Rajasthan, as per name it is a (raja) King of religious monuments. The state of Rajasthan encloses people of different beliefs. People with different religions live peacefully and in amity with one another. Their diversity in religion is also present by the pilgrimages of Rajasthan for every person of each and every faith. There are many popular religious spots in Rajasthan. The temples that belong to Hindus, Jains, the Dragahs and mosques are there to spread the peace in the world as like Rajasthan. You one visit to these holy places it gives you a lot of peace and also the concord to your soul.
People don’t give visit to religious temples just for spirituality but also it is a fine example of the architectural brilliance. Pilgrimages of Rajasthan are a real treat for your eyes. The beautiful historical construction and the creation of marvelous design give us an overview about the history of Rajasthan tradition. There are numbers of things to see like, the rulers who were ruling on Rajasthan in ancient time; they have not only built delightful temples but also the magnificent Forts and Palaces.
When you will start your Rajasthan tour; you will visit Hindu pilgrimages like Brahma temple, Ossian temple, Kaila Devi, Eklingji temple, Shrinathji temple, Galta and Ramdevji temple, and Govindnathji temple then some Jain temples as Ranakpur Jain temples, Parasvanath temple, Rikhabhdevji temple, Dilwara temples, and Mahavir temple; Muslim religious monuments as Ajmer Sharif Dargah and many mosques. These pilgrimages of Rajasthan attract millions of people from all around the world. Now that traveling from one place to another is so easy, you can comfortably reach these pilgrimages and experience the holiness.
Dilwara Temple
- Location: Udaipur
- Rule: In Dilwara temple photography is not allowed.
- Fee for entry: Entry is free
- Temple dedicated to: Jain Thirthankar
- Established in: Between 11th and 13th century
- Reach there: Take buses or taxis and come from RSTC and reach to Dilwara temple
History of Dilwara Temple
Dilwara temple is one of the master architectural pieces. It is most spiritual pilgrimage place for the Jain. The whole temple is built in white marble; it is dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras. It was constructed between 11th and 13th century. The distance from Rajasthan station is around two and half kilometers. Dilwara temple is surrounded of mango trees and wooded hills. There are many temples under the Mount Abu’s shed; Dilwara is located approximately 2.5 km from Mount Abu.
Architectural Creation
Temple is architecturally very rich; it is constructed in the Nagara style, which makes this monument different from other. The temple dates back to 1032CE, the period of grand Brihadeeswara Temple at Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu. Dilwara temple is also described as a dream in marble. Your eyes will blink after looking the marvelous decorated pillars, ceilings, panels, doorways and niches. On the walls of the temple; Lord Krishna’s life is carved.
Places to See
The Vimal Vashi Temple
This temple is established by Vimal Shah, a minister of Raja Bhimdeo, in 1021. This temple specifies the first Jain Tirthankara, Adinath. On the ceiling of the Vimal Vashi temple; there are fabulous designs of lotus-buds, petals, flowers and scenes from Jain and Hindu mythology.
The Luna Vashi Temple
This temple was dedicated to the 22nd Jain Tirthankara, Shri Nemi Nath ji. Luna temple was built in memory of Vastupal and Tejpal’s late brother Luna.
Pittalhar Temple
The difference ness of this temple is the statue of Adinath which is made of five metals. It was made by Bhima Sha, the minister of Sultan Begada.
Mahaveer Swami Temple
This temple is attractive through its paintings, which are on the upper walls by an artist from Sirohi. Among the Dilwara temple this is fifth most important temple at Mount Abu.
Parshvanath Temple
Temple is built in the 15th century by Mandlik and his family. Parshvanath temple is also known as Khartar temple. The carving work of this temple is comparable to those of Khajuraho and Konark.
Near By Places
Sunset Point
This sunset is located to south-west of Nakki Lake; sunset offers a great view during the dusk hours.
Gaumukh
This place is near to Nakki, this spot has an old water tank which gets water from spout; it is in a shape of cow’s head that’s why it is called as Gau Mukh.
Honeymoon Point
This location is also known as ANDRA Point. From this place you will get the view of verdant valley and superb plains; specifically during sunset time.
Govind Dev Ji Temple
- Location: Jaipur
- Timing: Morning from 4:30AM to 11:30AM
- Evening from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM
- Rules: Don’t touch or damage the decorum in the temple
- Fee for entry: Entry is free
- Dedicated to: Lord Krishna
- Established in: Early eighteenth century
- Reach there: From Jaipur city there are auto rickshaws, cycle rickshaws are available.
History of Govind Devji Temple
According to the history record, that Raja Sawai Jai Singh had a dream of Govind Dev Ji and he said him to bring his idol Jaipur, which is in Vrindavan. As per the Lord Govind Dev Ji’s order, Raja Sawai brought the idol and placed it in the City Palace complex. After the death of Raja Sawai, many people got sovereignty, but Raja Man Singh took the responsibility to build the temple in 1890.
You will forget the real world after seeing the delightful image of Radha-Krishna. Every day in Govind Devji temple from morning to evening different ‘Aartis’ and ‘Bhog’ are presented to the god at seven times in a day. When devotees took darshan of Lord Krishna and Radha, every time the idols decorated by different clothes.
Architectural Creation
Govind Devji temple has such a different and real history that one can live without visiting this temple. Many tourists also visit this temple to experience the dynamic architecture which is adorned with an amalgam of European and Indian designs. The beauty of Indian painting has been increased by European chandeliers in this temple. This temple has unique factor that the ceilings of the temple are coated in gold.
Places to See
Chandra Mahal
This Mahal is situated in the city palace complex; the temple of Govind Devji is located in between the Chandra Mahal and Badal Mahal.
Janmashtami
This festival is celebrated in Govind Dev ji temple in huge size. Large numbers of people gathered, to get the blessings of Lord Krishna and Radha. In this festival many devotees give visit to Govind Dev ji temple.
Nearby Places
Galtaji Temple
It is almost 10 km far from Jaipur. This temple is dedicated to Sun God. Birla family gives financial support to this temple.
Balaji Temple
It is located in Dausa. This temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman Ji. This temple does many social activities also like charity, incapacitated people, feeding the poor, water supply, and food provide for animals.
Jaigarh
Jaigarh Fort is situated on the top of the hill. It was made by the Sawai Jai Singh, in 1726. His motto behind making this fort was to store the things which he can use for military.
Mahavir Temple
- Location: Ghanerao
- Rule: Don’t touch and damage the decorum of the temple
- Fee for entry: Entry is free
- Temple is dedicated to: Lord Mahavir
- Established in: Tenth century
- Reach there: To reach Mahavir temple, you can take RSTC bus from Udaipur to Sadri or Desuri.
History of Mahavir Temple
Mahavir temple is one of the most popular Jain mandir among the Jain temples of Rajasthan. This temple is situated on the bank of the river Gambhir and it was built in white marble in the honor of Mahavira, the twenty-forth Jain saint. The history behind this temple was, before couple of centuries, one cow which used left from house in the morning and came back in the evening. When she came back her udders were empty. So to find the reason, owner’s son followed the cow and he found that cow used to stop at one specific stop and emptied itself of all the milk. To find the secret people dig that place and miracle was happened, that is they got statue of Mahavir in that place.
Architectural Creation
Mahavir temple is a mixture of modern and ancient Jain architecture. Carved elephants give a rich look to temple. The temple has adorned polygonal walls. This temple is a complex for smaller Jain temples. The idol of god Mahavir saint is delicately carved inside the main temple. One statue of Shantinath has been built near by the tall tower. He was one of the Jain ford makers; the height of statue is 32 feet. To add more glows in the temple’s beauty, thousands of lights are there to light up the temple.
Places to See
Osian
It is an ancient town situated in Thar Desert. It was a great trading center between eighth and twelfth centuries. The main attractive factor of this place is its camel ride and the time of the sunset.
Sati Mata temple
This temple is dedicated to sati Mata. It is constructed in the eighth century. Inside the temple, there are many beautiful images and sculptures of Hindu deities.
Surya Temple
This temple is little bit similar to the Sun temple at Ranakpur. It was constructed in the tenth century. There are sculptures of the Ganesh and Durga Mata, within the temple.
Near by Places
Horse Safari
This is very nice and adventures thing for the people who come for the trip or picnic. Horse safaris were started in the year 1992. In these safaris you can go to majestic forts and palaces. These safaris attract numbers of tourist.
Rishabhdevji Temple
- Location: Dhulev
- Rule: Don’t touch and damage the decorum of the temple.
- Fee for entry: Entry is free
- Temple dedicated to: Lord Rishabh Dev
- Established in: Fifteenth century
Reach There
- By Air: Udaipur airport is close to the temple. From airport by taxi or bus you can reach.
- By Train: Delhi, Ahmedabad and Jaipur are connected to Udaipur.
- By Road: All cities and towns of Rajasthan are connected to Udaipur by road.
History of Rishabhdeo Temple
Rishabhdevji temple was constructed in the year of 1431, by the king of Mewar. The cause behind establishment of temple was the fourth fathers of the present Brahmin Bhandari priests of the temple the Vikram Samvat 931 and the Dhuliya Bheel installed the idol of God Rishabh devji in the village Dhulia. All this was done through the force of Hindus, Jains and others into Islamic fold; that time the power was in Rawal Khuyan’s hands. Mohammedan was the cause for demolition of the temple.
Architectural Creation
As per the other pilgrimages of Rajasthan, this temple is also having architectural touch. When you start entering in the temple, elephants are carved in the stone to welcome you. Images of different goddess are carved; on the southern side there is an image of goddess Padmavati, on the north side there is an image of Goddess Chakreshwari. After passing the stairs; you will reach to the Navchauki. The idol of Rishabhdevji temple is placed on a 1.25 feet high stone and the idol’s height is 35 feet. As per the Indian beliefs; they believe animals as a god that’s why there are images of bulls, around an images of the goddess. And also the statues of elephant and lion.
Places to See
Pagliyaji Palace
Around 2 km from Rishabhdevji temple; you can see the footprints of Lord Rishbhdevji. That place called as Pagliyaji Palace; where all people worship these holy footprints. There is spiritual history behind it; just beside the chhatri (cenotaph) from the trunk of tree the idol came out. Every year, on the birthday of Rishbhdevji a big fair is held and the procedure gets start from the temple of Pagliyaji.
Near Tourist Places
Karni Fort
Karni fort is situated in Bambora, Rajasthan. This fort is belongs to Rajput’s period of time; it witness for several historical stories and moments like battles. Now this fort is converted into heritage after renovation; by Thakur Sunder Singh, he is a Sodhwa Rajput.
Sitamata Sanctuary
Sitamata sanctuary is spread near the Aravalli Mountain foothills. It is located in the Chittorgarh region. The unique thing of this mountain is that it has teak trees; which generally use for construction. The area is around 423 km.
Dungarpur
Dungarpur is known as the majestic ‘City of Hills’. This place is very developed in transportation; it is connected by roadways, railways and railways, because of this benefit people can easily reach this place.
Birla Mandir Rajasthan
- Location: Rajasthan (south of Jaipur, below the Moti Dungri Fort)
- Timing: Between 08:00AM to 07:00PM
- Rule: Don’t enter in the temple with shoes; leave it at the entrance of the temple.
- Fee for entry: Entry is free.
- Temple dedicated to: Lord Laxmi Narayan
- Established in: In the year 1988, by B.M. Birla Foundation
- Reach there: From city Jaipur you can reach by taking taxis, autos.
History of the Birla Mandir Jaipur
Birla Mandir Jaipur is also known as Laxmi Narayan Temple; because it is dedicated to Lord Vishnu who is also known as Narayan and the Goddess Laxmi, the fortune of good wealth. This temple is built by the great business tycoons B.M. Birla Foundation in 1988. The temple is located under the shed of famous Moti Dungri hill. Whenever people do visit to Jaipur, they must visit Birla Mandir to capture the glorious beauty of the temple. it is a major attraction of Jaipur city.
Architectural Creation
The entire Birla Mandir is composed in pure white marble, which create an attention for tourists. If you will give visit Birla Mandir in the night, your eyes won’t blink by seeing the stunning beauty of Mandir in the dark night. Three domes of the temple represent the art culture of India. Besides Laxmi-Narayan idol there are also delightful idols of Lord Ganesh and other Hindu God. The idols are carved so dynamically that they look very real.
As of this temple is built by the famous business foundation, they not only give respect to God but also the god of great brain like Buddha and Socrates. The attractive stained window glass adds more beauty in Mandir. Birla Mandir is surrounded by huge green gardens. Temple also has a museum, which present the genealogical values of the Birla family. Birla Mandir Jaipur is an ideal example of combination of spirituality and great Indian art.
Places to See
Museum
Near the Birla Mandir there is a small museum, which displays the old things, home products and also the inherited values of Birla family. You can see Museum within the time of daily 08:00 AM to 12:00 AM then from 04:00 PM to 08:00.
Hawa Mahal
In ancient time, women were not allowed to come in front of men and they were also not allowed to go anywhere they want, that time Hawa Mahal was specially made for the women. It is built as secured place for royal ladies; from Mahal they can watch the city.
Jantar Mantar
This was built by Jai Singh in 1728. It is the largest for calculation of the movements of the celestial bodies.
Near Tourist Places
Samode
Samode is situated in the foothills of the Aravali range. This small village gives you relaxation through its atmosphere, pollution, traffic free.
Karauli
This small village is located at a distance of 182km from Jaipur. People identify this place by its Madan Mohanji temple.
Eklingji Temple
- Location: 22 kms in North of Udaipur, on National Highway No.8
- Rule: Photography is not allowed in the temple.
- Fee for entry: Entry is Free
- Temple dedicated to: Lord Shiva
- Established in: 734 A.D
- Reach there: From the city you can reach by bus or taxis.
History of Eklingji Temple
There is a great history behind the Eklingji temple, according to myth the historical set up of Eklingji temple is really enriching. It was established by one of the contemporaries of Adi Shankaracharya named Acharya Vishwaroopa and it was shared with the Sharada Math at Dwarka, this was set up by Adi Shankaracharya. This temple is entirely dedicated to Lord Shiva and built to honor the people of Mewar. Because they thought that Lord Shiva was the real ruler of the Mewar kingdom so therefore the members of the stately family of Mewar, they were only acted as a regents to the royal wishes of Lord Shiva and assume them selves to be the leader only in name. Rare people know that the remarkable piece of architecture Eklingji temple was re-established in the 15th century, after it was smashed. This temple is a major crowd puller of the Udaipur city.
Architectural Creation
The temple was built by Bappa Rawal in 734 A.D. but later it was repaired and modified by kings. The roof of this temple is designed in the style of pyramidal and the towers are creatively carved. Outer walls of the temple are starched in a way that it touches the serene waters. When you will enter inside the complex, you will find a huge pillared hall, sheltered by the massive pyramidal roof. There is silver image of Nandi you will be welcomed by them. There are two more images of Nandi, carved in black stone.
The idol Shiva is unique. The idol has four faces; which are made in black marble. The height of idol id around 50 feet; the four faces of idol represent the four forms of Lord Shiva. This temple has created its own different identity by through its unique art like black marble and silver images of Nandi.
Places to See
Tanks
In the northern part of the complex there are tanks by the names of Karz Kund and Tulsi Kund. The water of this tank has been used for the services of the Lord.
Shivratri
Because the whole temple is dedicated to the Lord Shiva; so the festival of Shiva should be Celebrate in huge manner. Like that with full of happiness and devotion devotees celebrate Shivratri.
Near Tourist Places
Lake Palace
This palace will defiantly surprise you by its every aspect. The entire palace is made of pure marble with fine carved columns, fountains, filigreed screens and also swimming pool.
Saheliyon Ki Bari
It is called as “garden of the maids of honor”. This place was specially made for the ladies of royal families; to spend good time. It was made in the eighteenth century; there are pool, fountains, lawns, flowerbeds and marble pavilions for roaming and spending time.
Mewar Festival
This festival represents all colors of Rajasthan Culture through their traditional songs, dances and other activities. This festival celebrates to welcome the coming spring season.
- Also Read: Most Popular Temples to Visit in Udaipur
Kaila Devi
- Location: Karauli
- Rule: Meat and wine are not allowed to eat as per the Vaishnava traditions.
- Fee for entry: Entry is free
- Temple dedicated to: Kaila Dev ji
- Established in: 1600 AD
- Reach there: From Karauli, by local transport you can reach.
History of Kaila Devi Temple
Kaila Devi temple is situated on the banks of the Kalisil River in the hills of Trikuta, it is 25Km away from the South Karauli. This temple was built by the devout king Bhompal. He was true devotee of Goddess Kaila. When he received the order from the Goddess Kaila; he built the temple. Many devotees visit this pilgrimage of Rajasthan to worship the Goddess Kaila Devi. She is an incarnation of Goddess Durga and she has a strong hold over pilgrimage.
Architectural Creation
Not just as a one of the pilgrimage but it also attracts devotees by its attractive architecture. There are two holy idols to worship. The neck of Kaila Devi’s idol is bent. The top point of temple is very high like a pyramid. The footprints of Indian art can be seen in the engravings, carvings and ornamental works on the walls and pillars.
Places to See
Bhairon Baba Temple
This temple is situated in front of the Kaila Devi temple; that’s why every devotee who come for worship, they must visit this Bhairon temple.
Hanuman Temple
This temple is dedicated to the Lord Hanuman; it is situated in the courtyard.
Near Tourist Places
Kaila Devi Game Sanctuary
This place designed by a beautiful natural scenery with Wildlife. There are chinkaras, wild boars, jackals, blue bells and leopards’ animal.
Timangarh Fort
It is destroyed fort at a distance of 40 Km from Karauli. It was established in around 1100.
Osian Temple
- Location: 65 Km Northwest of Jodhpur
- Rule: No rules
- Fee for entry: Entry fee is Rs.5 Camera/Video Rs. 30/100
- Temple dedicated to: Harihara
- Established in: Early Medieval Age 10th century
- Reach there: From Jodhpur you can reach by hiring bus or taxi.
History of Ossian Temple
Ossian temple is situated in the beauty of Thar Desert; it is 65 Kms away from the North West of Jodhpur. It was founded by the legend Utpaladeva, a Rajput Prince of Pratihara Dynasty after that it was known as Ukesha or Upkeshapur. This Ossian temple became an important centre of pilgrimage between the centuries of 8th and 9th. During that period temple had very strong influence of Brahminical. After some time Jainism also flourished in the place. This was the chief reason behind the construction of many Hindu and Jain temples in the place.
Architectural Creation
Ossian temples have extraordinary architectural touch. The artist’s creation is such a graceful that Ossian temple is compared with the Konark temple in Orissa. The structure is carved in red sandstone which makes this temple unique than others. Among Ossian temples, three temples are committed to Harihara.
Places to See
Mahavira Temple
As per the name this temple s dedicated to the last Jain Tirthankar. The temple has open air pavilion style mandapam, and also the finely carved pillars for support. In the temple you will find image of Mahavira, which is 2000 years old.
Sun Temple
It is an oldest group of temples. The temple was badly destroyed while the invasion of Afghani and Turkish.
Near Tourist Places
Khichan
At this place you will get the chance to see the havelis in red sandstone, you will experience the beautiful environment of this small village. There are also Jain temple and fort to visit.
Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is located on the Trikuta hills. After entering in this place you would defiantly like to stay in the beauty of this location. For roaming there is Jaisalmer fort, Jin temples and lavish mansion of Jain merchants in Jaisalmer.
Shri Ramdev Temple
- Location: Jaisalmer
- Rule: Stay away from fraud donation seekers.
- Fee for entry: Entry is free
- Temple dedicated to: Shri Ramdevji
- Established in: 1931 A.D
- Reach there: Take a bus from major cities like Jaipur, Bikaner, and Jaisalmer.
History of Shri Ramdevji Temple
Shri Ramdevji temple is located in Ramdevra in Runicha near Pokhran in Jaisalmer district. It was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner around the Samadhi of Baba Ramdev. Ramdev was born in the household of Ajmalji in the Tomar Rajput. Ramdev is meditated to have been an incarnation that was sent by God for the enrichment of humankind. He was a great saint of the village who believed in equality of human beings. His thinking was different than other people about social stratification based on caste, class creed or sect. He was practicing the equality.
Architectural Creation
This sacred place is not an architectural wonder but still it is attractive. In the campus of temple there is a Ramdevji’s image is placed. The images of other family members of the Ramdevji can also found here. The temple has been brightly colored. Shri Ramdevji temple is decorated with the statues of silver horses. Temple is not highly decorated but still there are some notified attractive aspects.
Places to Visit
Fair and Festivals
This place becomes crowded mostly twice a year for fair. Through this fair, you can see the popularity of Ramdevji temple. You will find the cultural events in this fair.
Near Tourist Places
Pokhran
This place is famous for breathtaking Pokhran fort and Museum. It is also known for terracotta art.
Jaisalmer
This is golden city of Rajasthan; this place has many attractions for tourists like Jaisalmer Fort, Jain temple, Laxminath temple and haveli.
Brahma Temple
- Location: Rajasthan (Pushkar Lake)
- Rule: Photography is not allowed; and don’t enter in the temple with shoes.
- Fee for entry: Entry is free.
- Temple dedicated to: Lord Brahma
- Established in: 14th century
- Reach there: Take a bus from Ajmer or local transport to reach Brahma.
History of Brahma Temple
It is the only temple which is committed to Lord Brahma in India. Millions of pilgrims came to visit this temple every year. The temple is situated near the Pushkar Lake in Rajasthan. The temple was built in the 14th century, in Hinduism the Lord Brahma is known as a creator of this Universe. Among the trine Hindu Gods Lord Brahma is the one of them; the other being Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. The place of Brahma is very high in Hindu culture; that’s why Brahma temple is an important pilgrim place. Pushkar Lake is considered as a very holy place; about Pushkar lake there is believed that the lotus has been fallen from the hands of the Lord Brahma in this valley.
Architectural Creation
This pilgrim temple is totally built of marble. The temple is attainable by a flight of marble. From long distance also you can identify this temple through its tall red peak. When you will enter in the temple first you will find the silver turtle, which is embossed on the floor in front of the sanctorum. In the vicinity of the turtle, a lot of silver coins are placed on the floor. The idol of Brahma is in seated position.
Places to See
Pushkar Fair
In the month of Kartika, the eighth and the holiest lunar month of the Hindu calendar with Pushkar camel fair. Many peoples from near by villages come with their camel and cattle in this fair.
Ghats
Pushkar is decorated by fifty two mesmerizing ghats. The water of lake is very religious; that’s why many pilgrims specially take a holy dip in these.
Near Tourist Places
Ajmer
From Pushkar Ajmer is very much close. Ajmer is one of the famous places in the Rajasthan. It is a religious place for Muslims.
Kishangarh
Many people like to visit this place, because of its remarkable and magnificent Bani Thani paintings.
Galtaji Temple
- Location: Jaipur
- Rule: No rules
- Fee for entry: Entry is free
- Temple dedicated to: Sun God, Lord Hanuman/Balaji
- Established in: 18th century
- Reach there: Take a bus from Vidyadharji ka Bagh and after that take rickshaw to climb.
History of Galta Temple
It is one of the spiritual pilgrims of the India. This temple was built by Diwan Rao Kriparam in the 18th century. It is located 10km away from Jaipur in Rajasthan. There are many temples around the Galtaji Temple in the rest complex area. Galta temple is unique because of its natural water springs. People considered Galtaji temple as a holy place; because Saint Galav spent his life meditating here. Despite that the temple was established much later by Diwan Rao Kriparam; he was a courtier of Sawai Jai Singh II. With Galta temple the complex also includes several temples, pavilions, natural springs and holy ‘Kunds’. Jaipur city is known as pink city like that the ‘Kunds’ are built in pink sandstone. The temple is committed to the Sun God and Hanuman.
Architectural Creation
Temple is decorated by rounded roofs, exquisitely carved pillars and painted walls. Because of pink sandstone the beauty of temple is increased. The walls of temples are decorated by the painting of Maharaja playing Polo and Lilas of Krishna and Gopis. Even after disintegration of the whole complex, finely carved balconies and designed ceilings attracts you towards temple.
Places to See
Surya Temple
This temple was constructed by Rao Kriparam. The temple is on the top of the highest peak here, that’s why it gives you marvelous views of the city and the surroundings.
Nature Walks
Galta temple is situated in the surroundings of nature, that’s why after worshiping the God you can go on a walk to experience the cool and exotic experience.
Near Tourist Places
Abhaneri
The village is founded by the king Raja Chand, this village is specially known for its step wells. Here you will get the chance to live the rural village Culture of Rajasthan.
Balaji
This temple is 102km far from Jaipur, the people who are suffering from occupancy visit this temple.
Karni Mata Temple
- Location: Deshnoke
- Rule: Remove your shoes before entering into the temple.
- Fee for entry: Entry is free. Camera/video – Rs. 20/50
- Temple dedicated to: Karni Mata
- Established in: Early 20th century
- Reach there: Take buses or taxis from Bikaner or Gogo Gate Bus stand to Deshnoke.
History of Karni Mata Temple
The Karni Mata temple is committed to an early 15th century; it is considered as a reincarnation of Goddess Durga. It is a quite different kind of temple; a lot of tourists visits this temple. Karni Mata was esoteric; she lived in the 15th century and dissolved after her marriage at the age of 27. After that she became sanyasani and devoted herself as Durga after cruel off Mahishasura. For one more interesting thing is that there are large numbers of brown rats running around the temple without fear. It is very much lucky if you spot white rat in the temple.
Architectural Creation
The former ruler of Bikaner renovated this temple totally in marble. The temple has silver and gold domes. Also the mandap and panels above the image are of gold through this the richness and glory of the temple reflects. The main gate of the temple is extremely gilt.
Places to See
Fairs
In the festival of Durga Mata, a grand fair is held at the temple; many people visit the temple in Navratri to do prayers. The fair is held annually.
Near Tourist Places
Kolayat
The surroundings of this place are very nice, around this place there are 52 ghats with holy lake. It has Brahma temple like Pushkar. During October- November there is Kapil Muni Mela is held.
Bikaner
It is very close to Deshnoke; it is very charming city of Bikaner. There are Junagarh fort, Jain temple, Lallgarh Palace, Laxminath temple and exciting camel safaris.
Ranakpur Jain Temple
- Location: Ranakpur fort
- Rule: Do not carry shoes, cigarettes and leather articles in the temple.
- Fee for entry: Entry is free, Camera/video – 50/100
- Temple dedicated to: Adinath
- Established in: 1439A.D
- Reach there: Through local transport you can reach to temple.
History of Ranakpur Jain Temple
Ranakpur Jain temple is located in the mountain ranges of Pali District. During the 15th century, the Jain temple was built by Rana Kumbha. The whole temple is surrounded by walls. The main temple is the Chamukha temple; it is dedicated to the Tirthankara Rishabhdeoji. At inner holy place there is a four faced statue of Rishabhdeoji.
Architectural Creation
Ranakpur Jain temple is a really a four faced temple. The structure of the temple is exceptional beauty of white marble. There are 84 idols of gods and nine basements, 29 halls supported by 1444 pillars. The temple is decorated by knotted carving of the interiors adorned with engravings of Jain saviors, plant and floral motifs which capture the attraction of people.
Places to See
If you are not visiting this temple in hurry then try to count the numbers of pillars, you will be tired but the pillars won’t finish. Every statue of this temple face one or other image, the carving is so extraordinary that there is single marble work with 108 snake heads and many tails; just try to find the end of the these tails which again is very hard. The proud thing is that this Ranakpur Jain temple was nominated as one of the top 77 wonders in a contest for the new Seven Wonders of the World.
Near Tourist Places
Sadri
This place is mostly known for the delightful temples like Varahavtar temple and the Chintamni Parsvanath temple; this are the oldest temple located here. There is also one dargah of Khudabaksh Baba.
Kumbhalgarh
To reach this place you need to travel 30 km north to Ranakpur. The main attraction of this place is Fort.
Shrinathji Temple
- Location: Nathdwara
- Rule: Photography is not allowed
- Fee for entry: Entry is free
- Temple dedicated to: Lord Krishna
- Established in: 17th century
- Reach there: From Udaipur; hire bus and taxis to reach Nathdwara.
History of Shrinathji Temple
To worship the Lord Krishna, many devotees come to the Shrinathji temple. More than tourists there are many pilgrims drift to the place to offer their wishes. In the pilgrimage, there are huge numbers of Vaishnavites (the followers of Vishnu and his incarnations). The idol of Krishna is carved in the black stone which is brought from Mathura – Vrindavan in 1669; to protect the idol from Aurangzeb.
Architecture Creation
Shrinathji temple is a second richest temple in the world. Pilgrims who come to Shrinathji Temple to worship the idol of Krishna, they get the chance to see the idol only eight times a day like short intervals. Many tourists come form far away places to see the fabulous architecture of the site. Through the environment point of view; the construction of temple is done around many courtyards. Inside the temple there are paintings of the elephants, horses, beautiful maidens and doorkeepers on all the doorways.
Places to See
The one thing which you must see that is, the services which dedicated to Lord Krishna by worshipers (pujaris). They treated the idol of Krishna like a child; they clean the idol by lots of things, they take care of each and every thing of Lord Krishna. Everyday they decorate the idol which increases the beauty of god.
Near Tourist Places
Kankroli & Rajsamand Lake
This temple is very much similar to the temple at Nathdwara. Kankroli temple is also a delightful mandir of Dwarkadhish. The timings of this temple is also changeable.
