Eklingji, 22 km north of Udaipur, is the temple of Shiva as Eklingnath, the ruling deity of Mewar; the Maharanas ruled as his regents. It's free, but phones, cameras and leather aren't allowed. A kilometre away, the 10th-century Saas-Bahu temples at Nagda have some of the finest carving in Mewar. Allow half a day for both.
Key facts
- Eklingji temple complex founded in the 8th century, rebuilt over centuries
- Mewar's rulers considered Eklingji the true king, ruling as his diwan
- Nagda's Saas-Bahu temples date to around the 10th century
- Eklingji is free; phones are not allowed inside
Every Maharana of Mewar ruled not as king but as diwan, regent, of Lord Eklingji. Visiting his temple tells you how the kingdom saw itself.
Eklingji
The temple complex in Kailashpuri, 22 km north of Udaipur, was founded in the 8th century, traditionally linked to Bappa Rawal, and rebuilt over the centuries. The main shrine holds a black marble four-faced Shiva. Around it stand more than a hundred smaller shrines.
Rules
- Free entry.
- No phones, cameras or leather inside. Lockers at the gate.
- Dress modestly; cover shoulders and knees.
- Timings: open in the morning, closed around midday, open again late afternoon. Check before you go.
Nagda’s Saas-Bahu temples
A kilometre away, beside the Bagela lake, stand two 10th-century temples originally called Sahastra Bahu (thousand-armed, an epithet of Vishnu). Over time the name became Saas-Bahu, mother-in-law and daughter-in-law. The carving on the pillars, ceilings and outer walls is extraordinary. Free and usually quiet.
Plan the morning
- Leave Udaipur by 8 am.
- Darshan at Eklingji.
- Nagda’s temples.
- Continue to Haldighati and Nathdwara, or return for lunch.
See day trips from Udaipur and car hire.
Frequently asked questions
What are Eklingji temple timings?
The temple opens in the early morning, closes around midday and reopens in the late afternoon and evening. Check exact timings before you go.
Can I take my phone into Eklingji?
No. Phones, cameras and leather items aren't allowed. Lockers are available at the gate.
What are the Saas-Bahu temples?
Two 10th-century temples at Nagda, originally Sahastra Bahu (thousand-armed, for Vishnu). The name became Saas-Bahu (mother-in-law and daughter-in-law) over time.
