Eklingji Temple in Udaipur Rajasthan

Here is Some Information about Eklingji Temple in Udaipur Rajasthan India.

Location : North of Udaipur, On National Highway No.8
Built in:734 A.D

Built by:Bapa Rawal

Temple Timing : 4:15 am to 6:45 am ,

10:30 am to 1:30 pm ,5:15 pm to 7:45 pm

Highlights:50 feet high image of Lord Shiva

Area : 2500 sq.ft.

Photography :Allow

Entry : Free

Best time to visit:   July to April.

Nearest Airport : Dabok Airport(40 kms)

Nearest Railway Station :Udaipur Station(25 kms)

More Information about Eklingji Temple Udaipur

Eklingji Temple is one of the most famous temples of Rajasthan. Located in the town of Eklingji (Kailashpuri), the place got its popular name from the temple. Eklingji Temple is positioned at a distance of 22 km in the north of Udaipur, on the national highway no. 8. Eklingnath Temple is dedicated to the Lord Shiva of the Hindu religion. Initially, the temple was built in 734 A.D. by Bappa Rawal. Since that time, Eklingji has been the ruling deity of Mewar rulers. In the later years, it was repaired and modified by various Kings, to clean the remnants of obliteration made by the attacks of Mohammedans.

The magnificent architecture of Eklingnath Temple is simply remarkable. The double-storied temple looks awesome with its pyramidal style of roof and distinctly carved tower. The outer walls of the temple are stretched with steps that descend touching the serene waters. Inside the complex, the main temple is a huge pillared hall or 'mandap' that is sheltered by hefty pyramidal roof. On entering this hall, you will be welcomed by a silver image of Nandi. In the temple, there are two other images of Nandi carved in black stone and brass respectively. You would find this temple full of mesmerizing fragrance.

The temple boasts of a striking four-faced idol of Eklingji (Lord Shiva) that is made out of black marble. Its height ranges around 50 feet and its four faces depict four forms of Lord Shiva. The east-facing part is recognized as Surya, the west-facing part is Lord Brahma, the north-facing part is Lord Vishnu and the south-facing part is Rudra i.e. Lord Shiva himself. The zenith of the multifaceted idol is known as 'Yantra that stands for the ultimate reality. The Shivlinga (Phallic form of Lord Shiva) garlanded by a silver snake, acquires the major attraction of people.

Being sited in the middle, Shivlinga is encircled by Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikay. Inside the temple complex, you would find statues of Goddess Saraswati and Goddess Yamuna. The main temple also boasts of heavy silver doors, which depicts Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikay guarding their father. To the north of Eklingji temple, there are two tanks namely Karz Kund and Tulsi Kund. Water of these tanks is consumed during the services of the Lord. The festival of Shivratri is observed here with full gusto and fervor. At this time, the image of Lord Shiva is adorned with jewelry.

Enrooted in the religious roots, the town comprises around 108 small and big temples. Near to Eklingji Temple, you can also trace various temples that are dedicated to Ambika Mata, Kalki and Lord Ganesha. One more temple by the name of Nathon Ka Mandir that dates back to 10th century catches the attraction. Lakulish temple is a fine temple that was built in 971. It is the exclusive temple of the Lakulish sect in India. Sas- Bahu temple is another temple that is all raised in marble of the 11th century. The Jain Temple of Adbhudji is made in black marble which dates back to the 15th century.

Amongst other temples of Kailashpuri (better known as Eklingji), temples of Pataleshwar Mahadeo, Arbada Mata, Rathasan Devi and Vindhyavasini Devi are worth mentioning. The wonderful architecture of these temples makes the onlooker to ponder over the artistry of those times. The city of Eklingji or Kailashpuri is located amidst a beautiful valley on the lands of Rajasthan that houses some of the marvelous temples of India. While planning your trip to Udaipur, don't forget to include Eklingji in your itinerary, otherwise you would be at a miss.

Trivia

One of the legends relating to Eklingji is that after killing Vrakshasur, Lord Indra had meditated and prayed to Eklingji in repentance and to be free of the curse.

Architecture of the Eklingji Temple

The Temple is very grand and magnificent in conception and perfect in execution. The 50 ft. high Shikhar of the temple has a circumference of 60 ft. The sanctum sanctorum has four doors in all the four directions and the door steps are jutted with gems. On each gate there is Nandi (bull) statue facing the idol.

Other places to Visit

Nagada:At Nagada which is just 1 km before Eklingi, the antiquated temples are a special attraction for the pilgrims and devotees. Some of the remarkable temple here at this place includes Adbhudji Jain Temple which is made of black marble dating back to the 11th century A.D. Another worth watching temple is the famous Saas-Bahu Temple which dates back to 9th century.

Kumbhalgarh:Kumbhalgarh is a splendid fort with all its charms and fascinations intact to it. The Kumbhalgarh Fort and Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary are the prime attractions here.

Nathdwara:Nearby Udaipur there is the 18th century Krishna temple of Sri Nathji which is the main attraction in Nathdwara. It has a special significance for the Vaishnatives who are the followers of Vishnu and his incarnations.

How to Reach Eklingji Temple in Udaipur

By Road : Udaipur is very well connected by road with various cities and towns of Rajasthan.

By Rail :The Rail network here connects Udaipur with Delhi, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Chittorgarh and all the major cities.

By Air :The city has a domestic airport, serviced by almost all the major airlines from the main junction of Rajasthan around 22 kms from Udaipur is the National Highway No.8, where the temple is located.

There are Local buses which travel from Udaipur to Eklingi temple every hour. Devotees can hire a bus or cab to arrive at the temple.

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Iskcon Temple in Bangalore Karnataka

Here is some Information about Iskcon Temple in Bangalore Karnataka India.

 

Location:On West of Chord Road, Bangalore,Karnataka

Dedicated to:Radha-Krishna

Built in:1997

Darshan timings:4:15am to 5:00am
7:15 to 12:50am ,4:00 to 8:20 Pm

Also known as: Sri Radha Krishna Chandra Temple

Attraction: Neo-classical style of architecture

Significance:Iskcon's largest temple complex across the World

Entry : free

Photography : Allow

Nearest Railway Station :Bangalore

Nearest Airport : Bangalore Airport

More Information about Iskcon Temple Bangalore

Iskcon Temple Bangalore is situated on a seven acre hillock called 'Hare Krishna Hill' on West of Chord Road. Iskcon Temple, Bangalore or the International Society for Krishna Consciousness is a replica of the Gaudiya Vaishnava faith based on the teachings of Bhagvad Gita and the Bhagvad Purana.

Iskcon Temple, Bangalore is also known as Sri Radha Krishna temple and cultural complex. It is well known all over the world for its architectural style. Iskcon Temple, Bangalore at Karnataka attracts lots of global tourists.

Iskcon Temple of Karnataka was set up to mark the birth centenary of its founder Sri Prabhupada. Iskcon Temple, Bangalore is built in neo-classical style thereby mixing the traditional element of temple architecture with modern facilities. The arches of the Iskcon Temple, Bangalore are very well decorated and the illuminated water falls lead you to the heavily designed Rajagopuram.

Within the Rajagopuram at Iskcon Temple, Bangalore in Karnataka lies an open air theater for organizing concerts and festivals. The four temple gopurams combine through glazed glass canopy to form the 10000 square feet hall named 'Hari Naam Kirtan'. This hall of Iskcon Temple, Bangalore is very popular for its painted ceilings.

One of the major attraction of Iskcon Temple in Karnataka are the idols of Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha. Apart from these, you must also check out the Vedic museums and exhibition hall that display the facts on religious beliefs. The lecture hall with multiple language translation system where some great spiritual and religious leaders speak on certain spiritual and religious topic is another must visit place within Iskcon Temple, Bangalore.

You can relax and meditate in the beautiful garden in the complex of Iskcon Temple, Bangalore in Karnataka. Moreover, do not forget to watch the multimedia Vedic film shown in the Iskcon Vedic Theater.

Best Time to Visit of Iskcon Temple Bangalore

Darshan timings: Iskcon does not discriminate its visitors on the basis of religion, color or socio-economic status. The temple is open for darshan from 4.15 am to 5 am, 7.15 am to 12.50 pm and 4 pm to 8.20 pm everyday.

The beauty and class of the Neo Classical style of architecture of the Iskcon temple clearly reflects in its Rajagopuram, paths decorated with water jets, sculptures and ornately designed arches. Best time to visit the temple is during the celebration of 'Janmastami'(birthday of Lord Krishna). Devotees from India and abroad flock to the temple during the festival. The festival is marked by several cultural and spiritual activities. The temple keeps launching programmes and one of the interesting programme was named as “Friends of Lord Krishna”. Its aim was to educate the youngsters about the Vedic culture(Vedic philosophy and lifestyle). The temple is easily accessible from any part of the city.

Architecture of Iskcon Temple Bangalore

Built in neo-classical style of architecture, the temple bands together conventional architecture with ultra-modern services. The ardent devotees like Madhu Pandit Dasa (President and Project director) and Jagat Chandra Dasa designed the structure of this remarkable shrine, mingling the elements of traditional South-Indian with contemporary style of architecture. The elaborate temple complex is divided into various sections and sub-sections.

The splendid structure of the temple is worth-seeing because the celestial grandeur cannot be bounded in words. Lush green gardens in the campus appear mesmerizing to the onlooker. The temple complex also has an open amphitheatre, where various festivals and concerts are observed. The festival of 'Janmashtami' is the major festival that is celebrated here with loads of enthusiasm and devotion.

Shata Koti Nama Japa Yajna

 

In 2000, this religious program was started to promote world peace and harmony with an intention to chant 1 Billion holy names of Rama and Krishna. The venue for this 'Nama Japa' is 'Harinama Mandapa', which can be found ahead of the first temple of Prahlada Narasimha. Here, one can see two sets of 108 granite steps, where the devotee can chant the 'Hare Krishna Mahamantra' at each step. Following the chant of 'Mahamantra' for 108 times, the devotee can enter the Narsimha Temple.

Folk Program

This is an unusual program in which, bachelors between the age group of 19 and 29 can take part. The "Friends of Lord Krishna" (FOLK) has been organized to create an understanding of the Vedic culture among the youth of Bangalore. It is held on Saturdays and Sundays, where classes, discussions and practical sessions on Vedic philosophy and lifestyle are undertaken.

Free Prasadam for All

 

The temple offers a bowl of 'Kichri' (made of rice and pulse) to its each visitor. The vast kitchen of the shrine is equipped with modern equipments and has the capacity to provide food for two thousand visitors per hour. Besides prasadam, the kitchen is also used to prepare variety of delicacies that are offered to the Lord. Recently, they have started a bakery, which has become popular for its egg less cakes and biscuits all over the Bangalore.

Cow Protection Program 

 

Following the knowledge of the Vedas, the temple also promotes protection of cows. Being the primary element, Cows are essential for a prosperous and healthy society. Bangalore Iskcon 'Gaushala' retains not less than 40 cows. The milk of these cows is used in the making of various dishes and delicacies.

Multivision Cinema

The Multivision Cinema at Iskcon Bangalore is accredited for being the first show combining visual projection and animatronics in India. Visualized by the devotees of the United States, the cinema comprises 14 projectors in the company of laser Disc players, the surround sound processors and the animatronics mechanisms. The 40-minute cinema ends on a spiritual note and is organized everyday at regular intervals.

Dakshinakriti

This is another scheme to encourage and preserve the conventional art and craft of South India. It supports and promotes the skilled artisans and craftsmen by providing them a channel for their work. The products made under this project are accessible at "Dakshinakriti" (the temple's sculpture showroom).

Srila Prabhupada Museum

The museum attempts to create, a sense of awareness, among the mass of people, about the contributions made by Swami Prabhupada. This architectural marvel is dedicated to the founder of the entire Iskcon movement.

Bhaktivedanta Book Trust 

Bhaktivedanta Book Trust is engrossed in translating and publishing Srila Prabhupada's multifarious works in the Kannada language. Various well-known writers of Kannada language are drawn in to translate the books.

Goloka Seva Trust

This project involves promotion and maintenance of the valuable art of incense (agarbatti) creation, by means of pure natural ingredients. This trust produces more than 73 types of incense specifically meant for worship. Their products are available at the temple counters for the visitors.

How to Reach Iskcon Temple Bangalore

By Road :All the out station buses originate from the Kempe Gowda bus station and the metro buses originate from Majestic bus station. Both the bus stations are situated opposite to the Bangalore city railway station.

By Train : Bangalore City Railway Station, comes under South Western Railway has direct trains connecting it with all the key cities in the country.

By Air : Bangalore (Bengalooru) has convenient air network, services almost all the domestic airlines as well as few international airlines.

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Chintaman Ganesh Temple in Ujjain Madhya Pradesh

Here is Some Information about Chintaman Ganesh Temple in Ujjain Madhya Pradesh India.

Location:Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh

Dedicated to:Lord Ganesha

Built in:11th - 12th Century

Built by:Paramara Kings
Significance:Highly revered shrine of Lord Ganesha

Religion: Hinduism
Photography: Allow
Best Time to Visit: Oct to Feb

Nearest Railway Station : Bhopal,Indor

Nearest Airport : Indore

More Information about  Chintaman Ganesh Temple Ujjain

Chintaman Ganesh Temple is an antediluvian shrine that dates back to 11th -12th centuries. This ancient temple is highly revered and one of the most visited shrines of Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. One can easily reach Chintamani Temple from anywhere in Madhya Pradesh by hiring private taxis. However, one can take regular buses that are available from Indore and Bhopal. Chintamani Ganesha Mandir is wholly made out in stone. It is believed that the temple was built during the reign of Paramaras in Madhya Pradesh (Malwa).

The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, who is regarded as the Lord of beginnings as per the Hindu beliefs. In the traditional times, the Lord is known as 'Chintaharan', which literally means remover of all worries and tensions. The temple is thronged by crowds of people that come to do away with all their worries at the shrine of the Lord. The term 'Chintamani' is another name used for Lord Vishnu, who is considered as the preserver of the Universe as per Hindu Mythology.

Inside the temple, the 'Garbhgriha' comprises the image of Lord Ganesha. The main point is that this idol is supposed to be 'swayambhu' (self-manifested), unlike other idols. The site is adored by the two wives of Lord Ganesha, Riddhi and Siddhi that are placed on the either side of the Lord. The temple also embraces the idol of Lord Vishnu in its vicinity. Here, Lord Ganesha and Lord Vishnu are worshipped together with great devotion.

The very appearance of the temple suggests that it belongs to prehistoric times. Still, the temple has not lost its charm; in fact, it has become unique with its ancient origin. Chintaman Ganesh Temple boasts of its artistically carved pillars that are placed in the assembly hall. The age-old sanctity of the temple is preserved till date. The belief of the devotees for this shrine makes it all the more sanctified. People visit this temple, in large numbers, to get the graceful blessings of Lord Ganesha.

History of the Chintaman Ganesh Temple

Chintaman Ganesh Temple is an antediluvian shrine that dates back to 11th -12th centuries. This ancient temple is highly revered and one of the most visited shrines of Ujjaini in Madhya Pradesh. It is believed that the temple was built during the reign of Paramaras in Madhya Pradesh (Malwa). Chintamani Ganesha Mandir is wholly made out in stone. The very appearance of the temple suggests that it belongs to prehistoric times. Still, the temple has not lost its charm; in fact, it has become unique with its ancient origin.

How to Reach Chintaman Ganesh Temple 

By Bus: Ujjain is connected with Indore, Bhopal, Manali and Kota.

By Train: Ujjain is connected with Delhi, Bhopal, Jhansi, Agra, Indore, Jabalpur, Bilaspur, etc.

By Air : Nearest International Airport is Indore

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Birla(Lakshmi Narayan) Temple in Jaipur Rajasthan

Here is Some Information about Birla Temple in Jaipur Rajasthan India.

Location : Below the Moti Dungri Hill,  Jaipur,Rajasthan

Built By : B.M. Birla Foundation

Built In : 1988 AD

Dedicated to : Lord Laxmi Narayan

Temple Timing : 8.00 AM to 12.00 Noon; 4.00 PM to 8.00 PM everyday

Highlights:Rich carvings on pure white marble
Festival Celebrate : Janmastmi
Phone: 0141 - 2620969

Coordinates: 26°53'35"N 75°48'55"E

Nearest Airport : Jaipur

Nearest Railway Station : Jaipur

More Information about Birla Temple Jaipur

Birla Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi is yet another major attraction in the Pink city of Jaipur. The Birla Temple is said to be a replica of a Scottish castle. The temple is situated at the foot of Moti Dungri Fort and is built by the famous and affluent business family of Birlas.

Birla Temple forms one of the major attractions of Jaipur. Birla Temple of Jaipur looks stunning, when it is brightly lit in the night. Birla Mandir, in pure white marble, dominates the skyline of southern part of Jaipur. The construction of the temple took place during the year 1988. Today, it reflects the secular ethos of India with its three domes representing varied approaches to religion.

The architectural beauty of Birla temple is worth appreciating. Knowledgeable and English speaking guides are available to take the tourists around and explain to them the various aspect of the temple architecture as well as Hinduism. The attractive stained windows glass windows of the temple depict scenes from Hindu Mythology. The idols of the temple look so real as if, they would utter a word just now.

Amongst all the idols, the marble idol of Ganesha is a masterpiece which looks almost-transparent. The idols of Lord Vishnu and his consort, Lakshmi attract the attention, being made out from one piece of marble. The temple also portrays great historical achievers, philosophers and religious saints. The Laxmi Narayan Mandir is a modern architectural marvel, surrounded by lush green gardens.

The fascinating exteriors of the temple are carved splendidly with beautiful sculptures based of mythological themes, while the interiors have a large marble panel portraying mythological events. The Birla Temple has a museum too, which showcases the ancestral valuables of the Birla family. Birla Mandir / Laxmi Narayan Temple is a masterpiece of art and tourists should not miss this architectural spiritual heritage on their trip to Jaipur.

Tours to Jaipur these days are hardly complete without a trip to the Birla temple. Hence, if you are touring Jaipur, then make sure that you pay a visit to the Birla temple. The visit to the famous temple will surely be an enriching experience as a single visit to the temple will let you an opportunity to get an idea about the architecture of India, spiritual importance of the temple and also the secular state of the nation.

History of Birla Temple Jaipur

The Birla Temple is one of the most revered Hindu temples located on an elevated ground at the base of Moti Dungari hill in Jaipur. The temple was built in 1988 by the famous B.M. Birla Foundation, part of one of India's most famous business families. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Narayan), the preserver and his consort Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and good fortune. Due to this reason, the temple is also known as the Lakshmi Narayan Temple.

The Laksmi Narayan Temple or the Birla Temple of Jaipur is a modern architectural marvel in pure white marble, surrounded by lush green gardens. There are three large domes that represent three major religions in India and represent the secular nature of the temple. The walls of the temple are adorned with various Hindu symbols and quotes from the Gita and the Upanishads. The temple also portrays great historical achievers, philosophers and religious saints such as Socrates, Zarathustra, Christ, Buddha, and Confucius.

The main idols of the temple are Lord Vishnu (Narayan) and Goddess Lakshmi whose images are sculpted out of a single piece of marble. The temple has many other small shrines of various Hindu Gods and Goddesses. The image of Ganesh, the protector of households, over the beam at the entrance looks almost-transparent and is considered immensely auspicious. The idols of the temple look as if they would address the onlookers at any time. The beautiful white marble temple mesmerizes the onlookers, when it glows at night.

The Birla Temple also has a museum in close proximity, which showcases the ancestral valuables of the Birla family. The museum is open everyday from 0800 hrs to 1200 hrs and then from 1600 hrs to 2000 hrs. There is no entry fee to visit the museum.

The Birla Temple looks like a magical palace during the festival of Janmashtami, which is celebrated to mark the birth of Lord Krishna. The whole temple is festooned beautifully with flowers. In the evening, the temple glows, as it is illuminated with a thousand light bulbs. The magnificent structure in white marble glows in breathtaking radiance and captivates everyone with its unparalleled beauty.

Best Time To Visit Birla Temple Jaipur

 

The best time to visit this temple is between the months of October to March. In this temple, 'Janmashtami', the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, is celebrated with great enthusiasm and gusto; that is the time you would witness the glamour of this temple at its fullest scale. The regular visiting hours are between, 8.00 AM to 12.00 Noon and 4.00 PM to 8.00 PM every day. At night, one can witness the temple illuminated beautifully, against the dark skyline.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

Apart from the main temple, the Birla Temple complex incorporates a majestic museum that displays the ancestral possessions of the Birla family, and a stunning garden with a shopping complex. Various items are available at this shopping complex, perfect for tourists who wish to make their trip memorable. Situated very near the Birla temple is another famous temple of Jaipur, the Ganesh Mandir or Moti Dungri Temple. The people who visit the Birla Temple usually visit the Ganesh Mandir as well.

The Birla Temple has a calm and serene atmosphere that compliments this spiritual site. The temple's exquisite structural designs and elegant carvings represent the sophisticated architectural formation of a modern India. The Birla Temple is aptly located in the city, and is bounded by a luxurious garden setting, making this temple a major attraction, for tourists everywhere.

How to Reach Birla Temple Jaipur

By Road:Jaipur is well connected with main cities and hence we get wide road networks. Regular bus services are also offered from various cities to reach Jaipur. Road transport such as private luxury buses, AC coaches and Rajasthan tourism packages are also available.

By Rail:The nearest railway station is Jaipur, from there you get plenty of options such as rickshaws or other private vehicles. There are regular basis trains been schedule for Jaipur.

By Air: Jaipur is the nearest airport in Rajasthan. There are lots of domestic airlines that are link with major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and other. Flights from metropolitan cities are on regular basis. One can easily hire taxi or other private vehicle to reach Birla Temple.

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Sun Temple in Modhera Gujarat India

Here is Some Information about Sun Temple Modhera Gujarat India.


Location:On the banks of Pushpavati river in Modhera, Gujarat

Built in:1026 AD

Built by:King Bhimdev of the Solanki dynasty

Dedicated to:Lord Surya (Sun God)

Attraction:Marvelous architectural work

Significance:One of the few Sun Temples across the country

Photography : Allow

Entry : All Time

Religion: Hinduism

Nearest Airport :Ahmedabad 102 kms.

Nearest railway station : Mehsana.

Modhera is famous for its Sun Temple.The Sun Temple is one of the finest examples of Indian temple architecture of its period. Built in 1026 A.D the temple is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya and stands high on a plinth overlooking a deep stone-steeped tank.

Modhera Sun temple is one of the most famous Sun temples in the world. This temple is an evidence of the glorious ancient history of Gujarat. Tourists and devotees from all around the world visit this place and are spell-bound on seeing the magnificent sculptures and architecture.

Modhera Sun Temple History

Modhera Sun temple was built in 1026 A.D by King Bhimdev (1) of Solanki dynasty. Various scriptures gives different evidences of this fact. This temple depicts the essence of ancient times. The sculptures and architecture present in this temple are still magnificent after all these years. In the present times, prayers are not offered in this temple.

Ala-Uddin-Khilji invaded this temple and broke many idols and sculptures. He looted this temple for money which destroyed this temple to a great extent. This temple is now under the supervision of Archaeological Survey of India.

Architecture of Sun Temple Modhera

The brilliant architecture of the temple is one of its own class. The temple encompasses three different yet axially-aligned and integrated constituents. As per the Konark Temple, this shrine is designed in a manner, so that the first rays of the Sun cast on the image of the Lord Surya. The Temple was plundered by Mahmud Ghazni; still the architectural grandeur is not vanished. No matter what is left, yet the remnants provide a great enchantment to behold.

Erected on a high platform, the Temple appears majestic with its grand structure. However, the spires are out of the scene, but the 'Toranas' (Archways) that lead to the main halls overshadow the absence of spires or shikhars. The exterior walls are engraved with intricate carvings, boasting about the mastery of art in those times. Every single inch of the structure is covered with the sculptural patterns of Gods, Goddesses, birds, beasts and flowers. Actually, the Sun Temple is divided into three parts namely Surya Kund, Sabha Mandap and Guda Mandap.

Surya Kund

Surya Kund is a deep stepped tank in the front of the temple. The tank was named after the Lord Surya (Sun God). In the earlier times, this 100 sq meter rectangular tank was used to store pure water. The devotees used to take a halt here for ceremonial ablutions before moving towards the temple. Not less than 108 shrines mark the steps of this tank including the shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiva, Sheetala Mata and many others. In front of this tank, a huge 'torana' (archway) leads to the Sabha Mandap.

Sabha Mandap

Literally, Sabha Mandap refers to an assembly hall where religious gatherings and conferences are conducted. This hall is open from all the four sides and has 52 delicately carved pillars. The intricate carvings depict scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata (Indian Epics) and scenes from the life of Lord Krishna. In order to get into the Sanctum Sanctorum, one has to cross the passage with pillars and arches.

Guda Mandap

Guda Mandap is the sanctum sanctorum that is supported by a lotus-base plinth. Once, this hall used to house the idol of the Sun God. The designing of the hall was done in a way, so that the idol gets the first glimpse of the Sun at equinoxes. However, the idol was plundered by Mahmud Ghazni yet the walls represent the Sun God in his 12 different facets of each month. The carved walls also depict the aspects of human life like the vicious circle of birth and death. The façade of this hall was renovated in the recent years, despite the fact that the roof over the Guda Mandap had already been shattered.

Festival Celebrated at Sun Temple Modhera

Modhera dance festival is the major festival that is observed by the Sun Temple. This dance festival is organized to keep the Indian traditions and culture alive. It is held in the third week of January every year. The classical dance forms in the premises of this temple revive the imperial ambiance during the period. Gujarat Tourism organizes this event to promote tourism at this place.

How to Reach Sun Temple Modhera

By Road :State transport buses and private luxury coaches are available to reach Modhera from various cities of Gujarat.

By Rail :Nearest Railway Station is in Mehsana which is 26 kms away from Modhera.

By Air : Nearest airport is in Ahmedabad at 102 kms.

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Baijnath Temple in Palampur Himachal Pradesh

Here is Some Information about Baijnath Temple in Palampur Himachal Pradesh India.

Location : At a distance of 16 km from Palampur 

in the Beas valley Himachal pradesh

Dedicated to:Lord Shiva
Built In :1204 A.D

Built by:Ahuka and Manyuka

Significance:Water of this temple has medicinal properties

Main Attraction: Shivratri Fair

Photography : Allow

Entry  : Free

Nearest Airport :  Gaggal Airport

Nearest Railway Station:  Pathankot

Baijnath Temple is a revered shrine of Himachal Pradesh. Located at a distance of 16 kms from Palampur in the Beas valley, Baijnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to the inscriptions on the walls, Baijnath Mandir was built by the two native merchants by the name of Ahuka and Manyuka in 1204 A.D. In the porch of the temple, the two long inscriptions state that before the present temple, there was a shrine of Lord Shiva at the same spot.

The structure of this temple gives the hints of the early medieval North Indian style of architecture. This type of structure used to be known as 'Nagara' style of temple. The architectural style has been imbibed from Orissan style, which is very much unique in the state of Himachal Pradesh. The exterior walls of the temple have numerous alcoves with images of gods and Goddesses from the Hindu pantheon.

In order to enter the temple, one has to cross the vestibule that has a large 'Mandap' in the centre and two huge balconies on either side. The temple has fortifications, leaving space for two entrances in the north and the south. Just before the Mandapa, there is small porch placed on four columns. Here, a huge image of Nandi (the bull of Lord Shiva) is placed. The door leading to the sanctum is speckled with many images of artistic nature.

Lord Shiva is commemorated here as Vaidyanath (the Lord of Physician) and is placed in the form of 'Lingam' (phallic form of Lord Shiva). The main sanctum comprises five projections on every side and a tall curved shikhar (spire). The history of Baijnath temple is inscribed on the stone slabs inside the complex. As per the beliefs, Ravana (King of Lanka) had worshipped Lord Shiva in this temple.

The water of this temple is believed to contain medicinal properties, which can cure diseases of people. Due to this reason too, Baijnath Temple receives thousands of people every year. Shivratri is the major festival that is observed at this temple with full gusto and fervor. Devotees visit the temple during this time to seek the blessings from the God.

Besides the shrine of Lord Shiva, there are many other small shrines dedicated to Gods and Goddesses. In the early 20th century, the temple was suffered from an earthquake. Raja Sansar Chand made an effort to renovate the temple after the calamity. The temple complex acquires lush green gardens, which makes a perfect foreground to the ancient and unique structure of this temple. Baijnath temple is considered as a part of Indian Heritage, so security arrangements are made here to avoid any unwanted element.

History of the Baijnath Temple

According to the inscriptions on the walls of the Temple, the Baijnath Mandir was built by the two native merchants by the name of Ahuka and Manyuka in 1204 A.D. In the porch of the temple, the two long inscriptions give the evidence that before the present temple, there was a shrine of Lord Shiva at the same spot. The present temple of Baijnath is the beautiful example of the early medieval north Indian temple architecture known as Nagara style of temples. The Svayambhu form of Sivalinga is present in the sanctum of the temple and it has five projections on each side and is surmounted with a tall curvilinear of the Shikhara. The entrance to sanctum is from the vestibule that has a large square Mandapa in front with two massive balconies one each in north and south.

There is a small porch in front of that mandapa hall that rests on four pillars in the front preceded by an idol of Nandi, the bull, in a small pillared shrine. The whole temple is enclosed by a high wall with entrances in the south and north while the outer walls of the temple have several niches with images of gods and goddesses. Numerous images are also fixed or carved in the walls. The outer doorway in the porch as also the inner doorway leading to the sanctum of the temple are also studded with a large number of images of great beauty and iconographic importance. Some of them are very rare to be found elsewhere.

Significance of the temple

The Baijnath temple of Palampur was originally named as Kirangama and changed to Baijnath after dedicating the temple to Lord Shiva (Hindu Deity). Apart from the main deity, the temple even has the images of Goddess Chamunda, Surya (the Sun God), Kartikeya (son of Lord Shiva) and a massive structure of Nandi (Carrier of Lord Shiva) extremely in front of the Temple. One of the 12 Jyotirlingas are also located in the sanctum of this Baijnath temple. The temple holds much faith and is believed that, the 'Lord of Physicians' Shiva frees people from all kinds of ailments and diseases. Another interesting and spiritual fact of the temple lies in its water, as the water of the temple premises is considered to have curative and medicinal properties. Due to such spiritual and auspicious reasons, the temple still witnesses huge number of devotees every year. The ‘Shivratri’ festival is celebrated during the month of March and tourists throng to this place to get blessings from Lord Shiva (Hindu Deity).

Lord Shiva is commemorated here as and is placed in the form of 'Lingam'. The main sanctum comprises five projections on every side and a tall curved shikhar (spire). The history of Baijnath temple is inscribed on the stone slabs inside the complex. As per the beliefs, Ravana (King of Lanka) had worshipped Lord Shiva in this temple.

Architecture Baijnath Temple

The temple is constructed in the Nagri style of architecture. The roof of the temple is in the shape of pyramid with 2.5 sq meter from inside and almost covering the area of 5.5 sq meter from outside the temple premises. The conical shaped dome (Mandap) of the temple gets support from the four artistic big pillars. The temple is a unique example of Kangra architect.

Besides the serene surroundings and salubrious climate of middle range hills of Baijnath, tourists interested in adventure can also enjoy paragliding at nearby (about 10 km) Bir and go for trekking in the region.

Time to Visit

In winter near the Temple area the temperature can drop to freezing point when heavy woollens are required. During summer, the climate is mild and light woollens/cottons are recommended. Baijnath Tempe is situated at an altitude of 1125 m and the best time to visit the temple is all the year round.

How to Rich Baijnath Temple 

By Road - Almost each and every part of the state is linked by roads. The Himachal Road Transport Corporation is running its buses covering the whole state. There is huge network of HRTC to cater the needs of the people.

By Rail - Nearest broad gauge railhead is Pathankot 95 km from Kangra. A narrow gauge railway line between Pathankot and Jogindernagar passes through Kangra. Nearest railhead is at a distance of 5 km. from town.

By Air - Nearest airport is Gaggal airport located 50 km. from Palampur.

Picture Gellery of Baijnath Temple

Google Map for Baijnath Temple

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