Rajasthan has a special place in the history of India. Splendid forts, royal palaces, Rajputana legends, and even the temples in Rajasthan lure the history lovers to the royal state. The historical temples in Rajasthan deserve a special mention when planning a holiday in India. The masterpieces of extravagant architecture and many legends of mythology are certainly interesting to explore. Blessed with healing powers to divine aura, historical tells to legends, take a tour to best temples.
Birla Mandir, Jaipur
Nestled on the foothills of the Moti Dungari hills, Birla Mandir is a splendid sight. The famous temple in Rajasthan was originally known as Lakshmi Narayan Temple due to the presiding deities. A modern approach is followed to build the holy architectural landmark in white marble. Marvel at the mythological events inscribed on the walls.
Brahma Temple, Pushkar
Brahma Temple on the banks sacred Pushkar Lake is one of the holiest temples in Rajasthan. Large number of pilgrims throng Pushkar for a visit to this one of the very few existing temples of Brahma on the day of Kartik Poornima. Seek the blessings of four-headed Jagatpita Brahma and his consort Gayatri.
Dilwara Temple, Mount Abu
Magnificently built, Dilwara Temple is one of the famous pilgrimages to visit in Rajasthan especially for Jains. Intricate marble carvings on the walls, ornate detail on the skillfully carved entrances, ceilings, panels and pillars is simply stunning. The five temples are Vimal Vasahi, Luna Vasahi, Pithalhar, Parshvanath and Mahavir Swami.
Eklingji Temple, Udaipur
Eklingji Temple is a famous Hindu pilgrimage in Rajasthan. The sacred shrine houses 108 temples. Worshippers of Lord Shiva pay homage to the temple in huge number especially on Monday. An outstanding four faced idol made up of black marble is placed in one of the main temple. A beautiful statue to Nandi made up of silver grabs the attention.
Harihara Temples, Osian
Dating back to 8th and 9th century, Harihara Temples are the holy abode of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, collectively known as the Harihara. The three historical temples in Rajasthan collectively titled as the Harihara Temple possess architecture par excellence. The shrine has confronted many challenges to time and yet has managed to retain its glory and religious significance.
Jain Temples, Jaisalmer
Tourists on a tour to Rajasthan usually get beguiled by seven Jain temples hemmed in Jaisalmer fort. The interconnecting treasure trove of these temples dates back to 15th – 16th century. Prominent amongst the seven jewels is the Parsvanath Temple where the 22nd Tirthankara is highly revered. The ceiling in the Mandapa consists of a demon-like head sculpture with five bodies.
Karni Mata Temple, Bikaner
Bikaner, the desert-town, is blessed to have the Karni Mata Mandir. ‘The Temple of Rats’ is a must visit temple of Rajasthan. A large population of black rats dwell. These rats are known as ‘Kabbas’ and are considered sacred. Worshippers of Karni Mata make offerings to these rats. Once the offering has been gnawed by them, the remaining is distributed as prasad. Look out for a white rat as it is really auspicious to spot a white one.
Kiradu Ancient Temples, Barmer
Kiradu Ancient Temples are very popular because of a curse that turns human into stones. The historical temples in Rajasthan are quite feared and no one dares to spend a night here because of the malediction. The Someshvara Temple stands out amongst the ruins of the five temples. Upon thorough inspection, it can be acknowledged that the original temple was adorned with figurines of humans and animals.
Mahavir Jain Temple, Osian
Mahavir Jain Temple is a popular Jain pilgrimage housing a big idol of Lord Mahavira in Padmasana pose. The stunning architecture never fails to astonish. Young maidens are skillfully carved on the main entrance. Intricately designed pillars portray an elegance. 8-9 small shrines with beautiful statues all over the wall also lie within the complex. Matchless tranquility and peace prevails at this famous temple of Rajasthan.
Salasar Balaji Temple, Salasar
Salasar Balaji Temple is a highly celebrated temple in Rajasthan. Numerous Hanuman followers gather here to worship their God. Huge fairs are organized at the religiously important shrine on Ashvinn Purnima and Chaitra Purnima. Salasar Dham forms a religious circuit along with the Rani Sati Temple, Khatushyamji and Jeen Mata Temple. Savamani – offering specifically decided quantity of the food and tying coconut with thread in the premises are the well-known rituals performed here.
Naldeshwar Shrine, Sariska Tiger Reserve
A Linga, sacred symbolism of Hindu God Shiva, formed naturally in a cave in the hills. A temple was erected here to preserve the Linga and soon it gained the popularity as the Naldeshwar Shrine. Further, two naturally formed ponds also become a center of attraction. The trek to this venerated place is worth it. Nestled amidst prolific verdant, this must visit temples in Rajasthan offers memories to be cherished forever.
Ranakpur Jain Temple, Ranakpur
The first Tirthankara of Jains, Lord Adinath, is worshipped at the Ranakpur Jain Temple. This makes it one of the famous pilgrimages to visit in Rajasthan for Jains. There are 29 pillared halls, four subsidiary shrines and 80 domes which are balanced by 1444 pillars. The three storied marble wonder looks like a heavenly vehicle. ‘Chaumukha Mandir’ meaning four faced temple is another name given to this place for housing the four faced idol of God Adinath.
Surya Narayan Temple, Ranakpur
Going with its name, Surya Narayan Temple is devoted to Sun God. The figurine of Surya riding his chariot with seven horses steals the limelight. There are superb murals on the walls of the circular structure. Many Hindus and devotees of Surya Devta pay homage to the ruling divine being. The royal family of the Udaipur manage this sanctum sanctorum.
Galtaji Temple, Khania-Balaji
Galtaji Temple is also given a title of ‘Monkey Temple’. Holy water tanks and other shrines dot this place. A natural spring acts as the source of water for these ‘Kunds’ or water tanks. It is a ritual to take a sacred dip here. Galtaji implies to ‘Khole Ke Hanuman Ji’ and thus it is counted amongst the famous pilgrimages to visit in Rajasthan. The Mandir also offers breathtaking views of Jaipur from top.
Mehandipur Balaji, Karauli
Mehandipur Balaji Temple remains in the bucket list of people who are keen to know about exorcism. This magical temple is also visited by many who are believed to be possessed by an evil powers. People have strong faith that Lord Hanuman alleviates the sufferings of the person who is influenced by the magical spell or ghosts. There are temples of Bhairav Baba and Pretraj Sarkar within the temple. The healing shrine is so designed that Lord Hanuman faces his favorite Lord Ram and Sita.
The healing powers and the religious significance of these famous temples of Rajasthan is worth witnessing while on a holy tour to this vibrant state.
