The vast subcontinent of India is home to a variety of landscapes. Udaipur, a city in the state of Rajasthan, is renowned for its natural beauty. Known as the 'City of Lakes', Udaipur is home to numerous water bodies and enough ancient palaces to keep tourists happily occupied for days. The area surrounding Udaipur is also well known for its tourist attractions.
The Shri Eklingji Prabhu Temple is located on the outskirts of Udaipur, about 22 kilometres north of the city limits, and is well worth a visit. The Eklingji temple is over 1200 years old and is situated in the town of Kailashpuri. Kailashpuri is generally referred to as the temple village as it contains over a hundred temples, and the Eklingji temple is the largest, oldest and most popular one there. The temple is dedicated to Shri Eklingji Prabhu (more famously known as Lord Shiva), and was built in 734 AD by Maharana Bappa Rawal. Shiva is considered the Maharana's family deity, and the current Maharana still visits the Eklingji temple every Monday to worship.
The entire temple complex is made of marble, including the famed four-faced statue of Eklingji. The idols are about 50 feet tall and have been carved out of black marble. Each of the four faces depicts a different form of Lord Shiva. The temple itself is two storeys tall, and is composed of tall pillars, pyramid styled roofs and curved towers. The grand architecture and the intricate carvings that adorn the temple are quite mesmerising. The temple occupies an area of around 2500 square feet. The best times to visit the temple are between 4.15 am and 6.45 am in the morning; 10.30 am and 1.30 pm in the afternoon; and 5.15 pm and 7.45 pm in the evening. Most devotees go to the temple on Monday as it is considered an auspicious day.
Since it is a popular tourist destination, there are plenty of choices when it comes to accommodation in Udaipur. Tourists in search of Udaipur luxury hotels can try the Leela Palace Kempinski, Udaipur. The Udaipur hotel is actually a converted palace. Overlooking the serene waters of Lake Pichola, it is conveniently located and has excellent facilities.
