Your journey begins with a comfortable pickup from your hotel or preferred location in Udaipur. Settle into an air-conditioned vehicle for a scenic drive through the countryside, as your guide provides insights into the history and culture of the Mewar dynasty.

Location: Kailashpuri, 22 km from Udaipur

The first stop of the tour is the renowned Eklingji Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and considered the ruling deity of the Mewar dynasty. Built in the 8th century by Bappa Rawal, the temple has undergone several reconstructions due to invasions.

Temple Highlights:

• The Idol: The temple’s sanctum houses a striking four-faced black marble idol of Lord Shiva, representing his omnipresence. Each face symbolizes a different aspect of Shiva – creation, preservation, destruction, and detachment.
• Architecture: The temple is built in a double-storied structure adorned with intricately carved pillars, domes, and a pyramidal roof. The silver doors and the serene courtyard add to the spiritual ambiance.
• Historical Significance: The Eklingji Temple served as the spiritual seat of Mewar rulers, with the Maharana ruling as the “Dewan” (Prime Minister) of Lord Eklingji. Over centuries, rulers like Rana Kumbha and Hamir Singh played significant roles in its restoration.
• Ceremonies and Rituals: The temple is still an active place of worship. Witness priests performing traditional rituals and prayers that have been carried out for centuries.

Spend time exploring the temple complex, soaking in the peaceful vibes, and listening to the fascinating stories of its resilience and significance.

After a soulful experience at Eklingji, proceed to Nagda, located just 10 kilometers away. Once the capital of the Mewar kingdom, Nagda is a historical treasure trove. Founded in the 6th century by Nagaditya, a ruler of Mewar, the town now boasts remnants of its ancient grandeur.

The highlight of Nagda is the Sas Bahu Temples, a pair of temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, built in the late 10th century. The name “Sas Bahu” is a colloquial adaptation of “Sahasra Bahu,” meaning “One with a Thousand Arms,” a reference to Lord Vishnu.

Temple Highlights:

• Temple Layout: The larger temple represents “Sas” (mother-in-law) and the smaller one represents “Bahu” (daughter-in-law). Both temples stand on a shared platform, overlooking a tranquil temple tank.
• Maru-Gurjara Architecture: Admire the exquisite carvings depicting deities, floral patterns, and mythological scenes on the temple walls, ceilings, and pillars. The lotus motif on the temple roof is particularly captivating.
• Torana-Style Entrance: The temples feature a stunning torana-style gateway with four intricately carved columns supporting a cusped arch.
• Historical Resilience: Despite partial destruction during invasions by the Delhi Sultanate, the temples remain a testament to the craftsmanship and spiritual devotion of the Mewar region.

Adjacent to the Sas Bahu Temples lies the Adbhutji Shanthinath Jain Tirth, an ancient Jain temple dedicated to Lord Shantinath. This temple, surrounded by lush greenery, offers a peaceful retreat for visitors interested in Jain heritage.

While at Nagda, take a moment to appreciate the serene surroundings. The temples are set against the backdrop of the Aravalli hills, creating a picturesque setting. The temple tank reflects the ancient structures, offering excellent photography opportunities.

After immersing yourself in the spiritual and architectural wonders of Eklingji and Nagda, it’s time to head back to Udaipur. Relax during the drive as you reflect on the rich history and beauty of Mewar.