Royal House, located in Kailashpuri village, 22 km north of Udaipur on the Udaipur–Nathdwara highway. The presiding deity is Lord Eklingji — a four-faced (Chaturmukha) black marble Shiva Lingam installed on a silver platform. Founded in 734 CE by Bappa Rawal, founder of the Mewar dynasty, every subsequent Mewar Maharana considered himself a regent (Diwan) of Eklingji — ruling Mewar as a servant of this deity.
Historical Lineage & Epigraphy
Bappa Rawal established the original shrine in 734 CE under the guidance of his Guru Harit Rashi. The temple was repeatedly rebuilt after invasions — notably destroyed by Alauddin Khilji in 1303 CE and Firuz Shah Tughlaq. The current structure was built by Maharana Raimal in the 15th century CE, incorporating 108 subsidiary shrines.
Religious & Theological Significance
The tradition that every Mewar Maharana is merely a 'Diwan' (regent/minister) of Eklingji means state decisions were symbolically always attributed to this deity. Documents were signed 'On behalf of Eklingji.' The four-faced Lingam faces North (Brahma), South (Shiva), East (Vishnu), West (Surya). Devotees of the presiding deity visit Eklingji Temple (Lakulisha Shiva) for regular darshan (viewing of the deity) as well as for major festival observances throughout the year. The temple follows a daily schedule of puja ceremonies: typically beginning before dawn with the Mangala Aarti (auspicious lamp ritual) and concluding with a late-evening closing ceremony. Specific festivals — tied to the Hindu lunar calendar and the deity's mythological biography — draw significantly larger congregations and may include elaborate processions, chariot festivals, and special abhisheka (ritual bathing) ceremonies.
Architectural Classification & Engineering
A fortified complex enclosing the main temple with a 50 ft shikhara (spire) and 108 subsidiary shrines. Built from white marble. The Rangamandapa hall is noted for its carved toranas and pillar sculptures. The regional architectural style used in Eklingji Temple (Lakulisha Shiva) reflects the temple-building traditions dominant in India during its construction period. Key structural elements typically include the shikhara (spire) over the sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha), the mandapa (assembly hall), and in larger temples, separate halls for music, dance, and offerings. Decorative sculpture on the exterior walls depicts deities, celestial beings (apsaras), mythological narratives, and auspicious symbols drawn from Puranic literature; the quality and survival of this sculpture depend significantly on the stone used and subsequent conservation efforts.
Visitor Guidelines & Operational Timings
The Mewar royal family continues to visit during major festivals. Photography is restricted inside the main sanctum. Dress code: traditional attire required. The temple is generally open for darshan from early morning (approximately 5:00–6:00 AM) to late evening (approximately 8:00–9:00 PM), with a midday closure during the afternoon puja period; hours vary and should be confirmed locally. Visitors are required to remove footwear at the temple entrance and dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered); specific dress-code requirements vary by temple. Photography rules differ across temples — many prohibit cameras inside the sanctum but allow photography in outer precincts; posted signage or temple staff can clarify.
How to Reach
Udaipur City Station is 22 km south. Taxis and buses operate regularly on the Udaipur–Nathdwara route. The nearest major city to Eklingji Temple (Lakulisha Shiva) is the nearest town, from which the temple can be reached by local bus, auto-rickshaw, or hired taxi. Pilgrimage sites along the India circuit are typically well-connected by state transport buses; schedules should be verified at the nearest KSRTC, TSRTC, TNSTC, or equivalent state bus terminal. The nearest railway station is the most practical arrival point for long-distance travellers; from there, local transport to the temple is generally available.
- ✈️ Nearest Airport: Maharana Pratap Airport, Udaipur (22 km)
- 🚆 Nearest Railway Station: Udaipur City Railway Station (22 km)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Mewar Maharanas call themselves 'Diwan of Eklingji'?
From Bappa Rawal's time, every Mewar ruler considered himself a regent serving Eklingji, who was regarded as the true king of Mewar.
What is unique about the Eklingji Lingam?
It is a four-faced (Chaturmukha) black marble Lingam, with each face representing Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, and Surya.
Verified Academic & Administrative Sources
- Mewar Royal Family Archives (Shrimad Rajendra Suri Trust)
- Rajasthan State Gazetteer
- ASI Rajputana Temple Survey
- Rajsamand District Gazetteer